Various strategies have been proposed to reduce operator-dependent variability in musculoskeletal ultrasound, including mechanical stabilization techniques. However, their effects on image reproducibility and transducer handling remain unclear in anatomically complex regions such as hand. This two-phase study aimed to (1) develop and validate a transducer guiding system for hand ultrasound and (2) evaluate its influence on image reproducibility and operational stability through image-based analyses. In Phase I, test-retest reliability of the guiding system was examined by repeatedly measuring soft-tissue thickness in 30 healthy participants. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) ranged from 0.766 to 0.948, demonstrating good to excellent reliability. In Phase II, 16 ultrasound users acquired images under handheld and guiding-system-assisted conditions based on predefined reference images. Image reproducibility was evaluated using Normalized Cross-Correlation (NCC) and ICC, while operational stability was assessed via cosine similarity derived from M-mode segments during the pre-capture period, with group comparisons performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Novice users showed substantial ICC improvement when using the guiding system (0.487-0.681), approaching the consistency observed in experienced users. Both novice and experienced groups displayed higher NCC and cosine similarity values with the guiding system, indicating improved reproducibility and operational stability. Overall, the guiding system enhanced image outcomes by providing standardized positioning and mechanical stabilization. These findings highlight its potential to improve consistency in hand ultrasound assessments and serve as a supportive tool for novice ultrasound training. The results further demonstrate the feasibility of mechanical stabilization in reducing operator-related variability and enhancing image consistency in hand ultrasound examinations.

Background:Maternal cardiac arrest presents unique challenges due to physiological changes in pregnancy. Left lateral tilt (LLT) is commonly recommended to relieve aortocaval compression, but its impact on chest compression quality remains unclear. Objectives:This study evaluates chest compressions performed in the LLT position from both the right and left sides to determine if they meet high quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation standards. Methods:This randomized crossover study included 44 healthcare providers performing two-minute chest compressions' sessions on a manikin in the LLT position from both right and left sides. Compression depth, rate, recoil, force distribution, rescuer fatigue, and physiological parameters were analyzed. Results:Both approaches maintained adequate compression rates, but left-side LLT chest compressions achieved better depth (41.23 ± 9.11 mm vs. 35.50 ± 9.54 mm, p < 0.001) and complete recoil (67.05 ± 39.05% vs. 38.39 ± 34.23%, p < 0.001). Left-side LLT chest compressions also generated higher peak force and lower residual release force. Right-side LLT chest compressions were associated with greater rescuer fatigue and instability. Conclusion:Left-side LLT chest compression provides superior compression depth and recoil compared with right-side LLT chest compression. However, neither method consistently meets high quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation standards. These findings support the 2015 AHA guideline preference for manual uterine displacement over LLT chest compression. Further research is needed to optimize maternal cardiac arrest management.

Damping is a vital mechanical feature for a dynamic system like shoe that is a specialized sports equipment designed to protect and enhance human movement performance. This study aimed to investigate the damping characteristics of adaptable shoe configurations to simulate the real-world cutting effects. To achieve this, repetitive cyclic torsional loading tests were conducted at different angular velocities (25°/s, 50°/s, 75°/s, 100°/s, 125°/s, and 150°/s) with a torsion angle range of 0–30°. Experimental conditions were: (a) control shoe (CS), which are adaptable air cushion shoe, (b) midpart adapted shoe (MAS), and (c) forepart adapted shoe (FAS), both altered in sole construction with adjustable elastomeric spacers. A torsion testing machine with a specially designed fixture system held the test shoes. Then, the shoes underwent repetitive torsional loading and unloading with angular displacements from 0° to 30° to simulate inversion motion. Results revealed an inverse correlation between damping coefficient (DCoeff) and angular velocities. Notably, at the highest angular velocity 150⁰/s, all shoe conditions demonstrated the lowest DCoeff, indicating that shoes retained most of their energy during twisting motion, resulting in relatively low energy dissipation. This might result in higher twisting forces on foot-shoe system and ankle, might impact on ankle stability. Similarly, low mechanical damping at higher velocity in the shoe forepart may reduce energy dissipation. This could exert greater force on the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the forefoot, potentially compromising its stability. Study findings may provide preliminary insights into the damping behavior of shoes at increasing angular velocities to assist in the development of athletic footwear for sports performance, and further studies are needed optimized damping.

Balance deficits are a common consequence of stroke, increasing the risk of falls. The Pinnacle Trainer (PT), which features a multi-planar exercise trajectory, has been shown to significantly activate hip abductors—key muscles for lateral stability. The elliptical trainer (ET), which simulates gait-like movement, is another commonly used rehabilitation tool. Both may offer viable options for gait training in individuals with chronic stroke. This study investigated the intervention effects of PT and ET on walking and balance abilities in individuals with chronic stroke. Thirty-six individuals with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Pinnacle Trainer group (n = 12), ET group (n = 12), and control group (n = 12). Each group participated in an 8-week intervention program. The 6-minute walk test, 10-meter walk test, and the center of pressure (COP) displacements during obstacle crossing were measured as outcome measurements. The assessors (one therapist and one biomechanist) were blinded to the participants’ group assignments. All groups demonstrated significant improvements on the walking ability. Compared to the ET and control groups, the PT group showed significant improvements in mediolateral COP displacement, indicating enhanced balance and gait performance. These results support the integration of PT exercises into stroke rehabilitation programs targeting functional balance and mobility.

Adherence to pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) remains a major challenge in the conservative management of pelvic floor disorders in women. Although biofeedback-assisted PFMT facilitates motor learning, sustained engagement may be influenced by a range of behavioral and experiential factors. This study investigated clinical and behavioral determinants of engagement with PFMT technologies and examined changes in manometry-derived pelvic floor muscle performance during a supervised biofeedback-assisted PFMT. This prospective observational study examined outpatient care for women with pelvic floor disorder. Participants completed six PFMT sessions with manometer-based biofeedback. Based on baseline Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20) scores, participants were stratified into low- and high-symptom groups. Changes in muscle performance were evaluated using repeated-measures analysis of variance. Adherence determinants were examined using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Participants with lower baseline symptoms showed higher program adherence. Significant improvements in contraction and peak pressure occurred over time (p < .01), with comparable benefits across symptom groups. Perceived usefulness emerged as the strongest predictor of sustained engagement, followed by self-efficacy, confirmation, and early engagement. Satisfaction and perceived ease of use did not directly predict continuance. Privacy and comfort concerns negatively influenced satisfaction, indirectly reducing continuance intention. Higher baseline quality of life impairment correlated with lower adherence. Biofeedback-assisted PFMT enhances pelvic floor muscle performance across varying symptom severities; however, sustained engagement is primarily driven by perceived functional benefit rather than satisfaction alone. These findings highlight the need to integrate behavioral, experiential, and functional considerations in PFMT interventions. The Institutional Review Board of National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan, thoroughly reviewed and approved the procedures and consent form (Reference Number AER112385 Registration number NCT07243028 at ClinicalTrials.gov).

Abstract— Objective: High physical function is a major achievement of healthy aging. Many older adults have low levels of exercise and physical activity, which may be due to a lack of motivation or access to proper exercise guidance tools. Providing a proper and enjoyable exercise guidance tool to older adults can be a good alternative to simply providing them conventional materials such as exercise training videos and encourage them to exercise regularly. Here, we demonstrate a novel home-based exercise guidance system named “Pei-Wo Drone” developed using a drone, a real, flyable three-dimensional (3D) object, to guide physical exercise or movement. The system provides real-time continuous sound feedback to notify the user if they are not following the drone correctly. Methods: The Pei-Wo Drone was developed and tested to ensure accuracy and precision in guiding two selective movements: "lateral arm reach" and "arm up and down" movements. Fifteen subjects (12 females, 3 males; aged 67.40±5.85 years) were recruited to evaluate their performance in following the guidance of the drone with interactive feedback. Results: The accuracy and precision of the system were impressive. Additionally, the results of this study showed that the subjects were able to follow the drone well. Conclusion: The Pei-Wo Drone, a newly developed drone guidance system, could encourage and guide older adults in proper exercise. Significance: Using a drone with real-time feedback to guide proper physical exercise or movement in older adults has a potential to enhance their physical well-being, while simultaneously providing a realistic and joyful experience reminiscent of playing with a toy at home.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand muscle fatigue on finger control and force efficiency during piano performance, which is crucial for skilled piano playing among professional pianists engaged in prolonged periods of high-intensity practice or concert preparation. Thirty-one professional pianists were recruited as participants. This study was divided into three sequential experimental parts: pre-fatigue test, fatigue protocol, and post-fatigue test. Each participant was assigned eight piano skills and instructed to perform two fatigue tasks: finger extension and finger grasping exercises. The study recorded and analyzed the finger force of professional pianists using a sensor-embedded kinetic assessment piano system; wrist movements were assessed using a three-dimensional motion capture system. Paired t-tests were used to determine the differences between the pre- and post-tests. The findings showed that the average peak striking force of most fingers in Chords 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 decreased significantly after the fatigue task, indicating a reduction in the finger-striking force following fatigue across the various chord fingerings. The analysis of wrist movements demonstrated strategic adjustments made by pianists after experiencing fatigue, particularly in the ulnar/radial deviation movements. This study highlights the influence of muscle fatigue on finger control and wrist movements of pianists across different fingerings. We recommend that pianists focus on strengthening the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles of the hand and the muscle groups responsible for controlling ulnar/radial movements to mitigate the effects of muscular fatigue on hand performance.

Motor control is a critical process for muscle contraction initiated by nerve impulses governed by the motor cortex, which is vital for performing activities of daily living. The purpose of this study is to investigate brain activation in upper extremity motor control tasks in regulating the pushing force. Eighteen healthy young adults were asked to perform upper extremity motor control tasks, and recorded the hemodynamic signals using Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and robotic arms. Two types of movement-static and dynamic-and three different task difficulties based on different force levels were used as force-regulating upper extremity motor control tasks. The hemodynamic response was collected in the primary motor cortex (M1), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), and prefrontal cortex (PFC). The results showed a decrease in HbO for PFC was greater in the static relative to dynamic movement. Moreover, contralateral (c) M1, ipsilateral (i) PFC, and PMC have a significant increment in HbO mean compared to task difficulty. These findings indicate that the upper-extremity force and movement rely on separate cortical circuits: brain activation increases with difficulty in the cM1, PMC, and iPFC, whereas only the PFC distinguishes static from dynamic movement.

Background:Aging can bring upon several effects that can hinder one's quality of life. One of the effects is the decline in one's ability to perform activities of daily living, which is caused by the loss of hand function due to aging. To mitigate this, several virtual reality (VR)-based training or rehabilitation systems that use hand tracking were developed. Although these systems are effective, immersive, and can promote motivation, they are mostly limited to providing range of motion exercises. The addition of a force control component to the hand tracking of these systems could make them even more effective at improving or restoring hand function, as the majority of activities of daily living require a degree of force control. Objective:This study aimed to compare the effects of 2 VR input systems: regular hand tracking and the novel VR input system in this study, which incorporate force control to regular hand tracking on the brain activity of younger and older adults. The degree of cortical activity during a training or rehabilitation task is linked to better functional outcomes and improvements of neuroplasticity. Methods:Twelve younger adults (mean age 25.00, SD 4.50 years) and 12 older adults (mean age 73.00, SD 3.6 years) were recruited to play a game specifically developed for this study using 2 VR input systems. Brain activity during gameplay was recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy over the following cortical regions: prefrontal cortex (PFC), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), and primary motor cortex (M1). Results:Compared with the regular hand-tracking system, adding a force control component increased average oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO) concentrations and decreased deoxygenated hemoglobin (HbR) concentrations in key brain regions. In young adults, these changes were observed in the right PMC and right M1. In older adults, higher HbO and lower HbR concentrations appeared in the right PFC, bilateral M1, and right SMA (HbR only). The force control component also led to more widespread activity across all ROIs. Conclusions:The novel input system in this study can be used for improving or restoring hand function. The results of this study can be used as a reference for the development of better VR-based training or rehabilitation systems.

Changes in direction during sidestep cutting in sports create twisting forces in the foot-shoe system that may influence hip joint biomechanics. The biomechanical effects of footwear modifications on hip joint mechanics during sidestep cutting tasks remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the biomechanical effect of modified footwear torsional stiffness on hip joint biomechanics in sidestep cutting movement. This study examined barefoot (BF), aircushion shoes without modification as control shoes (CS), and modified shoes (MS). Seventeen young recreational athletes performed sidestep running cuts for test conditions. Mechanical and biomechanical data collected and analyzed. Results revealed substantial changes among test conditions for external rotation moment (F (1.412, 22.596) = 11.109, p = 0.001) at transverse plane of movement. Although no substantial difference was found between CS and MS, but the changes in external hip rotation moment and increasing trend in magnitude of hip external rotation moment were linked to stronger hip rotators that might improve lower extremity dynamic control. Peak power generation (F (2, 32) = 4.230, p = 0.023) at sagittal plane of movement reported a significant effect among test conditions, with decreasing joint power magnitude detected for separate test conditions. A tendency to decrease hip joint power might lead to lower loads on the soft tissues and joints during the cutting task, which might aid in reducing musculoskeletal injuries. Findings of this study may provide preliminary insights into athletic shoe design, with potential impacts on performance and injury risk.

Osteoarthritis (OA) mainly affects the knee joint. Senescence and inflammation are key factors in knee OA pathogenesis, suggesting a potential therapeutic target. This study aims to explore the therapeutic effects of the optimized cross-linked hyaluronate (cHA) combined with corticosteroids formulation in mitigating OA progression by targeting anti-senescence. Human OA chondrocytes underwent treatment with various cHA formulations along with DEX, and assessments were made by cell viability, senescence phenotypes, and gene expression, including inflammatory cytokines, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Furthermore, in a rat OA model, the therapeutic effects of the targeted cHA + DEX formulations were evaluated via dynamic weight-bearing tests, micro-CT scans, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations, and qRT-PCR analysis. Formulations of cHA(50:50) + DEX and cHA(20:80) + DEX effectively shielded chondrocytes from DEX-induced cytotoxicity and senescence, concurrently reducing inflammatory and matrix-degrading enzyme expressions. In the rat OA model, cHA(50:50) + DEX significantly ameliorated OA features, including histological scores and dynamic weight bearing ratio (p < 0.05, both), while suppressing senescence and inflammation marker expressions. Our findings underscore the effects of cHA(50:50) + DEX combination in mitigating OA progression by addressing senescence and inflammatory responses, so called inflammaging.

OBJECTIVE:Pirouettes are often first taught from the "fourth position," which is a preparatory distance generally close to 100% of the dancer's foot length. However, the optimal preparation distance has not yet been studied. This study investigated the impact of stance configurations (preparatory distances) on postural control in ballet turns (pirouettes) between both experienced and novice dancers. METHODS:Thirteen experienced and 13 novice ballet dancers were recruited for this study. They performed one-revolution ballet turns at different preparatory distances (PD), including 50%, 100%, and 150% of foot length and self-selected distance (PDss). The instantaneous rotation axis of the torso was calculated using the weighted least squares method by torso landmarks. The average angles of inclination of the instantaneous rotation axis in relation to the vertical axis during the early single-leg support phase were determined. A smaller inclination angle of the rotation axis indicated a reduced postural sway. Foot displacement throughout the task was defined as the distance between the starting and ending positions of the foot on the supporting leg. A shorter foot displacement indicated greater stability of the supporting leg during the pirouette. RESULTS:A significant main effect of PD was observed in the average inclination angle of the rotation axis in the experienced dancers (p=0.006), with a smaller angle in PDss than PD50% (p<0.001). In the novice group, a significant main effect of PD was found in the foot displacement (p=0.003), with a smaller foot displacement in PD50% than in PD150% (p=0.006). CONCLUSIONS:Experienced dancers performed better when using a self-selected preparatory distance in the pirouette, whereas novice dancers demonstrated better performance when utilizing a PD equal to 0.5 times the length of their foot compared to other distances.

Directional changes in cutting maneuvers are critical in sports, where shoe torsional stiffness (STS) is an important factor. Shoes are designed based on different constructions and movement patterns. Hence, it is unclear how adjustable spacers into the sole constructions of air pressure chambers (APC) affect the STS in side-step cutting. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of altered STS through adjustable sole spacers on ground reaction force (GRF) and ankle and knee joint moments in side-step cutting. Seventeen healthy recreational athletes performed side-step cutting with experimental conditions including (i) barefoot (BF), (ii) unaltered shoes (UAS): soles consisting of APC, and (iii) altered shoes (AS): modified UAS by inserting elastomeric spacers into cavities formed by APC. Mechanical and biomechanical variables were measured. Significant differences were revealed across shoe conditions for impact peak (p = 0.009) and impulse (p = 0.018) in vertical GRF, time to achieve peak braking (p = 0.004), and peak propulsion (p = 0.025) for anterior-posterior GRF in ANOVA test. No significant differences were observed in GRF peaks and impulses between UAS and AS except for a trend of differences in impact peak (p = 0.087) for vertical GRF. At the ankle and knee joint, peak ankle power absorption (p = 0.019), peak knee internal rotation moment (p = 0.042), peak knee extension moment (p = 0.001), peak knee flexion moment (0.000), peak knee power absorption (p = 0.047) showed significant difference across three shoe conditions. However, no significant differences between the UAS and AS were noticed for peak joint moments and power. Altered shoe torsional stiffness did not significantly affect the peak forces and peak ankle and knee joint moments or powers; hence sole adjustment did not influence the cutting performance. This study might be insightful in sports footwear design, and adjusting shoe torsional stiffness by sole modification might be advantageous for athletes playing sports with cutting maneuvers to reduce the risk of injuries by controlling the twisting force at the ankle that frequently happens during cutting maneuvers.

Abstract Background The original version of the Tenodesis-Induced-Grip Exoskeleton Robot (TIGER) significantly improved the motor and functional performance of the affected upper extremity of chronic stroke patients. The assist-as-needed (AAN) technique in robot-involved therapy is widely favored for promoting patient active involvement, thereby fostering motor recovery. However, the TIGER lacked an AAN control strategy, which limited its use in different clinical applications. The present study aimed to develop and analyze the training effects of an AAN control mode to be integrated into the TIGER, to analyze the impact of baseline patient characteristics and training paradigms on outcomes for individuals with chronic stroke and to compare training effects on the upper limb function between using the AAN-equipped TIGER and using the original prototype. Methods This was a single-arm prospective interventional study which was conducted at a university hospital. In addition to 20 min of regular task-specific motor training, each participant completed a 20-min robotic training program consisting of 10 min in the AAN control mode and 10 min in the functional mode. The training sessions took place twice a week for 9 weeks. The primary outcome was the change score of the Fugl–Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), and the secondary outcomes were the change score of the Box and Blocks Test (BBT), the amount of use (AOU) and quality of movement (QOM) scales of the Motor Activity Log (MAL), the Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament (SWM) test, and the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) for fingers and wrist joints. The Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and stepwise regression model were used as the statistical analysis methods. Results Sixteen chronic stroke patients completed all steps of the study. The time from stroke onset to entry into the trial was 21.7 ± 18.9 months. After completing the training with the AAN-equipped TIGER, they exhibited significant improvements in movement reflected in their total score (pre/post values were 34.6 ± 11.5/38.5 ± 13.4) and all their sub-scores (pre/post values were 21.5 ± 6.0/23.3 ± 6.5, 9.5 ± 6.2/11.3 ± 7.2, and 3.6 ± 1.0/3.9 ± 1.0 for the shoulder, elbow, and forearm sub-category, the wrist and hand sub-category, and the coordination sub-category, respectively) on the FMA-UE (GEE, p < 0.05), as well as their scores on the BBT (pre/post values were 5.9 ± 6.5/9.5 ± 10.1; GEE, p = 0.004) and the AOU (pre/post values were 0.35 ± 0.50/0.48 ± 0.65; GEE, p = 0.02). However, the original TIGER exhibited greater improvements in their performance on the FMA-UE than the participants training with the AAN-equipped TIGER (GEE, p = 0.008). The baseline score for the wrist and hand sub-category of the FMA-UE was clearly the best predictor of TIGER-mediated improvements in hand function during the post-treatment assessment (adjusted R 2 = 0.282, p = 0.001). Conclusions This study developed an AAN-equipped TIGER system and demonstrated its potential effects on improving both the function and activity level of the affected upper extremity of patients with stroke. Nevertheless, its training effects were not found to be advantageous to the original prototype. The baseline score for the FMA-UE sub-category of wrist and hand was the best predictor of improvements in hand function after TIGER rehabilitation. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT03713476; date of registration: October19, 2018. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03713476

IntroductionWith a decreasing workforce of carers and a transition from care homes to home care, people with dementia (PwD) increasingly rely on informal caregivers (ICs) and assistive technologies (ATs). There is growing evidence that ATs in the home environment can reduce workload for formal carers (FCs) and ICs, reduce care costs, and can have a positive influence on quality of life (QoL) for PwD and their caregivers. In practice, using multiple ATs still often implies using different separate point solutions and applications. However, the integral, combined use of the data generated using various applications can potentially enhance the insight into the health and wellbeing status of PwD and can provide decision support for carers. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the use of a DSS that integrated multiple ATs into one dashboard through a small-scale field study.MethodsThe current study presents the formative evaluation of a Decision Support System (DSS) connected to multiple ATs. This DSS has been developed by means of co-creation during an international project. The DSS provides an insight into the physical and cognitive status of a PwD, as well as an insight into sleep activity and general wellbeing. Semi-structured interview sessions were held in three countries (Netherlands, Italy, and Taiwan) with 41 participants to gain insight into the experiences of formal and informal carers and PwD with both the ATs and the DSS Alpha prototype dashboard.ResultsThe results showed that participants using the DSS were satisfied and perceived added value and a fit with certain care demands from the PwD. In general, ICs and FCs have limited insight into the status of PwD living independently at home, and in these moments, the DSS dashboard and AT bundle can provide valuable insights. Participants experienced the DSS dashboard as well-organized and easy to navigate. The accuracy of the data displayed in the dashboard is important, the context, and (perceived) privacy issues should be tackled according to all users. Furthermore, based in the insight gained during the evaluation a set of design improvements was composed which can be used to further improve the DSS for the Beta evaluation.Discussion and conclusionThe current paper evaluates a possible solution for excess AT usage and how the use of a DSS which integrated multiple AT into one single technology could support caregivers in providing care for PwD. The formative evaluation scrutinized the integration of the developed DSS and the composed bundle of ATs across diverse cultural contexts. Insights from multi-center observations shed light on user experiences, encompassing overall usability, navigational efficacy, and attitudes toward the system. FCs and ICs expressed positivity toward the DSS dashboard's design and functionalities, highlighting its utility in remote monitoring, tracking changes in the person's abilities, and managing urgent situations. There is a need for personalized solutions and the findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of DSS and AT integration, providing insights for future developments and research in the field of DSS for the care of PwD.

Diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease represent escalating global epidemics with comorbidities akin to neuropathies, resulting in various neuromuscular symptoms that impede daily performance. Interestingly, previous studies indicated differing sensorimotor functions within these conditions. If assessing sensorimotor features can effectively distinguish between diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease, it could serve as a valuable and non-invasive indicator for early detection, swift screening, and ongoing monitoring, aiding in the differentiation between these diseases. This study classified diverse diagnoses based on motor performance using a novel pinch-holding-up-activity test and machine learning models based on deep learning. Dataset from 271 participants, encompassing 3263 hand samples across three cohorts (healthy adults, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease), formed the basis of analysis. Leveraging convolutional neural networks, three deep learning models were employed to classify healthy adults, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease based on pinch-holding-up-activity data. Notably, the testing set displayed accuracies of 95.3% and 89.8% for the intra- and inter-participant comparisons, respectively. The weighted F1 scores for these conditions reached 0.897 and 0.953, respectively. The study findings underscore the adeptness of the dilation convolutional neural networks model in distinguishing sensorimotor performance among individuals with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and healthy adults. These outcomes suggest discernible differences in sensorimotor performance across the diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and healthy cohorts, pointing towards the potential of rapid screening based on these parameters as an innovative clinical approach.

Shoe design features and mechanical properties are crucial to human locomotion. This study investigated the effects of adjustable shoe sole configuration on the stiffness behavior of shoes under cyclic torsional loading to mimic real-world cutting effects. Three shoe conditions were examined: (i) control shoes (CS) featuring adjustable air cushion shoe soles, (ii) midpart-altered shoes (MAS), and (iii) forepart-altered shoes (FAS), both modified the CS using adjustable elastomeric spacers in sole constructions. Shoes were secured in a specially designed fixture in a material testing machine and subjected to repeated torsional loading–unloading with angular displacements of 0–30° for inversion and eversion motion at an angular velocity of 1°/s. A reliability test validated the experimental method for inversion TS, revealing good intra-session reliability (ICC (3, 1) = 0.71) and excellent inter-session reliability (ICC (3, k) = 0.87). Inversion TS showed a 35.38

Patients with stroke often use ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for gait improvement. 3D printing technology has become a popular tool in recent years for the production of AFOs due to its strengths on customization and rapid manufacturing. However, the porosity of the 3D printed materials affects the kinetic features of these orthoses, leading to its lower-strength than solid ones. The effective elastic modulus of 3D printed material was measured following standard test method to obtain the kinetic features precisely in a finite element simulation. This study demonstrated that the porosity of 3D printed samples using 100% fill density was 11% for PLA and 16% for Nylon. As a result, their effective elastic modulus was reduced to 1/3 and 1/12 of fully solid objects, respectively, leading to a lower stiffness of 3D printed orthoses. A fatigue testing platform was built to verify our finite element model, and the findings of the fatigue test were consistent with the analysis of the finite element model. Further, our AFO has been proven to have a lifespan exceeding 200 thousand steps. Our study highlights the significance of determining the actual porosity of 3D printed samples by calculating the effective elastic modulus, which leads to a more precise finite element simulation and enables reliable prediction of the kinetic features of the AFO. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the production and optimization of 3D printed AFOs for patients with stroke.

Kinesio taping (KT) is widely used in sports for performance improvement and injury prevention. However, little is known of the behavior of the muscle region beneath the KT with movement, particularly when the muscle is fatigued. Accordingly, this study investigated the changes in the medial gastrocnemius muscle architecture and fascia thickness when using KT during maximum isometric plantar flexion (MVIC) and badminton lunges following heel rise exercises performed to exhaustion. Eleven healthy collegiate badminton players (4 males and 7 females) were recruited. All of the participants performed two tasks (MVIC and badminton lunge) with a randomized sequence of no taping, KT and sham taping and repeated following exhaustive repetitive heel rise exercise. In the MVIC task, the fascia thickness with the medial gastrocnemius muscle at rest significantly decreased following fatigue induction both without taping and with KT and sham taping (p = 0.036, p = 0.028 and p = 0.025, respectively). In the lunge task, the fascia thickness reduced after fatigue induction in the no taping and sham taping trials; however, no significant change in the fascia thickness occurred in the KT trials. Overall, the results indicate that KT provides a better effect during dynamic movement than in isometric contraction.