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The integration of fascial techniques into the kinesiotherapy program for patients with low back pain has demonstrated increased efficacy compared to standard rehabilitation protocols. The aim of the research is to enhance the recovery process for individuals with low back pain by determining the effects of combining specific physiotherapy techniques with fascial mobilizations on mobility improvement and pain reduction. The research hypothesis suggests that evaluating the impact of these combined physiotherapy methods on mobility enhancement and pain alleviation will help identify specific details necessary for developing a model of physiotherapeutic programs. This model will be based on the systematic combination of therapeutic exercises and fascial therapy techniques, which are structured and scientifically validated. Discussion. The most statistically significant differences were recorded in the visual analog scale (VAS) assessments, where the student t-test reached a value of 2.38; P < 0.05, and in the Roland and Morris questionnaire, where the student t-test reached a value of 3.36; P < 0.01 in the control group. Conclusions. Evidence suggests that this combination could be an advanced strategy for the treatment of low back pain, offering benefits that go beyond separate therapies. However, the lack of large and well-controlled studies limits the ability to draw definitive conclusions. By optimizing approaches and improving outcomes for patients with low back pain, a deeper understanding of the integration of physiotherapy and fascial mobilizations will have significant implications for clinical practice.

The integration of fascial techniques into the kinesiotherapy program for patients with low back pain has demonstrated increased efficacy compared to standard rehabilitation protocols. The aim of the research is to enhance the recovery process for individuals with low back pain by determining the effects of combining specific physiotherapy techniques with fascial mobilizations on mobility improvement and pain reduction. The research hypothesis suggests that evaluating the impact of these combined physiotherapy methods on mobility enhancement and pain alleviation will help identify specific details necessary for developing a model of physiotherapeutic programs. This model will be based on the systematic combination of therapeutic exercises and fascial therapy techniques, which are structured and scientifically validated. Discussion. The most statistically significant differences were recorded in the visual analog scale (VAS) assessments, where the student t-test reached a value of 2.38; P < 0.05, and in the Roland and Morris questionnaire, where the student t-test reached a value of 3.36; P < 0.01 in the control group. Conclusions. Evidence suggests that this combination could be an advanced strategy for the treatment of low back pain, offering benefits that go beyond separate therapies. However, the lack of large and well-controlled studies limits the ability to draw definitive conclusions. By optimizing approaches and improving outcomes for patients with low back pain, a deeper understanding of the integration of physiotherapy and fascial mobilizations will have significant implications for clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The association between specific motor capacity variables obtained in a laboratory and parameters of daily-life mobility performance (MP) obtained via wearables is still unclear. The Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test is a widely used motor capacity tests available either as traditional hand-stopped TUG or as instrumented TUG (iTUG), providing specific information about its subphases. This study aimed to: (1) estimate the association between the TUG and specific parameters reflecting average and maximum daily-life MP, (2) estimate the benefits of the iTUG in terms of explaining MP in daily life compared to the TUG. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional analysis using baseline data of 294 older persons (mean age: 76.7 ± 5.3 years). Univariate linear regression analysis was performed to delineate the coefficient of determination between TUG time and participants' MP. MP variables containing mean cadence (MCA) to represent average performance and the 95th percentile of mean cadence of walks with more than three steps (p95>3stepsMCA) to represent maximum performance. To determine whether the iTUG variables give more information about MP, a stepwise multivariate regression analysis between iTUG variables and the p95>3stepsMCA variable to represent maximum performance was conducted. Results: The univariate regression models revealed associations of the TUG with MCA (adjusted R2 = 0.078, p < 0.001) and p95>3stepsMCA (adjusted R2 = 0.199, p < 0.001). The multivariate stepwise regression models revealed a total explanation of maximum daily-life MP (p95>3stepsMCA) of the TUG (adjusted R2 = 0.199, p < 0.001) versus iTUG (adjusted R2 = 0.278, p < 0.010). Discussion/Conclusion: This study shows that the TUG better reflects maximum daily-life MP than average daily-life MP. Moreover, we demonstrate the added value of the iTUG for a more accurate estimation of daily MP compared to the traditional TUG. The iTUG is recommended to estimate maximum daily-life MP in fall-prone older adults. The study is a step toward a specific assessment paradigm using capacity variables from the iTUG to estimate maximum daily-life MP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the effects of aging on cognition have been using the same cognitive tests for decades. A Wireless Lighting System (WLS) could be used to assess cognitive functions in a physically active situation, making the assessment of cognition less isolated and more ecological. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the potential of a WLS for assessing older adults' cognitive functions. It was set up with 15 young (M = 23.47 years old) and 18 older adults (M = 71.44 years old). Their performances were recorded on three WLS tests, designed with the Witty SEM system to assess four main cognitive functions (i.e., inhibition, flexibility, visuospatial short-term and working memory), as well as on three traditional (TRAD) tests (Spatial Span Test, Stroop Test, Trail Making Test). The results show a significant difference between the YOUNG and OLD groups on all WLS test measures (except for WLS flexibility), as well as on all TRAD measures. Additionally, for the OLD group, there were significant correlations between WLS and TRAD test results (r = −0.49 for two measures of inhibition to r = −0.80 for two other measures of inhibition), except for visuospatial short-term memory. However, there was no significant correlation for the YOUNG group (ρ = −0.27 for inhibition to r = 0.45 for visuospatial short-term memory). These WLS tests were valid for assessing the cognitive functions (i.e., flexibility, visuospatial short-term and working memory, inhibition) of older adults and were sensitive to aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gymnasium: Scientific Journal of Education, Sports & Health is the property of Alma Mater and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present material brings out theoretical foundations with an emphasis on development of motor potential and specificity in motor qualities. The following are tracked: scientific status in teaching methodology of physical education and sports in initial stage of basic educational level, educational standards for development of motor quality and agility. Technology for development of motor quality and agility with aim of increasing motor capacity has been approved. Statistical verification of effectiveness of a tested technology is presented with following: organization of experimental work, ascertaining, training, and control stage. Scientifically based conclusions and generalizations are drawn. The purpose of study is to establish and assess presence of Wellness Culture1 in primary education by applying an innovative methodology for development of motor quality agility and increasing motor capacity of students from initial stage of basic education level by testing an innovative methodology in training of PES², consisting of an author's set of motor exercises related to Blaze-Pod Trainer System3 and checking its effectiveness in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowing the particularities of 9-10-year-old children, we believe that intervention with appropriate methods and means can be useful in bringing to fruition some opportunities that these developmental windows offer at this age. We performed a classic pedagogical experiment with two groups (an experimental group and a control group) in the 2021-2022 school year, in which 36 third- and fourth-grade students were involved (9-10 years old). The psycho-motor activities were performed within the afterschool program, 3 times a week, taking into account the global project elaborated by us. Through the activities performed in the Ș.D.Ș. system, the aim was to integrate the acquisition of a psycho-motor nature into specific actions that would strengthen the state of health, prevent the onset of deficiencies, develop the general motor capacity, and increase the effort capacity. Both at the beginning of the research and at its end, we applied a series of tests and control samples to subjects from the experimental control groups, with the help of which we determined the level of physical development, mortuary capacity, and morpho-functional indices. Comparing the results of the two groups, we obtained significantly better values for the subjects from the experimental group in a series of tests and trials, i.e., in the "Ruffier Test" for girls and in the "Hexagon Test" and endurance running for boys. The achieved progress suggests that the psychomotor activities performed in the S.A.S system and the completion of the compulsory physical education hours, considerably contribute to the physical development and the capacity for effort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Older adults with lower balance confidence demonstrate a reduced willingness to experience instability as the task of walking becomes more challenging (i.e., walking with a faster speed). However, the specific reason why is not known. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which capacity of increasing walking speeds relates to the attentional requirements (i.e., automaticity) of walking. Methods: Sixteen young (31 ± 5.85 years) and 15 older participants (69 ± 3.04 years) began walking on a treadmill at 0.4 m/s, and speed was increased by 0.2 m/s until the participant either chose to stop or reached a speed of 2.0 m/s. Sixty steps were collected at steady-state speed for each walking trial. Kinematic data were collected, and the margin of stability in the anterior direction (MOSAP) at heelstrike was quantified for each step. The timed up and go (TUG) and TUG dual (TUGdual) task were performed, from which an automaticity index (TUG/TUGdual × 100) was calculated. Older individuals were grouped based on whether they did or did not complete all walking speeds (i.e., completers [n = 9] or noncompleters [n = 6]). The fastest walking speed attempted (FSA), automaticity index, and MOSAP were compared, and correlations were assessed between the FSA/MOSAP and the automaticity index. Results: A significant difference was identified in an average MOSAP at heelstrike between older completer and noncompleter groups (p < 0.001). Further, older adults with lower automaticity index choose to stop walking at lower speeds (p = 0.001). The FSA was positively correlated with the automaticity index (ρ = 0.81, p < 0.001). Finally, the average MOSAP at FSA and the automaticity index were also negatively correlated (r = −0.85, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Older adults with lower automaticity of walking choose to stop walking at speeds before they completed all walking speeds, which may relate with increased attentional demands required to maintain dynamic stability at higher walking speeds. Given that these were otherwise healthy adults, the combination of FSA and an automaticity of walking may help to identify individuals who should be considered for an assessment to identify walking problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between motor capacity and motor performance in children with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 6–12 years with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to III. Methods: Forty-six children with CP (24 boys and 22 girls) classified as GMFCS levels Ⅰ, Ⅱ, or Ⅲ were included. Motor capacity was measured by the Gross motor function measure (GMFM), Pediatric balance scale (PBS), Timed up and go (TUG), and 6-min walk test (6MWT). Motor performance was measured by triaxial accelerometers. Estimations of physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) (kcal/kg/day), percentage of time spent on physical activity (% sedentary physical activity; %SPA; % light physical activity, %LPA; % moderate physical activity, %MPA; % vigorous physical activity %VPA; and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, %MVPA), and activity counts (counts/minute) were obtained. Results: Children with GMFCS level I showed a significantly higher motor capacity (GMFM-66, GMFM-88, D-dimension and E-dimension, PBS and 6MWT) than those with level II or III. Children with GMFCS level II and/or III had significantly lower physical activity (PAEE, % MPA, % VPA, %MVPA, and activity counts) than children with GMFCS level I. Multiple linear regression analysis (dependent variable, GMFM-66) showed that %MVPA was positively associated with GMFM-66 in the GMFCS level II & III children but not in GMFCS level I children. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of increasing %MVPA in children with CP, especially GMFCS levels II and III.

Background This study used various tools, including a self-assessment questionnaire, the Clinical Assessment of Driver-Related Skills (CADReS), and a driving simulation, to discriminate between older and non-older drivers. Methods We evaluated driving habits, driving-related health behaviors, and morbidities using a self-assessment questionnaire and examined visual, motor, and cognitive functions using the CADReS and a vehicle simulator of four junction scenarios that are typical of accidents involving older drivers. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) were calculated to compare the age-related discriminating ability of these tools between older (≥65 years) and non-older participants. Results Thirty of the 40 participants (75%) were older. Older drivers were slower than non-older drivers according to the rapid walking pace (8.0 vs. 6.1 seconds), and their cognitive function was poorer based on the trail-making test (117 vs. 51 seconds). While driving on the vehicle simulator, the rate of violating traffic rules was higher and the maximal velocity was slower in the older group than in the non-older group. The AUC values for CADReS and driving simulation outcomes ranged from 0.59 to 0.95, while the rapid walking pace, trail-making test, and velocity of the left turn at an acute junction in the dark showed high discriminatory power (AUC>0.9).Conclusions: The rapid walking pace and trail-making test in CADReS, as well as the driving simulation, were useful tools to discriminate between older and non-older drivers.

Wartałowicz, MH, Płusa, J, and Przystupińska, A. Body composition and fitness profile of Polish top U15 male handball players: Talent identification and selection model for sport high schools. J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 2011–2017, 2022—The aims of this study were to assess the positional differences in body composition and selected motor abilities of male Polish U15 team handball (TH) players who applied to the Polish Handball Federation (PHF) sport high schools (HS) in 2019 and to compare differences in the tested characteristics between selected and rejected candidates. Ninety male players, born in 2004–2005, were tested in body composition, running speed (20 m), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 2 kg medicine ball overhead throw (MBT). The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Anthropometric data revealed significant differences in body height (p = 0.002, η p 2 = 0.168), body mass (BM) (p < 0.001, η p 2 = 0.367), BM index (BMI) (p < 0.001, η p 2 = 0.270), body fat percentage (FAT) (p = 0.003, η p 2 = 0.152), and fat-free mass (FFM) (p < 0.001, η p 2 = 0.356). Position-specific differences were observed, wherein pivots were the tallest and heaviest, having the highest BMI, FAT, and FFM whereas the wings were the smallest and lightest, with the lowest BMI, FAT, and FFM. Regarding fitness parameters, no significant differences in CMJ or MBT were observed. Backcourt players were faster than pivots on the 20-m sprint (p = 0.029, η p 2 = 0.104). Findings did not confirm expected anthropological and fitness differences between rejected vs. accepted candidates to the PHF sport HS. The only significant positional difference noted was that rejected pivots had 28.3% higher FAT levels than accepted. Our data indicate that the training of young TH players should target key functional, position specific, upper-body, and lower-body strength qualities, which enable them to successfully execute challenging game situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Educatio Artis Gymnasticae is the property of Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The general development of the sports world has guided researchers in sports science to study excellence in sports performance, namely, the study of the characteristics and requirements specific to each sport. However, in order to meet these requirements, each individual must have a set of specific characteristics similar to those of the group to which he/she belongs. The variables in the study are related to the psychomotor abilities and psychological aspects that could influence the overall performance of junior III handball players. The main work instruments are related to field testing and psychological characteristics measurement. For psychomotor abilities, we used means such as the TReactionCo software (eye–hand coordination), Just Jump platform (dynamic balance), Tractronix system (general dynamic coordination), and Illinois test (spatial-temporal orientation), and for the psychological characteristics, we used the Motivational Persistence Questionnaire. In addition, the result of the study is represented by new software that we created in order to better observe the level of development of these characteristics in junior handball players. From a statistical point of view, we calculated the correlations between psychomotor abilities and psychological characteristics using ANOVA in order to see field position differences and performed linear regression for the variables of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPatients with end-stage renal disease are known to be particularly frail, and the cause is still widely seen as being directly related to specific factors in renal replacement therapy. However, a closer examination of the transitional phase from predialysis to long-term hemodialysis leads to controversial explanations, considering that the frailty process is already well-described in the early stages of renal insufficiency. This study aims to describe longitudinally and multifactorially changes in the period extending from the decision to start the replacement therapy through to the end of 2 years of hemodialysis. We hypothesized that frailty is pre-existent in the predialysis phase and does not worsen with the beginning of the replacement therapy. Between 2015 and 2018 we recruited 25 patients (72.3 ± 5.7 years old) in a predialysis program, with the expectation that replacement therapy would begin within the coming few months.MethodsThe patients underwent a baseline visit before starting hemodialysis, with 4 follow-up visits in the first 2 years of treatment. Health status, physical performance, cognitive functioning, hematology parameters, and adverse events were monitored during the study period.ResultsAt baseline, our sample had a high variability with patients ranging from extremely frail to very fit. In the 14 participants that did not drop out of the study, out of 32 clinical and functional measures, a statistically significant worsening was only observed in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score (p < 0.01, F = 8.50) and the number of comorbidities (p = 0.01, F = 3.94). A careful analysis, however, reveals a quite stable situation in the first year of replacement therapy, for both frail and fit participants and a deterioration in the second year that in frail participants could lead to death.ConclusionOur results should stimulate a reassessment about the role of a predialysis program in reducing complications during the transitional phase, but also about frailty prevention programs once hemodialysis has begun, for both frail and fit patients, to maintain satisfactory health status.

While the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic took the whole world by surprise, humanity sought to organize itself in the fight against an unseen enemy by now. The school has moved into the online teaching system, and physical education classes have not been nearly what they used to be. Purpose: In this study, we tried to investigate how children's motor development was influenced due to lack of physical activity because of school closure during the pandemic in order to know if it has influenced the weight of children by collecting data on body mass index (BMI). Methods: the anthropometric and motor capacity measurements; the method of comparing the results obtained with those of the National 'Biomotric project'; the bibliographic studying; the data collection; the graphic representation and the data analysis and interpretation. The study subjects/participants were 119 boys and 85 girls aged between 7-14 years old. Results: We measured the motor development before the pandemic (AP), respectively February 2020, and during the pandemic (DP), respectively October 2020. The item categories represent the data collected from the motor tests applied to the children when they were physically present at schools, such as mobility, long jump from the spot, abdominal crunches, and speedrunning tests on the following distances: 25m for 1st grade, 30m for 2nd to 4th grade and 50 m for 5th to 8th grade. We chose to refer to the value of the median in order to eliminate, as much as possible, the influence of the extreme values recorded. Conclusions: There are minimal differences between the results obtained in the tests before the pandemic and those during the pandemic period. Although we would have expected the influence of non-active lockdown to be more significant than when schools were opened, in the sense of decreasing children's motor skills, it can be seen that this was not the case for students from Maarif International Schools of Bucharest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rugby is a game in which the rules are regularly evaluated and changed to make the game more attractive, safer, and faster for spectators. This affects the requirements of the game and the profile depending on the position of the game. Objective.The purpose of this work is to analyze and prove that in the game of rugby 7 there are no major differences between the two compartments depending on the motor capacity. Material and method. In the present work, 14 players were investigated, performance sportswomen from the rugby team in7 women's C.S. Politehnica Iasi. The tests applied were:speed over the distance of 10 m and 50 m, CMJ, agility test 505 and VamEval. The statistical analysis was done using the SPSS Statistics 23 program. Results. The results of the tests proved that thephysical profile of the athletes is homogeneous, there are no significant differences between the compartments. Conclusions.The results of this study show that a good athlete is a good rugby player in seven. Polyvalence is an advantage of rugby players in 7 because it gives them the opportunity to quickly move from the position of forward to that of a player of backwards and vice versa

Introduction: Preoperative frailty is an independent risk factor for postoperative complications across surgical specialties. Functional mobility such as gait, timed up and go (TUG), and 5 times sit-to-stand (5-STS) are popular preoperative frailty measurements but are not suitable for patients with severe mobility impairment. A wrist-worn sensor-derived frailty index based on an upper-extremity functional test (20-s repetitive elbow flexion-extension task; UEFI) was developed previously; however, its association with functional mobility remained unexplored. We aimed to investigate the predictive power of the UEFI in predicting functional mobility. Methods: We examined correlation between the UEFI and gait speed, TUG duration, and 5-STS duration in 100 older adults (≥ 65 years) using multivariate regression analysis. The UEFI was calculated using slowness, weakness, exhaustion, and flexibility of the sensor-based 20-s repetitive elbow flexion-extension task. Results: The UEFI was a significant predictor for gait speed and TUG duration and 5-STS duration (all R ≥ 0.60; all p < 0.001) with the variance (adjusted R2) of 35–37% for the dependent variables. The multivariate regression analysis revealed significant associations between the UEFI and gait speed (β = −0.84; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = [−1.19, −0.50]; p < 0.001) and TUG duration (β = 16.2; 95% CI = [9.59, 22.8]; p < 0.001) and 5-STS duration (β = 33.3; 95% CI = [23.6, 43.2]; p < 0.001), found after accounting for confounding variables (e.g., age and fear of falling scale). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the UEFI can be performed with a wrist-worn sensor and has been validated with other established measures of preoperative frailty. The UEFI can be applied in a wide variety of patients, regardless of mobility limitations, in an outpatient setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the association between motor capacity and motor performance in children with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 6–12 years with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to III. Forty-six children with CP (24 boys and 22 girls) classified as GMFCS levels Ⅰ, Ⅱ, or Ⅲ were included. Motor capacity was measured by the Gross motor function measure (GMFM), Pediatric balance scale (PBS), Timed up and go (TUG), and 6-min walk test (6MWT). Motor performance was measured by triaxial accelerometers. Estimations of physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) (kcal/kg/day), percentage of time spent on physical activity (% sedentary physical activity; %SPA; % light physical activity, %LPA; % moderate physical activity, %MPA; % vigorous physical activity %VPA; and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, %MVPA), and activity counts (counts/minute) were obtained. Children with GMFCS level I showed a significantly higher motor capacity (GMFM-66, GMFM-88, D-dimension and E-dimension, PBS and 6MWT) than those with level II or III. Children with GMFCS level II and/or III had significantly lower physical activity (PAEE, % MPA, % VPA, %MVPA, and activity counts) than children with GMFCS level I. Multiple linear regression analysis (dependent variable, GMFM-66) showed that %MVPA was positively associated with GMFM-66 in the GMFCS level II & III children but not in GMFCS level I children. These findings highlight the importance of increasing %MVPA in children with CP, especially GMFCS levels II and III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical scales used by well-trained clinicians to assess motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD) allow to establish the patients' medical therapy and follow-up their response. However, these assessments are subjective and their application to patients requires experienced and qualified operators. This study analyzes the role of the kinematic patient's features, captured by a simple computer keyboard paradigm, in predicting the scores prescribed by an experienced neurologist. A total of 47 patients in their ON medication state participated in this study. Their motor capacity was assessed by an experienced neurologist with several standardized clinical scales. The patients also performed 5 consecutive trials of 10 s of a computerized finger tapping task by pressing with their index the space bar, first with their dominant hand and then with the other hand. 270 tapping-related features were extracted from the tapping task data for each participant and linear regression multivariate models for each clinical variable were built by using these features. The best resulting models were for the motor capacity (Unified Parkisnon Disase Scale Revised – MDS-UPDRS Part III), years from disease onset and balance scores (Limit of Stability – LoS), with root mean squared errors (RMSE) of 0.268, 0.254 and 0.150, respectively, all bellow their corresponding minimal clinically important differences. Those models included variables from both hands and from all trials, mainly regarding slow and fast tapping-related variables in different degrees. A simple bimanual non-alternating finger tapping task has shown to foresee motor capacity and balance scores by using statistical and machine learning methods. This easy and quick task could be performed periodically in the medical office or at home helping the clinician to know the patients' motor state and temporary alterations in that way and to make finer clinical decisions about the proper pharmacological treatment of every patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rugby is a game in which the rules are regularly evaluated and changed to make the game more attractive, safer, and faster for spectators. This affects the requirements of the game and the profile depending on the position of the game. Objective. The purpose of this work is to analyze and prove that in the game of rugby 7 there are no major differences between the two compartments depending on the motor capacity. Material and method. In the present work, 14 players were investigated, performance sportswomen from the rugby team in 7 women's C.S. Politehnica Iasi. The tests applied were: speed over the distance of 10 m and 50 m, CMJ, agility test 505 and VamEval. The statistical analysis was done using the SPSS Statistics 23 program. Results. The results of the tests proved that the physical profile of the athletes is homogeneous, there are no significant differences between the compartments. Conclusions. The results of this study show that a good athlete is a good rugby player in seven. Polyvalence is an advantage of rugby players in 7 because it gives them the opportunity to quickly move from the position of forward to that of a player of backwards and vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research presented here is composed of a demonstration organized by the implementation of certain tests and different methods of research aimed at the physical training level in order to ascertain the physical condition of the pupils in the secondary education in order to determine the degree of training students in practicing certain physical exercises.

The general development of the sports world has guided researchers in sports science to study excellence in sports performance, namely, the study of the characteristics and requirements specific to each sport. However, in order to meet these requirements, each individual must have a set of specific characteristics similar to those of the group to which he/she belongs. The variables in the study are related to the psychomotor abilities and psychological aspects that could influence the overall performance of junior III handball players. The main work instruments are related to field testing and psychological characteristics measurement. For psychomotor abilities, we used means such as the TReactionCo software (eye–hand coordination), Just Jump platform (dynamic balance), Tractronix system (general dynamic coordination), and Illinois test (spatial-temporal orientation), and for the psychological characteristics, we used the Motivational Persistence Questionnaire. In addition, the result of the study is represented by new software that we created in order to better observe the level of development of these characteristics in junior handball players. From a statistical point of view, we calculated the correlations between psychomotor abilities and psychological characteristics using ANOVA in order to see field position differences and performed linear regression for the variables of this study.

For middle school students, track and field applicative activities energize activity, capture their interest and offer the possibility to improve and use what they learned in various conditions. The research had the hypothesis that using relay races and track and field applicative activities during PE classes throughout the school year will result in an improvement of students’ motor capacity, the harmonious physical development and the acquisition of motor skills and habits useful in daily life and for performance in sport. The research was done by following rigorously the tasks put forward at High-school “Mihai Eminescu” Dumbraveni, Suceava, for 6P thP and 7P thP grades with mixed collectives. The classes were held in the school’s gym or on the sport court. The results of all four tests show a progress of the trial group, confirming the fact that the use of track and field applicative activities throughout the school year leads to an increase in students’ performance, to the development of their general motor capacity. Following the experiment, the results of the trial group confirm the hypothesis of this study, the motor capacity can be improved by use of track and field applicative activities during the PE class and put forward that these should be employed more frequently therein.

A normal, healthy development, enhances good mood, strength of work, attention; promotes the ability to assimilate knowledge, acquire driving skills; develops motoring qualities. All the exercises and games selected in this work aim, in addition to lightening the body and strengthening health; the harmonious development of all muscle groups, the prevention of the localization of vicious attitudes, the increase of intellectual capacity, the morpho-functional indices, the creation of good disposition. I proposed that, first and foremost, starting from the knowledge of children in all aspects, what will allow me to realize not only a mere adequacy of the instructive-educational activity at the level already achieved in their motor development but to be able intervene in the process of motor development, stimulating positive features and reorienting the negative ones, depending on the bio-psycho-motor potential of each child.

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There is growing evidence that after a stroke, sensorimotor deficits in the ipsilesional hand are related to the degree of impairment in the contralesional upper extremity. Here, we asked if the relationship between the motor capacities of the two hands differs based on the side of stroke. Forty-two pre-morbidly right-handed chronic stroke survivors (left hemisphere damage, LHD = 21) with mild-to-moderate paresis performed distal items of the Wolf Motor Function Test (dWMFT). We found that compared to RHD, the relationship between contralesional arm impairment (Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer, UEFM) and ipsilesional hand motor capacity was stronger (RLHD2= 0.42; RRHD2 < 0.01; z = 2.12; p = 0.03) and the slope was steeper (t = −2.03; p = 0.04) in LHD. Similarly, the relationship between contralesional dWMFT and ipsilesional hand motor capacity was stronger (RLHD2= 0.65; RRHD2 = 0.09; z = 2.45; p = 0.01) and the slope was steeper (t = 2.03; p = 0.04) in LHD compared to RHD. Multiple regression analysis confirmed the presence of an interaction between contralesional UEFM and side of stroke (β3 = 0.66 ± 0.30; p = 0.024) and between contralesional dWMFT and side of stroke (β3 = −0.51 ± 0.34; p = 0.05). Our findings suggest that the relationship between contra- and ipsi-lesional motor capacity depends on the side of stroke in chronic stroke survivors with mild-to-moderate impairment. When contralesional impairment is more severe, the ipsilesional hand is proportionally slower in those with LHD compared to those with RHD.

There is growing evidence that after a stroke, sensorimotor deficits in the ipsilesional hand are related to the degree of impairment in the contralesional upper extremity. Here, we asked if the relationship between the motor capacities of the two hands differs based on the side of stroke. Forty-two pre-morbidly right-handed chronic stroke survivors (left hemisphere damage, LHD = 21) with mild-to-moderate paresis performed distal items of the Wolf Motor Function Test (dWMFT). We found that compared to RHD, the relationship between contralesional arm impairment (Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer, UEFM) and ipsilesional hand motor capacity was stronger ( R L H D 2 = 0.42; R R H D 2 < 0.01; z = 2.12; p = 0.03) and the slope was steeper (t = −2.03; p = 0.04) in LHD. Similarly, the relationship between contralesional dWMFT and ipsilesional hand motor capacity was stronger ( R L H D 2 = 0.65; R R H D 2 = 0.09; z = 2.45; p = 0.01) and the slope was steeper (t = 2.03; p = 0.04) in LHD compared to RHD. Multiple regression analysis confirmed the presence of an interaction between contralesional UEFM and side of stroke (β3 = 0.66 ± 0.30; p = 0.024) and between contralesional dWMFT and side of stroke (β3 = −0.51 ± 0.34; p = 0.05). Our findings suggest that the relationship between contra- and ipsi-lesional motor capacity depends on the side of stroke in chronic stroke survivors with mild-to-moderate impairment. When contralesional impairment is more severe, the ipsilesional hand is proportionally slower in those with LHD compared to those with RHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different interventions are offered to children with cerebral palsy (CP) to improve the activity domain of the international classification of functioning (ICF). In therapy settings, the focus is mostly on motor capacity, but the ultimate goal is to improve motor performance. We therefore examined if changes in motor capacity outcomes are accompanied by changes in objectively measured motor performance after a 3‐month intensive treatment period in ambulatory children with CP. Methods: A secondary analysis on prospective clinical trial data was performed using multivariate linear regression. Sixty‐five children (37 boys and 28 girls) with spastic CP, mean age 7 years and 3 months, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I–III were involved in a distinct 3‐month intensive treatment period. Motor capacity (Gross Motor Function Measure [GMFM], functional muscle strength [FMS], and walking speed [WS]) and motor performance (using three Actigraph‐GT3X+‐derived outcome measures) were measured at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks. Results: No significant associations were found for any of the change scores (∆12) between motor capacity and motor performance after a 12‐week intensive treatment period. After 24 weeks, ∆24FMS (p =.042) and ∆24WS (p =.036) were significantly associated with changes in motor performance outcome measure percentage of time spent sedentary (∆24%sedentary). In this model, 16% of variance of ∆24%sedentary was explained by changes in motor capacity (p =.030). Conclusions: Changes in motor capacity are mostly not accompanied by changes in objectively measured motor performance after an intensive treatment period for ambulatory children with CP. These findings should be taken into account during goal setting and are important to manage expectations of both short‐ and longer term effects of treatment programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is a study aiming to find out if there are any correlations between the parameters which assess physical growth and those assessing motor capacity. The children's body growth is not a process which is carried out at a uniform pace, but it is a process with growth acceleration and slowdown periods, with varying durations in terms of age, living conditions, but also according to the individual hereditary particularities. The improvement of the motor capacity is the result of quantitative and qualitative transformations accumulated over time categorized into four major categories, depending on the specifics of the development: physical, psychic, motor and social. It was conducted on 195 lower secondary students (aged 10 / 11-14 / 15) between September and October 2018 in Bacau City. We used the following methods: documentation, pedagogical observation, testing, statistical-mathematical data recording and processing, graphical method, and for the data analysis we used the arithmetic mean, standard deviation and correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficient was calculated in order to highlight the connection degree between two variables and to assess the connection strength between the two variables: physical growth and motor capacity. Improving the overall motor capacity in parallel with the physical growth is a priority in the physical education of the younger generation. The research results highlight the existence of positive correlations between the physical growth assessment indicators (height, weight, lower limb length and span), negative between the motor capacity assessment indicators (standing long jump, 50m running speed, maintained hanging on the fixed bar, oinaball throwing and 600m and endurance running for girls and respectively for boys) and negative ones between the physical growth assessment and the motor capacity assessment both in girls and boys. In conclusion, we have discovered that the hypothesis acccording to which there are positive correlations between the physical growth assessment and the motor capacity assessment in the 5th-8th grade students has not been confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The researched problem: The specialized physical training of the military firefighters within the operational structures of the Ministry of Administration and Interior represents one of the main activities to support the fulfillment of the attributions and missions in order to orient the physical activity towards the formation and development of motor capacity and psychological qualities in the cognitive sphere, volitional and affective staff required to carry out the assigned tasks. One of the basic factors for accomplishing many of the driving actions is the physical exercise capacity, which generally means the body's ability to provide the most mechanized work and keep it as long as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) it was found that there were statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups in three of the five motor variables in favor of the experimental group (p=0.00). In general, it can be concluded that the application of the experimental treatment for 10 weeks in the experimental group led to an increase, improved results in variables Push-ups, body folding 30 s and pull-ups in high jump on the shaft.

Apraxia is stated independent of primary motor disorders. However, patient groups suffering from stroke or dementia can reveal motor impairments. In this study we examined the dependence of apraxia tests of imitation and pantomime on a latent motor component using a principal component analysis. With samples sizes of 11 patients suffering from dementia of the Alzheimer's type and 15 healthy control subjects, clear limitations concerning the validity of the results are given. Nevertheless, we could observe strong dependence of the three apraxia tests, especially the imitation of finger and hand gestures, on a latent motor component in this preliminary examination. We suggest confirmation by larger samples sizes and to control for the basic motor capacity when testing for signs of apraxia in such patient samples.

Apraxia is stated independent of primary motor disorders. However, patient groups suffering from stroke or dementia can reveal motor impairments. In this study we examined the dependence of apraxia tests of imitation and pantomime on a latent motor component using a principal component analysis. With samples sizes of 11 patients suffering from dementia of the Alzheimer's type and 15 healthy control subjects, clear limitations concerning the validity of the results are given. Nevertheless, we could observe strong dependence of the three apraxia tests, especially the imitation of finger and hand gestures, on a latent motor component in this preliminary examination. We suggest confirmation by larger samples sizes and to control for the basic motor capacity when testing for signs of apraxia in such patient samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The aim of the study is to highlight the content of the school curriculum and to optimize the teaching process of physical education and psychomotor education of pupils in gymnasium classes by using the specific means of playing basketball in the physical education lessons. Methods. The study was carried out at the "Coresi" Gymnasium School in Targoviste, by assisting and participating in the physical education lessons. Subjects participating in the study were students of the 7th grade (the class with the highest number of pupils), in number of 22 children, of which 11 girls and 11 boys. Children aged between 13 and 14 years. Results. In the long-distance jumping test, combined explosive speed with force sample, the students gained superior quantitative improvements, the differences between the averages achieved in the final test compared to the initial test were 10.64 cm for boys, and 7.36 cm for girls. In the 5x10 m runway test, better results were obtained in the second test than at the first execution time of the girls decreasing by 2.42 seconds and the boys by 1.58 seconds, an aspect that proves the effectiveness of practicing basketball exercises and the other content of the program exercises, on improving motor skills and especially speed and skill at this age. For passes with two hands from the chest, a basketball-specific test showing the accuracy and speed of execution, there was a correction of the executions, as evidenced by the differences in the average obtained, the girls with 2.28 executions more, and the boys with 4.36 executions. The triangle movement experienced improvement in decreasing the execution time from 32.17 seconds to 29.4 seconds for the girls group and from 29.53 seconds to 24.26 seconds for boys, demonstrating the effectiveness of exercises used in lessons of physical education. Conclusions. The content of the physical education program can be achieved using the specific means of playing basketball, which lead to the acquisition of knowledge, skills, qualities and skills, to the development of the physical and motor skills of pupils in gymnasium classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B (PirB), a functional receptor for myelin-associated inhibitory proteins, plays an important role in axon regeneration in injured brains. However, its role in normal brain function with age has not been previously investigated. Therefore in this study, we examined the expression level of PirB in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum of mice at 1 month, 3 months and 18 months of age. The results showed that the expression of PirB increased with age. We further demonstrated that overexpression of PirB inhibited neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells, and this inhibitory activity of PirB could be reversed by TAT-PEP, which is a recombinant soluble PirB ectodomain fused with TAT domain for blood-brain barrier penetration. In vivo study, intraperitoneal administration of TAT-PEP was capable of enhancing motor capacity and spatial learning and memory in mice, which appeared to be mediated through regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) secretion. Our study suggests that PirB is associated with aging and TAT-PEP may be a promising therapeutic agent for modulation of age-related motor and cognitive dysfunctions.

Swimming contributes to recording, studying, analysing and interpreting data on the whole phenomenon of motor skills development as a landmark. This activity has an important role to play in optimizing motor capacity and speed development, and it will benefit from substantial improvements due to profound, scientific nature of the study. It was assumed that by using the recovery method within the weekly training of swimmers, the speed of movement will gradually improve without too much evidence of fatigue, helping them achieve the desired results. The hypothesis of the paper is the modification of the speed of the 25m and 50m events using 12.5m start-up swimming and methods of effort recovery. Results. By combining 12.5m swimming methods and effort recovery, the value of 12-14 years old swimmers' results is positive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-esteem is the result of the analogy between self-concept and self-image; the latter is formed by the self-perception of the physical, emotional, cognitive, social, etc characteristics. This paper treats the correlation between self-esteem and physical capacity from the perspective that each social actor communicates with the environment through the body and that the body represents the instrument of social image elaboration, thus facilitating self-knowledge and the knowledge of the others. It actually represents the reflection of the beliefs that have always made up the general opinion. The specialized literature ascribes to the body the role of “mediator” in the relationship with the self, with the environment and with the others. Within an interaction, the dialogue partners give much importance to the non-verbal language, which transmits information that will bring advantages or disadvantages to the result of the communication. Kinaesthesia has a fundamental role in the body language and that is why the investigative approach is oriented toward the identification of a reciprocity relationship between physical capacity and self-esteem (with all its components). In this sense, based on the research outcomes, we can talk about the elements influencing the well-being of the social actors, about the correlation between the level of physical performance and self-esteem, between the last variable and the somatometric indices, as an element providing information on self-perception. A high self-esteem favours the development of human potential.

The study aims to highlight the impact of practicing recreational figure skating by evaluating the relationship between the perceptions of motor, mental and social benefits of practicing figure skating and the frequency and duration allocated for this recreational activity. The study included 143 students of physical education and sport specialization. The questionnaire was designed to evaluate the students’ perception about the benefits of practicing recreational figure skating; it included 30 items divided in three parts: motor, mental and social benefits. Each of them contained 10 items to be assessed by students using the Likert scale, with 2 items related to the duration and frequency of practicing figure skating during recreational time. The results were processed using SPPS 24. The results were statistically significant at p < 0.05. The Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of the questionnaire was α = 0.965, suggesting that the items had high internal consistency. Using the Likert scale, we found the following: concerning the high score 5 points—the motor capacity 62.9%, the mental capacity 49.7%, the social capacity 49.7%; and for a low score of 1 point—mental and social capacity 1.4%, motor capacity 0.7%. The effect size was medium for almost all items. No statistically significant correlations were found between the result of the questionnaire and the frequency and duration of practicing figure skating during free time. Figure skating is considered by students to be one of the activities through which a series of parameters of physical development and level of physical fitness can be improved through the expansion of motor skills. Also, the practice of figure skating contributes to the formation of proactive behaviors by improving the mental and social abilities of practitioners.

Background: Children with cerebral palsy, although having similar diagnosis, varies in their abilities & level of functioning within & across different environmental context e.g. home, school or community setting. Capacity (what a child can do in standardized, controlled environment) may or may not be the same as performance (what a child actually does do in her/her daily environment). Materials and Methods: After getting approval from Institutional Ethic’s Committee (IEC), 63 children with cerebral palsy (4-16 year, mean 7.4 year with SD 0.39) of all clinical types, Gross Motor Functional Classification System (GMFCS) level I-V were examined for mobility using Gross Motor Functional Measure 88 (GMFM). Motor capacity was assessed in clinical setting by highest of 3 GMFM items attained, i.e., crawling (44), walks with support (68) & walks without support (70). Motor performance was measured by Functional Mobility Scale version 2. Result: On analysis of motor capacity 42.85% children were walking without support, 15.87% were able to crawl & 26.98% were able walk with support in clinical setting. Spearman’s Correlation was done between GMFM item 70 with FMS 5 (home setting) to check correlation of capacity with performance & was found to be significantly correlated (r=0.586, p=0.04). All three GMFM items were correlated with FMS 5, 50, 500 & found positively correlated. For community setting (FMS 500), 52.38% children were lifted by parents & only 6.34% were using wheel chair mobility. A total of 21.87% patients were able to walk with or without support & still lifted by parents in school or community setting. Conclusion: Change in capacity and performance of mobility exists mainly in school and community setting in studied population. Context should be given importance to prioritize rehabilitation process.

In addition to multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) it was found that there were statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups in three of the five motor variables in favor of the experimental group (p=0.00). In general, it can be concluded that the application of the experimental treatment for 10 weeks in the experimental group led to an increase, improved results in variables Push-ups, body folding 30 s and pull-ups in high jump on the shaft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]