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Keywords = movement asymmetry

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11 pages, 1500 KiB  
Article
Wearable Visual Biofeedback of Vertical Ground Reaction Force Enables More Symmetrical Force Production During Deadlifting and Squatting
by Jacob Smith, Safeer Farrukh Siddicky and Hao-Yuan Hsiao
Biomechanics 2025, 5(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5010006 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Asymmetries in force production, characterized by vertical ground reaction forces (VGRFs), during lower-limb bilateral movements such as deadlifting and squatting, are considered biomechanical risk factors for injury. Real-time biofeedback has been used to modify lower limb force production but typically implements monitors. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Asymmetries in force production, characterized by vertical ground reaction forces (VGRFs), during lower-limb bilateral movements such as deadlifting and squatting, are considered biomechanical risk factors for injury. Real-time biofeedback has been used to modify lower limb force production but typically implements monitors. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of wearable visual biofeedback (WVBF) on asymmetries in VGRFs and knee joint angles and the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during deadlift and body-weight squatting (BWS) exercises in recreational powerlifters. Methods: Thirteen healthy young adults between 18–35 years of age performed three tasks: deadlifting for mixed-grip style (MIX), double-overhand style (DO), and BWS. Each task included two conditions: with and without WVBF. A two-way (Condition X Task) mixed model analysis of variance was performed to compare the bilateral asymmetry index of VGRFs, knee angle, and RPE scores. Results: A main effect of the condition (with versus without WVBF) was detected for VGRF symmetry (F (1,12) = 62.785, p < 0.001). WVBF showed decreased VGRF asymmetry compared to no biofeedback. For knee angle, a significant condition X task interaction (F (2,24) = 3.505, p < 0.05) was observed. For RPE, a main effect of the condition was observed (F (1,12) = 8.995, p < 0.05). WVBF showed greater RPE compared to no biofeedback. Conclusions: These results indicated that WVBF could reduce VGRF asymmetry during deadlifting and squatting. In addition, targeting force production symmetry may not directly yield joint angle symmetry and may increase perceived exertion. These results could provide valuable insight into VGRF modulation during deadlifting and squatting exercises in athletic and potentially clinical settings when targeting VGRF symmetry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Locomotion Biomechanics and Motor Control)
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14 pages, 2570 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Upper Facial Weakness in Central Facial Palsy Following Acute Ischemic Stroke
by Monton Wongwandee and Kantham Hongdusit
Neurol. Int. 2025, 17(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint17010012 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 246
Abstract
Background: Central facial palsy (CFP), resulting from upper motor neuron lesions in the corticofacial pathway, is traditionally characterized by the sparing of the upper facial muscles. However, reports of upper facial weakness in CFP due to acute ischemic stroke have challenged this long-held [...] Read more.
Background: Central facial palsy (CFP), resulting from upper motor neuron lesions in the corticofacial pathway, is traditionally characterized by the sparing of the upper facial muscles. However, reports of upper facial weakness in CFP due to acute ischemic stroke have challenged this long-held assumption. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of upper facial weakness in CFP and identify its associated clinical factors. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke admitted to a university hospital in Thailand from January 2022 to June 2023. Full-face video recordings were analyzed using the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. Upper facial weakness was defined as asymmetry in at least one upper facial expression. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with upper facial weakness. Results: Of 108 patients with acute ischemic stroke, 92 had CFP, and among these, 70 (76%) demonstrated upper facial weakness. Tight eye closure (force and wrinkle formation, both 42%) was the most sensitive indicator for detecting upper facial weakness. Greater stroke severity, as reflected by higher NIHSS scores (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.42; 95% CI 1.07–1.88) and the presence of lower facial weakness (aOR, 6.56; 95% CI 1.85–23.29) were significantly associated with upper facial involvement. Although upper facial weakness was generally milder than lower facial weakness, its severity correlated with increasing lower facial asymmetry during movement. Conclusions: Contrary to traditional teaching, upper facial weakness is common in CFP due to acute ischemic stroke. The severity of stroke and the presence of lower facial weakness are key predictors of upper facial involvement. These findings underscore the need for clinicians to reconsider the diagnostic paradigm, recognizing that upper facial weakness can occur in CFP. Enhanced awareness may improve diagnostic accuracy, inform treatment decisions, and ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. Full article
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25 pages, 10978 KiB  
Article
Methodology for Designing Vibration Devices with Asymmetric Oscillations and a Given Value of the Asymmetry of the Driving Force
by Mihail D. Gerasimov, Nickolai S. Lubimyi, Andrey A. Polshin, Boris S. Chetverikov and Anastasia Chetverikova
Vibration 2025, 8(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/vibration8010003 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 306
Abstract
In mechanical engineering, the building industry, and many other branches of industry, vibration machines are widely used, in which circular and directed oscillations predominate in the form of movement of the working equipment. This article examines methods for generating asymmetric oscillations, which are [...] Read more.
In mechanical engineering, the building industry, and many other branches of industry, vibration machines are widely used, in which circular and directed oscillations predominate in the form of movement of the working equipment. This article examines methods for generating asymmetric oscillations, which are estimated by a numerical parameter, namely by the coefficient of asymmetry of the magnitude of the driving force when changing the direction of action in a directed motion within each period of oscillations. It is shown that for generating asymmetric mechanical vibrations, vibration devices are used, consisting of vibrators of directed vibrations, called stages. These stages form the total asymmetric driving force. The behavior of the total driving force of asymmetric vibrations and the working equipment of the vibration machine are described by analytical equations, which represent certain laws of motion of the mechanical system. This article presents a numerical analysis of methods for obtaining laws of motion for a two-stage, three-stage, and four-stage vibration device with asymmetric oscillations. An analysis of the methodology for obtaining a generalized law of motion for a vibration device with asymmetric oscillations is performed based on the application of polyharmonic oscillation synthesis methods. It is shown that the method of forming the total driving force of a vibration device based on the coefficients of the terms of the Fourier series has limited capabilities. This article develops, substantiates, and presents a generalized method for calculating and designing a vibration device with asymmetric oscillations by the value of the total driving force and a given value of the asymmetry coefficient in a wide range of rational designs of vibration machines. The proposed method is accompanied by a numerical example for a vibration device with an asymmetry coefficient of the total driving force equal to 10. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nonlinear Vibration of Mechanical Systems)
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21 pages, 1974 KiB  
Article
From Motion to Prevention: Evaluating Ergonomic Risks of Asymmetrical Movements and Worker Well-Being in an Assembly Line Work
by Sławomir Winiarski, Dorota Molek-Winiarska and Barbara Chomątowska
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020560 - 8 Jan 2025
Viewed by 455
Abstract
(1) Background: This study examines the association between asymmetrical movements of an assembly line and machining workers and their overall well-being. The primary aim is to quantify the extent to which asymmetrical movements serve as predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among these [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This study examines the association between asymmetrical movements of an assembly line and machining workers and their overall well-being. The primary aim is to quantify the extent to which asymmetrical movements serve as predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among these workers and their overall well-being. The study emphasises the predictive relationships between asymmetry metrics and health outcomes. (2) Methods: The study included 86 employees from an automotive manufacturing plant, categorised into machining workers (MWEs) and assembly workers (AWEs). The employment duration spanned from 6 months to 40 years. Inertial motion capture technology was employed alongside the Goldberg 28-item General Health Questionnaire for a retrospective observational analysis and assessment of worker well-being. Movement dynamics were evaluated using a Motion Activity Index (MAI) to measure movement intensity, asymmetry, and quality. (3) Results: The machining group demonstrated nearly double the range of motion (median ROM: 36.6° vs. 25.5°, p = 0.019) and peak angular velocities up to eight times higher (median: 40°/s vs. 5°/s) in lumbar and thoracic rotations compared to the assembly group. Significant differences in ROM and movement speeds were observed (p < 0.001). The MAI showed higher dynamic and symmetrical movements in the machining group (36.6% vs. 25.5%, p = 0.019). No significant mental health issues were identified, aside from complaints related to somatic symptoms. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights significant occupational risks due to movement asymmetry in industrial settings, revealing substantial differences in joint angular displacements, velocities, and accelerations between machining and assembly workers. The findings emphasise the importance of targeted ergonomic interventions to enhance worker well-being and advocate for preventive health measures in occupational environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industrial Safety and Occupational Health Engineering)
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9 pages, 901 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Body Posture of Junior Kickboxers: An Observational Study
by Krzysztof Łuniewicz-Stępniak, Aleksandra Truszczyńska-Baszak and Natalia Twarowska-Grybalow
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7504; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247504 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 428
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the body posture of kickboxing players. Methods: The study group included people training as kickboxers who actively participated in the training camp of the broad national junior team in the K1 and low-kick kickboxing [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the body posture of kickboxing players. Methods: The study group included people training as kickboxers who actively participated in the training camp of the broad national junior team in the K1 and low-kick kickboxing leagues. The control group consisted of non-training people. The age of the study group ranged from 15 to 23 years. The ages of the control group participants varied from 14 to 20 years. A body posture test was performed by using the Moiré method, in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer of the Moiré 4G device. Results: The body posture test performed using the Moiré method showed statistically significant differences between the kickboxing training group and the control group. The parameters that showed statistically significant differences included the size of lordosis (KLL) and the depth of lordosis (GLL) in the lumbar spine. Higher values were observed in the kickboxing training group compared to the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the kickboxing group and the control group in other parameters. Conclusions: The asymmetrical and flexed posture required during kickboxing training did not negatively influence the competitors’ spinal curvatures. Kickboxers had increased lumbar lordosis, which may be related to the specificity of the given discipline (stretching of the hamstrings and specific movements). This is a beneficial phenomenon that may reduce the risk of lower back pain. Kickboxing training did not affect the asymmetry of body posture in the sagittal plane. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Rehabilitation)
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10 pages, 543 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Reverse Nordic Exercise Training on Measures of Physical Fitness in Youth Karate Athletes
by Raja Bouguezzi, Senda Sammoud, Yassine Negra, Younés Hachana and Helmi Chaabene
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040265 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 560
Abstract
Background: In karate, the ability to execute high-velocity movements, particularly kicks and punches, is heavily dependent on the strength and power of the lower limb muscles, especially the knee extensors. As such, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week eccentric [...] Read more.
Background: In karate, the ability to execute high-velocity movements, particularly kicks and punches, is heavily dependent on the strength and power of the lower limb muscles, especially the knee extensors. As such, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week eccentric training program utilizing the reverse Nordic exercise (RNE) integrated into karate training compared with regular karate training only on measures of physical fitness in youth karate athletes. Methods: Twenty-seven youth karatekas were recruited and allocated to either RNE group (n = 13; age = 15.35 ± 1.66 years; 7 males and 6 females) or an active control group ([CG]; n = 14; 7 males and 7 females; age = 15.30 ± 1.06 years). To track the changes in measures of physical fitness before and after training, tests to assess linear sprint speed (i.e., 10 m), change of direction (CoD) speed (i.e., modified 505 CoD), vertical jumping (i.e., countermovement jump [CMJ] height) and horizontal jumping distance (i.e., standing long jump [SLJ]), and lower-limb asymmetry score (i.e., the difference between SLJ-dominant and non-dominant legs) were carried out. Results: The results indicated significant group-by-time interactions in all measures of physical fitness (effect size [ES] = 1.03 to 2.89). Post-hoc analyses revealed significant changes in the RNE group across all performance measures (effect size [ES] = 0.33 to 1.63). Additionally, the asymmetry score exhibited a moderate decrease from pre to posttest (∆46.96%, ES = 0.64). In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the CG across all fitness measures. Moreover, the individual response analysis indicated that more karatekas from the RNE group consistently achieved improvements beyond the smallest worthwhile change threshold across all fitness measures. Conclusions: In summary, RNE training is an effective approach to enhance various physical fitness measures besides lower-limb asymmetry scores in youth karatekas and is easy to incorporate into regular karate training. Practitioners are therefore encouraged to consistently integrate RNE training to enhance essential physical fitness components in young karatekas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Athletic Training and Human Performance)
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18 pages, 5248 KiB  
Article
Oscillation Suppression Method of Digital Proportional Valve Based on Fuzzy Intelligent PID Control
by Nana Li, Chenglong Dong, Liejiang Wei, Hong Ji, Xiaokang He and Xinqiang Liu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 11177; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142311177 - 29 Nov 2024
Viewed by 590
Abstract
A digital proportional valve is constituted by the main spool and a high-speed on/off valve bridge acting as the pilot stage. However, the main spool will generate oscillation during movement under the control of the pilot stage. This results in poor stability, slow [...] Read more.
A digital proportional valve is constituted by the main spool and a high-speed on/off valve bridge acting as the pilot stage. However, the main spool will generate oscillation during movement under the control of the pilot stage. This results in poor stability, slow response speed, low control accuracy, and even the potential loss of control of the valve. To tackle this issue, an oscillation suppression method based on fuzzy intelligent proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control is put forward. The movement state of the main spool is determined in accordance with its movement position and velocity. Thereafter, the fuzzy control parameters of the controller are calculated on the basis of the determined movement state of the main spool. Different PID parameters are adopted to eliminate the control effect difference caused by the structural asymmetry of the two pilot control chambers of the main valve. The performance and robustness of the proposed control method are verified by comparison with the PID controller based on full-bridge and half-bridge control. The results demonstrate that the proposed control method can effectively suppress the oscillation of the main spool of the digital proportional valve, improve the control accuracy, and reduce the response time. When the excitation signal takes the form of a step signal, the overshoot of the control method put forward in this paper is diminished by 26.2% in comparison with that of the PID control. Under stable operating conditions, the maximum tracking error is less than 3.1%. Moreover, compared with simply using the PID control method, this error is reduced by 41%. Full article
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10 pages, 267 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Approach to Explore Interlimb Asymmetries, Neuromuscular Parameters, and Injuries in Semiprofessional Soccer Players
by Marta Domínguez-Díez, Alejandro López-Valenciano, Javier Raya-González, Daniel Castillo, Silvia Sánchez-Díaz, Oier Berasategui and Javier Gene-Morales
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 10800; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142310800 - 21 Nov 2024
Viewed by 647
Abstract
Interlimb asymmetries have been widely studied with controversial results, suggesting that the magnitude of asymmetries is highly task-dependent and could be related to injury risk. This study aimed to establish an optimal method for assessing asymmetries and evaluate interlimb power performance and range [...] Read more.
Interlimb asymmetries have been widely studied with controversial results, suggesting that the magnitude of asymmetries is highly task-dependent and could be related to injury risk. This study aimed to establish an optimal method for assessing asymmetries and evaluate interlimb power performance and range of motion asymmetries in injured and non-injured male semiprofessional soccer players. A prospective and descriptive design was applied, and 20 male semiprofessional soccer players participated. The players underwent a battery of screening tests (i.e., countermovement jump [CMJ], half-squat, hip abduction and hip adduction isometric force, knee flexion and extension isokinetic torque, and lower limb range of movement). The healthy players had a greater range of motion in the hip extension and ankle flexion of the dominant leg and hip abduction and knee flexion of the non-dominant leg. However, the injured players exhibited greater asymmetry in hip abduction maximum isometric strength. These findings suggest the importance of establishing a comprehensive method to assess the range of motion interlimb asymmetries related to injury risk in semiprofessional soccer players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sport and Biomechanics—Diagnostic and Treatment)
20 pages, 8530 KiB  
Article
Transient Sand Scour Dynamics Induced by Pulsed Submerged Water Jets: Simulation Analysis
by Chuan Wang, Xuanwen Jia, Yangfan Peng, Zhenjun Gao and Hao Yu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(11), 2041; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12112041 - 11 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 615
Abstract
Water jet scouring technology is extensively applied in marine engineering, harbor maintenance, river training, and various other fields, showcasing a broad spectrum of potential applications. However, achieving a comprehensive understanding of the transient sand scouring characteristics of water jets remains challenging due to [...] Read more.
Water jet scouring technology is extensively applied in marine engineering, harbor maintenance, river training, and various other fields, showcasing a broad spectrum of potential applications. However, achieving a comprehensive understanding of the transient sand scouring characteristics of water jets remains challenging due to the inherent complexity of the coupled flow structure involving submerged jets and environmental fluids, along with the intricate dynamics of two-phase flow. This study, rooted in numerical simulation and experimental validation, introduces pulse characteristics into a submerged jet. A thorough investigation is conducted to explore the transient sand scouring characteristics and sand transport laws of the submerged jet under diverse working conditions. The results of this study revealed that the main reason for the asymmetry of the sand pit morphology is not the non-uniform distribution of sand grains, but more likely caused by turbulence effects. Simultaneously, within the initial 0.25 s of the pulse cycle, suspended sediment resulting from the pulsed jet in the preceding cycle gradually transports to the dune and its surrounding areas. Subsequently, from 0.25 s to 0.5 s, sediment on both sides of the pit’s bottom undergoes movement and amalgamation with the sediment that remained unsettled during the previous cycle. The findings reveal that higher jet velocities significantly enhance sediment suspension, migration, and redeposition, leading to deeper erosion and the rapid formation of the sand pit’s outline within 2 s. Additionally, the jet velocity and the impact distance are identified as critical factors influencing erosion depth and sediment dynamics. These insights advance the understanding of erosion mechanisms driven by pulsed jets, highlighting their impact on sediment transport processes. The research findings provide important guidance for dredging and ocean engineering fields and offer a theoretical basis for improving the understanding of submerged jet scouring mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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17 pages, 3004 KiB  
Article
Associations Between Sprint Mechanical Properties and Change of Direction Ability and Asymmetries in COD Speed Performance in Basketball and Volleyball Players
by Zhihao Zhang, Mingchen Jiang, Yifan Jing, Mingjia Li, Yanchun Li and Xiaolin Yang
Life 2024, 14(11), 1434; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111434 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 804
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the associations between sprint force–velocity profile variables with change of direction (COD) performance and to investigate the impact of these variables on asymmetries in COD speed performance. Ninety-nine participants (volleyball players: n = 44, basketball players: n = [...] Read more.
This study aimed to assess the associations between sprint force–velocity profile variables with change of direction (COD) performance and to investigate the impact of these variables on asymmetries in COD speed performance. Ninety-nine participants (volleyball players: n = 44, basketball players: n = 55) performed 40 m sprints for Fv relationship calculation, two COD tests (Modified Agility T-test and 505 test). A partial least squares (PLS) regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationships between the variables. The V0 was the most influential variable; it was negatively associated with COD performance variables (β = −0.260, −0.263 and −0.244 for MAT, 505-D and 505-ND, respectively), and F0 (β = 0.169, 0.163) was associated with the COD performance variables (COD deficit D and COD deficit ND, respectively), slightly larger than the effects of Fvslope (β = −0.162, −0.146), DRF (β = −0.159, −0.142) and Pmax (β = −0.162, −0.146). For COD deficit imbalance, the DRF (β = −0.070) was the most influential variable followed by Fvslope (β = −0.068), F0 (β = 0.046) and gender (β = 0.031). V0 and RFmax were the critical variables for improving COD performance that includes linear sprints, while DRF, Fvslope, F0 and Pmax collectively influence 180° COD performance. Meanwhile, DRF and Fvslope were important factors for asymmetries in COD speed performance. It is recommended to use the Fv profile to diagnose different COD movement patterns and then develop training plans accordingly for team sports played on smaller courts, such as basketball and volleyball. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Exercise Physiology and Sports Performance)
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13 pages, 2278 KiB  
Article
Applications of Near Infrared Spectroscopy and Mirror Therapy for Upper Limb Rehabilitation in Post-Stroke Patients: A Brain Plasticity Pilot Study
by Caterina Formica, Simona De Salvo, Nunzio Muscarà, Lilla Bonanno, Francesca Antonia Arcadi, Viviana Lo Buono, Giuseppe Acri, Angelo Quartarone and Silvia Marino
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(21), 6612; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13216612 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 886
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the neural pattern activation during mirror therapy (MT) and explore any cortical reorganization and reducing asymmetry of hemispheric activity for upper limb rehabilitation in post-stroke patients. Methods: A box containing a mirror was placed [...] Read more.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the neural pattern activation during mirror therapy (MT) and explore any cortical reorganization and reducing asymmetry of hemispheric activity for upper limb rehabilitation in post-stroke patients. Methods: A box containing a mirror was placed between the arms of the patients to create the illusion of normal motion in the affected limb by reflecting the image of the unaffected limb in motion. We measured the cerebral hemodynamic response using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). We enrolled ten right-handed stroke patients. They observed healthy hand movements in the mirror (MT condition) while performing various tasks (MT condition), and then repeated the same tasks with the mirror covered (N-MT condition). Results: Significant activation of some brain areas was observed in the right and left hemiparesis groups for the MT condition, while lower levels of activation were observed for the N-MT condition. The results showed significant differences in hemodynamic response based on oxygenated (HbO) concentrations between MT and N-MT conditions across all tasks in sensorimotor areas. These neural circuits were activated despite the motor areas being affected by the brain injury, indicating that the reflection of movement in the mirror helped to activate them. Conclusions: These results suggest that MT promotes cortical activations of sensory motor areas in affected and non-affected brain sides in subacute post-stroke patients, and it encourages the use of these tools in clinical practice. Full article
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11 pages, 486 KiB  
Article
Associations Between Inter-Limb Asymmetry in Lower Limb Strength and Jump Performance in 14–15-Year-Old Basketball Players
by Ling Ding, Mengde Lyu, Zhili Chen, Junyu Wu, Yufei Wang, Chris Bishop and Youqiang Li
Symmetry 2024, 16(11), 1421; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16111421 - 25 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 949
Abstract
This study aims to (1) assess the inter-limb asymmetry in hip, knee, and ankle strength and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance among adolescent basketball players and (2) examine the relationship between inter-limb asymmetry and CMJ performance. Moreover, 30 adolescent basketball players (15 boys and [...] Read more.
This study aims to (1) assess the inter-limb asymmetry in hip, knee, and ankle strength and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance among adolescent basketball players and (2) examine the relationship between inter-limb asymmetry and CMJ performance. Moreover, 30 adolescent basketball players (15 boys and 15 girls) aged 14 to 15 years participated in this study. The strength of the lower limb joints was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer at a speed of 60 degrees per second. Three maximal CMJs were performed, and the highest jump was used for the final analysis. The subjects were median-split into high-asymmetry (n = 15) and low-asymmetry (n = 15) groups based on the calculated strength asymmetry scores. The asymmetry scores were calculated using the formula: (dominant–non-dominant)/dominant* 100%. The inter-limb asymmetry data ranged from 12.2% to 21.6%. A Spearman correlation analysis showed that only the inter-limb asymmetry of the ankle plantar flexor was significantly correlated with the CMJ heights (ρ = −0.56, p = 0.001). An independent t-test revealed no significant differences in strength asymmetry between boys and girls (all p > 0.05). The low-asymmetry group demonstrated significantly greater CMJ performance compared to the high-asymmetry group (ES = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.34–1.87, p = 0.007), indicating that inter-limb asymmetry of the ankle plantar flexor has a significant negative impact on CMJ performance. Coaches should focus on enhancing both the strength and symmetry of the ankle joints to improve athletic performance and prevent injuries in sports, where jumping is a common movement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Life Sciences)
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39 pages, 622 KiB  
Article
The That-Trace Effect—A Surface or a Deep Island Phenomenon? Evidence from Resumption and Prolepsis in Igbo
by Mary Amaechi and Doreen Georgi
Languages 2024, 9(10), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages9100324 - 9 Oct 2024
Viewed by 991
Abstract
In many languages, a subject/non-subject Ā-extraction asymmetry can be observed: While non-subject extraction is unproblematic, long extraction of the subject requires repair strategies. This phenomenon is known as the that-trace effect. Two broad types of approaches to this effect have been proposed [...] Read more.
In many languages, a subject/non-subject Ā-extraction asymmetry can be observed: While non-subject extraction is unproblematic, long extraction of the subject requires repair strategies. This phenomenon is known as the that-trace effect. Two broad types of approaches to this effect have been proposed in the literature: (a) structural accounts that prohibit subject extraction in the syntax; (b) surface-oriented PF accounts according to which nothing blocks long subject movement in the syntax, but a surface filter prohibits the output string where a trace follows the complementizer. In this paper, we argue for a syntactic cause of the effect in Igbo (Benue-Congo, Nigeria). The empirical evidence centers around the distribution of resumptive pronouns in the language. We show that Igbo has all the ingredients required for a PF approach to the that-trace effect (viz., long Ā-movement and trace spell-out); nevertheless, it does not apply them to enable long subject extraction but rather resorts to prolepsis (among other strategies). Further evidence against a PF account comes from the impossibility of short subject extraction. Finally, we provide evidence from subextraction from subjects for an antilocality component underlying the subject extraction restriction in Igbo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Escaping African ‘Islands’)
13 pages, 855 KiB  
Article
The Magnitude of Temporal–Spatial Gait Asymmetry Is Related to the Proficiency of Dynamic Balance Control in Children with Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy: An Analytical Inquiry
by Ragab K. Elnaggar
Symmetry 2024, 16(10), 1274; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16101274 - 27 Sep 2024
Viewed by 787
Abstract
Children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (hemi-CP) frequently experience deficits in dynamic balance, a crucial factor influencing gait function. This imbalance can manifest as temporal–spatial gait asymmetry, where movement patterns differ between the affected and less affected sides. This study investigated how temporal–spatial gait [...] Read more.
Children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (hemi-CP) frequently experience deficits in dynamic balance, a crucial factor influencing gait function. This imbalance can manifest as temporal–spatial gait asymmetry, where movement patterns differ between the affected and less affected sides. This study investigated how temporal–spatial gait asymmetries and dynamic balance are associated in children with hemi-CP. Eighty-five children with hemi-CP (age: 13.27 ± 1.72 years) were included. The temporal (AITemporal) and spatial (AISpatial) gait asymmetry indices were, respectively, computed with reference to the swing time and step length of affected and less affected sides, which were collected through a 3D gait analysis. Measures of dynamic balance included the directional dynamic limit-of-stability (D-LOSdirectional) assessed across multiple directions (forward, rearward, affected, and less affected) and the overall dynamic limit-of-stability (D-LOSoverall) during static stance, in addition to the heel-to-heel base of support (BOSH-to-H) during walking, the dynamic gait index (DynGI), and the Timed Up and Down Stair (TUDS) test.The D-LOSoverall correlated negatively with the temporal (r = −0.437, p < 0.001) and spatial (r = −0.279, p = 0.009) asymmetries. The D-LOSdirectional (forward, rearward, affected, and less affected) correlated negatively with temporal asymmetry (r ranged from −0.219 to −0.411, all p < 0.05), but only the D-LOSdirectional rearward (r = −0.325, p = 0.002) and less affected (r = −0.216, p = 0.046) correlated with spatial asymmetry. The BOSH-to-H correlated positively with both temporal (r = 0.694, p < 0.001) and spatial (r = 0.503, p < 0.001) asymmetries. The variation in D-LOSoverall and BOSH-to-H accounted for 19.1% and 48.2%, respectively, of the variations in the temporal asymmetry and 7.8% and 25.3% of the variations in the spatial asymmetry. The findings of this study suggest that dynamic balance control is related to the magnitude of temporal–spatial gait asymmetries in children with hemi-CP. This evidence lays the groundwork for further research into the mechanism linking gait asymmetry and dynamic balance, potentially leading to a deeper understanding of these impairments, while also highlighting the need for longitudinal studies with the inclusion of a broader population to enhance the generalizability of the findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry Application in Motor Control in Sports and Rehabilitation)
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Article
Mapping the Environmental Impact Assessment Landscape in the Fashion and Textile Industries: Critical Gaps and Challenges
by Nkumbu Mutambo, Anne Peirson-Smith, Chimdia KeChi-Okafor, Abigail Irving-Munro, Kelly J. Sheridan, Miranda T. Prendergast-Miller, Anil Namdeo, Thomas Stanton, Matteo D. Gallidabino and Alana James
Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8377; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198377 - 26 Sep 2024
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Abstract
The environmental impact of the fashion and textile industry (FTI) is measured and communicated through several interrelated methods, tools and platforms. In this paper, scholarly and grey literature have informed the mapping of the sector’s environmental impact assessment (EIA) landscape to identify key [...] Read more.
The environmental impact of the fashion and textile industry (FTI) is measured and communicated through several interrelated methods, tools and platforms. In this paper, scholarly and grey literature have informed the mapping of the sector’s environmental impact assessment (EIA) landscape to identify key gaps and challenges in effectively quantifying and communicating environmental product performance. These preliminary insights informed the design of multiple focus group discussions where the on-the-ground challenges of EIA implementation were discussed with 85 FTI stakeholders, including industry professionals, academics, non-governmental organisations and local government. Key findings highlight the need for further refinement and harmonisation of assessment methodologies and approaches such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) to consider a wider range of impact categories to increase the comparability of results. Similarly, the communication asymmetries linked to a profusion of eco-labelling and ranking systems necessitates the development of better tools to communicate the environmental performance for the sector. Furthermore, as all EIA methods require the movement of data between various actors, there is a need for improvement and innovation in data-gathering and management systems to ensure greater quality and reliability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Products and Services)
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