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While regular physical activity is a cornerstone of health, wellness, and vitality, the impact of endurance exercise training on molecular signaling within and across tissues remains to be delineated. The Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) was established to characterize molecular networks underlying the adaptive response to exercise. Here, we describe the endurance exercise training studies undertaken by the Preclinical Animal Sites Studies component of MoTrPAC, in which we sought to develop and implement a standardized endurance exercise protocol in a large cohort of rats. To this end, Adult (6-mo) and Aged (18-mo) female (n = 151) and male (n = 143) Fischer 344 rats were subjected to progressive treadmill training (5 d/wk, ∼70%-75% VO2max) for 1, 2, 4, or 8 wk; sedentary rats were studied as the control group. A total of 18 solid tissues, as well as blood, plasma, and feces, were collected to establish a publicly accessible biorepository and for extensive omics-based analyses by MoTrPAC. Treadmill training was highly effective, with robust improvements in skeletal muscle citrate synthase activity in as little as 1-2 wk and improvements in maximum run speed and maximal oxygen uptake by 4-8 wk. For body mass and composition, notable age- and sex-dependent responses were observed. This work in mature, treadmill-trained rats represents the most comprehensive and publicly accessible tissue biorepository, to date, and provides an unprecedented resource for studying temporal-, sex-, and age-specific responses to endurance exercise training in a preclinical rat model.

The health advantages of Ramadan fasting, a time-restricted eating from dawn to dusk, have garnered attention. Nevertheless, prior observational studies have found inconsistent findings because of challenges regulating variables such as sleep patterns, dietary habits, and physical activity. This study sought to investigate the impact of the Ramadan fasting model (RFM) on longevity and metabolic biomarkers in obese and non-obese rats. For 12 weeks, 48 male Wistar albino rats were separated into two groups and fed either a standard or a high-fat diet (HFD). During the final four weeks, rats in each group were separated into four subgroups to investigate the effect of RFM with/without training (on Treadmill) or glucose administration on the biomarkers of interest. The HFD groups subjected to RFM had significantly lower Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) serum, whereas AMPK, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative stress serum levels were significantly higher. All groups reported decreased serum levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) compared to the HFD control group. Furthermore, the Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) results indicated a significant elevation in the TP53 gene expression in groups subjected to RFM. The data indicate that RFM can improve longevity and metabolic biomarkers and reduce pro-inflammation and oxidative stress. Also, RFM improves anti-inflammatory and antioxidant markers in HFD-induced obese rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this randomized cross-over controlled trial was to evaluate the biomechanical effects of ankle taping using rigid tape (RT) or kinesiotape (KT) compared to no taping during treadmill running in well-trained amateur runners. Methods: A total of 22 participants (15 men and 7 women) completed three running sessions on a treadmill, each lasting 30 min, under different conditions: no taping (CG), RT, and KT. Sagittal and frontal plane kinematics were analyzed using the Kinovea software to assess the ankle dorsiflexion, knee flexion, hip extension, tibial angle, foot strike pattern, heel eversion, and pelvic drop across three intervals (0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 min). Results: The results demonstrated no significant differences in sagittal plane variables (ankle dorsiflexion, knee flexion, hip extension, and cadence) or frontal plane variables (heel eversion and pelvic drop) between the CG, RT and KT groups at any time point. Although heel eversion significantly increased over time due to fatigue, the taping conditions did not affect running kinematics. Conclusions: These findings suggest that neither RT nor KT alters running biomechanics in well-trained runners over prolonged treadmill running. The study highlights that taping, commonly used to prevent ankle injuries, does not significantly modify lower limb kinematics in the absence of injury. Further research is needed to evaluate the effects of taping in novice or injured runners and under more demanding conditions, such as overground running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether repeated transitions between seated and standing positions has a different physiological response compared to continuous use of either seated position or standing position during steep uphill cycling among elite cyclists. Ten elite male cyclists completed three 5-min treadmill cycling tests at an inclination of 6.8° with constant individual-based speed resulting in a work intensity close to the aerobic threshold. During the first and third test, the participants used standing position (ST test) and seated position (SE test) or vice versa, whereas in the second test, they made repeated transitions between standing and seated positions every 10 s (RT test). The last 2 min of each test was used to measure the mean values of oxygen uptake (V̇O2) and respiratory exchange ratio, which were used to calculate the metabolic rate (MR) and gross efficiency (GE). Additionally, the blood-lactate concentration before and after (Lapost) each test was determined. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effect of cycling position on the physiological response. No significant differences between tests were observed for the variables related to aerobic energy expenditure (i.e., V̇O2, MR and GE), whereas the RT test was associated with a significantly lower Lapost compared to the ST and SE tests. Steep uphill cycling, at an intensity close to the aerobic threshold, with repeated transitions between standing and seated positions, did not have a higher oxygen consumption; instead, the blood-lactate concentration was lower during the RT test compared to that under continuous use of either seated or standing position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows that treadmill shock-absorbing devices can reduce the impact of ground reaction forces on the knee and ankle joints during running. Most existing treadmills use fixed or passive shock absorption, meaning their shock-absorbing systems do not actively adjust to changes in ground reaction forces (GRFs). Methods: This study establishes a mathematical model integrating human motion biomechanics and treadmill running surfaces, analyzing the relationships between various parameters affecting the system. Ultimately, an optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is designed, utilizing a microcontroller as the main control unit, airbags for shock absorption, and a widely used foot pressure testing system. Objective: The goal is to more effectively prevent running injuries caused by excessive foot pressure. Compared to conventional shock absorption systems, this design features an active multilevel adjustment function with higher precision in regulation. Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the ground reaction force (GRF) generated by the optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is reduced by up to 10% compared to that of a conventional shock-absorbing treadmill. Conclusions: This leads to a smaller impact force on the knees due to foot pressure, resulting in better injury prevention outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To navigate complex environments, walking animals must detect and overcome unexpected perturbations. One technical challenge when investigating adaptive locomotion is measuring behavioral responses to precise perturbations during naturalistic walking; another is that manipulating neural activity in sensorimotor circuits often reduces spontaneous locomotion. To overcome these obstacles, we introduce miniature treadmill systems for coercing locomotion and tracking 3D kinematics of walking Drosophila. By systematically comparing walking in three experimental setups, we show that flies compelled to walk on the linear treadmill have similar stepping kinematics to freely walking flies, while kinematics of tethered walking flies are subtly different. Genetically silencing mechanosensory neurons altered step kinematics of flies walking on the linear treadmill across all speeds. We also discovered that flies can maintain a forward heading on a split-belt treadmill by specifically adapting the step distance of their middle legs. These findings suggest that proprioceptive feedback contributes to leg motor control irrespective of walking speed and that the fly's middle legs play a specialized role in stabilizing locomotion. [Display omitted] • A new actuated treadmill system captures 3D kinematics of flies compelled to walk • Flies walking on the treadmill have similar kinematics to freely walking flies • Proprioceptive feedback is important for leg motor control at all walking speeds • Flies on a split-belt treadmill use their middle legs to counteract perturbations Pratt et al. engineer tiny treadmills that enable 3D tracking of fruit fly walking kinematics. The authors systematically compare treadmills to free and tethered walking, evaluate the role of proprioceptive feedback across walking speeds, and reveal how flies adapt their stepping patterns to maintain course on a split-belt treadmill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to compare the accuracy of kinematic measurements obtained using the 2-D videobased kinematic motion analysis (KMA) software Kinovea (version 0.9.5; http://www.kinovea.org) with 3-D KMA in healthy dogs. METHODS In this prospective study, 3-D marker--based KMA (VICON-Nexus, version 2.12.1, and Procalc, version 1.6; VICON Motion Systems Ltd) was performed on healthy dogs (body weight ≥ 20 kg; height at withers > 50 cm) walking on a treadmill (study period: November 2022). Simultaneously, dogs were video recorded by 1 smartphone (iPhone SE; Apple Inc) at a 1.50-m distance perpendicular to the shoulder (60 frames per second; 1,920 X 1,080 pixels) for KMA using Kinovea. Joint angle and joint angle velocity of the shoulder, elbow, carpus, hip, stifle, and tarsus were calculated for 6 synchronized gait cycles. Each gait cycle was divided into 10 increments. The difference between 3-D KMA and Kinovea was assessed for each parameter using robust linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS 34 dogs were included. The estimated joint angle difference between 3-D KMA and Kinovea was less than 2° for all shoulder and elbow gait cycle increments. For the carpus, hip, stifle, and tarsus, the difference was less than 2° in 9, 5, 4, and 4 out of 10 gait cycle increments, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Kinovea provides accurate kinematic data for the shoulder and elbow of healthy dogs. Carpal, hip, stifle, and tarsal kinematics were less accurate. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The use of Kinovea for clinical and research purposes remains limited. Future Kinovea-based studies are needed to investigate the accuracy of carpal, hip, stifle, and tarsal kinematics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated the acceleration signal presents a typical running signature, which allows for the extraction of reliable information. However, few studies have focused on the exhaustion-induced variability of the acceleration signature during running. The present study included 10 participants who ran at a constant speed on a treadmill until exhaustion. The participants were equipped with three accelerometers, located at the lumbar spine, tibia, and foot. The results showed that all the participants kept a constant pace throughout the test (coefficient of variation <5%). Similarities between acceleration signatures were observed using the coefficient of multiple correlation. For the longitudinal axis of the lumbar spine, the longitudinal axis of the tibia, and the anteroposterior axis of the tibia, running signatures were not affected by exhaustion (coefficient of multiple correlation >0.8). For all the other axes, the signature was impacted within and between the states of exhaustion. Signatures were particularly different for the foot sensors, which makes it difficult to use to extract reliable information. The results showed that the coefficient of multiple correlation allowed the quantification of the variability of the running signature, and that each axis and measuring point varied in how they were influenced by exhaustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in blood pressure and electrocardiogram are important factors that determine exercise testing. This study investigated blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes in healthy young adults after performing acute moderate aerobic exercise protocols. Forty young healthy untrained non-athletes, twenty males and twenty females (age, 25 ± 5.6 years; body weight, 65 ± 4.0 kg; body height, 176.9 ± 2.5 cm) were recruited for the study. The exercise regimen was acute moderate exercise for 20 min on a treadmill consistently for 14 days daily at the speed of 13 km/h. The body weight, blood pressure, and electrocardiograph were measured before and after exercise. There was a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in body weight (59 ± 3.2 kg) of female participants after 14 days of aerobic exercise relative to their baseline mean value (63 ± 2.9 kg). The systolic blood pressure decreased (P < 0.05) in males (117 ± 1.1 mmHg) and females (117 ± 1.0 mmHg) when compared to the mean baseline values in males (127 ± 1.3 mmHg) and females (128 ±0.3 mmHg). The diastolic blood pressure also decreased (P < 0.05) in male (71 ± 0.88 mmHg) participants after exercise when compared to the baseline mean values (79 ± 1.2 mmHg) while there was no change in diastolic blood pressure of females. The ECG parameters remained unchanged, while the heart rate (75 ± 1.3 beats/min) increased (P < 0.05) after exercise in all participants relative to the baseline (69 ± 2 beats/min). The results suggest that moderate aerobic exercise normalized blood pressure and electrical activity of the heart while reducing heart rate after 14 days of consistent aerobic exercise in healthy individuals. • Regular aerobic exercise reduced systolic blood pressure in healthy young male and female adults. • Healthy young male adults have lower diastolic blood pressure than females after regular aerobic exercise. • Regular aerobic exercise normalises the electrical activity of the heart in healthy young adults. • There is improved heart rate after regular aerobic exercise in healthy young male and female adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As space agencies prepare for long-duration missions, such as establishing a permanent moon base, maintaining astronauts’ physical and mental health becomes crucial. Exercise is known to counteract the adverse effects of space travel, and virtual reality (VR) has the potential to enhance the psychological well-being of crew members. This study aimed to investigate the impact of bodyweight unloading on speed perception during treadmill walking in a VR environment. Eighteen participants walked on an AlterG treadmill while wearing a VR headset that displayed a moving virtual outdoor environment. The treadmill simulated different bodyweight conditions (100%, 60%, and 20%) to represent Earth’s gravity, intermediate, and lunar gravity, respectively. A staircase method was used to determine participants’ estimated threshold speed for perceiving visual speed equivalence. The results revealed that in all conditions, participants consistently underestimated their walking speed compared to the visual scene speed. No significant differences were found in estimated threshold speeds between the unloading conditions. Individual responses varied, possibly due to biomechanical differences and personal preferences. Participants reported no motion sickness symptoms, likely attributed to the short duration of speed mismatches and the use of high-resolution and high-refresh-rate VR equipment. This study provides insights into the combination of VR and treadmill walking, suggesting the importance of individual customization to enhance user experience and prevent motion sickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare physiological responses during a treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX), 6‐minute walk test (6MWT), and timed up and go test (TUGT) in individuals referred for unexplained breathlessness and symptom limited treadmill exercise testing. Methods: Heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption (V̇O2), carbon dioxide production (V̇CO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), minute ventilation (V̇E), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded throughout each test. Results: Each test demonstrated a significant increase (p < 0.01) in the cardiopulmonary (V̇O2, V̇CO2 and V̇E, RPE, SBP, and HR) and perceptual (RPE) responses from rest to end exercise. The increase in cardiopulmonary and perceptual responses was greatest for the CPX with significantly smaller responses demonstrated during the 6MWT (p < 0.01) and even smaller responses for the TUGT (p < 0.01 vs CPX and 6MWT). Conclusion: Not surprisingly, the treadmill CPX results is the greatest physiological response in our group. Despite being of short duration, the TUGT results in an increased physiological response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elite athletes in speed roller skates perceive skating to be a more demanding exercise for the groin when compared to other cyclic disciplines, increasing their risk of injury. The objective of this study was to monitor the kinematic and electromyographic parameters of roller speed skaters, linearly, on a treadmill, and to compare different skating speeds, one at 20 km/h and one at 32 km/h, at a 1° inclination. The acquisition was carried out by placing an inertial sensor at the level of the first sacral vertebra, and eight surface electromyographic probes on both lower limbs. The kinematic and electromyographic analysis on the treadmill showed that a higher speed requires more muscle activation, in terms of maximum and average values and co-activation, as it not only increases the intrinsic muscle demand in the district, but also the athlete's ability to coordinate the skating technique. The present study allows us to indicate not only how individual muscle districts are activated during skating on a surface different from the road, but also how different speeds affect the overall district load distributions concerning effective force, which is essential for the physiotherapist and kinesiologist for preventive and conditional purposes, while also considering possible variations in the skating technique in linear advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of using maximal cadence criteria cut points established during overground and treadmill walking, on intensity outputs measured during community ambulation. The second aim was to establish the relationship between cardiovascular fitness (predicted VO 2 max capacity) and community ambulation intensity performance, in typically developing individuals. What is the effect on intensity measures when using cadence cut point criteria derived from overground and treadmill walking and does predicted VO 2 max correlate with exercise related community activity in a typically developing population? A group of 37 typically developing participants between 8 and 27 years of age, underwent a graded submaximal VO 2 testing protocol followed by a typical week of community ambulation, recorded with a step activity monitor. Maximum cadence criteria established during overground and treadmill walking were applied and the data were compared. The weekly step activity variables included: total steps, total ambulatory time, intensity, duration, and volume. Predicted VO 2 Max was calculated, and correlations calculated to step activity outputs. Results showed significant differences (p<0.001) between cadence cut point criteria across all intensity measures except in the amount of time spent in the 30–60 % intensity category (p=0.182). Predicted VO 2 max did not significantly correlate with step activity outputs related to exercise (moderate+ intensity and long duration ambulatory bouts; p>0.277). This study illustrates the importance of close consideration in applying recommended cut off criteria when assessing intensity outputs from step activity data. Cadence from both overground and treadmill walking were collected in a controlled lab setting, but the influence of the treadmill mechanical and forced cadence criteria must be considered when selecting intensity cut points. • Step intensity is affected when using treadmill and overground max cadence criteria. • Maximum cadence determined in a lab setting may not correlate to community walking. • Exercise related community ambulation data do not correlate to predicted VO 2 max. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a criticalmarker of overall health and a key predictor of morbidity andmortality, but the existing prediction equations for CRF are primarily derived from general populations and may not be suitable for patients with obesity. Methods: Predicted CRF from different non-exercise prediction equations was compared with measured CRF of patients with obesity who underwent maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Multiple linear regression was used to develop a population-specific nonexercise CRF prediction model for treadmill exercise including age, sex, weight, height, and physical activity level as determinants. Results: Six hundred sixty patients underwent CPET during the study period. Within the entire cohort, R² values had a range of 0.24 to 0.46. Predicted CRF was statistically different from measured CRF for 19 of the 21 included equations. Only 50% of patients were correctly classified into the measured CRF categories according to predicted CRF. A multiple model for CRF prediction (mL⋅min-1) was generated (R² = 0.78) and validated using two crossvalidation methods. Conclusions: Most used equations provide inaccurate estimates of CRF in patients with obesity, particularly in cases of severe obesity and low CRF. Therefore, a new prediction equation was developed and validated specifically for patients with obesity, offering a more precise tool for clinical CPET interpretation and risk stratification in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Rett syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that can severely affect motor functioning, particularly walking. Previous training programs proposed treadmills as tools to increase walking endurance of patients with Rett syndrome, but these trainings did not include virtual reality (VR). The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a short treadmill training coupled to VR in girls with Rett syndrome. Methods: Nine patients with Rett syndrome underwent a 3-day treadmill walking program performed in semi-immersive VR. During the training, the happiness index and performance metrics were collected. At the end of the training parents filled out the Suitability Evaluation Questionnaire (SEQ) and, when feasible, patients underwent a gait assessment. Results: All the subjects recruited performed the three GRAIL sessions and parents showed a good satisfaction and considered the integration of treadmill and VR a good possibility for future rehabilitative programs. Participants showed greater satisfaction in environments requiring walking and their attention increased during training sessions, hypothesizing the feasibility of longer trainings with treadmill and VR. Data collected from gait analysis provided insights, although preliminary, concerning differences in gait pattern amongst the recruited subjects. Conclusions: Despite the small sample size and limited training duration, the paper suggests that a walking training with a treadmill combined with VR can represent a new strategy for Rett rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials/MethodsResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONParkinson’s disease creates an inability to perform previous learned autonomic tasks, such as walking, which worsens with disease progression. Recommendations to incorporate exercise at moderate to high intensities for this population has been established but there is limited knowledge about its impact on clinical based outcomes. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of a 6-week intensity-driven walking program on clinical-based outcomes in individuals with PD.Five individuals with PD were recruited for this single-subject withdrawal design (A-B-A-B) study. 6-minute walk performance and other core neurological measures of gait were collected. Intervention phases incorporated a 30-minute individualized intensity-driven treadmill walking program practiced at 65% or more of ones maximum heart rate. Increased treadmill speed, incline, and resistance were manipulated to reach the target heart rate zone.6-minute walk test within condition visual analysis demonstrated a therapeutic change during intervention phases and a countertherapeutic change during withdraw periods for all 5 individuals. An abrupt therapeutic effect was demonstrated for all individuals between conditions with the percent of nonoverlapping data ranging from 70-90%. Band method analysis revealed a range of 9-19 sessions two standard deviations above baseline mean performances for all individuals.To achieve sufficient walking performance, gait practiced at higher intensity levels may provide the optimal solution as an adjunct to standard care for individuals with PD who want to improve their walking. Parkinson’s disease creates an inability to perform previous learned autonomic tasks, such as walking, which worsens with disease progression.Exercise practiced at higher levels of intensity has been recommended to improve clinical based outcomes for the neurological population.Walking practice at higher intensity levels can provide a solution to improve gait endurance for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.Parkinson’s disease creates an inability to perform previous learned autonomic tasks, such as walking, which worsens with disease progression.Exercise practiced at higher levels of intensity has been recommended to improve clinical based outcomes for the neurological population.Walking practice at higher intensity levels can provide a solution to improve gait endurance for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-stroke gait asymmetry leads to inefficient gait and a higher fall risk, often causing limited home and community ambulation. Two types of treadmills are typically used for training focused on symmetry: split-belt and single belt treadmills, but there is no consensus on which treadmill is superior to improve gait symmetry in individuals with stroke. To comprehensively determine which intervention is superior, we considered multiple spatial and temporal gait parameters (step length, stride time, swing time, and stance time) and their symmetries. Ten individuals with stroke underwent a single session of split-belt treadmill training and single belt treadmill training on separate days. The changes in step length, stride time, swing time, stance time and their respective symmetries were compared to investigate which training improves both spatiotemporal gait parameters and symmetries immediately after the intervention and after 5 min of rest. Both types of treadmill training immediately increased gait velocity (0.08 m/s faster) and shorter step length (4.15 cm longer). However, split-belt treadmill training was more effective at improving step length symmetry (improved by 27.3%) without sacrificing gait velocity or step length. However, this step length symmetry effect diminished after a 5-min rest period. Split-belt treadmill training may have some advantages over single belt treadmill training, when targeting step length symmetry. Future research should focus on comparing the long-term effects of these two types of training and examining the duration of the observed effects to provide clinically applicable information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Gait training programs are commonly used to improve gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP). OBJECTIVE: To compared the effects of robotic-gait assistant training (RAGT) and conventional body weight support treadmill training (CBWSTT) on gait parameters among ambulatory children with CP. METHODS: The study is a randomized controlled trial of 36 children (17 in the RAGT group and 19 in the CBWSTT group) aged 5 to 14. Gait training involved 30—to 35-minute sessions three times per week over eight weeks. RESULTS: Mixed ANCOVA showed no main effect of time or group on all gait parameters (P >.05). Gross motor function measure dimensions D (GMFM D) and E (GMFM E) show main effects on step width. Stride length, step length, speed, swing phase, and double support phase interacted with GMFM D and E. There was a negative correlation between motor function level and the change from baseline. Children with lower motor function show a greater change from baseline. CONCLUSION: There were no significant differences between CBWSTT and RAGT for children with CP; however, with gait training interventions, the level of motor function should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction This study aimed to investigate the effects of integrating treadmill training with trunk mobility exercise on functional performance in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods Fourteen patients with PD volunteered for this study. This single-subject experimental study used an A-B-C design: (A) baseline, (B) intervention-1 (trunk mobility exercise alone), and (C) intervention-2 (trunk mobility exercise and treadmill training). No intervention was performed during the A phase. Trunk mobility exercise focusing on large trunk and limb motions was performed during the B phase. The C phase included treadmill training in addition to trunk mobility exercise. Outcome measures included the 10-m walk test (10MWT), timed up-and-go (TUG) test, unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale Part III, Berg balance scale, dynamic gait index, and new activities of daily living questionnaire. Results In the comparison of individual data, most participants showed improved 10 MWT and TUG test scores during the B and C phases when compared with those in the baseline phase, except for one participant for the TUG test score. Moreover, group data comparison revealed significantly improved scores for all parameters after the B phase ( p < 0.05), and these gains improved synergistically after the C phase ( p < 0.05). Conclusions These findings suggest that trunk mobility exercises are beneficial for enhancing balance and walking function in patients with PD; furthermore, the benefits are improved synergistically by integrating treadmill training.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: التحمل القلبي الرئوي مهم للمشاركة بشكل مريح في أنشطة الحياة اليومية. تستخدم اختبارات التمرين، مثل اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق، بشكل شائع لتقييم القدرة على التحمل القلبي الرئوي. نحن نهدف إلى دراسة تأثيرات اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق القائم على الممر والمعتمد على مختبر تحليل المشية في الوقت الحقيقي التفاعلي على الأداء الوظيفي. طريقة البحث: تم تقسيم ثلاثين رجلا أصحاء بشكل عشوائي إلى مجموعتين. أجرى المشاركون في المجموعة (أ) اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق على الممر، تليها فترة الراحة (ساعة واحدة)، وبعد ذلك، قاموا بإجراء اختبار المشي في الوقت الحقيقي للتحليل التفاعلي القائم على المشي لمدة ست دقائق. في المجموعة (ب)، أجرى المشاركون الاختبارات بتسلسل عكسي لتلك التي أجراها المشاركون في المجموعة (أ). النتائج: أدى اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق القائم على الممر إلى زيادة كبيرة في مسافة ست دقائق سيرا على الأقدام (6 ميجاوات) وسرعة المشي لمدة ست دقائق مقارنة باختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق القائم على مختبر التحليل التفاعلي في الوقت الحقيقي. لم يلاحظ أي فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية بين المجموعتين في أي من النتائج الثانوية التالية: ضغط الدم الانقباضي، وضغط الدم الانبساطي، وتشبع الأكسجين، ومعدل ضربات القلب، وضيق التنفس، والتعب العام. ولوحظ وجود علاقة إيجابية قوية بين مسافة اختبار المشي البالغة ست دقائق وسرعة اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق. الاستنتاجات: لا ينبغي استخدام اختبار المشي لمدة ست دقائق القائم على الممر واختبار المشي في الوقت الحقيقي للتحليل التفاعلي القائم على المختبر لمدة ست دقائق بشكل تبادلي. Abstract: Objective: Cardiopulmonary endurance is important for comfortably participating in activities of daily living. Exercise tests, such as the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), are commonly used to evaluate cardiopulmonary endurance. We investigated the effects of the Gait Real-Time Analysis Interactive Lab (GRAIL)- and corridor-based 6MWTs on functional performance. Methods: Thirty healthy men were randomly divided into two groups. Group A participants performed a corridor-based 6MWT, followed by a washout period (1 h). Subsequently, they performed the GRAIL-based 6MWT. Group B participants performed the tests in the reverse order of that performed by Group A participants. Results: The corridor-based 6MWT resulted in significantly higher 6MW distance and 6MW speed than the GRAIL-based 6MWT. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in any of the following secondary outcomes: systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, dyspnea, and overall fatigue. A strong positive correlation was observed between the 6MW distance and 6MW speed. Conclusion: The corridor- and GRAIL-based 6MWT should not be used interchangeably.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study is to analyze the diagnostic value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) in detecting inducible myocardial ischemia in patients with chest pain undergoing treadmill contrast-enhanced stress echocardiography (SE). Methods We retrospectively enrolled all patients who underwent invasive coronary angiography after treadmill contrast-enhanced SE. Rest and peak-stress myocardial GLS, segmental LS, and LS of 4-chamber (CH), 2-CH, and 3-CH views were reported. Luminal stenosis of more than 70% or fractional flow reserve (FFR) of

Previous research has shown that exercise interventions requiring increased activation of the tibialis anterior (TA), the primary ankle dorsiflexor, can improve walking performance in individuals with foot drop. Correspondingly, heightened drag forces experienced during walking performed in water may augment TA activation during the swing phase of gait, potentially leading to improved walking gait on land. Therefore, this study aimed to compare surface electromyographic (sEMG) activation in the TA and medial gastrocnemius (GM) during gait performed in water versus on land. Thirty-eight healthy, recreationally active young adults, comprising 18 females and 20 males, participated in the study. Each participant completed 2 min walking trials under five conditions: land 2.5 mph, land 3.5 mph, water 2.5 mph, water 3.5 mph, and water 3.5 mph with added jet resistance. Stride kinematics were collected using 2-dimensional underwater motion capture. TA and GM, muscle activation magnitudes, were quantified using sEMG root-mean-square (RMS) amplitudes for both the swing and stance phases of walking. Additionally, TA and GM co-activation (Co-A) indices were estimated. Two-way within-subjects repeated measures analyses of variance were used to evaluate the main effects of and interactions between the environment and walking speed. Additionally, paired sample t-tests were conducted as a secondary analysis to investigate differences between walking in water at 3.5 mph with and without added jet resistance. Main effects and interactions were observed across various stride kinematics and sEMG measures. Notably, TA sEMG RMS during the swing phase of walking gait performed at 2.5 mph was 15% greater in water than on land (p < 0.001). This effect increased when walking gait was performed at 3.5 mph (94%; p < 0.001) and when jet resistance was added to the 3.5 mph condition (52%; p < 0.001). Furthermore, TA Co-A was increased during the stance phase of gait in water compared to on land (p < 0.001), while GM Co-A was reduced during the swing phase (p < 0.001). The findings of this study offer compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of aquatic treadmill walking as a potential treatment for individuals suffering from foot drop. However, further research is needed to evaluate whether a causal relationship exists between heightened TA activation observed during aquatic treadmill walking and improvements in voluntary dorsiflexion during gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The prevalence of falls among the older population underscores the imperative of comprehending human adaptations to gait perturbations. Dual-belt treadmills offer a controlled setting for such investigations. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of the acceleration of one belt of the treadmill during three different phases of the gait cycle on kinematic and kinetic parameters and relate these changes to unperturbed gait. Methods: Twenty-one healthy young females walked on a treadmill in a virtual environment, in which five unexpected perturbations were applied to the left belt at the Initial Contact (IC), Mid Stance (MS), and Pre-Swing (PS) phase of the gait cycle. Data from the undisturbed gait and the first disturbance of each trial were extracted for analysis. Results: All perturbations significantly affected the gait pattern, mainly by decreasing the knee extension angle. The perturbation in the IC phase had the most significant effect, resulting in a 248.48% increase in knee flexion torque. The perturbation in the MS phase mainly affected plantar flexion torque, increasing it by 118.18%, while perturbation in the PS phase primarily increased the hip extension torque by 73.02%. Conclusions: The presence of perturbations in the IC and PS phases caused the most aggressive and significant changes in gait parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, indoor or at-home sports have experienced significant growth. However, monotony is a common challenge in these static physical activities. Exergames, a genre of video games that combines physical activity and entertainment, have emerged as an attractive solution. Nevertheless, running on a treadmill and engaging in other activities simultaneously presents additional challenges. The balance and concentration required during running while interacting with a video game demand a special focus on the design of the Exergame. This paper presents a mobile Exergame designed specifically for treadmill running, utilizing interaction with a smartwatch. The game offers natural environments where, through smartwatch technology, it interprets the player's movements, transforming them into running speed and interactive actions by detecting gestures within the game. The main objective is to provide users with a satisfying gaming experience tailored to the characteristics of treadmill running. Particular emphasis has been placed on prioritizing the playful component of this Exergame, recognizing its relevance in the context of treadmill running. To evaluate the achievement of objectives and the proposed hypothesis, a comparative study was conducted between the proposed Exergame and a treadmill running simulator. Participants experienced both experiences and subsequently completed the Game Experience Questionnaire (GEQ), specifically the In-game GEQ version. The results obtained indicate that participants had a better gaming experience in the Exergame than in the simulator. These findings highlight the importance of prioritizing the playful component in Exergames and provide guidelines for future improvements and developments in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a commonly used training modality that has been demonstrated to enhance muscle characteristics such as size and function. The purpose of this study was to determine if a 4-week walking program with or without BFR in healthy, active adults has an effect on body composition, anaerobic, and aerobic running performance. Thirty-three participants, randomized among three groups, completed the walking program, which included five sets of 2 min walking intervals with 1 min rest, with or without BFR, or 10 min walking with BFR. Assessments completed before and after the walking program included body composition, 40-yard sprints, and a VO2MAX test on a treadmill. A two-way ANOVA revealed no changes among the groups nor for any variables at any time (p > 0.05). Additionally, one main effect for time indicated the VO2 at V-slope threshold was greater following training for all groups combined (p = 0.001). The results demonstrate that low volume and intensity walking with BFR for 4 weeks did not provide a sufficient stimulus for changing body composition or performance metrics in a group of very active adults. Longer or more isolated exposure of BFR on the limbs may contribute to more pronounced adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study is to analyze the diagnostic value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) in detecting inducible myocardial ischemia in patients with chest pain undergoing treadmill contrast-enhanced stress echocardiography (SE). Methods: We retrospectively enrolled all patients who underwent invasive coronary angiography after treadmill contrast-enhanced SE. Rest and peak-stress myocardial GLS, segmental LS, and LS of 4-chamber (CH), 2-CH, and 3-CH views were reported. Luminal stenosis of more than 70% or fractional flow reserve (FFR) of < 0.8 was considered significant. Results: In total 33 patients were included in the final analysis, among whom sixteen patients (48.4%) had significant coronary artery stenosis. Averaged GLS, 3-CH, and 4-CH LS were significantly lower in patients with critical coronary artery stenosis compared to those without significant stenosis (-17.1 ± 7.1 vs. -24.2 ± 7.2, p = 0.041), (-18.2 ± 8.9 vs. -24.6 ± 8.2, p = 0.045) and (-14.8 ± 6.2 vs. -22.8 ± 7.8, p = 0.009), respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of ischemic and non-ischemic segments demonstrated that a cut-off value of -20% of stress LS had 71% sensitivity and 60% specificity for ruling out inducible myocardial ischemia (Area under the curve was AUC = 0.72, P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Myocardial LS measured with treadmill contrast-enhanced stress echocardiography demonstrates potential value in identifying patients with inducible myocardial ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart Rate (HR) is widely used for erobic exercise intensity prescriptions and/or studies of exercise training. It is often assumed that exercising at a given HR results in similar physiological response, regardless of exercise modality. This study aimed to gauge cellular immune mobilization to submaximal exercise at a given target HR on a cycle ergometer (CE) and treadmill (TM). Thirteen healthy male adults (23.2 ± 3.5 y.o) completed 4 laboratory visits. Participants performed two graded exercise tests to exhaustion on CE and TM and two 30‐min constant exercise challenges at 70% HR reserve on CE or TM in random order. Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was recorded every 5 min, and blood was drawn before and after exercise to measure leukocytes subpopulation levels, lactate, and IL‐6. HR was successfully "clamped" during the exercise in CE and TM (CE 156.7 ± 1.1; TM 159.3 ± 1.6 bpm). Cycling was perceived as more strenuous than running and was accompanied by a greater increase in lactate post‐exercise (p < 0.0001; 6.2 ± 0.3 vs. 2.9 ± 0.3 mmol/L). IL‐6 and leukocytes subpopulations were significantly elevated post‐exercise (p < 0.003) with no difference between exercise modalities (monocytes; CE 57.6% TM 61.2%, granulocytes; CE 41.37%, TM 50.1%, lymphocytes; CE 91.03%, TM 78.8%). The findings revealed that HR is not sufficient in and of itself to fully assess the metabolic stress associated with a given exercise modality. However, despite different metabolic and subjective stress, the IL‐6 and leukocyte counts relative changes were similar in the two modalities. Highlights: These findings provide valuable insights into the leukocytes and lactate responses to cycling and running at the same target heart rate. The study further elaborates on the shared patterns and distinctions in physiological and metabolic responses and their implications for designing targeted training programs.At the same target heart rate, running resulted in significantly lower lactate levels and subjective rate of perceived exertion (RPE) while yielding higher VO2 levels compared to cycling.Leukocytes and IL‐6 increases post‐exercise were not different between running and cycling, indicating that they did not reflect the distinct metabolic and subjective perceived loads associated with cycling and running.Since heart rate in and of itself is not sufficient to fully characterize the metabolic stress induced by a specific exercise modality, it is important to consider the modality of exercise when prescribing training programs for improving cardiovascular fitness or achieving target energy expenditure through heart rate monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treadmill running is a common method of exercise and to study human locomotion. Research has examined the kinematics and kinetics of overground and treadmill running, but there has been less focus on the levels of muscle activity during treadmill running. We investigated if muscle activity is different while running overground compared to running on a variety of treadmills. A total of 11 healthy individuals ran at 3 speeds (2.6, 3.6, 4.5 m/s) under 4 different running conditions (3 treadmills, overground). The three treadmills included a typical home exercise treadmill, a midsize commercial research treadmill, and a large, instrumented research treadmill. Surface EMG of the tibialis anterior (TA), gastrocnemius medialis (GM), rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles were measured for each running condition. The integrated EMG was computed for each running condition for the stance and swing phase, as well as 100ms before and after the heel-strike. Friedman analysis revealed significant effects during the stance phase for GM and RF at all speeds, such that muscle activation was lower on the treadmills relative to overground. During the stance phase at faster speeds, themuscle activity was higher for the TA and lower for the BF while running on the different treadmills compared to overground running. Before heel-strike, the TA was significantly less active during treadmill compared to overground running at 2.6 m/s and the RF showed significantly higher activity at 3.6 m/s and 4.5 m/s while running on the different treadmills. Summarizing, differences were mainly observed between the different treadmill conditions relative to overground running. Muscle activation differences between the different treadmill conditions were observed at faster running speeds for RF during the pre-heel-strike phase only. Different types of treadmills with different mechanical properties affects the muscle activity during stance phase as well as in preparation to heel-strike. Additionally, the muscle activity is greater during overground compared to treadmill running during the stance phase for the GM, BF, and RF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A self-paced (SP) heart rate (HR) control system proposed in a previous study was found to be feasible for healthy participants. The aims of this work were to investigate whether the SP HR control system is feasible to achieve accurate HR control in a participant with gait impairments, and to assess its interaction with an existing motor-driven body weight support (BWS) system. Methods: One participant with cerebral palsy was recruited in this case study. Three preliminary tests were completed to determine the appropriate mean value and amplitude of the target heart rate curve, and to identify a customised heart rate response model. Two series of formal self-paced heart rate control tests were then conducted to investigate the influence of different heart rate compensators and the presence of the BWS system. Results: The customised heart rate controller achieved improved accuracy in heart rate control and reduced oscillation in the treadmill target speed: the rootmean- square heart rate tracking error (RMSE) was 2.38 beats per minute (bpm) vs. 3.91 bpm (customised controller vs. nominal controller), and the average power of changes in the treadmill target speed was 0.4 X 10-4m²/s2 vs. 8.4 x 10-4m²/s². The BWS system resulted in improved HR tracking accuracy: RMSE on heart rate tracking was 3.02 bpm vs. 3.50 bpm (with BWS vs. without BWS). The BWS system had no influence on the automatic position control accuracy: RMSE on distance tracking was 0.0159m vs. 0.0164 m. Conclusion: After customising the heart rate compensator, the self-paced heart rate control system is feasible to achieve accurate heart rate control in an individual with gait impairments, and it can correctly interact with the BWS system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the study is to assess changes in walking abilities measured on a treadmill and in a community outdoor setting after 12-week supervised treadmill training in patients with claudication due to peripheral arterial disease. Material and methods: The study included 36 patients aged 69.94 ± 6.9, randomised into training (n = 21) and control (n = 15) groups. Changes in pain-free walking distance (PFWDTT), maximal walking distance (MWDTT) during the graded treadmill test and the maximal walking distance (MWDGPS), total walking distance (TWDGPS), average walking distance (AWDGPS), walking speed (WSGPS), number of stops (NSGPS) and stop durations (SDGPS) obtained the during community setting outdoor walking were assessed before and after the programme. Results: Significant results were observed only in the training group. PFWDTT and MWDTT were prolonged by 92% and 97%, respectively (p < 0.05). AWDGPS and SDGPS increased significantly, which was accompanied by a reduction in NSGPS (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The 12-week, supervised treadmill training improves walking abilities measured on a treadmill, and partially in a community setting outdoor among patients with claudication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of virtual reality-based treadmill training on gait performance and tolerance in the elderly. Design: Two-armed randomized controlled trial. Setting: The Medical Rehabilitation Sciences Department, Umm Al Qura University, Saudi Arabia. Participants: Sixty Saudi elderly of both sexes, aged 65–75 years, were included. Interventions: Participants were divided into two groups. The control group received treadmill training without virtual reality, alongside a conventional exercise program. The experimental group received a training program that was similar to the control group's exercises but with C-Mill virtual reality treadmill training. The program lasted one hour, three times per week, over four consecutive weeks. Main Measures: The study assessed changes in outcome measures at baseline, Post-1 (after four weeks of training), and Post-2 (four weeks post-training). These measures encompassed the primary outcome, the 6-minute walk test (meter), as well as secondary outcomes such as stride length (meter), stride time (second), cadence (steps/minute), and velocity (meter/second). These parameters were evaluated using the GaitRite electronic gait analysis walkway. Results: The experimental group showed better improvement in the mean values of the 6-minute walk test, stride length, stride time, cadence, and velocity compared to the control group at post-1 and post-2. The P -values were respectively at post-1 (0.019, 0.015, 0.041, 0.013, and 0.021) and (0.011, 0.025, 0.073, 0.061, and 0.017) at post-2 (all, P <.05). Conclusions: C-Mill virtual reality treadmill training shows potential in improving gait parameters and walking tolerance in the elderly in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zdravotnicke listy is the property of Alexander Dubcek University in Trencin, Faculty of Nursing 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.)

This study investigated whether repeated transitions between seated and standing positions has a different physiological response compared to continuous use of either seated position or standing position during steep uphill cycling among elite cyclists. Ten elite male cyclists completed three 5-min treadmill cycling tests at an inclination of 6.8° with constant individual-based speed resulting in a work intensity close to the aerobic threshold. During the first and third test, the participants used standing position (ST test) and seated position (SE test) or vice versa, whereas in the second test, they made repeated transitions between standing and seated positions every 10 s (RT test). The last 2 min of each test was used to measure the mean values of oxygen uptake (V̇O2) and respiratory exchange ratio, which were used to calculate the metabolic rate (MR) and gross efficiency (GE). Additionally, the blood-lactate concentration before and after (Lapost) each test was determined. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effect of cycling position on the physiological response. No significant differences between tests were observed for the variables related to aerobic energy expenditure (i.e., V̇O2, MR and GE), whereas the RT test was associated with a significantly lower Lapost compared to the ST and SE tests. Steep uphill cycling, at an intensity close to the aerobic threshold, with repeated transitions between standing and seated positions, did not have a higher oxygen consumption; instead, the blood-lactate concentration was lower during the RT test compared to that under continuous use of either seated or standing position.

The establishment of a quantitative gait analysis system holds paramount importance, particularly in the context of functional rehabilitation of the lower limbs. Clinicians emphasize the imperative for sensors to be portable, compact, integrated, and non-intrusive, crucial characteristics in the rehabilitation field to facilitate their use and ensure optimal integration into care protocols. This study investigates an innovative approach aimed at reducing the reliance on body-fixed sensors by harnessing their data within a neural network, thus concentrating on the joint kinematics of the lower limbs. The primary objective is to estimate the flexion-extension angles of the hip, knee, and ankle during walking, utilizing data collected by two sensors positioned on the subject's legs. Initially, the neural network undergoes training with calculated data (leg tilt angles and angular velocities) sourced from the OpenSim database, followed by further refinement with experimental data obtained from a subject walking on a treadmill, wherein leg tilt angles and angular velocities are measured. The significance of this research is underscored by the demonstrated capability, through conducted tests, of the implemented networks to efficiently fuse data from a minimal set of sensors. Consequently, the proposed approach emerges as both practical and minimally intrusive, facilitating a robust evaluation of gait kinematic parameters.

Embodied cognition explores the intricate interaction between the brain, body, and the surrounding environment. The advancement of mobile devices, such as immersive interactive computing and wireless electroencephalogram (EEG) devices, has presented new challenges and opportunities for studying embodied cognition. To address how mobile technology within immersive hybrid settings affects embodied cognition, we propose a target detection multitask incorporating mixed body movement interference and an environmental distraction light signal. We aim to investigate human embodied cognition in immersive projector-based augmented reality (IPAR) scenarios using wireless EEG technology. We recruited and engaged fifteen participants in four multitasking conditions: standing without distraction (SND), walking without distraction (WND), standing with distraction (SD), and walking with distraction (WD). We pre-processed the EEG data using Independent Component Analysis (ICA) to isolate brain sources and K-means clustering to categorize Independent Components (ICs). Following that, we conducted time-frequency and correlation analyses to identify neural dynamics changes associated with multitasking. Our findings reveal a decline in behavioral performance during multitasking activities. We also observed decreases in alpha and beta power in the frontal and motor cortex during standing target search tasks, decreases in theta power, and increases in alpha power in the occipital lobe during multitasking. We also noted perturbations in theta band power during distraction tasks. Notably, physical movement induced more significant fluctuations in the frontal and motor cortex than distractions from social environment light signals. Particularly in scenarios involving walking and multitasking, there was a noticeable reduction in beta suppression. Our study underscores the importance of brain-body collaboration in multitasking scenarios, where the simultaneous engagement of the body and brain in complex tasks highlights the dynamic nature of cognitive processes within the framework of embodied cognition. Furthermore, integrating immersive augmented reality technology into embodied cognition research enhances our understanding of the interplay between the body, environment, and cognitive functions, with profound implications for advancing human-computer interaction and elucidating cognitive dynamics in multitasking.

Study aim: The foot has region-specific biomechanical functions for absorbing shock, however, the effects of walking speed on plantar forces in the foot regions are unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the measurement repeatability and changes of regional (forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot) plantar force by a triple-sensor wireless insole by gait speed modifications during treadmill walking.

Research shows that treadmill shock-absorbing devices can reduce the impact of ground reaction forces on the knee and ankle joints during running. Most existing treadmills use fixed or passive shock absorption, meaning their shock-absorbing systems do not actively adjust to changes in ground reaction forces (GRFs). Methods: This study establishes a mathematical model integrating human motion biomechanics and treadmill running surfaces, analyzing the relationships between various parameters affecting the system. Ultimately, an optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is designed, utilizing a microcontroller as the main control unit, airbags for shock absorption, and a widely used foot pressure testing system. Objective: The goal is to more effectively prevent running injuries caused by excessive foot pressure. Compared to conventional shock absorption systems, this design features an active multilevel adjustment function with higher precision in regulation. Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the ground reaction force (GRF) generated by the optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is reduced by up to 10% compared to that of a conventional shock-absorbing treadmill. Conclusions: This leads to a smaller impact force on the knees due to foot pressure, resulting in better injury prevention outcomes.

Background: Despite a successful repair of tetralogy of Fallot (rToF) in childhood, residual lesions are common and can contribute to impaired exercise capacity. Although both cycle ergometer and treadmill protocols are often used interchangeably these approaches have not been directly compared. In this study we examined cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) measurements in rToF. Methods: Inclusion criteria were clinically stable rToF patients able to perform a cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and two CPET studies, one on the treadmill (incremental Bruce protocol) and one on the cycle ergometer (ramped protocol), within 12 months. Demographic, surgical and clinical data; functional class; QRS duration; CMR measures; CPET data and international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) scores of patients were collected. Results: Fifty-seven patients were enrolled (53% male, 20.5 ± 7.8 years at CPET). CMR measurements included a right ventricle (RV) end-diastolic volume index of 119 ± 22 mL/m2, a RV ejection fraction (EF) of 55 ± 6% and a left ventricular (LV) EF of 56 ± 5%. Peak oxygen consumption (VO2)/Kg (25.5 ± 5.5 vs. 31.7 ± 6.9; p < 0.0001), VO2 at anaerobic threshold (AT) (15.3 ± 3.9 vs. 22.0 ± 4.5; p < 0.0001), peak O2 pulse (10.6 ± 3.0 vs. 12.1± 3.4; p = 0.0061) and oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) (1932.2 ± 623.6 vs. 2292.0 ± 639.4; p < 0.001) were significantly lower on the cycle ergometer compared with the treadmill, differently from ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO2) max which was significantly higher on the cycle ergometer (32.2 ± 4.5 vs. 30.4 ± 5.4; p < 0.001). Only the VE/VCO2 slope at the respiratory compensation point (RCP) was similar between the two methodologies (p = 0.150). Conclusions: The majority of CPET measurements differed according to the modality of testing, with the exception being the VE/VCO2 slope at RCP. Our data suggest that CPET parameters should be interpreted according to test type; however, these findings should be validated in larger populations and in a variety of institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intensive treadmill training (TT) has been documented to improve gait parameters and functional independence in Parkinson's Disease (PD), but the optimal intervention protocol and the criteria for tailoring the intervention to patients' performances are lacking. TT may be integrated with augmented virtual reality (AVR), however, evidence of the effectiveness of this combined treatment is still limited. Moreover, prognostic biomarkers of rehabilitation, potentially useful to customize the treatment, are currently missing. The primary aim of this study is to compare the effects on gait performances of TT + AVR versus TT alone in II-III stage PD patients with gait disturbance. Secondary aims are to assess the effects on balance, gait parameters and other motor and nonmotor symptoms, and patient's satisfaction and adherence to the treatment. As an exploratory aim, the study attempts to identify biomarkers of neuroplasticity detecting changes in Neurofilament Light Chain concentration T0-T1 and to identify prognostic biomarkers associated to blood-derived Extracellular Vesicles. Methods: Single-center, randomized controlled single-blind trial comparing TT + AVR vs. TT in II-III stage PD patients with gait disturbances. Assessment will be performed at baseline (T0), end of training (T1), 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3, phone interview) from T1. The primary outcome is difference in gait performance assessed with the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment gait scale at T1. Secondary outcomes are differences in gait performance at T2, in balance and spatial-temporal gait parameters at T1 and T2, patients' satisfaction and adherence. Changes in falls, functional mobility, functional autonomy, cognition, mood, and quality of life will be also assessed at different timepoints. The G*Power software was used to estimate a sample size of 20 subjects per group (power 0.95, a < 0.05), raised to 24 per group to compensate for potential drop-outs. Both interventions will be customized and progressive, based on the participant's performance, according to a predefined protocol. Conclusion: This study will provide data on the possible superiority of AVRassociated TT over conventional TT in improving gait and other motor and non-motor symptoms in persons with PD and gait disturbances. Results of the exploratory analysis could add information in the field of biomarker research in PD rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to develop a standardized contrast-enhanced duplex ultrasound (CE-DUS) protocol to assess lower-extremity muscle perfusion before and after exercise and determine relationships of perfusion with clinical and functional measures. CE-DUS (EPIQ 5G, Philips) was used before and immediately after a 10-minute, standardized bout of treadmill walking to compare microvascular perfusion of the gastrocnemius muscle in older (55-82 years) patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) (n = 15, mean ankle-brachial index, 0.78 ± 0.04) and controls (n = 13). Microvascular blood volume (MBV) and microvascular flow velocity (MFV) were measured at rest and immediately following treadmill exercise, and the Modified Physical Performance Test (MPPT) was used to assess mobility function. In the resting state (pre-exercise), MBV in patients with PAD was not significantly different than normal controls (5.17 ± 0.71 vs 6.20 ± 0.83 arbitrary units (AU) respectively; P =.36); however, after exercise, MBV was ∼40% lower in patients with PAD compared with normal controls (5.85 ± 1.13 vs 9.53 ± 1.31 AU, respectively; P =.04). Conversely, MFV was ∼60% higher in patients with PAD compared with normal controls after exercise (0.180 ± 0.016 vs 0.113 ± 0.018 AU, respectively; P =.01). There was a significant between-group difference in the exercise-induced changes in both MBV and MFV (P ≤.05). Both basal and exercise MBV directly correlated with MPPT score in the patients with PAD (r = 0.56-0.62; P <.05). This standardized protocol for exercise stress testing of the lower extremities quantifies calf muscle perfusion and elicits perfusion deficits in patients with PAD. This technique objectively quantifies microvascular perfusion deficits that are related to reduced mobility function and could be used to assess therapeutic efficacy in patients with PAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study with a T-52 class wheelchair racing athlete aimed to combine quantitative biomechanical measurements to the athlete’s perception to design and test different prototypes of a new kind of rigid gloves. Three personalized rigid gloves with various, fixed wrist extension angles were prototyped and tested on a treadmill in a biomechanics laboratory. The prototype with 45° wrist extension was the athlete’s favourite as it reduced his perception of effort. Biomechanical assessment and user-experience data indicated that his favourite prototype increased wrist stability throughout the propulsion cycle while maintaining a very similar propulsion technique to the athlete’s prior soft gloves. Moreover, the inclusion of an innovative attachment system on the new gloves allowed the athlete to put his gloves on by himself, eliminating the need for external assistance and thus significantly increasing his autonomy. This multidisciplinary approach helped to prototype and develop a new rigid personalized gloves concept and is clearly a promising avenue to tailor adaptive sports equipment to an athlete’s needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to investigate how —external perturbations caused by a treadmill belt's acceleration (Acc) and deceleration (Dec) during the Initial-Contact (Initial), Mid-Stance (Mid), and Pre-Swing (ToeOff) phases affect gait regularity in young adults. Methods: Twenty-one healthy young females walked on a treadmill in a virtual environment (Motek GRAIL), in which four unexpected perturbations were applied to the left belt at the Initial, Mid, and ToeOff stages. Sample entropy (SampEn) was calculated for the center of mass (CoM) displacements for six perturbation scenarios in three directions—anterior–posterior (AP), medial–lateral (ML), and vertical (vert)—with SampEn vector lengths (m) ranging from 2 to 10. Results: The CoM displacement exhibited its highest regularity (low SampEn values) in the AP and vert directions during Dec–ToeOff, across all m values. Similarly, this pattern was observed in the ML direction, but exclusively for m = 2 and 4. The least-regular CoM trajectories (high SampEn values) were for Dec–Mid in the AP direction, across all m values. This trend persisted in the ML direction only for m = 2 and 4. However, the most irregular CoM displacements in the ML direction occurred during Dec–ToeOff for the remaining m values. Vertical CoM displacements exhibited the highest irregularities during Dec–Initial for m ≥ 4. Conclusions: Evaluating the regularity of CoM displacements using SampEn can be a useful tool for assessing how gait perturbations are handled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Menopausal women have an increase deposition of body fat and changes in the lipid profile, being especially susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. However, physical activity can mitigate this situation. Thus, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of moderate aerobic exercise on visceral adipose tissue (VAT) of female LDL-receptor knockout ovariectomized mice. Methods We used 48 animals, divided into six groups (n = 8/per group): sedentary control (SC), sedentary ovariectomized control (SCO), trained ovariectomized control (TCO), sedentary non-ovariectomized LDL-receptor knockout (KS), sedentary ovariectomized LDL-receptor knockout (KOS), and trained LDL-receptor knockout ovariectomized (KOT). We analyzed the VAT through morphometric and stereological parameters in hematoxylin and eosin stained sections. Additionally, we evaluated biochemical parameters as glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Finally, immunohistochemical techniques for matrix remodeling, inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress were evaluated. Results We observed that menopause is related to increased visceral adiposity, inflammation, oxidative stress, macrophages activity, serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. However, exercise was effective in reducing these parameters, as well as being associated with increased vascularization of VAT and interstitial volume density. Conclusions Moderate exercise is a key factor in mitigating the effects of dyslipidemia in estrogen deprivation. However, further studies are needed to corroborate with our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency of partial body weight-supported treadmill training (PBWSTT) for treating various conditions in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) in diverse contexts of rehabilitation, households, or schools is unknown. The major objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the effectiveness of PBWSTT on various outcomes in different contexts among children and adolescents with CP. We incorporated full-text, randomized controlled trial studies that specifically assessed the effects of PBWSTT walking, motor function, stride, balance, and endurance in children and adolescents aged 3 to 18 years with CP. The literature search was carried out using Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, PEDro, and ResearchGate databases. The methodological quality was evaluated using a Cochrane risk of bias instrument. A meta-analysis of pooled data from 10 studies with 255 participants demonstrated that PBWSTT for 4–12 weeks in rehabilitation (mean difference [MD] = 1.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.40—2.48, p < 0.0001), at home or in a school context (MD = 13.5, 95% CI = 13.9—16.0, p < 0.0001), was significantly effective for treating various conditions in children and adolescents suffering with CP. The period of 4–12 weeks of PBWSTT in rehabilitation and at-home/school settings is effective on various outcomes in children or adolescents with CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Treadmill running is a common method of exercise and to study human locomotion. Research has examined the kinematics and kinetics of overground and treadmill running, but there has been less focus on the levels of muscle activity during treadmill running. We investigated if muscle activity is different while running overground compared to running on a variety of treadmills. A total of 11 healthy individuals ran at 3 speeds (2.6, 3.6, 4.5 m/s) under 4 different running conditions (3 treadmills, overground). The three treadmills included a typical home exercise treadmill, a midsize commercial research treadmill, and a large, instrumented research treadmill. Surface EMG of the tibialis anterior (TA), gastrocnemius medialis (GM), rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles were measured for each running condition. The integrated EMG was computed for each running condition for the stance and swing phase, as well as 100 ms before and after the heel-strike. Friedman analysis revealed significant effects during the stance phase for GM and RF at all speeds, such that muscle activation was lower on the treadmills relative to overground. During the stance phase at faster speeds, the muscle activity was higher for the TA and lower for the BF while running on the different treadmills compared to overground running. Before heel-strike, the TA was significantly less active during treadmill compared to overground running at 2.6 m/s and the RF showed significantly higher activity at 3.6 m/s and 4.5 m/s while running on the different treadmills. Summarizing, differences were mainly observed between the different treadmill conditions relative to overground running. Muscle activation differences between the different treadmill conditions were observed at faster running speeds for RF during the pre-heel-strike phase only. Different types of treadmills with different mechanical properties affects the muscle activity during stance phase as well as in preparation to heel-strike. Additionally, the muscle activity is greater during overground compared to treadmill running during the stance phase for the GM, BF, and RF.

PurposeThe electronic health record, data science advances, and dynamic environmental and infectious threats to child health highlight the need for harmonized and interoperable approaches to pediatric cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Accordingly, we developed a terminology harmonization in exercise medicine and exercise science domain analysis model (THEMES DAM) to structure CPET data elements.MethodsTHEMES DAM identified 114 data elements, including participant information, calibration, equipment, protocols, laboratory personnel, encouragement strategies, and analysis procedures. We used the THEMES DAM, vetted by the international data standards organization HL7, to construct a current-state survey of pediatric CPET centers in the United States. Forty-eight of 101 centers responded to a questionnaire covering seven major topic areas (38 items).ResultsCenters predominantly performed between 100 and 500 tests annually. Cardiac disease represented 55% of referrals. Almost all centers calibrated gas concentrations and flow daily, but 42% never calibrated their treadmill or cycle ergometers. All centers measured V̇O2peakbut calculated differently. Centers used a variety of protocols (e.g., for treadmill: 61%, Bruce; 43%, modified Bruce; 59%, other); 44% calculated CPET slopes from submaximal portions of CPET (e.g., V̇O2-HR). All centers verbally encouraged participants, but only 40% used a standardized approach. The interpretation of CPET was done by physicians (60%), exercise physiologists (25%), exercise technicians (10%), nurses (1%), or others (4%). Ninety-one percent would agree to collaborate in multicenter research, 89% to establish dynamic reference values, and 83% to better interpret CPET.ConclusionsThe survey data and the implementation of THEMES DAM could accelerate interoperability across multiple centers. This would facilitate a nimble approach to create pediatric reference values responsive to the constantly changing health environment and stimulate novel approaches to CPET research and clinical application.