Results and Analysis from Space Suit Joint Torque Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matty, Jennifer

2010-01-01

A space suit's mobility is critical to an astronaut's ability to perform work efficiently. As mobility increases, the astronaut can perform tasks for longer durations with less fatigue. Mobility can be broken down into two parts: range of motion (ROM) and torque. These two measurements describe how the suit moves and how much force it takes to move. Two methods were chosen to define mobility requirements for the Constellation Space Suit Element (CSSE). One method focuses on range of motion and the second method centers on joint torque. A joint torque test was conducted to determine a baseline for current advanced space suit joint torques. This test utilized the following space suits: Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU), Advanced Crew Escape Suit (ACES), I-Suit, D-Suit, Enhanced Mobility (EM)- ACES, and Mark III (MK-III). Data was collected data from 16 different joint movements of each suit. The results were then reviewed and CSSE joint torque requirement values were selected. The focus of this paper is to discuss trends observed during data analysis.

[Clinical observation on the effect of joint mobilization in treating elderly patients after distal radius fractures operation].

PubMed

Jia, Xue-Feng; Cai, Hong-Xin; Lin, Ge-Sheng; Fang, Ji-Shi; Wang, Yong; Wu, Zhi-Yong; Tu, Xu-Hui

2017-07-25

To investigate the effect of joint mobilization on postoperative wrist joint function, pain and grip strength for elderly patients with distal radius fracture. From January 2015 to June 2016, a total of 67 elderly patients with distal radius fracture were randomly divided into routine exercise group and joint mobilization group. Among them, 37 patients in the routine exercise group underwent conventional distal radius fracture postoperative joint function exercise regimen, including 16 males and 21 females with a mean age of (67.8±3.2) years old ranging from 60 to 72 years old;the injured side was dominant in 23 cases and non-dominant in 14 cases;injury mechanism was fall in 26 cases, traffic accident in 11 cases; for AO type, 6 cases were type B3, 18 cases were type C1, 7 cases were type C2, 6 cases was type C3. Other 30 patients in the joint mobilization group underwent joint mobilization on the basis of the routine exercise group including 14 males and 16 females with a mean age of (67.1±4.0) years old ranging from 61 to 74 years old; the injured side was dominant in 21 cases and non-dominant in 9 cases;injury mechanism was fall in 25 cases, traffic accident in 5 cases;for AO type, 8 cases were type B3, 13 cases were type C1, 6 cases were type C2, 9 cases were type C3. The wrist joint activity, Gartland-Werley wrist joint function score, VAS pain score and grip strength were observed at 3 months afrer treatment. After 3 months' treatment, the VAS in the routine exercise group was higher than that of the joint mobilization group ( P <0.05). The grip strength of affected side in both groups were lower than that of contralateral side, but the average grip strength of affected side in joint mobilization group was higher than that in routine exercise group( P <0.05). In routine exercise group, the average angle of flexion, extension, radial deviation were significantly higher than those of joint mobilization group( P <0.05). But ulnar deviation angle in routine exercise group compared with joint mobilization group had no significant difference ( P >0.05). In the comparison of each item of Gartland-Werley, there was no significant difference between two groups in residual deformity and complication( P >0.05); the average score of subjective score, objective score and total score in routine exercise group were significantly higher than those of the joint mobilization group ( P <0.05). The wrist function Gartland-Werley score in routine exercise group after treatment was excellent in 21 cases, good in 10, 6 in fair, while in joint mobilization group, excellent in 23, good in 6, fair in 1( P <0.05). The application of joint mobilization in the treatment of elderly patients with distal radius fracture can improve the joint activity and obtain better wrist function after surgery.

Using the American alligator and a repeated-measures design to place constraints on in vivo shoulder joint range of motion in dinosaurs and other fossil archosaurs.

PubMed

Hutson, Joel D; Hutson, Kelda N

2013-01-15

Using the extant phylogenetic bracket of dinosaurs (crocodylians and birds), recent work has reported that elbow joint range of motion (ROM) studies of fossil dinosaur forearms may be providing conservative underestimates of fully fleshed in vivo ROM. As humeral ROM occupies a more central role in forelimb movements, the placement of quantitative constraints on shoulder joint ROM could improve fossil reconstructions. Here, we investigated whether soft tissues affect the more mobile shoulder joint in the same manner in which they affect elbow joint ROM in an extant archosaur. This test involved separately and repeatedly measuring humeral ROM in Alligator mississippiensis as soft tissues were dissected away in stages to bare bone. Our data show that the ROMs of humeral flexion and extension, as well as abduction and adduction, both show a statistically significant increase as flesh is removed, but then decrease when the bones must be physically articulated and moved until they separate from one another and/or visible joint surfaces. A similar ROM pattern is inferred for humeral pronation and supination. All final skeletonized ROMs were less than initial fully fleshed ROMs. These results are consistent with previously reported elbow joint ROM patterns from the extant phylogenetic bracket of dinosaurs. Thus, studies that avoid separation of complementary articular surfaces may be providing fossil shoulder joint ROMs that underestimate in vivo ROM in dinosaurs, as well as other fossil archosaurs.

[Implant with a mobile or a fixed bearing in unicompartmental knee joint replacemen].

PubMed

Matziolis, G; Tohtz, S; Gengenbach, B; Perka, C

2007-12-01

Although the goal of anatomical and functional joint reconstruction in unicompartmental knee replacement is well defined, no uniform implant design has become established. In particular, the differential indications for implantation of an implant with a mobile or a fixed bearing are still not clear. The long-term results of mobile and with fixed bearings are comparable, but there are significant differences in resulting knee joint kinematics, tribological properties and implant-associated complications. In unicompartmental knee replacement mobile bearings restore the physiological joint kinematics better than fixed implants, although the differences to total knee arthroplasty seem minor. The decoupling of mobile bearings from the tibia implant allows a high level of congruence with the femoral implant, resulting in larger contact areas than with fixed bearings. This fact in combination with the more physiological joint kinematics leads to less wear and a lower incidence of osteolyses with mobile bearings. Disadvantages of mobile bearings are the higher complication and early revision rates resulting from bearing dislocation and impingement syndromes caused by suboptimal implantation technique or instability. Especially in cases with ligamentous pathology fixed bearings involve a lower complication rate. It seems their use can also be beneficial in patients with a low level of activity, as problems related to wear are of minor importance for this subgroup. The data currently available allow differentiations between various indications for implants with mobile or fixed bearings, so that the implants can be matched to the patient and the joint pathology in unicompartmental knee joint replacement.

Manual therapy for plantar heel pain.

PubMed

Pollack, Yosefa; Shashua, Anat; Kalichman, Leonid

2018-03-01

Manual therapy employed in the treatment of plantar heel pain includes joint or soft tissue mobilizations. Efficacy of these methods is still under debate. To determine whether manual therapy, consisting of deep massage, myofascial release or joint mobilization is effective in treating plantar heel pain. A critical review of all available studies with an emphasis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed. PubMed, PEDro, and Google Scholar databases were searched for keywords relating to plantar heel pain, joint, and soft tissue mobilizations. There were no search limitations or language restrictions. The reference lists of all retrieved articles were searched. The PEDro score was used to assess the quality of the reviewed papers. A total of six relevant RCTs were found: two examined the effectiveness of joint mobilization on plantar heel pain and four the effectiveness of soft tissue techniques. Five studies showed a positive short-term effect after manual therapy treatment, mostly soft tissue mobilizations, with or without stretching exercises for patients with plantar heel pain, compared to other treatments. One study observed that adding joint mobilization to the treatment of plantar heel pain was not effective. The quality of all studies was moderate to high. According to reviewed moderate and high-quality RCTs, soft tissue mobilization is an effective modality for treating plantar heel pain. Outcomes of joint mobilizations are controversial. Further studies are needed to evaluate the short and long-term effect of different soft tissue mobilization techniques. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of sacroiliac joint mobilization on pelvic deformation and the static balance ability of female university students with si joint dysfunction.

PubMed

Son, Jeong-Hyun; Park, Gi Duck; Park, Hoo Sung

2014-06-01

[Purpose] The present study aimed to determine the effect of an 8-week program of joint mobilization on changes in pelvic obliquity and pain level in seventeen female university students aged in their 20's with sacroiliac joint dysfunction by dividing them into two groups: a joint mobilization group (MWM) and a control group. [Subjects] Seventeen subjects were selected from female university students aged in their 20's attending N University in Cheon-An City, Korea, The subjects had sacroiliac joint syndrome, but experienced no problems with daily living and had no previous experience of joint mobilization exercise. The subjects were randomly assigned to a joint mobilization group of eight and a control group of nine who performed joint mobilization exercise. [Methods] Body fat and lean body mass were measured using InBody 7.0 (Biospace, Korea). The Direct Segmental Multi-frequency Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Method (DSM-BIA) was used for body composition measurement. A pressure footstool (Pedoscan, DIERS, Germany) and a trunk measurement system (Formetric 4D, DIERS, Germany), a 3D image processing apparatus with high resolution for vertebrae, were used to measure 3D trunk images of the vertebrae and pelvis obliquity, as well as static balance ability. [Result] The MWM group showed a significantly better Balance than the control group. In addition, the results of the left/right and the front/rear balance abilities were significantly better than those of the control group. [Conclusion] This study proved that a combination of mobilization with movement and functional training was effective in reducing pelvis malposition and pain, and improving static stability control.

Microalbuminuria is associated with limited joint mobility in type I diabetes mellitus.

PubMed Central

Montaña, E; Rozadilla, A; Nolla, J M; Gomez, N; Escofet, D R; Soler, J

1995-01-01

OBJECTIVE--To determine whether limited joint mobility (LJM) is associated with microalbuminuria in type I diabetes mellitus. METHODS--Joint mobility was measured in a control group of 63 healthy subjects and in 63 type I diabetic patients, older than 18 years (mean 31.7 years, range 18-57), recruited from the outpatient clinic of the Endocrine Unit. Patients with established diabetic nephropathy (proteinuria or increased creatinine) were excluded. Joint mobility was assessed qualitatively with the prayer manoeuvre and quantitatively by measuring the angles of maximal flexion and extension of the fifth and third metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints and wrist. Diabetic retinopathy was assessed by direct ophthalmoscopy. Urinary albumin excretion (UAE) was determined in at least two 24 hour urine samples. RESULTS--Joint mobility was limited in diabetic patients compared with control subjects. Diabetic patients with LJM had longer duration of diabetes (12.1 (SD 6.4) years compared with 6.9 (5.7) years; p < 0.001). Joint mobility was limited in patients with retinopathy: prayer manoeuvre was positive in 96.4% of patients with retinopathy, but in only 40.0% of patients with no retinopathy (p < 0.001); mobility of MCP joints and wrist was limited in diabetic patients with retinopathy even when the longer duration of their diabetes was taken into consideration. Microalbuminuria, present in 11 patients (17.5%), was associated with LJM: prayer manoeuvre was positive in 90.9% of patients with microalbuminuria, but in only 57.4% of patients with normal UAE (p < 0.05). Maximal flexion of MCP joints was reduced in patients with microalbuminuria. Microalbuminuria, but not LJM, was associated with risk factors of cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSION--LJM is associated with microalbuminuria and retinopathy in type I diabetes. The association is independent of age and duration of diabetes. PMID:7668902

Results and Analysis from Space Suit Joint Torque Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matty, Jennifer E.; Aitchison, Lindsay

2009-01-01

A space suit s mobility is critical to an astronaut s ability to perform work efficiently. As mobility increases, the astronaut can perform tasks for longer durations with less fatigue. The term mobility, with respect to space suits, is defined in terms of two key components: joint range of motion and joint torque. Individually these measures describe the path which in which a joint travels and the force required to move it through that path. Previous space suits mobility requirements were defined as the collective result of these two measures and verified by the completion of discrete functional tasks. While a valid way to impose mobility requirements, such a method does necessitate a solid understanding of the operational scenarios in which the final suit will be performing. Because the Constellation space suit system requirements are being finalized with a relatively immature concept of operations, the Space Suit Element team elected to define mobility in terms of its constituent parts to increase the likelihood that the future pressure garment will be mobile enough to enable a broad scope of undefined exploration activities. The range of motion requirements were defined by measuring the ranges of motion test subjects achieved while performing a series of joint maximizing tasks in a variety of flight and prototype space suits. The definition of joint torque requirements has proved more elusive. NASA evaluated several different approaches to the problem before deciding to generate requirements based on unmanned joint torque evaluations of six different space suit configurations being articulated through 16 separate joint movements. This paper discusses the experiment design, data analysis and results, and the process used to determine the final values for the Constellation pressure garment joint torque requirements.

Association between the gait pattern characteristics of older people and their two-step test scores.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Yoshiyuki; Ogata, Toru

2018-04-27

The Two-Step test is one of three official tests authorized by the Japanese Orthopedic Association to evaluate the risk of locomotive syndrome (a condition of reduced mobility caused by an impairment of the locomotive organs). It has been reported that the Two-Step test score has a good correlation with one's walking ability; however, its association with the gait pattern of older people during normal walking is still unknown. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the associations between the gait patterns of older people observed during normal walking and their Two-Step test scores. We analyzed the whole waveforms obtained from the lower-extremity joint angles and joint moments of 26 older people in various stages of locomotive syndrome using principal component analysis (PCA). The PCA was conducted using a 260 × 2424 input matrix constructed from the participants' time-normalized pelvic and right-lower-limb-joint angles along three axes (ten trials of 26 participants, 101 time points, 4 angles, 3 axes, and 2 variable types per trial). The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient between the scores of the principal component vectors (PCVs) and the scores of the Two-Step test revealed that only one PCV (PCV 2) among the 61 obtained relevant PCVs is significantly related to the score of the Two-Step test. We therefore concluded that the joint angles and joint moments related to PCV 2-ankle plantar-flexion, ankle plantar-flexor moments during the late stance phase, ranges of motion and moments on the hip, knee, and ankle joints in the sagittal plane during the entire stance phase-are the motions associated with the Two-Step test.

The initial effects of knee joint mobilization on osteoarthritic hyperalgesia.

PubMed

Moss, Penny; Sluka, Kathleen; Wright, Anthony

2007-05-01

Physiotherapists often employ lower limb joint mobilization to reduce pain and increase function. However, there is little experimental data confirming its efficacy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the initial effects of accessory knee joint mobilization on measures of pain and function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. The study employed a double-blind, controlled, within-subjects repeated-measures design. Thirty-eight subjects with mild to moderate knee pain participated. The effects of a 9-min, non-noxious, AP mobilization of the tibio-femoral joint were compared with manual contact and no-contact interventions. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) and 3-m 'up and go' time were measured immediately before and after each intervention. Results demonstrated a significantly greater mean (95% CI) percentage increase in PPT following knee joint mobilization (27.3% (20.9-33.7)) than after manual contact (6.4% (0.4-12.4)) or no-contact (-9.6% (-20.7 to 1.6)) interventions. Knee joint mobilization also increased PPT at a distal, non-painful site and reduced 'up and go' time significantly more (-5% (-9.3 to 0.8)) than manual contact (-0.4% (-4.2 to 3.5)) or no-contact control (+7.9% (2.6-13.2)) interventions. This study therefore provides new experimental evidence that accessory mobilization of an osteoarthritic knee joint immediately produces both local and widespread hypoalgesic effects. It may therefore be an effective means of reducing pain in this population.

Mobile-bearing TKA improved the anteroposterior joint stability in mid-flexion range comparing to fixed-bearing TKA.

PubMed

Minoda, Yukihide; Ikebuchi, Mitsuhiko; Mizokawa, Shigekazu; Ohta, Yoichi; Nakamura, Hiroaki

2016-11-01

Proper anteroposterior (AP) joint displacement is an important indicator of good clinical outcome following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We hypothesized that a newly introduced mobile-bearing posterior stabilized (PS) prosthesis reduces the AP joint displacement. The aim of this study is to compare the AP joint displacement between a newly introduced mobile-bearing PS TKA in one knee and a conventional fixed-bearing PS TKA in other knee. 82 knees in 41 patients who had bilateral TKAs were investigated. All the patients received a conventional fixed-bearing PS prosthesis in one knee and a highly congruent mobile-bearing PS prosthesis in the other knee. AP joint displacement was measured using the KT-2000 arthrometer, at 30° and 75° in flexion, at average of 3.3 years after the operation. AP joint displacements at 30° in flexion were 6 ± 3 mm in the knees with the mobile-bearing PS prosthesis and 9 ± 4 mm in the knee with fixed-bearing PS prosthesis (p < 0.001). AP joint displacements at 75° in flexion were 4 ± 2 mm in the knees with the mobile-bearing PS prosthesis and 6 ± 3 mm in the knee with fixed-bearing PS prosthesis (p < 0.001). This study suggested that the design of the prosthesis can improve the AP joint stability in mid-flexion range.

Brief communication: Cineradiographic analysis of the chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints.

PubMed

Thompson, Nathan E; Holowka, Nicholas B; O'Neill, Matthew C; Larson, Susan G

2014-08-01

During terrestrial locomotion, chimpanzees exhibit dorsiflexion of the midfoot between midstance and toe-off of stance phase, a phenomenon that has been called the "midtarsal break." This motion is generally absent during human bipedalism, and in chimpanzees is associated with more mobile foot joints than in humans. However, the contribution of individual foot joints to overall foot mobility in chimpanzees is poorly understood, particularly on the medial side of the foot. The talonavicular (TN) and calcaneocuboid (CC) joints have both been suggested to contribute significantly to midfoot mobility and to the midtarsal break in chimpanzees. To evaluate the relative magnitude of motion that can occur at these joints, we tracked skeletal motion of the hindfoot and midfoot during passive plantarflexion and dorsiflexion manipulations using cineradiography. The sagittal plane range of motion was 38 ± 10° at the TN joint and 14 ± 8° at the CC joint. This finding indicates that the TN joint is more mobile than the CC joint during ankle plantarflexion-dorsiflexion. We suggest that the larger range of motion at the TN joint during dorsiflexion is associated with a rotation (inversion-eversion) across the transverse tarsal joint, which may occur in addition to sagittal plane motion. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Spacesuit mobility knee joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vykukal, H. C. (Inventor)

1979-01-01

Pressure suit mobility joints are for use in interconnecting adjacent segments of an hermetically sealed spacesuit in which low torques, low leakage and a high degree of reliability are required. Each of the joints is a special purpose joint characterized by substantially constant volume and low torque characteristics and includes linkages which restrain the joint from longitudinal distension and includes a flexible, substantially impermeable diaphragm of tubular configuration spanning the distance between pivotally supported annuli. The diaphragms of selected joints include rolling convolutions for balancing the joints, while various joints include wedge-shaped sections which enhance the range of motion for the joints.

JOMAR: Joint Operations with Mobile Autonomous Robots

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-21

AFRL-AFOSR-JP-TR-2015-0009 JOMAR: Joint Operations with Mobile Autonomous Robots Edwin Olson UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN Final Report 12/21/2015...SUBTITLE JOMAR: Joint Operations with Mobile Autonomous Robots 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER FA23861114024 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6...14. ABSTRACT Under this grant, we formulated and implemented a variety of novel algorithms that address core problems in multi- robot systems. These

RESTRICTED HIP MOBILITY: CLINICAL SUGGESTIONS FOR SELF‐MOBILIZATION AND MUSCLE RE‐EDUCATION

PubMed Central

Matheson, J.W.

2013-01-01

Restricted hip mobility has shown strong correlation with various pathologies of the hip, lumbar spine and lower extremity. Restricted mobility can consequently have deleterious effects not only at the involved joint but throughout the entire kinetic chain. Promising findings are suggesting benefit with skilled joint mobilization intervention for clients with various hip pathologies. Supervised home program intervention, while lacking specifically for the hip joint, are demonstrating promising results in other regions of the body. Application of an accompanying home program for the purpose of complementing skilled, in clinic intervention is advisable for those clients that respond favorably to such methodology. Level of Evidence: 5 PMID:24175151

Restricted hip mobility: clinical suggestions for self-mobilization and muscle re-education.

PubMed

Reiman, Michael P; Matheson, J W

2013-10-01

Restricted hip mobility has shown strong correlation with various pathologies of the hip, lumbar spine and lower extremity. Restricted mobility can consequently have deleterious effects not only at the involved joint but throughout the entire kinetic chain. Promising findings are suggesting benefit with skilled joint mobilization intervention for clients with various hip pathologies. Supervised home program intervention, while lacking specifically for the hip joint, are demonstrating promising results in other regions of the body. Application of an accompanying home program for the purpose of complementing skilled, in clinic intervention is advisable for those clients that respond favorably to such methodology. 5.

The change in the diffusion of water in normal and degenerative lumbar intervertebral discs following joint mobilization compared to prone lying.

PubMed

Beattie, Paul F; Donley, Jonathan W; Arnot, Cathy F; Miller, Ronald

2009-01-01

Prospective, repeated measures obtained under treatment and control conditions. The purposes of this study were to provide preliminary evidence regarding the immediate change in the diffusion of water in the nuclear region of normal and degenerative lumbar intervertebral discs (IVDs) following a single session of lumbar joint mobilization, and to compare these findings to the immediate change in the diffusion of water following a 10-minute session of prone lying. There is conflicting evidence regarding the effectiveness and efficacy of lumbar joint mobilization. Increased knowledge of the physiologic effects of lumbar joint mobilization can lead to refinement of its clinical application. A total of 24 people (15 males and 9 females), ranging in age from 22 to 58 years, participated in this study. All subjects had a history of activity-limiting low back pain. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images (DW-MRIs) were obtained immediately before and after a 10-minute session of lumbar joint mobilization. At least 1 month later, a second session was performed in which DW-MRIs were obtained immediately before and after a 10-minute session of prone lying. Following lumbar joint mobilization, a significant increase (P = .002) in the mean values for diffusion of water was observed within degenerative IVDs at L5-S1 (22.2% increase; effect size, 0.97). Degenerative IVDs at L1-2 to L4-5 and normal IVDs at L1-2 to L5-S1 did not demonstrate a change in diffusion following joint mobilization. Prone lying was not associated with a change in diffusion for normal or degenerative IVDs. The stimulus provided by lumbar joint mobilization may influence the diffusion of water in degenerative IVDs at L5-S1; however, these are preliminary findings and the relationship of these findings to pain and function needs further investigation.

Effects of joint mobilization on chronic ankle instability: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Cruz-Díaz, David; Lomas Vega, Rafael; Osuna-Pérez, Maria Catalina; Hita-Contreras, Fidel; Martínez-Amat, Antonio

2015-01-01

To evaluate the effects of joint mobilization, in which movement is applied to the ankle's dorsiflexion range of motion, on dynamic postural control and on the self-reported instability of patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial with repeated measures and a follow-up period. Ninety patients with a history of recurrent ankle sprain, self-reported instability, and a limited dorsiflexion range of motion, were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (Joint Mobilizations, 3 weeks, two sessions per week) the placebo group (Sham Mobilizations, same duration as joint mobilization) or the control group, with a 6 months follow-up. Dorsiflexion Range of Motion (DFROM), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and CAI Tool (CAIT) were outcome measures. A separate 3 × 4 mixed model analysis of variance was performed to examine the effect of treatment conditions and time, and intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis was applied to evaluate the effect of the independent variable. The application of joint mobilization resulted in better scores of DFROM, CAIT, and SEBTs in the intervention group when compared with the placebo or the control groups (p < 0.001). The effect sizes of group-by-time interaction, measured with eta-squared, oscillated between 0.954 for DFROM and 0.288 for SEBT posteromedial distance. In within-group analysis, the manipulation group showed an improvement at 6 months follow-up in CAIT [mean = 5.23, CI 95% (4.63-5.84)], DFROM [mean = 6.77, CI 95% (6.45-7.08)], anterior SEBT [mean = 7.35, CI 95% (6.59-8.12)], posteromedial SEBT [mean = 3.32, CI 95% (0.95-5.69)], and posterolateral SEBT [mean = 2.55, CI 95% (2.20-2.89)]. Joint mobilization techniques applied to subjects suffering from CAI were able to improve ankle DFROM, postural control, and self-reported instability. These results suggest that joint mobilization could be applied to patients with recurrent ankle sprain to help restore their functional stability. Implications for Rehabilitation Functional instability is a very common sequela in patients with CAI, resulting in reduced quality of living due to the limitations it imposes on daily life activities. The mobilization with movement technique presented by Mulligan, and based on the joint mobilization accompanied by active movement, appears as a valuable tool to be employed by physical therapists to restore ankle function after a recurrent ankle sprain history. ROM restriction, subjective feeling of instability and dynamic postural control are benefiting from the joint mobilization application.

[Shoulder joint pain of rotator cuff injury treated with electroacupuncture and Mulligan's mobilization: a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

Wang, Yanwu; Wang, Chongmin; Chen, Huade; Ye, Xinmiao

2018-01-12

To verify the clinical therapeutic effects on shoulder joint pain of rotator cuff injury treated with electroacupuncture (EA) and Mulligan's mobilization. A total of 120 patients of shoulder joint pain of rotator cuff injury were randomized into an EA group, a rehabilitation group and a combined therapy group, 40 cases in each one. In the EA group, EA was applied to Jianzhen (SI 9), Jianliao (TE 14), Jianyu (LI 15), Tianzong (SI 11), Jianqian (extra) and Binao (LI 14) in the affected side. Of these acupoints, Jianliao (TE 14) and Jianyu (LI 15), Jianzhen (SI 9) and Tianzong (SI 11) were stimulated with Han 's electric apparatus. In the rehabilitation group, Mulligan's mobilization was used, including scapular mobilization, static joint mobilization and dynamic joint mobilization. In the combined therapy group, EA was used in combination with Mulligan mobilization. The treatment was given once a day in each group, 5 sessions a week, totally for 6 weeks. The pain intensity of shoulder joint (VAS), the University of California at Los Angeles shoulder rating scale (UCLA) and the range of motion (ROM) of shoulder joint were evaluated before and 6 weeks after treatment separately. The adverse reactions were recorded in each group. VAS scores were all reduced, UCLA scores increased and ROM improved after treatment as compared with those before treatment in the patients of the three groups (all P <0.05). After treatment, VAS score, UCLA score and ROM in the combined therapy group were remarkably improved as compared with those in the EA group and the rehabilitation group (all P <0.05). Regarding the improvements of VAS and UCLA scores, the results in the EA group were better than those in the rehabilitation group (both P <0.05). Regarding ROM improvement, the results in the rehabilitation group were superior to those in the EA group (all P <0.05). There was no adverse reaction in the two groups. The combined therapy of EA and Mulligan's mobilization relieves shoulder joint pain of rotator cuff injury, better than the simple application of either EA or Mulligan's mobilization.

Higher forgotten joint score for fixed-bearing than for mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Thienpont, E; Zorman, D

2016-08-01

To compare the postoperative subjective outcome for fixed- and mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by using the forgotten joint score (FJS-12), a new patient-reported outcome score of 12 questions evaluating the potential of a patient to forget about his operated joint. The hypothesis of this study was that a mobile-bearing TKA would have a higher level of forgotten joint than a fixed-bearing model of the same design. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 100 patients who underwent TKA at least 1 year [mean (SD) 18 (5) months] before with either a fixed-bearing (N = 50) or a mobile-bearing (N = 50) TKA from the same implant family. Clinical outcome was evaluated with the knee society score and patient-reported outcome with the forgotten joint score. No difference was observed for demographics in between both study groups. The mean (SD) postoperative FJS-12 for the fixed-bearing TKA was 71 (28) compared to a mean (SD) of 56.5 (30) for the mobile-bearing TKA. The clinical relevance of the present retrospective study is that it shows for the first time a significant difference between fixed- and mobile-bearing TKA by using a new patient-reported outcome score. The hypothesis that mobile-bearing TKA would have a higher degree of forgotten joint than a fixed-bearing TKA could not be confirmed. A level I prospective study should be set up to objectivise these findings. IV.

Can passive mobilization provide clinically-relevant brain stimulation? A pilot EEG and NIRS study on healthy subjects.

PubMed

Pittaccio, Simone; Garavaglia, Lorenzo; Molteni, Erika; Guanziroli, Eleonora; Zappasodi, Filippo; Beretta, Elena; Strazzer, Sandra; Molteni, Franco; Villa, Elena; Passaretti, Francesca

2013-01-01

Lower limb rehabilitation is a fundamental part of post-acute care in neurological disease. Early commencement of active workout is often prevented by paresis, thus physical treatment may be delayed until patients regain some voluntary command of their muscles. Passive mobilization of the affected joints is mostly delivered in order to safeguard tissue properties and shun circulatory problems. The present paper investigates the potential role of early passive motion in stimulating cortical areas of the brain devoted to the control of the lower limb. An electro-mechanical mobilizer for the ankle joint (Toe-Up!) was implemented utilizing specially-designed shape-memory-alloy-based actuators. This device was constructed to be usable by bedridden subjects. Besides, the slowness and gentleness of the imparted motion, make it suitable for patients in a very early stage of their recovery. The mobilizer underwent technical checks to confirm reliability and passed the required safety tests for electric biomedical devices. Four healthy volunteers took part in the pre-clinical phase of the study. The protocol consisted in measuring of brain activity by EEG and NIRS in four different conditions: rest, active dorsiflexion of the ankle, passive mobilization of the ankle, and assisted motion of the same joint. The acquired data were processed to obtain maps of cortical activation, which were then compared. The measurements collected so far show that there is a similar pattern of activity between active and passive/assisted particularly in the contralateral premotor areas. This result, albeit based on very few observations, might suggest that passive motion provides somatosensory afferences that are processed in a similar manner as for voluntary control. Should this evidence be confirmed by further trials on healthy individuals and neurological patients, it could form a basis for a clinical use of early passive exercise in supporting central functional recovery.

Is latero-medial patellar mobility related to the range of motion of the knee joint after total knee arthroplasty?

PubMed

Ota, Susumu; Nakashima, Takeshi; Morisaka, Ayako; Omachi, Takaaki; Ida, Kunio; Kawamura, Morio

2010-12-01

Diminished range of motion (ROM) of the knee joint after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is thought to be related to reduced patellar mobility. This has not been confirmed clinically due to a lack of quantitative methods adequate for measuring patellar mobility. We investigated the relationship between patellar mobility by a reported quantitative method and knee joint ROM after TKA. Forty-nine patients [osteoarthritis--OA: 29 knees; rheumatoid arthritis--RA: 20 knees] were examined after TKA. Respective medial and lateral patellar mobility was measured 1 and 6 months postoperatively using a patellofemoral arthrometer (PFA). Knee joint ROM was also measured in each of those 2 sessions. Although the flexion and extension of the knee joints improved significantly from 1 to 6 months after TKA, the medial and lateral patellar displacements (LPDs) failed to improve during that same period. Moreover, only the changes in knee flexion and medial patellar displacement (MPD) between the two sessions were positively correlated (r = 0.31, p < 0.05). However, our findings demonstrated that medial and lateral patellar mobility had no sufficient longitudinal relationship with knee ROM after TKA. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Physiotherapy and lumbar facet joint injections as a combination treatment for chronic low back pain. A narrative review of lumbar facet joint injections, lumbar spinal mobilizations, soft tissue massage and lower back mobility exercises.

PubMed

Chambers, Hannah

2013-06-01

The aim of this study was to summarize the available evidence on lumbar facet joint injections and the physiotherapy treatments, land-based lower back mobility exercise, soft tissue massage and lumbar spinal mobilizations for chronic low back pain (CLBP). The plausibility of physiotherapy and lumbar facet joint injections as a combination treatment is discussed. Using a systematic process, an online electronic search was performed using key words utilizing all available databases and hand searching reference lists. Using a critical appraisal tool from the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP), the literature was screened to include primary research. The main aspects of the research were summarized. The evidence for lumbar facet joint injections suggests an overall short-term positive effect on CLBP. Land-based lower back mobility exercise and soft tissue massage appear to have a positive effect on CLBP in the short term and possibly in the longer term. There is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions for lumbar spinal mobilizations. The review indicates that lumbar facet joint injections create a short period when pain is reduced. Physiotherapy treatments including land-based lower back mobility exercise and soft tissue massage may be of benefit during this time to improve the longer-term outcomes of patients with CLBP. It is not possible to make generalizations or firm conclusions. The current review highlights the need for further research. A randomized controlled trial is recommended to assess the impact of physiotherapy in combination with lumbar facet joint injections on CLBP. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The association between physical characteristics of the ankle joint and the mobility performance in elderly people with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Ng, Thomas Ka-Wai; Lo, Sing-Kai; Cheing, Gladys Lai-Ying

2014-01-01

Previous studies showed that older adults with diabetes have a worse mobility performance as compared with those without diabetes. Studies also demonstrated that older adults with diabetes have weakened ankle muscle strength, reduced joint range in ankle dorsiflexion and worsened ankle joint proprioception as compared with control population. The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between the physical characteristics of the ankle joint and the mobility performance in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Older adults with type 2 diabetes (n=85) were recruited, and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) for mobility assessment was performed. Active ankle joint repositioning test was used for assessing the ankle joint proprioception sense; peak torque of ankle dorsiflexors and plantar flexors were tested by using a Cybex Norm dynamometer, and weight-bearing lunge test (WBLT) was used for assessing the stiffness of ankle dorsiflexion. Our results showed that age, body mass index (BMI), normalized peak torque of plantar flexors and dorsiflexors, active ankle joint repositioning test errors and the WBLT distance were significantly correlated with the TUG (all p<0.001). These ankle characteristics, together with the demographic data of the subjects, contributed 59.9% of the variance in the TUG by multiple regression analysis. Body mass, ankle plantar flexors strength and ankle joint proprioception are important factors contributing to the physical mobility of the older adults with type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rehabilitation in children with juvenile chronic arthritis.

PubMed

Häfner, R; Truckenbrodt, H; Spamer, M

1998-05-01

Chronic childhood arthritis impairs joint function and may result in severe physical handicap. Joint pain and inflammation trigger a vicious cycle that often ends in joint damage and fixed deformities. A comprehensive rehabilitation programme must start early to restore loss of function and prevent permanent handicap. It is dominated by a physiotherapeutic regimen consisting of pain relief, movement expansion, training of muscular coordination and finally re-integration of a physiological movement pattern. The approaches of occupational therapy become integrated into the treatment programme, concentrating on joint protection and self-care training. Additional aids support the aim of joint restoration. They include individual splinting, adapted footwear and walking aids. Depending on the child's age and developmental status different aspects of rehabilitation dominate. Small children need adequate mobility to promote their psychosocial development. In later years integration into school life and the peer group becomes important. Adolescents require help for an adequate vocational training and self-care support. Last but not least, parental education and integration of the whole family into the rehabilitation programme markedly improve the patient's prognosis.

Relationship between patellar mobility and patellofemoral joint cartilage degeneration after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Ota, Susumu; Kurokouchi, Kazutoshi; Takahashi, Shigeo; Yoda, Masaki; Yamamoto, Ryuichiro; Sakai, Tadahiro

2017-11-01

Patellofemoral cartilage degeneration is a potential complication of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. Hypomobility of the patella in the coronal plane is often observed after ACLR. Few studies, however, have examined the relationship between cartilage degeneration in the patellofemoral joint and mobility after ACLR. The present study investigated 1) the coronal mobility of the patella after ACLR, 2) the relationship between patellar mobility and cartilage degeneration of the patellofemoral joint, and 3) the relationship between patellar mobility and knee joint function after ACLR. Forty patients who underwent medial hamstring-based ACLR participated in the study. Lateral and medial patellar displacements were assessed with a modified patellofemoral arthrometer, and the absolute values of the displacements were normalized to patient height. The International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) cartilage injury classification of the patellar and femoral (trochlear) surfaces, and the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale were used to evaluate knee function. Lateral and medial patellar displacements were reduced compared with the non-operated knee at the second-look arthroscopy and bone staple extraction operation (second operation; 24.4 ± 7.9 months after ACLR, P<0.01). The ICRS grades of the patellofemoral joint (patella and trochlea) were significantly worse than those pre-ACLR. Neither lateral nor medial patellar mobility, however, were significantly correlated with the ICRS grade or the Lysholm score. Although patellar mobility at approximately 2 years after ACLR was decreased compared to the non-operated knee, small displacement of the patella was not related to cartilage degeneration or knee joint function at the time of the second operation.

Carpal kinematics in quadrupedal monkeys: towards a better understanding of wrist morphology and function

PubMed Central

Daver, Guillaume; Berillon, Gilles; Grimaud-Hervé, Dominique

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study is to provide new data on carpal kinematics in primates in order to deepen our understanding of the relationships between wrist morphology and function. To that end, we provide preliminary data on carpal kinematics in seven species of quadrupedal monkeys that have not been previously investigated in this regard (cercopithecoids, n = 4; ceboids, n = 3). We radiographed wrists from cadavers at their maximum radial and ulnar deviations, as well as at maximum flexion and extension. We took angular measurements to quantify the contribution of the mobility of the two main wrist joints (antebrachiocarpal and midcarpal) with respect to total wrist mobility. We also recorded qualitative observations. Our quantitative results show few clear differences among quadrupedal monkeys for radioulnar deviation and flexion–extension: all the primates studied exhibit a greater midcarpal mobility (approximately 54–83% of the total range of motion) than antebrachiocarpal mobility; however, we identified two patterns of carpal kinematics that show the functional impact of previously recognised morphological variations in quadrupedal monkeys. Firstly, qualitative results show that the partition that divides the proximal joint of the wrist in ceboids results in less mobility and more stability of the ulnar part of the wrist than is seen in cercopithecoids. Secondly, we show that the olive baboon specimen (Papio anubis) is characterised by limited antebrachiocarpal mobility for extension; this effect is likely the result of a radial process that projects on the scaphoid notch, as well as an intraarticular meniscus. Because of these close relationships between carpal kinematics and morphology in quadrupedal monkeys, we hypothesise that, to some extent, these functional tendencies are related to their locomotor hand postures. PMID:22050662

Immediate combined effect of gastrocnemius stretching and sustained talocrural joint mobilization in individuals with limited ankle dorsiflexion: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Kang, Min-Hyeok; Oh, Jae-Seop; Kwon, Oh-Yun; Weon, Jong-Hyuk; An, Duk-Hyun; Yoo, Won-Gyu

2015-12-01

Although gastrocnemius stretching and talocrural joint mobilization have been suggested as effective interventions to address limited ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion (DF PROM), the effects of a combination of the two interventions have not been identified. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of gastrocnemius stretching combined with joint mobilization and gastrocnemius stretching alone. A randomized controlled trial. In total, 24 individuals with limited ankle DF PROM were randomized to undergo gastrocnemius stretching combined with joint mobilization (12 feet in 12 individuals) or gastrocnemius stretching alone (12 feet in 12 individuals) for 5 min. Ankle kinematics during gait (time to heel-off and ankle DF before heel-off), ankle DF PROM, posterior talar glide, and displacement of the myotendinous junction (MTJ) of the gastrocnemius were assessed before and after the interventions. The groups were compared using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Greater increases in the time to heel-off and ankle DF before heel-off during gait and posterior talar glide were observed in the stretching combined with joint mobilization group versus the stretching alone group. Ankle DF PROM and displacement of the MTJ of the gastrocnemius were increased significantly after the interventions in both groups, with no significant difference between them. These findings suggest that gastrocnemius stretching with joint mobilization needs to be considered to improve ankle kinematics during gait. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Astym® Therapy for the Management of Recalcitrant Knee Joint Stiffness after Total Knee Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Bhave, Anil; Corcoran, James; Cherian, Jeffery J; Mont, Michael A

2016-01-01

Knee stiffness is a common complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Despite studies published on the surgical management of reduced range of motion (ROM) after TKA, there is limited evidence on the nonoperative management of joint and soft tissue imbalances possibly contributing to reduced knee ROM. This report assesses changes in ROM, pain, function, and patellar tendon length after Astym® joint mobilization use. A 38-year-old male professional skier had a right TKA 3 months before presentation with 2 subsequent manipulations under anesthesia secondary to persistent knee stiffness. He had patellar baja on radiograph, a reduced arc of ROM, reduced patellar mobility and muscular extensibility, and pain to palpation along the patellar tendon. He had 12 visits of physical therapy with the use of Astym®, patellar mobilization, and tibio-femoral mobilizations with movement. The patient also used a customized knee device at home for prolonged knee extension stretching. The patient was treated for 12 visits, along with home use of customized bracing for knee extension. Significant improvements were seen in pain, function, and ROM. He returned to work full-time, ambulated prolonged distances, and negotiated stairs pain-free. He also demonstrated resolution of patellar baja radiographically. Conservative management of recalcitrant knee joint stiffness after primary TKA can be effective in restoring knee mobility and reducing pain and activity limitation. A multimodal approach using Astym® treatment, customized knee bracing, and targeted joint mobilization can be effective in resolving knee joint stiffness.

Manual therapy and eccentric exercise in the management of Achilles tendinopathy.

PubMed

Jayaseelan, Dhinu J; Kecman, Michael; Alcorn, Daniel; Sault, Josiah D

2017-05-01

Chronic Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is an overuse condition seen among runners. Eccentric exercise can decrease pain and improve function for those with chronic degenerative tendon changes; however, some individuals have continued pain requiring additional intervention. While joint mobilization and manipulation has not been studied in the management in Achilles tendinopathy, other chronic tendon dysfunction, such as lateral epicondylalgia, has responded well to manual therapy (MT). Three runners were seen in physical therapy (PT) for chronic AT. They were prescribed eccentric loading exercises and calf stretching. Joint mobilization and manipulation was implemented to improve foot and ankle mobility, decrease pain, and improve function. Immediate within-session changes in pain, heel raise repetitions, and pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were noted following joint-directed MT in each patient. Each patient improved in self-reported function on the Achilles tendon specific Victorian Institute for Sport Assessment questionnaire (VISA-A), pain levels, PPT, joint mobility, ankle motion, and single-leg heel raises at discharge and 9-month follow-up. The addition of MT directed at local and remote sites may enhance the rehabilitation of patients with AT. Further research is necessary to determine the efficacy of adding joint mobilization to standard care for AT. Case series. Therapy, Level 4.

Flexibility in the mouse middle ear: A finite element study of the frequency response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gottlieb, Peter; Puria, Sunil

2018-05-01

The mammalian middle ear is comprised of three distinct ossicles, connected by joints, and suspended in an air-filled cavity. In most mammals, the ossicular joints are mobile synovial joints, which introduce flexibility into the ossicular chain. In some smaller rodents, however, these joints are less mobile, and in the mouse in particular, the malleus is additionally characterized by a large, thin plate known as the transversal lamina, which connects the manubrium to the incus-malleus joint (IMJ). We hypothesize that this feature acts as a functional joint, maintaining the benefits of a flexible ossicular chain despite a less-mobile IMJ, and tested this hypothesis with a finite element model of the mouse middle ear. The results showed that while fusing the ossicular joints had a negligible effect on sound transmission, stiffening the ossicular bone significantly reduced sound transmission, implying that bone flexibility plays a critical role in the normal function of the mouse middle ear.

Inter-clinician and intra-clinician reliability of force application during joint mobilization: a systematic review.

PubMed

Gorgos, Kara S; Wasylyk, Nicole T; Van Lunen, Bonnie L; Hoch, Matthew C

2014-04-01

Joint mobilizations are commonly used by clinicians to decrease pain and restore joint arthrokinematics following musculoskeletal injury. The force applied during a joint mobilization treatment is subjective to the individual clinician but may have an effect on patient outcomes. The purpose of this systematic review was to critically appraise and synthesize the studies which examined the reliability of clinicians' force application during joint mobilization. A systematic search of PubMed and EBSCO Host databases from inception to March 1, 2013 was conducted to identify studies assessing the reliability of force application during joint mobilizations. Two reviewers utilized the Quality Appraisal of Reliability Studies (QAREL) assessment tool to determine the quality of included studies. The relative reliability of the included studies was examined through intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) to synthesize study findings. All results were collated qualitatively with a level of evidence approach. A total of seven studies met the eligibility and were included. Five studies were included that assessed inter-clinician reliability, and six studies were included that assessed intra-clinician reliability. The overall level of evidence for inter-clinician reliability was strong for poor-to-moderate reliability (ICC = -0.04 to 0.70). The overall level of evidence for intra-clinician reliability was strong for good reliability (ICC = 0.75-0.99). This systematic review indicates there is variability in force application between clinicians but individual clinicians apply forces consistently. The results of this systematic review suggest innovative instructional methods are needed to improve consistency and validate the forces applied during of joint mobilization treatments. This is particularly evident for improving the consistency of force application across clinicians. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Low-Intensity Vibration as a Treatment for Traumatic Muscle Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

improving muscle healing, thereby reducing joint stiffness and increasing mobility of polytrauma patients. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Skeletal muscle repair...mobility of polytrauma patients. 2. KEYWORDS Skeletal muscle repair, low-intensity vibration, monocytes/macrophages, endothelial precursor cells...innovative, non-invasive and simple treatment for improving muscle healing and thereby reducing joint stiffness and increasing mobility of polytrauma

Morphology and Mobility of the Reconstructed Basilar Joint of the Pollicized Index Finger.

PubMed

Strugarek-Lecoanet, Clotilde; Chevrollier, Jérémie; Pauchard, Nicolas; Blum, Alain; Dap, François; Dautel, Gilles

2016-09-01

To evaluate outcome and function of the reconstructed basilar thumb joint after index finger pollicization in patients presenting congenital thumb deficiency. Plain radiographs and 4-dimensional dynamic volume computed tomography scan were used to evaluate the outcome of 23 pollicizations performed on 14 children between 1996 and 2009. The mean follow-up was 8 years. Patients performed continuous movements of thumb opposition during the imaging studies. Four-dimensional scan images made it possible to visualize mobility within the reconstructed joint. In 14 cases, union occurred in the metacarpal head/metacarpal base interface. In the 9 other cases, there was a nonunion at this interface. The reconstructed joint was mobile in 20 cases, including 3 in which there was also mobility at the site of the nonunion. In 3 cases in our series, mobility was present only at the site of the nonunion, between the base and the head of the second metacarpal. Remodeling and flattening out of the metacarpal head occurred in 16 of 23 cases. The transposed metacarpal head remained spherical in 7 cases. The reconstructed joint adapts, both morphologically and functionally, allowing movement on all 3 spatial planes. Existing mechanical constraints on the reconstructed joint may explain its remodeled appearance. Therapeutic IV. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Obesity and worsening of chronic venous disease and joint mobility.

PubMed

Belczak, Cleusa Ema Quilici; de Godoy, José Maria Pereira; Belzack, Sergio Quilici; Ramos, Rubiana Neves; Caffaro, Roberto Augusto

2014-09-01

The aim of this study was to investigate a possible relationship between obesity and decreased mobility of the talocrural joint and in turn chronic venous disease. One hundred obese patients recruited at Hospital Santa Casa de Maringa, Parana were enrolled by order of arrival at the hospital in a randomized quantitative cross-sectional study. Inclusion criteria were patients with a body mass index above 30 kg/m(2) and the exclusion criteria were infectious conditions that would interfere with the assessment. Patients were graded according to the clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathophysiological classification. Talocrural goniometry was performed to assess the degree of mobility of the legs. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Dunn's Multiple comparison test and analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis tests with an alpha error of 5% being considered acceptable. The increase in body mass index is correlated to the reduction in joint mobility (Kruskal-Wallis test: p-value <0.0001) and increase in clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathophysiological classification is correlated to a decrease in joint mobility and the increase in age is associated with an increase in clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathophysiological classification (Kruskal-Wallis test: p-value <0.0001). Obesity is associated with deterioration in joint mobility and worsening of chronic venous disease. © The Author(s) 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Effect of joint mobilization techniques for primary total knee arthroplasty: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Xu, Jiao; Zhang, Juan; Wang, Xue-Qiang; Wang, Xuan-Lin; Wu, Ya; Chen, Chan-Cheng; Zhang, Han-Yu; Zhang, Zhi-Wan; Fan, Kai-Yi; Zhu, Qiang; Deng, Zhi-Wei

2017-12-01

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has become the most preferred procedure by patients for the relief of pain caused by knee osteoarthritis. TKA patients aim a speedy recovery after the surgery. Joint mobilization techniques for rehabilitation have been widely used to relieve pain and improve joint mobility. However, relevant randomized controlled trials showing the curative effect of these techniques remain lacking to date. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate whether joint mobilization techniques are valid for primary TKA. We will manage a single-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled trial of 120 patients with unilateral TKA. Patients will be randomized into an intervention group, a physical modality therapy group, and a usual care group. The intervention group will undergo joint mobilization manipulation treatment once a day and regular training twice a day for a month. The physical modality therapy group will undergo physical therapy once a day and regular training twice a day for a month. The usual care group will perform regular training twice a day for a month. Primary outcome measures will be based on the visual analog scale, the knee joint Hospital for Special Surgery score, range of motion, surrounded degree, and adverse effect. Secondary indicators will include manual muscle testing, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, Berg Balance Scale function evaluation, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, proprioception, and muscle morphology. We will direct intention-to-treat analysis if a subject withdraws from the trial. The important features of this trial for joint mobilization techniques in primary TKA are randomization procedures, single-blind, large sample size, and standardized protocol. This study aims to investigate whether joint mobilization techniques are effective for early TKA patients. The result of this study may serve as a guide for TKA patients, medical personnel, and healthcare decision makers. It has been registered at http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=15262 (Identifier:ChiCTR-IOR-16009192), Registered 11 September 2016. We also could provide the correct URL of the online registry in the WHO Trial Registration. http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=ChiCTR-IOR-16009192.

Low Intensity Vibration as a Treatment for Traumatic Muscle Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

improving muscle healing, thereby reducing joint stiffness and increasing mobility of polytrauma patients. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Skeletal muscle repair...and increasing mobility of polytrauma patients. 2. KEYWORDS Skeletal muscle repair, low-intensity vibration, monocytes/macrophages, endothelial...reducing joint stiffness and increasing mobility of polytrauma patients. 11 What was the impact on other disciplines? Nothing to report What was

Mobile ankle and knee perturbator.

PubMed

Andersen, Jacob Buus; Sinkjaer, Thomas

2003-10-01

A mobile ankle and knee perturbator has been developed. It consists of a functional joint with an integrated clutch. Four Bowden wires connect the joint to a powerful motor and a double pneumatic cylinder. When needed during any time of the gait cycle, it is possible to impose an ankle rotation by engaging the clutch and rotating the ankle or knee joint with a predefined displacement. The system is designed to investigate electrophysiological and biomechanical features of the human ankle or knee joint during gait.

Radiosteriometric analysis of movement in the sacroiliac joint during a single-leg stance in patients with long-lasting pelvic girdle pain.

PubMed

Kibsgård, Thomas J; Røise, Olav; Sturesson, Bengt; Röhrl, Stephan M; Stuge, Britt

2014-04-01

Chamberlain's projections (anterior-posterior X-ray of the pubic symphysis) have been used to diagnose sacroiliac joint mobility during the single-leg stance test. This study examined the movement in the sacroiliac joint during the single-leg stance test with precise radiostereometric analysis. Under general anesthesia, tantalum markers were inserted into the dorsal sacrum and the ilium of 11 patients with long-lasting and severe pelvic girdle pain. After two to three weeks, a radiostereometric analysis was conducted while the subjects performed a single-leg stance. Small movements were detected in the sacroiliac joint during the single-leg stance. In both the standing- and hanging-leg sacroiliac join, a total of 0.5 degree rotation was observed; however, no translations were detected. There were no differences in total movement between the standing- and hanging-leg sacroiliac joint. The movement in the sacroiliac joint during the single-leg stance is small and almost undetectable by the precise radiostereometric analysis. A complex movement pattern was seen during the test, with a combination of movements in the two joints. The interpretation of the results of this study is that, the Chamberlain examination likely is inadequate in the examination of sacroiliac joint movement in patients with pelvic girdle pain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Joint hypermobility in patients with chondromalacia patellae.

PubMed

al-Rawi, Z; Nessan, A H

1997-12-01

The relationship between joint mobility and chondromalacia patellae was reported in a prospective study. A total of 115 patients with chondromalacia patellae were compared with 110 healthy individuals without chondromalacia patellae, matched for age and sex, who served as a control group. The degree of joint mobility was scored on a scale of 0-9. The number of individuals with hypermobile joints and the total mobility scores were significantly higher in patients with chondromalacia patellae when compared to the control group (P < 0.001). There were more hypermobile knees among knee joints with chondromalacia patellae when compared with the knees of the control group (P < 0.01). Chondromalacia patellae were bilateral in 57% of our patients. It occurred more frequently in the longer leg and was associated with quadriceps muscle wasting in 50% of patients. Flat feet and backache were reported significantly more often in patients compared with the control group (P < 0.05). It is concluded that hypermobility of the knee joint may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of chondromalacia patellae.

Philosophies Applied in the Selection of Space Suit Joint Range of Motion Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aitchison, Lindsway; Ross, Amy; Matty, Jennifer

2009-01-01

Space suits are the most important tool for astronauts working in harsh space and planetary environments; suits keep crewmembers alive and allow them to perform exploration, construction, and scientific tasks on a routine basis over a period of several months. The efficiency with which the tasks are performed is largely dictated by the mobility features of the space suit. For previous space suit development programs, the mobility requirements were written as pure functional mobility requirements that did not separate joint ranges of motion from the joint torques. The Constellation Space Suit Element has the goal to make more quantitative mobility requirements that focused on the individual components of mobility to enable future suit designers to build and test systems more effectively. This paper details the test planning and selection process for the Constellation space suit pressure garment range of motion requirements.

Signaling networks in joint development

PubMed Central

Salva, Joanna E.; Merrill, Amy E.

2016-01-01

Here we review studies identifying regulatory networks responsible for synovial, cartilaginous, and fibrous joint development. Synovial joints, characterized by the fluid-filled synovial space between the bones, are found in high-mobility regions and are the most common type of joint. Cartilaginous joints unite adjacent bones through either a hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage intermediate. Fibrous joints, which include the cranial sutures, form a direct union between bones through fibrous connective tissue. We describe how the distinct morphologic and histogenic characteristics of these joint classes are established during embryonic development. Collectively, these studies reveal that despite the heterogeneity of joint strength and mobility, joint development throughout the skeleton utilizes common signaling networks via long-range morphogen gradients and direct cell-cell contact. This suggests that different joint types represent specialized variants of homologous developmental modules. Identifying the unifying aspects of the signaling networks between joint classes allows a more complete understanding of the signaling code for joint formation, which is critical to improving strategies for joint regeneration and repair. PMID:27859991

Clinical Benefits of Joint Mobilization on Ankle Sprains: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Weerasekara, Ishanka; Osmotherly, Peter; Snodgrass, Suzanne; Marquez, Jodie; de Zoete, Rutger; Rivett, Darren A

2018-07-01

To assess the clinical benefits of joint mobilization for ankle sprains. MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, Embase, AMED, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PEDro, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Dissertations and Theses were searched from inception to June 2017. Studies investigating humans with grade I or II lateral or medial sprains of the ankle in any pathologic state from acute to chronic, who had been treated with joint mobilization were considered for inclusion. Any conservative intervention was considered as a comparator. Commonly reported clinical outcomes were considered such as ankle range of movement, pain, and function. After screening of 1530 abstracts, 56 studies were selected for full-text screening, and 23 were eligible for inclusion. Eleven studies on chronic sprains reported sufficient data for meta-analysis. Data were extracted using the participants, interventions, comparison, outcomes, and study design approach. Clinically relevant outcomes (dorsiflexion range, proprioception, balance, function, pain threshold, pain intensity) were assessed at immediate, short-term, and long-term follow-up points. Methodological quality was assessed independently by 2 reviewers, and most studies were found to be of moderate quality, with no studies rated as poor. Meta-analysis revealed significant immediate benefits of joint mobilization compared with comparators on improving posteromedial dynamic balance (P=.0004), but not for improving dorsiflexion range (P=.16), static balance (P=.96), or pain intensity (P=.45). Joint mobilization was beneficial in the short-term for improving weight-bearing dorsiflexion range (P=.003) compared with a control. Joint mobilization appears to be beneficial for improving dynamic balance immediately after application, and dorsiflexion range in the short-term. Long-term benefits have not been adequately investigated. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[SOMATOTYPE JOINT MOBILITY AND RANGES OF HIP AND KNEE OF COLLEGE STUDENTS].

PubMed

Godoy-Cumillaf, Andrés; Valdés-Badilla, Pablo; García Sandoval, Alan; Grandón Fuentes, Monica; Lagos Del Canto, Loreto; Aravena Turra, Raúl; Herrera-Valenzuela, Tomás; Bruneau Chavez, José; Durán Agüero, Samuel

2015-12-01

several studies indicate a consistency between the physical inactivity and low levels of mobility in hip and knee joint. to determine the differences in the motion range of the hip and knee joint between the different classifications of somatotype in students of Pedagogy in Physical Education of the Universidad Autónoma de Chile, campus Temuco. the sample included 102 physical education students (31.3% female), somatotype was obtained through the protocol of the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) and the motion range of the hip and knee joint (ROM) using a universal goniometer. the mean somatotype was endo-mesomorphic (4.8 - 3.4 - 2) for the women and meso-endomorphic (3.5 - 5.7 - 2) for the males, while the ROM evaluation indicated that the 50% of the students presented mobility values of joint lower than the normal ones. Furthermore, the endo-mesomorphic women showed lower ROM values of medial rotation of the right hip (45.5 ° ± 10.2 °; P = 0.0125, t = 2.732) and left hip side rotation (41.7 ° ± 10.3 °; P = 0.0256; p = 2.402) than the women meso-endomorphic. the results shows a relationship between the somatotype and hip ROM in the women, showing that in the women the most favorable results of joint mobility are related with a greater muscle mass. In contrasts, no significant differences were observed in men. It is important to encourage the development of joint mobility exercises according to the specific needs of each sex. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

75 FR 56651 - ITS Joint Program Office; Trucking Industry Mobility & Technology Coalition Annual Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-16

...: Beating Gridlock with a Smart Grid; U.S. DOT Truck Technology Initiatives; and State and Federal... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ITS Joint Program Office; Trucking Industry Mobility & Technology Coalition Annual Meeting AGENCY: Research and Innovative Technology Administration, U.S. Department of...

Perspectives on the role of mobility, behavior, and time scales in the spread of diseases.

PubMed

Castillo-Chavez, Carlos; Bichara, Derdei; Morin, Benjamin R

2016-12-20

The dynamics, control, and evolution of communicable and vector-borne diseases are intimately connected to the joint dynamics of epidemiological, behavioral, and mobility processes that operate across multiple spatial, temporal, and organizational scales. The identification of a theoretical explanatory framework that accounts for the pattern regularity exhibited by a large number of host-parasite systems, including those sustained by host-vector epidemiological dynamics, is but one of the challenges facing the coevolving fields of computational, evolutionary, and theoretical epidemiology. Host-parasite epidemiological patterns, including epidemic outbreaks and endemic recurrent dynamics, are characteristic to well-identified regions of the world; the result of processes and constraints such as strain competition, host and vector mobility, and population structure operating over multiple scales in response to recurrent disturbances (like El Niño) and climatological and environmental perturbations over thousands of years. It is therefore important to identify and quantify the processes responsible for observed epidemiological macroscopic patterns: the result of individual interactions in changing social and ecological landscapes. In this perspective, we touch on some of the issues calling for the identification of an encompassing theoretical explanatory framework by identifying some of the limitations of existing theory, in the context of particular epidemiological systems. Fostering the reenergizing of research that aims at disentangling the role of epidemiological and socioeconomic forces on disease dynamics, better understood as complex adaptive systems, is a key aim of this perspective.

Wearable technology reveals gait compensations, unstable walking patterns and fatigue in people with Multiple Sclerosis.

PubMed

Psarakis, Michael; Greene, David; Cole, Michael H; Lord, Stephen R; Hoang, Phu; Brodie, Matthew A D

2018-04-27

People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) often experience a decline in gait performance, which can compromise their independence and increase falls. Ankle joint contractures in PwMS are common and often result in compensatory gait patterns to accommodate reduced ankle range of motion (ROM). Using advances in wearable technology, the aim of this study was to quantify head and pelvis movement patterns that occur in PwMS with disability and determine how these secondary gait compensations impact on gait stability. Twelve healthy participants and twelve PwMS participated in the study. Head and pelvis movements were measured using two tri-axial accelerometers. Measures of gait compensation, mobility, variability, asymmetry, stability and fatigue were assessed during a six-minute walking test. Compared to healthy controls, PwMS had greater vertical asymmetry in their head and pelvic movements (Cohen's d=1.85 & 1.60). Lower harmonic ratios indicated that PwMS were more unstable than controls (Cohen's d=-1.61 to -3.06), even after adjusting for their slower walking speeds. In the PwMS, increased compensatory movements were correlated with reduced ankle active ROM (r=-0.71), higher disability (EDSS) scores (r=0.58), unstable gait (r=-0.76), reduced mobility (r=-0.76) and increased variability (r=0.83). Wearable device technology provides an efficient and reliable way to screen for excessive compensatory movements often present in PwMS and provides clinically-important information that impacts on mobility, stride time variability and gait stability. This information may help clinicians identify PwMS at high risk of falling and develop better rehabilitation interventions that, in addition to improving mobility, may help target the underlying causes of unstable gait. © 2018 Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine.

Joint Communications Support Element: The Voice Heard Round the World

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-01

Initial Entry Package ( IEP ), Early Entry Package (EEP), and Joint Mobil- ity Package provide secure and nonsecure voice, video, and data to small mobile...teams operating worldwide. The IEP and EEP can be rapidly scaled to meet force surge require- ments from small dismounted teams up to an advance

Serial elastic elements in the damselfly wing: mobile vein joints contain resilin

PubMed

Gorb

1999-11-01

Two main types of joints occur in the damselfly wing: mobile and immobile. Some longitudinal veins (RP2(-), RP3&4(-), and MP(-)) are elastically joined with cross veins, whereas other longitudinal veins (IR1(+), IR2(+), MA(+), CuA'(+)) are firmly joined with cross veins. In this study we mapped the distribution of serial elastic elements in the wing. The occurrence of resilin, a rubberlike protein, in mobile joints suggests that the automatic twisting mechanism of the leading edge by aerodynamic force works not by flexibility but by the elasticity of these joints. First, it should result in elastic energy storage in the distal areas of the wing. Second, serial elastic elements of wing presumably act as dampers of an aerodynamic force, which are responsible for gradual twisting of the leading edge.

Serial Elastic Elements in the Damselfly Wing: Mobile Vein Joints Contain Resilin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorb, Stanislav N.

Two main types of joints occur in the damselfly wing: mobile and immobile. Some longitudinal veins (RP2-, RP3&4-, and MP-) are elastically joined with cross veins, whereas other longitudinal veins (IR1+, IR2+, MA+, CuA'+) are firmly joined with cross veins. In this study we mapped the distribution of serial elastic elements in the wing. The occurrence of resilin, a rubberlike protein, in mobile joints suggests that the automatic twisting mechanism of the leading edge by aerodynamic force works not by flexibility but by the elasticity of these joints. First, it should result in elastic energy storage in the distal areas of the wing. Second, serial elastic elements of wing presumably act as dampers of an aerodynamic force, which are responsible for gradual twisting of the leading edge.

Strategy of arm movement control is determined by minimization of neural effort for joint coordination.

PubMed

Dounskaia, Natalia; Shimansky, Yury

2016-06-01

Optimality criteria underlying organization of arm movements are often validated by testing their ability to adequately predict hand trajectories. However, kinematic redundancy of the arm allows production of the same hand trajectory through different joint coordination patterns. We therefore consider movement optimality at the level of joint coordination patterns. A review of studies of multi-joint movement control suggests that a 'trailing' pattern of joint control is consistently observed during which a single ('leading') joint is rotated actively and interaction torque produced by this joint is the primary contributor to the motion of the other ('trailing') joints. A tendency to use the trailing pattern whenever the kinematic redundancy is sufficient and increased utilization of this pattern during skillful movements suggests optimality of the trailing pattern. The goal of this study is to determine the cost function minimization of which predicts the trailing pattern. We show that extensive experimental testing of many known cost functions cannot successfully explain optimality of the trailing pattern. We therefore propose a novel cost function that represents neural effort for joint coordination. That effort is quantified as the cost of neural information processing required for joint coordination. We show that a tendency to reduce this 'neurocomputational' cost predicts the trailing pattern and that the theoretically developed predictions fully agree with the experimental findings on control of multi-joint movements. Implications for future research of the suggested interpretation of the trailing joint control pattern and the theory of joint coordination underlying it are discussed.

[Study on schistosomiasis control measures in mobile boat fishermen. III. Construction and application of regional joint mechanism for schistosomiasis examination and treatment in boatmen].

PubMed

Yang, Gao; Le-Ping, Sun; Yin-Ping, Zuo; Yu-Hui, Xu; Zheng-Qiu, Zhang; Yu-Cai, Ma; Jin-Bin, Gao; Xi-Guang, Zhu; Bo, Zheng; Guo-Jing, Yang; Qing-Biao, Hong; Kun, Yang; You-Sheng, Liang

2011-10-01

To construct the regional joint mechanism for schistosomiasis examination and treatment and the examination protocol among mobile boatmen, so as to provide effective measures for control of mobile infectious sources of schistosomiasis in the Yangtze River basin. According to the characteristics of the cargo frequent mobility of ships with fixed anchor points, the health, maritime and transport sections were jointly cooperated to set up sites for schistosomiasis examination and treatment in ship locks, wharfs and harbors. The infection of schistosomiasis was detected by means of rapid immunological screening and stool examination, and the regional joint mechanism was constructed. The sero-positives were traced for further parasitological examinations and treatment by using the regional joint network for schistosomiasis examination and treatment. The schistosome infections in boatmen were analyzed and compared between different examination and treatment sites and among different navigation coverage. A total of 16 sites for examination and treatment of schistosomiasis, including 5 fixed sites and 11 mobile sites, were set up in 12 townships of 6 districts (counties) of Yangzhou City. During a period between June and August, the examination of schistosomiasis was conducted in 40 sites, and of the 1 225 boatmen from 967 boats detected, 19 cases were sero-positive, with a positive rate of 1.55%. Among the 14 sero-positives examined, no stool positive patients were found. Among the 1 225 boatmen detected, 820 were from fixed sites and 405 from mobile sites, and 4 and 15 cases were found, respectively, with positive rates of 0.49% and 3.70%, respectively, and the sero-positive rate was higher in mobile sites and that in fixed sites. A total of 898 boatmen from the Yangtze River basin and 305 from the local inland rivers were examined, and 3 and 16 sero-positive cases were detected, respectively, with positive rates of 0.33% and 5.25%, respectively, and the sero-positive rate was significantly higher in the boatmen from the local inland rivers than that from the Yangtze River basin. Regional joint mechanism is an effective strategy for examination and treatment of schistosomiasis among mobile boatmen, which provides a new approach to control mobile infectious sources of schistosomiasis in the Yangtze River basin.

Noninflammatory Joint Contractures Arising from Immobility: Animal Models to Future Treatments

PubMed Central

Wong, Kayleigh; Trudel, Guy; Laneuville, Odette

2015-01-01

Joint contractures, defined as the limitation in the passive range of motion of a mobile joint, can be classified as noninflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The pathophysiology is not well understood; limited information is available on causal factors, progression, the pathophysiology involved, and prediction of response to treatment. The clinical heterogeneity of joint contractures combined with the heterogeneous contribution of joint connective tissues to joint mobility presents challenges to the study of joint contractures. Furthermore, contractures are often a symptom of a wide variety of heterogeneous disorders that are in many cases multifactorial. Extended immobility has been identified as a causal factor and evidence is provided from both experimental and epidemiology studies. Of interest is the involvement of the joint capsule in the pathophysiology of joint contractures and lack of response to remobilization. While molecular pathways involved in the development of joint contractures are being investigated, current treatments focus on physiotherapy, which is ineffective on irreversible contractures. Future treatments may include early diagnosis and prevention. PMID:26247029

Flexible Coordination of Stationary and Mobile Conversations with Gaze: Resource Allocation among Multiple Joint Activities

PubMed Central

Mayor, Eric; Bangerter, Adrian

2016-01-01

Gaze is instrumental in coordinating face-to-face social interactions. But little is known about gaze use when social interactions co-occur with other joint activities. We investigated the case of walking while talking. We assessed how gaze gets allocated among various targets in mobile conversations, whether allocation of gaze to other targets affects conversational coordination, and whether reduced availability of gaze for conversational coordination affects conversational performance and content. In an experimental study, pairs were videotaped in four conditions of mobility (standing still, talking while walking along a straight-line itinerary, talking while walking along a complex itinerary, or walking along a complex itinerary with no conversational task). Gaze to partners was substantially reduced in mobile conversations, but gaze was still used to coordinate conversation via displays of mutual orientation, and conversational performance and content was not different between stationary and mobile conditions. Results expand the phenomena of multitasking to joint activities. PMID:27822189

Age-Related Change in Mobility: Perspectives From Life Course Epidemiology and Geroscience

PubMed Central

Cooper, Rachel; Shardell, Michelle; Simonsick, Eleanor M.; Schrack, Jennifer A.; Kuh, Diana

2016-01-01

Mobility is the most studied and most relevant physical ability affecting quality of life with strong prognostic value for disability and survival. Natural selection has built the “engine” of mobility with great robustness, redundancy, and functional reserve. Efficient patterns of mobility can be acquired during development even by children affected by severe impairments. Analogously, age-associated impairments in mobility-related physiological systems are compensated and overt limitations of mobility only occur when the severity can no longer be compensated. Mobility loss in older persons usually results from multiple impairments in the central nervous system, muscles, joints, and energetic and sensory physiological systems. Early preclinical changes in these physiological systems that precede mobility loss have been poorly studied. Peak performance, rate of decline, compensatory behaviors, or subclinical deterioration of physiological resources may cumulatively influence both timing of mobility loss and chances of recovery, but their role as risk factors has not been adequately characterized. Understanding the natural history of these early changes and intervening on them would likely be the most effective strategy to reduce the burden of disability in the population. For example, young women with low bone peak mass could be counseled to start strength resistance exercise to reduce their high risk of developing osteoporosis and fracture later in life. Expanding this approach to other physiological domains requires collecting and interpreting data from life course epidemiological studies, establishing normative measures of mobility, physical function, and physical activity, and connecting them with life course trajectories of the mobility-relevant physiological domains. PMID:26975983

The Effect of Velocity of Joint Mobilization on Corticospinal Excitability in Individuals With a History of Ankle Sprain.

PubMed

Fisher, Beth E; Piraino, Andrew; Lee, Ya-Yun; Smith, Jo Armour; Johnson, Sean; Davenport, Todd E; Kulig, Kornelia

2016-07-01

Study Design Controlled laboratory study. Background Joint mobilization and manipulation decrease pain and improve patient function. Yet, the processes underlying these changes are not well understood. Measures of corticospinal excitability provide insight into potential mechanisms mediated by the central nervous system. Objectives To investigate the differential effects of joint mobilization and manipulation at the talocrural joint on corticospinal excitability in individuals with resolved symptoms following ankle sprain. Methods Twenty-seven participants with a history of ankle sprain were randomly assigned to the control, joint mobilization, or thrust manipulation group. The motor-evoked potential (MEP) and cortical silent period (CSP) of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius were obtained with transcranial magnetic stimulation at rest and during active contraction of the tibialis anterior. The slopes of MEP/CSP input/output curves and the maximal MEP/CSP values were calculated to indicate corticospinal excitability. Behavioral measures, including ankle dorsiflexion and dynamic balance, were evaluated. Results A repeated-measures analysis of variance of the MEP slope showed a significant group-by-time interaction for the tibialis anterior at rest (P = .002) and during active contraction (P = .042). After intervention, the thrust manipulation group had an increase in corticospinal excitability, while the corticospinal excitability decreased in the mobilization group. The thrust manipulation group, but not other groups, also demonstrated a significant increase in the maximal MEP amplitude of the tibialis anterior after intervention. Conclusion The findings suggest that joint manipulation and mobilization have different effects on corticospinal excitability. The increased corticospinal excitability following thrust manipulation may provide a window for physical therapists to optimize muscle recruitment and subsequently movement. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00847769). J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(7):562-570. Epub 6 Jun 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6602.

In Vivo Measurement of Glenohumeral Joint Contact Patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bey, Michael J.; Kline, Stephanie K.; Zauel, Roger; Kolowich, Patricia A.; Lock, Terrence R.

2009-12-01

The objectives of this study were to describe a technique for measuring in-vivo glenohumeral joint contact patterns during dynamic activities and to demonstrate application of this technique. The experimental technique calculated joint contact patterns by combining CT-based 3D bone models with joint motion data that were accurately measured from biplane x-ray images. Joint contact patterns were calculated for the repaired and contralateral shoulders of 20 patients who had undergone rotator cuff repair. Significant differences in joint contact patterns were detected due to abduction angle and shoulder condition (i.e., repaired versus contralateral). Abduction angle had a significant effect on the superior/inferior contact center position, with the average joint contact center of the repaired shoulder 12.1% higher on the glenoid than the contralateral shoulder. This technique provides clinically relevant information by calculating in-vivo joint contact patterns during dynamic conditions and overcomes many limitations associated with conventional techniques for quantifying joint mechanics.

Autonomous Quality Control of Joint Orientation Measured with Inertial Sensors.

PubMed

Lebel, Karina; Boissy, Patrick; Nguyen, Hung; Duval, Christian

2016-07-05

Clinical mobility assessment is traditionally performed in laboratories using complex and expensive equipment. The low accessibility to such equipment, combined with the emerging trend to assess mobility in a free-living environment, creates a need for body-worn sensors (e.g., inertial measurement units-IMUs) that are capable of measuring the complexity in motor performance using meaningful measurements, such as joint orientation. However, accuracy of joint orientation estimates using IMUs may be affected by environment, the joint tracked, type of motion performed and velocity. This study investigates a quality control (QC) process to assess the quality of orientation data based on features extracted from the raw inertial sensors' signals. Joint orientation (trunk, hip, knee, ankle) of twenty participants was acquired by an optical motion capture system and IMUs during a variety of tasks (sit, sit-to-stand transition, walking, turning) performed under varying conditions (speed, environment). An artificial neural network was used to classify good and bad sequences of joint orientation with a sensitivity and a specificity above 83%. This study confirms the possibility to perform QC on IMU joint orientation data based on raw signal features. This innovative QC approach may be of particular interest in a big data context, such as for remote-monitoring of patients' mobility.

Outline and Evaluation of a Joint European and Canadian Virtual Mobility: e-Learning Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hilliard, Alan

2006-01-01

The "virtual mobility" project was created as part of a joint Canadian and European Commission funded project to explore cross-cultural clinical curricular developments in the radiation sciences. The aim of the project was to facilitate student learning of the cross-cultural differences in the delivery of healthcare within the…

Early rheumatoid disease. II. Patterns of joint involvement.

PubMed Central

Fleming, A; Benn, R T; Corbett, M; Wood, P H

1976-01-01

Data from the first research clinic visit (Fleming and others, 1976) have been subjected to factor analysis to identify early patterns of joint involvement. Nine patterns emerged. Two patterns, if present early, were found to have prognostic significance. An eventually more severe disease was associated with a pattern of large joint involvement (shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee) and a pattern based on metatarsophalangeal joints I and III. PMID:970995

JOINT MOBILIZATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PERSISTENT INSERTIONAL ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY: A CASE REPORT.

PubMed

Jayaseelan, Dhinu J; Post, Andrew A; Mischke, John J; Sault, Josiah D

2017-02-01

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) can be a challenging condition to manage conservatively. Eccentric exercise is commonly used in the management of chronic tendinopathy; however, it may not be as helpful for insertional tendon problems as compared to mid-portion dysfunction. While current evidence describing the physical therapy management of IAT is developing, gaps still exist in descriptions of best practice. The purpose of this case report is to describe the management of a patient with persistent IAT utilizing impairment-based joint mobilization, self-mobilization, and exercise. A 51-year-old male was seen in physical therapy for complaints of posterior heel pain and reduced running capacity. He was seen by multiple physical therapists previously, but reported continued impairment, and functional restriction. Joint-based non-thrust mobilization and self-mobilization exercise were performed to enhance his ability to run and reduce symptoms. The subject was seen for four visits over the course of two months. He made clinically significant improvements on the Foot and Ankle Activity Measure and Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles tendon outcomes, was asymptomatic, and participated in numerous marathons. Improvements were maintained at one-year follow-up. Mobility deficits can contribute to the development of tendinopathy, and without addressing movement restrictions, symptoms and functional decline related to tendinopathy may persist. Joint-directed manual therapy may be a beneficial intervention in a comprehensive plan of care in allowing patients with chronic tendon changes to optimize function. Therapy, Level 4.

The effect of additional joint mobilization on neuromuscular performance in individuals with functional ankle instability.

PubMed

Shih, Yi-Fen; Yu, Hsiang-Ting; Chen, Wen-Yin; Liao, Kwong-Kum; Lin, Hsiu-Chen; Yang, Yea-Ru

2018-03-01

To examine the effects of joint mobilization and exercise training on neuromuscular performance in individuals with functional ankle instability (FAI). A cross-sectional study. Forty five subjects with FAI were randomized into three groups: control (CG, n = 15, 27.9 ± 6.6yr), training (TG, n = 15, 26.9 ± 5.8yr) and mobilization with training group (MTG, n = 15, 26.5 ± 4.8yr). Four weeks of neuromuscular training for TG; neuromuscular training and joint mobilization for MTG. Electromyography of the peroneus longus (PL), tibialis anterior (TA), and soleus (SOL) and the reaching distance of the Y balance test (YBT), dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM), Cumberland ankle instability tool (CAIT), and global rating scale (GRS). Two-way repeated measures MANOVA were used with the significance level p < .05. MANOVA found significant group by time interactions on posterolateral reaching distance (p = .032), PL activation (p = .006-.03), DFROM (p < .001), CAIT (p < .001) and GRS (p < .001). The post hoc tests indicated significantly improved PL muscle activity and posterolateral reaching distance for MTG compared to TG (p = .004) and CG (p = .006). Joint mobilization resulted in additional benefits on self-reported ankle instability severity, dorsiflexion mobility, and posterolateral balance performance in individuals with FAI, but its effects on general improvement, muscle activation, and other balance tasks remained uncertain. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Model Predictive Control considering Reachable Range of Wheels for Leg / Wheel Mobile Robots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Naito; Nonaka, Kenichiro; Sekiguchi, Kazuma

2016-09-01

Obstacle avoidance is one of the important tasks for mobile robots. In this paper, we study obstacle avoidance control for mobile robots equipped with four legs comprised of three DoF SCARA leg/wheel mechanism, which enables the robot to change its shape adapting to environments. Our previous method achieves obstacle avoidance by model predictive control (MPC) considering obstacle size and lateral wheel positions. However, this method does not ensure existence of joint angles which achieves reference wheel positions calculated by MPC. In this study, we propose a model predictive control considering reachable mobile ranges of wheels positions by combining multiple linear constraints, where each reachable mobile range is approximated as a convex trapezoid. Thus, we achieve to formulate a MPC as a quadratic problem with linear constraints for nonlinear problem of longitudinal and lateral wheel position control. By optimization of MPC, the reference wheel positions are calculated, while each joint angle is determined by inverse kinematics. Considering reachable mobile ranges explicitly, the optimal joint angles are calculated, which enables wheels to reach the reference wheel positions. We verify its advantages by comparing the proposed method with the previous method through numerical simulations.

Statistical Parametric Mapping to Identify Differences between Consensus-Based Joint Patterns during Gait in Children with Cerebral Palsy.

PubMed

Nieuwenhuys, Angela; Papageorgiou, Eirini; Desloovere, Kaat; Molenaers, Guy; De Laet, Tinne

2017-01-01

Experts recently identified 49 joint motion patterns in children with cerebral palsy during a Delphi consensus study. Pattern definitions were therefore the result of subjective expert opinion. The present study aims to provide objective, quantitative data supporting the identification of these consensus-based patterns. To do so, statistical parametric mapping was used to compare the mean kinematic waveforms of 154 trials of typically developing children (n = 56) to the mean kinematic waveforms of 1719 trials of children with cerebral palsy (n = 356), which were classified following the classification rules of the Delphi study. Three hypotheses stated that: (a) joint motion patterns with 'no or minor gait deviations' (n = 11 patterns) do not differ significantly from the gait pattern of typically developing children; (b) all other pathological joint motion patterns (n = 38 patterns) differ from typically developing gait and the locations of difference within the gait cycle, highlighted by statistical parametric mapping, concur with the consensus-based classification rules. (c) all joint motion patterns at the level of each joint (n = 49 patterns) differ from each other during at least one phase of the gait cycle. Results showed that: (a) ten patterns with 'no or minor gait deviations' differed somewhat unexpectedly from typically developing gait, but these differences were generally small (≤3°); (b) all other joint motion patterns (n = 38) differed from typically developing gait and the significant locations within the gait cycle that were indicated by the statistical analyses, coincided well with the classification rules; (c) joint motion patterns at the level of each joint significantly differed from each other, apart from two sagittal plane pelvic patterns. In addition to these results, for several joints, statistical analyses indicated other significant areas during the gait cycle that were not included in the pattern definitions of the consensus study. Based on these findings, suggestions to improve pattern definitions were made.

Statistical Parametric Mapping to Identify Differences between Consensus-Based Joint Patterns during Gait in Children with Cerebral Palsy

PubMed Central

Papageorgiou, Eirini; Desloovere, Kaat; Molenaers, Guy; De Laet, Tinne

2017-01-01

Experts recently identified 49 joint motion patterns in children with cerebral palsy during a Delphi consensus study. Pattern definitions were therefore the result of subjective expert opinion. The present study aims to provide objective, quantitative data supporting the identification of these consensus-based patterns. To do so, statistical parametric mapping was used to compare the mean kinematic waveforms of 154 trials of typically developing children (n = 56) to the mean kinematic waveforms of 1719 trials of children with cerebral palsy (n = 356), which were classified following the classification rules of the Delphi study. Three hypotheses stated that: (a) joint motion patterns with ‘no or minor gait deviations’ (n = 11 patterns) do not differ significantly from the gait pattern of typically developing children; (b) all other pathological joint motion patterns (n = 38 patterns) differ from typically developing gait and the locations of difference within the gait cycle, highlighted by statistical parametric mapping, concur with the consensus-based classification rules. (c) all joint motion patterns at the level of each joint (n = 49 patterns) differ from each other during at least one phase of the gait cycle. Results showed that: (a) ten patterns with ‘no or minor gait deviations’ differed somewhat unexpectedly from typically developing gait, but these differences were generally small (≤3°); (b) all other joint motion patterns (n = 38) differed from typically developing gait and the significant locations within the gait cycle that were indicated by the statistical analyses, coincided well with the classification rules; (c) joint motion patterns at the level of each joint significantly differed from each other, apart from two sagittal plane pelvic patterns. In addition to these results, for several joints, statistical analyses indicated other significant areas during the gait cycle that were not included in the pattern definitions of the consensus study. Based on these findings, suggestions to improve pattern definitions were made. PMID:28081229

Operation Stabilise: U.S. Joint Force Operations in East Timor

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-04-01

September 1999, while deliberating the issue, Adm Blair designated the USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) and the USNS Kilauea (T-AE 26) as Joint Task Force-Timor Sea...Timor Sea Operations, 7th Fleet, Pacific Fleet § USS MOBILE BAY (CG 53), CJTF TSO (CAPT Edward Rogers, USN) § USNS KILAUEA (T-AE 26) § USNS SAN JOSE (T

The Use of Biofeedback to Augment the Acquisition of Skills in Performing Joint Mobilization Techniques among Physical Therapy Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Timmerberg, Jean Fitzpatrick

2011-01-01

Despite the frequent use of joint mobilizations and the available evidence of its effectiveness as a treatment for various musculoskeletal disorders, it is a technique that has been shown to have great variability within and between raters. This variability is believed to occur because of differences between therapists' ability to perceive…

Management of chronic ankle pain using joint mobilization and ASTYM® treatment: a case report.

PubMed

Slaven, Emily J; Mathers, Jessie

2011-05-01

Treatment of ankle sprains predominately focuses on the acute management of this condition; less emphasis is placed on the treatment of ankle sprains in the chronic phase of recovery. Manual therapy, in the form of joint mobilization and manipulation, has been shown to be effective in the management of this condition, but the combination of joint mobilization and manipulation in tandem with ASTYM® treatment has not been explored. The purpose of this case report is to chronicle the management of a patient with chronic ankle pain who was treated with manual therapy including manipulation and ASTYM treatment. As a result of a fall down stairs 6 months previously, the patient sustained a severe ankle sprain. The soft tissue damage was accompanied by bony disruptions which warranted the patient spending 3 weeks in a walking boot. At the initial evaluation, the patient reported difficulty with descending stairs reciprocally and not being able to run more than 4 minutes on the treadmill before the pain escalated to the level that she had to stop running. After five sessions of therapy consisting of joint mobilization, manipulation and ASTYM, the patient was able to descend stairs and run 40 minutes without pain.

Self-control and problematic mobile phone use in Chinese college students: the mediating role of mobile phone use patterns.

PubMed

Jiang, Zhaocai; Zhao, Xiuxin

2016-11-22

With the popularity of mobile phones, problematic mobile phone use is getting increasing attention in recent years. Although self-control was found to be a critical predictor of problematic mobile phone use, no study has ever explored the association between self-control and mobile phone use patterns as well as the possible pathway how self-control affects problematic mobile phone use. Four hundred sixty-eight college students were randomly selected in this study. Data were collected using the Problematic Mobile Phone Use Scale, the Self-Control Scale, and the Mobile Phone Use Pattern Questionnaire. Statistical tests were conducted to identify the potential role of mobile phone use patterns in the association between self-control and problematic mobile phone use. In this sample, female students displayed significant higher mobile phone dependence than males. Self-control was negatively correlated with interpersonal, transaction and entertainment mobile phone use patterns, but positively correlated with information seeking use pattern. Self-control could predict problematic mobile phone use directly and indirectly via interpersonal and transaction patterns. Our research provided additional evidence for the negative association between self-control and problematic mobile phone use. Moreover, interpersonal and transaction use patterns played a mediating role in this link.

Cranial mechanics and feeding in Tyrannosaurus rex.

PubMed

Rayfield, Emily J

2004-07-22

It has been suggested that the large theropod dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex was capable of producing extremely powerful bite forces and resisting multi-directional loading generated during feeding. Contrary to this suggestion is the observation that the cranium is composed of often loosely articulated facial bones, although these bones may have performed a shock-absorption role. The structural analysis technique finite element analysis (FEA) is employed here to investigate the functional morphology and cranial mechanics of the T. rex skull. In particular, I test whether the skull is optimized for the resistance of large bi-directional feeding loads, whether mobile joints are adapted for the localized resistance of feeding-induced stress and strain, and whether mobile joints act to weaken or strengthen the skull overall. The results demonstrate that the cranium is equally adapted to resist biting or tearing forces and therefore the 'puncture-pull' feeding hypothesis is well supported. Finite-element-generated stress-strain patterns are consistent with T. rex cranial morphology: the maxilla-jugal suture provides a tensile shock-absorbing function that reduces localized tension yet 'weakens' the skull overall. Furthermore, peak compressive and shear stresses localize in the nasals rather than the fronto-parietal region as seen in Allosaurus, offering a reason why robusticity is commonplace in tyrannosaurid nasals. Copyright 2004 The Royal Society

Cranial mechanics and feeding in Tyrannosaurus rex.

PubMed Central

Rayfield, Emily J.

2004-01-01

It has been suggested that the large theropod dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex was capable of producing extremely powerful bite forces and resisting multi-directional loading generated during feeding. Contrary to this suggestion is the observation that the cranium is composed of often loosely articulated facial bones, although these bones may have performed a shock-absorption role. The structural analysis technique finite element analysis (FEA) is employed here to investigate the functional morphology and cranial mechanics of the T. rex skull. In particular, I test whether the skull is optimized for the resistance of large bi-directional feeding loads, whether mobile joints are adapted for the localized resistance of feeding-induced stress and strain, and whether mobile joints act to weaken or strengthen the skull overall. The results demonstrate that the cranium is equally adapted to resist biting or tearing forces and therefore the 'puncture-pull' feeding hypothesis is well supported. Finite-element-generated stress-strain patterns are consistent with T. rex cranial morphology: the maxilla-jugal suture provides a tensile shock-absorbing function that reduces localized tension yet 'weakens' the skull overall. Furthermore, peak compressive and shear stresses localize in the nasals rather than the fronto-parietal region as seen in Allosaurus, offering a reason why robusticity is commonplace in tyrannosaurid nasals. PMID:15306316

Movement coordination patterns between the foot joints during walking.

PubMed

Arnold, John B; Caravaggi, Paolo; Fraysse, François; Thewlis, Dominic; Leardini, Alberto

2017-01-01

In 3D gait analysis, kinematics of the foot joints are usually reported via isolated time histories of joint rotations and no information is provided on the relationship between rotations at different joints. The aim of this study was to identify movement coordination patterns in the foot during walking by expanding an existing vector coding technique according to an established multi-segment foot and ankle model. A graphical representation is also described to summarise the coordination patterns of joint rotations across multiple patients. Three-dimensional multi-segment foot kinematics were recorded in 13 adults during walking. A modified vector coding technique was used to identify coordination patterns between foot joints involving calcaneus, midfoot, metatarsus and hallux segments. According to the type and direction of joints rotations, these were classified as in-phase (same direction), anti-phase (opposite directions), proximal or distal joint dominant. In early stance, 51 to 75% of walking trials showed proximal-phase coordination between foot joints comprising the calcaneus, midfoot and metatarsus. In-phase coordination was more prominent in late stance, reflecting synergy in the simultaneous inversion occurring at multiple foot joints. Conversely, a distal-phase coordination pattern was identified for sagittal plane motion of the ankle relative to the midtarsal joint, highlighting the critical role of arch shortening to locomotor function in push-off. This study has identified coordination patterns between movement of the calcaneus, midfoot, metatarsus and hallux by expanding an existing vector cording technique for assessing and classifying coordination patterns of foot joints rotations during walking. This approach provides a different perspective in the analysis of multi-segment foot kinematics, and may be used for the objective quantification of the alterations in foot joint coordination patterns due to lower limb pathologies or following injuries.

Early mobilization of patients who have had a hip or knee joint replacement reduces length of stay in hospital: a systematic review.

PubMed

Guerra, Mark L; Singh, Parminder J; Taylor, Nicholas F

2015-09-01

To systematically review the effect of early mobilization after hip or knee joint replacement surgery on length of stay in an acute hospital. Randomized controlled trials were selected from electronic databases based on inclusion criterion requiring an experimental group mobilizing (sitting out of bed/walking) earlier than a comparison group post joint replacement surgery of the hip or knee in an acute hospital. Clinically homogeneous data were analyzed with meta-analysis. Five randomized controlled trials (totaling 622 participants) were included for review. A meta-analysis of 5 trials found a reduced length of stay of 1.8 days (95% confidence interval 1.1 to 2.6) in favor of the experimental group. In 4 of the 5 trials the experimental group first sat out of bed within 24 hours post operatively. In 4 of the 5 trials the experimental group first walked within 48 hours post operatively. Individual trials reported benefits in range of motion, muscle strength and health-related quality of life in favor of the experimental group. There were no differences in discharge destinations, incidence of negative outcomes or adverse events attributable to early mobilization when compared to the comparison groups. Early mobilization post hip or knee joint replacement surgery can result in a reduced length of stay of about 1.8 days. Trials that reported these positive results showed that early mobilization can be achieved within 24 hours of operation. This positive gain was achieved without an increase in negative outcomes. © The Author(s) 2014.

The Association of Flexibility, Balance, and Lumbar Strength with Balance Ability: Risk of Falls in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Emilio, Emilio J. Martínez-López; Hita-Contreras, Fidel; Jiménez-Lara, Pilar M.; Latorre-Román, Pedro; Martínez-Amat, Antonio

2014-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of a proprioceptive training program on older adults, as well as to analyze the association between flexibility, balance and lumbar strength (physical fitness test) with balance ability and fall risk (functional balance tests). This study was a controlled, longitudinal trial with a 12-week follow-up period. Subjects from a population of older adults were allocated to the intervention group (n = 28) or to the usual care (control) group (n = 26). Subjects performed proprioceptive training twice weekly (6 specific exercises with Swiss ball and BOSU). Each session included 50 minutes (10 minutes of warm-up with slow walk, 10 minutes of mobility and stretching exercises, 30 minutes of proprioceptive exercises). The outcome variables were physical fitness (lower-body flexibility, hip-joint mobility, dynamic balance, static balance, and lumbar strength) and functional balance (Berg scale and Tinetti test). The experimental group obtained significantly higher values than the control group in lower-body flexibility, dynamic balance, and lumbar strength (p = 0.019, p < 0.001, and p = 0.034 respectively). Hip-joint mobility, dynamic balance, and lumbar strength were positively associated with balance ability (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.014, respectively) and the prevention of falls (p = 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.017 respectively). These findings suggest that a 12-week proprioception program intervention (twice a week) significantly improves flexibility, balance, and lumbar strength in older adults. Hip-joint mobility, dynamic balance and lumbar strength are positively associated to balance ability and the risk of falls in older adults. This proprioceptive training does not show a significant improvement in hip-joint mobility or static balance. Key points A 12-week proprioceptive intervention program (two times per week) significantly improves flexibility, balance, and lumbar strength in older adults. The risk of falls and balance ability are significantly improved after a training program with Bosu and Swiss ball in older adults. An improvement in joint mobility, dynamic balance and lumbar strength is positively associated with balance ability and improved fall risk in older adults. A 12-week proprioceptive intervention program (two times per week) does not show a significant improvement in hip-joint mobility and static balance. PMID:24790489

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The effectiveness of a manual therapy and exercise protocol in patients with thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Villafañe, Jorge H; Cleland, Joshua A; Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César

2013-04-01

Double-blind, randomized controlled trial. To examine the effectiveness of a manual therapy and exercise approach relative to a placebo intervention in individuals with carpometacarpal (CMC) joint osteoarthritis (OA). Recent studies have reported the outcomes of exercise, joint mobilization, and neural mobilization interventions used in isolation in patients with CMC joint OA. However, it is not known if using a combination of these interventions as a multimodal approach to treatment would further improve outcomes in this patient population. Sixty patients, 90% female (mean ± SD age, 82 ± 6 years), with CMC joint OA were randomly assigned to receive a multimodal manual treatment approach that included joint mobilization, neural mobilization, and exercise, or a sham intervention, for 12 sessions over 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was pain. Secondary outcome measures included pressure pain threshold over the first CMC joint, scaphoid, and hamate, as well as pinch and strength measurements. All outcome measures were collected at baseline, immediately following the intervention, and at 1 and 2 months following the end of the intervention. Mixed-model analyses of variance were used to examine the effects of the interventions on each outcome, with group as the between-subject variable and time as the within-subject variable. The mixed-model analysis of variance revealed a group-by-time interaction (F = 47.58, P<.001) for pain intensity, with the patients receiving the multimodal intervention experiencing a greater reduction in pain compared to those receiving the placebo intervention at the end of the intervention, as well as at 1 and 2 months after the intervention (P<.001; all group differences greater than 3.0 cm, which is greater than the minimal clinically important difference of 2.0 cm). A significant group-by-time interaction (F = 3.19, P = .025) was found for pressure pain threshold over the hamate bone immediately after the intervention; however, the interaction was no longer significant at 1 and 2 months postintervention. This clinical trial provides evidence that a combination of joint mobilization, neural mobilization, and exercise is more beneficial in treating pain than a sham intervention in patients with CMC joint OA. However, the treatment approach has limited value in improving pressure pain thresholds, as well as pinch and grip strength. Future studies should include several therapists, a measure of function, and long-term outcomes. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN37143779. Therapy, level 1b.

Directing clinical care using lower extremity biomechanics in patients with ankle osteoarthritis and ankle arthroplasty.

PubMed

Queen, Robin

2017-11-01

Ankle osteoarthritis is a debilitating disease with approximately 50,000 new cases per year leading to skeletal deformity, severe and recurrent pain, cartilage breakdown, and gait dysfunction limiting patient mobility and well-being. Although many treatments (total ankle arthroplasty [TAA], ankle fusion [arthrodesis], and ankle distraction arthroplasty) relieve pain, it is not clear that these procedures significantly improve patient mobility. The goal of the research presented here is to summarize what is presently known about lower extremity gait mechanics and outcomes and to quantify the impact of ankle osteoarthritis and TAA have on these measures using an explicitly holistic and mechanistic approach. Our recent studies have explored physical performance and energy recovery and revealed unexpected patterns and sequelae to treatment including incomplete restoration of gait function. These studies demonstrated for the first time the extreme levels and range of gait and balance dysfunction present in ankle osteoarthritis patients as well as quantifying the ways in which the affected joint alters movement and loading patterns not just in the painful joint, but throughout both the ipsilateral and contralateral lower extremity. Through this work, we determined that relieving pain alone through TAA is not enough to restore normal walking mechanics and balance due to underlying causes including limited ankle range of motion and balance deficits leading to long-term disability despite treatment. The results indicate the need to consider additional therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring balance, ankle range of motion, and movement symmetry in order to improve long-term health and function. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2345-2355, 2017. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Powered Lower Limb Orthosis for Providing Legged Mobility in Paraplegic Individuals.

PubMed

Quintero, Hugo A; Farris, Ryan J; Hartigan, Clare; Clesson, Ismari; Goldfarb, Michael

2011-01-01

This paper presents preliminary results on the development of a powered lower limb orthosis intended to provide legged mobility (with the use of a stability aid, such as forearm crutches) to paraplegic individuals. The orthosis contains electric motors at both hip and both knee joints, which in conjunction with ankle-foot orthoses, provides appropriate joint kinematics for legged locomotion. The paper describes the orthosis and the nature of the controller that enables the SCI patient to command the device, and presents data from preliminary trials that indicate the efficacy of the orthosis and controller in providing legged mobility.

Barn owls maximize head rotations by a combination of yawing and rolling in functionally diverse regions of the neck.

PubMed

Krings, Markus; Nyakatura, John A; Boumans, Mark L L M; Fischer, Martin S; Wagner, Hermann

2017-07-01

Owls are known for their outstanding neck mobility: these birds can rotate their heads more than 270°. The anatomical basis of this extraordinary neck rotation ability is not well understood. We used X-ray fluoroscopy of living owls as well as forced neck rotations in dead specimens and computer tomographic (CT) reconstructions to study how the individual cervical joints contribute to head rotation in barn owls (Tyto furcata pratincola). The X-ray data showed the natural posture of the neck, and the reconstructions of the CT-scans provided the shapes of the individual vertebrae. Joint mobility was analyzed in a spherical coordinate system. The rotational capability was described as rotation about the yaw and roll axes. The analyses suggest a functional division of the cervical spine into several regions. Most importantly, an upper region shows high rolling and yawing capabilities. The mobility of the lower, more horizontally oriented joints of the cervical spine is restricted mainly to the roll axis. These rolling movements lead to lateral bending, effectively resulting in a side shift of the head compared with the trunk during large rotations. The joints in the middle of the cervical spine proved to contribute less to head rotation. The analysis of joint mobility demonstrated how owls might maximize horizontal head rotation by a specific and variable combination of yawing and rolling in functionally diverse regions of the neck. © 2017 Anatomical Society.

Pins and Rubbers Traction System.

PubMed

de Soras, X; de Mourgues, P; Guinard, D; Moutet, F

1997-12-01

The Pins and Rubbers Traction System (PRTS) is a mobile frame created with wires to support elastic traction, which produces a ligamentotaxis effect in the same direction and of the same intensity whatever the position of the joint. This technique has been used in 11 cases of complex PIP joint fractures with eight excellent results. The advantages are simplicity, adaptability, the possibility of immediate mobilization, reasonable cost and relatively small bulk.

Mobile Computing Solutions for Effective and Efficient Generation and Dissemination of Tactical Operations Orders

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

and Joint doctrine, to establish a new paradigm for capturing, storing and transmitting the informational elements of an operations order. We...developed a working technology demonstrator that incorporates a new object-oriented data structure into existing open-source mobile technology to provide...instructor and practitioner in conjunction with Marine Corps and Joint doctrine, to establish a new paradigm for capturing, storing and transmitting the

Effects of whole-body cryotherapy in the management of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder.

PubMed

Ma, Sang-Yeol; Je, Hyun Dong; Jeong, Ji Hoon; Kim, Hae-Young; Kim, Hyeong-Dong

2013-01-01

To compare 2 different treatment approaches, physical therapy modalities, and joint mobilization versus whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) combined with physical therapy modalities and joint mobilization, for symptoms of adhesive capsulitis (AC) of the shoulder. A randomized trial. Hospital. Patients with AC of the shoulder (N=30). Patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The WBC group received physical therapy modalities, passive joint mobilization of the shoulder, and WBC, whereas the non-WBC group received only physical therapy modalities and passive joint mobilization of the shoulder. Visual analog scale (VAS), active range of motion (ROM) of flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation of the shoulder, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) were measured before and after the intervention. A statistically significant difference between groups was found for the VAS, active ROM of flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation, and the ASES with greater improvements in the WBC group (Ps<.01). Overall, both groups showed a significant improvement in all outcome measures and ROM measures from pre to post at a level of P<.01. There is significant improvement with the addition of WBC to treatment interventions in this sample of patients. Copyright © 2013 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cost-Effective Mobile-Based Healthcare System for Managing Total Joint Arthroplasty Follow-Up.

PubMed

Bitsaki, Marina; Koutras, George; Heep, Hansjoerg; Koutras, Christos

2017-01-01

Long-term follow-up care after total joint arthroplasty is essential to evaluate hip and knee arthroplasty outcomes, to provide information to physicians and improve arthroplasty performance, and to improve patients' health condition. In this paper, we aim to improve the communication between arthroplasty patients and physicians and to reduce the cost of follow-up controls based on mobile application technologies and cloud computing. We propose a mobile-based healthcare system that provides cost-effective follow-up controls for primary arthroplasty patients through questions about symptoms in the replaced joint, questionnaires (WOMAC and SF-36v2) and the radiological examination of knee or hip joint. We also perform a cost analysis for a set of 423 patients that were treated in the University Clinic for Orthopedics in Essen-Werden. The estimation of healthcare costs shows significant cost savings (a reduction of 63.67% for readmission rate 5%) in both the University Clinic for Orthopedics in Essen-Werden and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia when the mobile-based healthcare system is applied. We propose a mHealth system to reduce the cost of follow-up assessments of arthroplasty patients through evaluation of diagnosis, self-monitoring, and regular review of their health status.

The Effects of Manual Therapy Using Joint Mobilization and Flexion-distraction Techniques on Chronic Low Back Pain and Disc Heights

PubMed Central

Choi, Jioun; Hwangbo, Gak; Park, Jungseo; Lee, Sangyong

2014-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of manual therapy using joint mobilization and flexion-distraction techniques on chronic low back pain and disc heights. [Subjects] This study was conducted with 31 chronic low back pain patients who were divided into a manual therapy group (MTG; n=16) and a spinal decompression therapy group (SDTG; n=15). [Methods] The MTG was treated using joint mobilization techniques and flexion-distraction techniques, and the SDTG was treated using spinal decompression therapeutic apparatuses. Conservative physical therapy was used in both groups, and the therapy was implemented three times per week for 6 weeks. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to measure patient’s low back pain scores, and a picture archiving and communication system was used to measure disc height by comparing and analyzing the images. [Results] In comparisons of the VAS within each of the two groups, both the MTG and the SDTG showed significant decreases. In comparisons of disc height within each of the two groups, the MTG showed statistically significant increases. [Conclusion] Manual therapy using joint mobilization techniques and flexion-distraction techniques is considered an effective intervention for addressing low back pain and disc heights in patients with chronic low back pain. PMID:25202191

The design of and chronic tissue response to a composite nerve electrode with patterned stiffness.

PubMed

Freeberg, M J; Stone, M A; Triolo, R J; Tyler, D J

2017-06-01

As neural interfaces demonstrate success in chronic applications, a novel class of reshaping electrodes with patterned regions of stiffness will enable application to a widening range of anatomical locations. Patterning stiff regions and flexible regions of the electrode enables nerve reshaping while accommodating anatomical constraints of various implant locations ranging from peripheral nerves to spinal and autonomic plexi. Introduced is a new composite electrode enabling patterning of regions of various electrode mechanical properties. The initial demonstration of the composite's capability is the composite flat interface nerve electrode (C-FINE). The C-FINE is constructed from a sandwich of patterned PEEK within layers of pliable silicone. The shape of the PEEK provides a desired pattern of stiffness: stiff across the width of the nerve to reshape the nerve, but flexible along its length to allow for bending with the nerve. This is particularly important in anatomical locations near joints or organs, and in constrained compartments. We tested pressure and volume design constraints in vitro to verify that the C-FINE can attain a safe cuff-to-nerve ratio (CNR) without impeding intraneural blood flow. We measured nerve function as well as nerve and axonal morphology following 3 month implantation of the C-FINE without wires on feline peripheral nerves in anatomically constrained areas near mobile joints and major blood vessels in both the hind and fore limbs. In vitro inflation tests showed effective CNRs (1.93  ±  0.06) that exceeded the industry safety standard of 1.5 at an internal pressure of 20 mmHg. This is less than the 30 mmHg shown to induce loss of conduction or compromise blood flow. Implanted cats showed no changes in physiology or electrophysiology. Behavioral signs were normal suggesting healthy nerves. Motor nerve conduction velocity and compound motor action potential did not change significantly between implant and explant (p  >  0.15 for all measures). Axonal density and myelin sheath thickness was not significantly different within the electrode compared to sections greater than 2 cm proximal to implanted cuffs (p  >  0.14 for all measures). We present the design and verification of a novel nerve cuff electrode, the C-FINE. Laminar manufacturing processes allow C-FINE stiffness to be configured for specific applications. Here, the central region in the configuration tested is stiff to reshape or conform to the target nerve, while edges are highly flexible to bend along its length. The C-FINE occupies less volume than other NCEs, making it suitable for implantation in highly mobile locations near joints. Design constraints during simulated transient swelling were verified in vitro. Maintenance of nerve health in various challenging anatomical locations (sciatic and median/ulnar nerves) was verified in a chronic feline model in vivo.

The design of and chronic tissue response to a composite nerve electrode with patterned stiffness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freeberg, M. J.; Stone, M. A.; Triolo, R. J.; Tyler, D. J.

2017-06-01

Objective. As neural interfaces demonstrate success in chronic applications, a novel class of reshaping electrodes with patterned regions of stiffness will enable application to a widening range of anatomical locations. Patterning stiff regions and flexible regions of the electrode enables nerve reshaping while accommodating anatomical constraints of various implant locations ranging from peripheral nerves to spinal and autonomic plexi. Approach. Introduced is a new composite electrode enabling patterning of regions of various electrode mechanical properties. The initial demonstration of the composite’s capability is the composite flat interface nerve electrode (C-FINE). The C-FINE is constructed from a sandwich of patterned PEEK within layers of pliable silicone. The shape of the PEEK provides a desired pattern of stiffness: stiff across the width of the nerve to reshape the nerve, but flexible along its length to allow for bending with the nerve. This is particularly important in anatomical locations near joints or organs, and in constrained compartments. We tested pressure and volume design constraints in vitro to verify that the C-FINE can attain a safe cuff-to-nerve ratio (CNR) without impeding intraneural blood flow. We measured nerve function as well as nerve and axonal morphology following 3 month implantation of the C-FINE without wires on feline peripheral nerves in anatomically constrained areas near mobile joints and major blood vessels in both the hind and fore limbs. Main Results. In vitro inflation tests showed effective CNRs (1.93  ±  0.06) that exceeded the industry safety standard of 1.5 at an internal pressure of 20 mmHg. This is less than the 30 mmHg shown to induce loss of conduction or compromise blood flow. Implanted cats showed no changes in physiology or electrophysiology. Behavioral signs were normal suggesting healthy nerves. Motor nerve conduction velocity and compound motor action potential did not change significantly between implant and explant (p  >  0.15 for all measures). Axonal density and myelin sheath thickness was not significantly different within the electrode compared to sections greater than 2 cm proximal to implanted cuffs (p  >  0.14 for all measures). Significance. We present the design and verification of a novel nerve cuff electrode, the C-FINE. Laminar manufacturing processes allow C-FINE stiffness to be configured for specific applications. Here, the central region in the configuration tested is stiff to reshape or conform to the target nerve, while edges are highly flexible to bend along its length. The C-FINE occupies less volume than other NCEs, making it suitable for implantation in highly mobile locations near joints. Design constraints during simulated transient swelling were verified in vitro. Maintenance of nerve health in various challenging anatomical locations (sciatic and median/ulnar nerves) was verified in a chronic feline model in vivo.

Comparison of Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) suited and unsuited isolated joint strength measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maida, James C.; Demel, Kenneth J.; Morgan, David A.; Wilmington, Robert P.; Pandya, Abhilash K.

1996-01-01

In this study the strength of subjects suited in extravehicular mobility units (EMU's) - or Space Shuttle suits - was compared to the strength of unsuited subjects. The authors devised a systematic and complete data set that characterizes isolated joint torques for all major joints of EMU-suited subjects. Six joint motions were included in the data set. The joint conditions of six subjects were compared to increase our understanding of the strength capabilities of suited subjects. Data were gathered on suited and unsuited subjects. Suited subjects wore Class 3 or Class 1 suits, with and without thermal micrometeoroid garments (TMG's). Suited and unsuited conditions for each joint motion were compared. From this the authors found, for example, that shoulder abduction suited conditions differ from each other and from the unsuited condition. A second-order polynomial regression model was also provided. This model, which allows the prediction of suited strength when given unsuited strength information, relates the torques of unsuited conditions to the torques of all suited conditions. Data obtained will enable computer modeling of EMU strength, conversion from unsuited to suited data, and isolated joint strength comparisons between suited and unsuited conditions at any measured angle. From these data mission planners and human factors engineers may gain a better understanding of crew posture, and mobility and strength capabilities. This study also may help suit designers optimize suit strength, and provide a foundation for EMU strength modeling systems.

Spacesuit mobility joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vykukal, H. C. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

Joints for use in interconnecting adjacent segments of an hermetically sealed spacesuit which have low torques, low leakage and a high degree of reliability are described. Each of the joints is a special purpose joint characterized by substantially constant volume and low torque characteristics. Linkages which restrain the joint from longitudinal distension and a flexible, substantially impermeable diaphragm of tubular configuration spanning the distance between pivotally supported annuli are featured. The diaphragms of selected joints include rolling convolutions for balancing the joints, while various joints include wedge-shaped sections which enhance the range of motion for the joints.

Thrombosis prevention in lower extremity arthroplasty: mobile compression device or pharmacological therapy.

PubMed

Colwell, Clifford W

2014-11-01

Venous thromboembolic (VTE) events, either deep vein thromboses (DVT) or pulmonary emboli (PE), are important complications in patients undergoing knee or hip arthroplasty. Symptomatic VTE rates observed in total joint arthroplasty patients using the mobile compression device with home use capability were non-inferior to rates reported for pharmacological prophylaxis, including warfarin, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran. Major bleeding in total hip arthroplasty was less using the mobile compression device than using low molecular weight heparin. A cost analysis demonstrated a cost savings based on decreased major bleeding. Use of a mobile compression device with or without aspirin for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty provides a non-inferior risk for developing VTE compared with current pharmacological protocols.

Manual therapy in joint and nerve structures combined with exercises in the treatment of recurrent ankle sprains: A randomized, controlled trial.

PubMed

Plaza-Manzano, Gustavo; Vergara-Vila, Marta; Val-Otero, Sandra; Rivera-Prieto, Cristina; Pecos-Martin, Daniel; Gallego-Izquierdo, Tomás; Ferragut-Garcías, Alejandro; Romero-Franco, Natalia

2016-12-01

Recurrent ankle sprains often involve residual symptoms for which subjects often perform proprioceptive or/and strengthening exercises. However, the effectiveness of mobilization to influence important nerve structures due to its anatomical distribution like tibial and peroneal nerves is unclear. To analyze the effects of proprioceptive/strengthening exercises versus the same exercises and manual therapy including mobilizations to influence joint and nerve structures in the management of recurrent ankle sprains. A randomized single-blind controlled clinical trial. Fifty-six patients with recurrent ankle sprains and regular sports practice were randomly assigned to experimental or control group. The control group performed 4 weeks of proprioceptive/strengthening exercises; the experimental group performed 4 weeks of the same exercises combined with manual therapy (mobilizations to influence joint and nerve structures). Pain, self-reported functional ankle instability, pressure pain threshold (PPT), ankle muscle strength, and active range of motion (ROM) were evaluated in the ankle joint before, just after and one month after the interventions. The within-group differences revealed improvements in all of the variables in both groups throughout the time. Between-group differences revealed that the experimental group exhibited lower pain levels and self-reported functional ankle instability and higher PPT, ankle muscle strength and ROM values compared to the control group immediately after the interventions and one month later. A protocol involving proprioceptive and strengthening exercises and manual therapy (mobilizations to influence joint and nerve structures) resulted in greater improvements in pain, self-reported functional joint stability, strength and ROM compared to exercises alone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

United States Military Posture for FY 1987

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

monitor, plan, and execute mobilization, deployment, employment, and sustainment during peace, crisis, and war. JOPES requirements are being developed ...positioning 68 Deployment Management 69 VI Sustainability 69 Ammunition 69 Petroleum, Oils, and Lubricants 69 Military Construction 69...Commanders in Chiefs 73 Joint Doctrine 73 Combined Doctrine 74 Joint Force Development Process 74 Joint Resource Assessment 75 Joint Program

Spiraling patterns in evolutionary models inspired by bacterial games with cyclic dominance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mobilia, Mauro

2015-03-01

Understanding the mechanisms allowing the maintenance of biodiversity is a central issue in biology. Evolutionary game theory, where the success of one species depends on what the others are doing, provides a promising framework to investigate this complex problem. Experiments on microbial populations have shown that cyclic local interactions promote species coexistence. In this context, rock-paper-scissors games - in which rock crushes scissors, scissors cut paper, and paper wraps rock - are often used to model the dynamics of populations in cyclic competition. After a brief survey of some inspiring experiments, I will discuss the subtle interplay between individuals' mobility and their local interactions in two-dimensional rock-paper-scissors systems. This leads to the loss of biodiversity above a certain mobility threshold, and to the formation of spiraling patterns below the critical mobility rate. I will then study a generic rock-paper-scissors metapopulation model formulated on a two-dimensional grid of patches. When these have a large carrying capacity, the model's dynamics is faithfully described in terms of the system's complex Ginzburg-Landau equation properly derived from a multiscale expansion. The properties of the ensuing complex Ginzburg-Landau equation are exploited to derive the system's phase diagram and to characterize the spatio-temporal properties of the spiraling patterns in each phase. This enables us to analyze the spiral waves stability, how these are influenced by linear and nonlinear diffusion, and to discuss phenomena such as far-field breakup. Presentation mainy based on joint work with B. Szczesny and A. M. Rucklidge. Fruitful earlier collaborations with E. Frey, Q. He, T. Reichenbach, and U. C. Täuber are also acknowledged. Work supported by the UK EPSRC (Grant No. EP/P505593/1).

Uncovering stable and occasional human mobility patterns: A case study of the Beijing subway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yong, Nuo; Ni, Shunjiang; Shen, Shifei; Chen, Peng; Ji, Xuewei

2018-02-01

There have generally been two kinds of approaches to the empirical study of human mobility. At the group level, some valuable information might be submerged in statistical noise, while due to the diversity of individual purpose and preference, there is still no general statistical regularity of human mobility at the individual level. In this paper, we considered group-level human mobility as the combination of several basic patterns and analyzed the collective mobility by category. Utilizing matrix factorization and correlation analysis, we extracted some of the stable/occasional components from the collective human mobility in the Beijing subway and found that the departure and arrival mobility patterns have different characteristics, both in time and space, under various conditions. We classified individual records into different patterns and analyzed the most likely trip distance by category. The proposed method can decompose stable/occasional mobility patterns from the collective mobility and identify passengers belonging to different patterns, helping us to better understand the origin of different mobility patterns and provide guidance for emergency management of large crowds.

Case Report: The casting motion to mobilize stiffness technique for rehabilitation after a crush and degloving injury of the hand.

PubMed

Midgley, Robyn

2016-01-01

Case report. This case report describes the use of the casting motion to mobilize stiffness (CMMS) technique in the management of a crush and degloving injury of the hand. The patient was unable to attend multiple hand therapy sessions due to geographic constraints. The CMMS technique involved the application of a nonremovable plaster of paris cast that selectively immobilizes proximal joints in an ideal position while constraining distal joints to direct desired motion over a long period. This uses active motion only. Traditional hand therapy techniques or modalities are not used. This treatment approach was beneficial to the patient as a minimum of 2 appointments per month were needed to regain functional hand use. To document the use of the CMMS technique as an effective treatment approach in the management of a crush and degloving injury of the hand. The CMMS technique was applied to the patient's left (nondominant) hand 8 weeks after injury. The technique's aim was to improve the 30° flexion deformity of the left wrist and flexion contractures of the index, middle, and ring fingers with a total active motion of 0°. Orthotic devices and traditional therapy were applied once joint stiffness was resolved, and a normal pattern of motion was reinstated. At 6 months, substantial improvement was noted in wrist as well as metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. Total active motion exceeded 170° in all fingers excellent functional outcome resulted as measured with the upper limb functional index short form-10. The upper limb functional index increased from 0% to 55% of preinjury status (or capacity) over the 18 months of therapy. Brief immobilization through casting causes certain functional losses, but these are temporary and reversible. Finger stiffness, edema, and tissue fibrosis were successfully managed with the CMMS technique without the need for attendance at multiple hand therapy sessions. Level V. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Functional Mobility Testing: A Novel Method to Create Suit Design Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

England, Scott A.; Benson, Elizabeth A.; Rajulu, Sudhakar L.

2008-01-01

This study was performed to aide in the creation of design requirements for the next generation of space suits that more accurately describe the level of mobility necessary for a suited crewmember through the use of an innovative methodology utilizing functional mobility. A novel method was utilized involving the collection of kinematic data while 20 subjects (10 male, 10 female) performed pertinent functional tasks that will be required of a suited crewmember during various phases of a lunar mission. These tasks were selected based on relevance and criticality from a larger list of tasks that may be carried out by the crew. Kinematic data was processed through Vicon BodyBuilder software to calculate joint angles for the ankle, knee, hip, torso, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Maximum functional mobility was consistently lower than maximum isolated mobility. This study suggests that conventional methods for establishing design requirements for human-systems interfaces based on maximal isolated joint capabilities may overestimate the required mobility. Additionally, this method provides a valuable means of evaluating systems created from these requirements by comparing the mobility available in a new spacesuit, or the mobility required to use a new piece of hardware, to this newly established database of functional mobility.

A Powered Lower Limb Orthosis for Providing Legged Mobility in Paraplegic Individuals

PubMed Central

Quintero, Hugo A.; Farris, Ryan J.; Hartigan, Clare; Clesson, Ismari; Goldfarb, Michael

2012-01-01

This paper presents preliminary results on the development of a powered lower limb orthosis intended to provide legged mobility (with the use of a stability aid, such as forearm crutches) to paraplegic individuals. The orthosis contains electric motors at both hip and both knee joints, which in conjunction with ankle-foot orthoses, provides appropriate joint kinematics for legged locomotion. The paper describes the orthosis and the nature of the controller that enables the SCI patient to command the device, and presents data from preliminary trials that indicate the efficacy of the orthosis and controller in providing legged mobility. PMID:22707874

A Robust Control of Two-Wheeled Mobile Manipulator with Underactuated Joint by Nonlinear Backstepping Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acar, Cihan; Murakami, Toshiyuki

In this paper, a robust control of two-wheeled mobile manipulator with underactuated joint is considered. Two-wheeled mobile manipulators are dynamically balanced two-wheeled driven systems that do not have any caster or extra wheels to stabilize their body. Two-wheeled mobile manipulators mainly have an important feature that makes them more flexible and agile than the statically stable mobile manipulators. However, two-wheeled mobile manipulator is an underactuated system due to its two-wheeled structure. Therefore, it is required to stabilize the underactuated passive body and, at the same time, control the position of the center of gravity (CoG) of the manipulator in this system. To realize this, nonlinear backstepping based control method with virtual double inverted pendulum model is proposed in this paper. Backstepping is used with sliding mode to increase the robustness of the system against modeling errors and other perturbations. Then robust acceleration control is also achieved by utilizing disturbance observer. Performance of the proposed method is evaluated by several experiments.

Three-Dimensional Biomechanical Analysis of Rearfoot and Forefoot Running.

PubMed

Knorz, Sebastian; Kluge, Felix; Gelse, Kolja; Schulz-Drost, Stefan; Hotfiel, Thilo; Lochmann, Matthias; Eskofier, Björn; Krinner, Sebastian

2017-07-01

In the running community, a forefoot strike (FFS) pattern is increasingly preferred compared with a rearfoot strike (RFS) pattern. However, it has not been fully understood which strike pattern may better reduce adverse joint forces within the different joints of the lower extremity. To analyze the 3-dimensional (3D) stress pattern in the ankle, knee, and hip joint in runners with either a FFS or RFS pattern. Descriptive laboratory study. In 22 runners (11 habitual rearfoot strikers, 11 habitual forefoot strikers), RFS and FFS patterns were compared at 3.0 m/s (6.7 mph) on a treadmill with integrated force plates and a 3D motion capture analysis system. This combined analysis allowed characterization of the 3D biomechanical forces differentiated for the ankle, knee, and hip joint. The maximum peak force (MPF) and maximum loading rate (LR) were determined in their 3 ordinal components: vertical, anterior-posterior (AP), and medial-lateral (ML). For both strike patterns, the vertical components of the MPF and LR were significantly greater than their AP or ML components. In the vertical axis, FFS was generally associated with a greater MPF but significantly lower LR in all 3 joints. The AP components of MPF and LR were significantly lower for FFS in the knee joint but significantly greater in the ankle and hip joints. The ML components of MPF and LR tended to be greater for FFS but mostly did not reach a level of significance. FFS and RFS were associated with different 3D stress patterns in the ankle, knee, and hip joint, although there was no global advantage of one strike pattern over the other. The multimodal individual assessment for the different anatomic regions demonstrated that FFS seems favorable for patients with unstable knee joints in the AP axis and RFS may be recommended for runners with unstable ankle joints. Different strike patterns show different 3D stress in joints of the lower extremity. Due to either rehabilitation after injuries or training in running sports, rearfoot or forefoot running should be preferred to prevent further damage or injuries caused by inadequate biomechanical load. Runners with a history of knee joint injuries may benefit from FFS whereas RFS may be favorable for runners with a history of ankle joint injuries.

Three-Dimensional Biomechanical Analysis of Rearfoot and Forefoot Running

PubMed Central

Knorz, Sebastian; Kluge, Felix; Gelse, Kolja; Schulz-Drost, Stefan; Hotfiel, Thilo; Lochmann, Matthias; Eskofier, Björn; Krinner, Sebastian

2017-01-01

Background: In the running community, a forefoot strike (FFS) pattern is increasingly preferred compared with a rearfoot strike (RFS) pattern. However, it has not been fully understood which strike pattern may better reduce adverse joint forces within the different joints of the lower extremity. Purpose: To analyze the 3-dimensional (3D) stress pattern in the ankle, knee, and hip joint in runners with either a FFS or RFS pattern. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: In 22 runners (11 habitual rearfoot strikers, 11 habitual forefoot strikers), RFS and FFS patterns were compared at 3.0 m/s (6.7 mph) on a treadmill with integrated force plates and a 3D motion capture analysis system. This combined analysis allowed characterization of the 3D biomechanical forces differentiated for the ankle, knee, and hip joint. The maximum peak force (MPF) and maximum loading rate (LR) were determined in their 3 ordinal components: vertical, anterior-posterior (AP), and medial-lateral (ML). Results: For both strike patterns, the vertical components of the MPF and LR were significantly greater than their AP or ML components. In the vertical axis, FFS was generally associated with a greater MPF but significantly lower LR in all 3 joints. The AP components of MPF and LR were significantly lower for FFS in the knee joint but significantly greater in the ankle and hip joints. The ML components of MPF and LR tended to be greater for FFS but mostly did not reach a level of significance. Conclusion: FFS and RFS were associated with different 3D stress patterns in the ankle, knee, and hip joint, although there was no global advantage of one strike pattern over the other. The multimodal individual assessment for the different anatomic regions demonstrated that FFS seems favorable for patients with unstable knee joints in the AP axis and RFS may be recommended for runners with unstable ankle joints. Clinical Relevance: Different strike patterns show different 3D stress in joints of the lower extremity. Due to either rehabilitation after injuries or training in running sports, rearfoot or forefoot running should be preferred to prevent further damage or injuries caused by inadequate biomechanical load. Runners with a history of knee joint injuries may benefit from FFS whereas RFS may be favorable for runners with a history of ankle joint injuries. PMID:28812039

Mobil plans methanol plant in Nigeria

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alperowicz, N.

1992-08-12

Mobil Chemical (Houston) is in discussions with Nigerian National Petroleum Corp. (NNPC; Lagos) on a joint venture methanol plant at Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The U.S. firm has invited process owners to submit proposals for a 1-million m.t./year unit and hopes to select the technology by the end of this year. Three proposals have been submitted: Lurgi, offering its own low-pressure process; John Brown/Davy, with the ICI process; and M.W. Kellogg, proposing its own technology. Shareholding in the joint venture is yet to be decided, but it is likely to be a 50/50 tie-up. Marketing of Mobil's share or of themore » entire tonnage would be handled by Mobil Petrochemical International (Brussels). The plant could be onstream in late 1996.« less

Multiple linear regression approach for the analysis of the relationships between joints mobility and regional pressure-based parameters in the normal-arched foot.

PubMed

Caravaggi, Paolo; Leardini, Alberto; Giacomozzi, Claudia

2016-10-03

Plantar load can be considered as a measure of the foot ability to transmit forces at the foot/ground, or foot/footwear interface during ambulatory activities via the lower limb kinematic chain. While morphological and functional measures have been shown to be correlated with plantar load, no exhaustive data are currently available on the possible relationships between range of motion of foot joints and plantar load regional parameters. Joints' kinematics from a validated multi-segmental foot model were recorded together with plantar pressure parameters in 21 normal-arched healthy subjects during three barefoot walking trials. Plantar pressure maps were divided into six anatomically-based regions of interest associated to corresponding foot segments. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the relationships between pressure-based parameters, joints range of motion and normalized walking speed (speed/subject height). Sagittal- and frontal-plane joint motion were those most correlated to plantar load. Foot joints' range of motion and normalized walking speed explained between 6% and 43% of the model variance (adjusted R 2 ) for pressure-based parameters. In general, those joints' presenting lower mobility during stance were associated to lower vertical force at forefoot and to larger mean and peak pressure at hindfoot and forefoot. Normalized walking speed was always positively correlated to mean and peak pressure at hindfoot and forefoot. While a large variance in plantar pressure data is still not accounted for by the present models, this study provides statistical corroboration of the close relationship between joint mobility and plantar pressure during stance in the normal healthy foot. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Functional-adaptive analysis of the hindlimb anatomy of extant marsupials and the paleobiology of the Paleocene marsupials Mayulestes ferox and Pucadelphys andinus.

PubMed

Argot, Christine

2002-07-01

This article analyzes the adaptations of the hindlimb of two Early Paleocene marsupials, Mayulestes ferox and Pucadelphys andinus. This analysis is based on detailed comparisons with various extant marsupials, both South American and Australian. In the case of the South American opossums, original myological data were collected and osteological-myological associations were related to their locomotor behavior. The use of Australian genera helped to improve the appraisal of the locomotory habits of the fossil taxa. Several features are indicative of the ability of Mayulestes to climb or walk on uneven surfaces (e.g., very mobile hip joint, astragalocalcaneal joint pattern), and some other features emphasize a relative agility (e.g., strongly everted iliac blades, morphology of the distal epiphysis of the femur, medially stabilized cruroastragalar joint). Pucadelphys exhibits a hindlimb relatively similar morphologically to that of Mayulestes, but with features indicating slightly increased agility and a terrestrial component that is more emphasized than in Mayulestes. The Tiupampa fossils were therefore more agile than most living didelphids and resembled the condition observed in living dasyurids more. These conclusions complement a previous study performed on the forelimb of these fossils. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Does adding mobilization to stretching improve outcomes for people with frozen shoulder? A randomized controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Çelik, Derya; Kaya Mutlu, Ebru

2016-08-01

To assess the effectiveness of joint mobilization combined with stretching exercises in patients with frozen shoulder. A randomized controlled clinical pilot trial. Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology. Thirty patients with frozen shoulder. All participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: joint mobilization and stretching versus stretching exercises alone. Both groups performed a home exercise program and were treated for six weeks (18 sessions). The primary outcome measures for functional assessment were the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and the Constant score. The secondary outcome measures were pain level, as evaluated with a visual analog scale, and range of motion, as measured using a conventional goniometer. Patients were assessed before treatment, at the end of the treatment, and after one year as follow-up. Two-by-two repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections revealed significant increases in abduction (91.9° [CI: 86.1-96.7] to 172.8° [CI: 169.7-175.5]), external rotation (28.1° [CI: 22.2-34.2] to 77.7° [CI: 70.3-83.0]) and Constant score (39.1 [CI: 35.3-42.6] to 80.5 [75.3-86.6]) at the one-year follow-up in the joint mobilization combined with stretching exercise group, whereas the group performing stretching exercise alone did not show such changes. In the treatment of patients with frozen shoulder, joint mobilization combined with stretching exercises is better than stretching exercise alone in terms of external rotation, abduction range of motion and function score. © The Author(s) 2015.

Rib kinematics during lung ventilation in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis): an XROMM analysis

PubMed Central

Moritz, Sabine; Codd, Jonathan; Sellers, William I.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT The current hypothesis regarding the mechanics of breathing in crocodylians is that the double-headed ribs, with both a capitulum and tuberculum, rotate about a constrained axis passing through the two articulations; moreover, this axis shifts in the caudal thoracic ribs, as the vertebral parapophysis moves from the centrum to the transverse process. Additionally, the ventral ribcage in crocodylians is thought to possess additional degrees of freedom through mobile intermediate ribs. In this study, X-ray reconstruction of moving morphology (XROMM) was used to quantify rib rotation during breathing in American alligators. Whilst costovertebral joint anatomy predicted overall patterns of motion across the ribcage (decreased bucket handle motion and increased calliper motion), there were significant deviations: anatomical axes overestimated pump handle motion and, generally, ribs in vivo rotate about all three body axes more equally than predicted. The intermediate ribs are mobile, with a high degree of rotation measured about the dorsal intracostal joints, especially in the more caudal ribs. Motion of the sternal ribs became increasingly complex caudally, owing to a combination of the movements of the vertebral and intermediate segments. As the crocodylian ribcage is sometimes used as a model for the ancestral archosaur, these results have important implications for how rib motion is reconstructed in fossil taxa, and illustrate the difficulties in reconstructing rib movement based on osteology alone. PMID:28855323

Morphofunctional characteristics of the foot in patients with diabetes mellitus and diabetic neuropathy.

PubMed

García-Álvarez, Yolanda; Lázaro-Martínez, José Luis; García-Morales, Esther; Cecilia-Matilla, Almudena; Aragón-Sánchez, Javier; Carabantes-Alarcón, David

2013-01-01

To determine the structural and biomechanical characteristics associated with the conditions diabetes mellitus and diabetic neuropathy. Observational study of 788 patients conducted between February 2007 and February 2009, which included subjects with and without diabetes mellitus who had no active ulcer at enrollment. Demographic variables and the general and specific history of diabetes mellitus were recorded. The patient's foot type according to the Foot Posture Index, joint mobility and deformity were recorded. No associations were found between the different foot types (neutral, pronated and supinated) and the structural and demographic variables at a general level, except for the pronated foot that was associated with a higher body mass index, longer suffering from diabetes and the presence of neuropathy [p<0.001, OR (95% CI): 6.017 (4.198-8.624); p<0.001, OR (95% CI): 1.710 (1.266-2.309); p=0.010, OR (95% CI): 0.759 (0.615-0.937), respectively]. The confluence of risk factors such as neuropathy, body mass index, duration of diabetes and limited joint mobility in patients with diabetes mellitus and pronated foot may be a high-risk anthropometric pattern for developing associated complications such as Charcot foot. A prospective analysis of these patients is required to define the risk for developing Charcot neuroarthropathy. Copyright © 2013 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Joint contact loading in forefoot and rearfoot strike patterns during running.

PubMed

Rooney, Brandon D; Derrick, Timothy R

2013-09-03

Research concerning forefoot strike pattern (FFS) versus rearfoot strike pattern (RFS) running has focused on the ground reaction force even though internal joint contact forces are a more direct measure of the loads responsible for injury. The main purpose of this study was to determine the internal loading of the joints for each strike pattern. A secondary purpose was to determine if converted FFS and RFS runners can adequately represent habitual runners with regards to the internal joint loading. Using inverse dynamics to calculate the net joint moments and reaction forces and optimization techniques to estimate muscle forces, we determined the axial compressive loading at the ankle, knee, and hip. Subjects consisted of 15 habitual FFS and 15 habitual RFS competitive runners. Each subject ran at a preferred running velocity with their habitual strike pattern and then converted to the opposite strike pattern. Plantar flexor muscle forces and net ankle joint moments were greater in the FFS running compared to the RFS running during the first half of the stance phase. The average contact forces during this period increased by 41.7% at the ankle and 14.4% at the knee joint during FFS running. Peak ankle joint contact force was 1.5 body weights greater during FFS running (p<0.05). There was no evidence to support a difference between habitual and converted running for joint contact forces. The increased loading at the ankle joint for FFS is an area of concern for individuals considering altering their foot strike pattern. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of short-term upper thoracic self-mobilization using a Kaltenborn wedge on pain and cervical dysfunction in patients with neck pain.

PubMed

Oh, Hyung-Taek; Hwangbo, Gak

2018-04-01

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the effect of short-term self-joint mobilization of the upper spine using a Kaltenborn wedge on the pain and cervical dysfunction of patients with neck pain. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-seven patients with neck pain were divided into two groups; the self-mobilization group (SMG, n=13) and the self-stretching group (SSG, n=14). The SMG performed upper thoracic self-mobilization and the SSG performed self-stretching exercises as a short-term intervention for a week. To assess the degree of neck pain, the visual analog scale (VAS) was utilized, and to measure the joint range of motion at the flexion-extension, it was compared and analyzed by using the goniometer. [Results] Both SMG and SSG show a significant decrease in the visual analog scale and a significant increase in joint range of motion within the group. In the comparison of groups, there was no significant difference, but it indicated effects on improving the range of motion of extension in SMG. [Conclusion] Self-mobilization of the upper spine, using a Kaltenborn wedge, was useful in alleviating pain in and dysfunction of the cervical spine, and in particular, in improving cervical spine extension in this study.

A model to explain joint patterns found in ignimbrite deposits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tibaldi, A.; Bonali, F. L.

2018-03-01

The study of fracture systems is of paramount importance for economic applications, such as CO2 storage in rock successions, geothermal and hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation, and also for a better knowledge of seismogenic fault formation. Understanding the origin of joints can be useful for tectonic studies and for a geotechnical characterisation of rock masses. Here, we illustrate a joint pattern discovered in ignimbrite deposits of South America, which can be confused with conjugate tectonic joint sets but which have another origin. The pattern is probably common, but recognisable only in plan view and before tectonic deformation obscures and overprints it. Key sites have been mostly studied by field surveys in Bolivia and Chile. The pattern is represented by hundreds-of-meters up to kilometre-long swarms of master joints, which show circular to semi-circular geometries and intersections that have "X" and "Y" patterns. Inside each swarm, joints are systematic, rectilinear or curvilinear in plan view, and as much as 900 m long. In section view, they are from sub-vertical to vertical and do not affect the underlying deposits. Joints with different orientation mostly interrupt each other, suggesting they have the same age. This joint architecture is here interpreted as resulting from differential contraction after emplacement of the ignimbrite deposit above a complex topography. The set of the joint pattern that has suitable orientation with respect to tectonic stresses may act to nucleate faults.

Universal predictability of mobility patterns in cities

PubMed Central

Yan, Xiao-Yong; Zhao, Chen; Fan, Ying; Di, Zengru; Wang, Wen-Xu

2014-01-01

Despite the long history of modelling human mobility, we continue to lack a highly accurate approach with low data requirements for predicting mobility patterns in cities. Here, we present a population-weighted opportunities model without any adjustable parameters to capture the underlying driving force accounting for human mobility patterns at the city scale. We use various mobility data collected from a number of cities with different characteristics to demonstrate the predictive power of our model. We find that insofar as the spatial distribution of population is available, our model offers universal prediction of mobility patterns in good agreement with real observations, including distance distribution, destination travel constraints and flux. By contrast, the models that succeed in modelling mobility patterns in countries are not applicable in cities, which suggests that there is a diversity of human mobility at different spatial scales. Our model has potential applications in many fields relevant to mobility behaviour in cities, without relying on previous mobility measurements. PMID:25232053

77 FR 19408 - Dynamic Mobility Applications and Data Capture Management Programs; Notice of Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-30

... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Dynamic Mobility Applications and Data Capture Management Programs...) Intelligent Transportation System Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) will host a free public meeting to provide stakeholders an update on the Data Capture and Management (DCM) and Dynamic Mobility Applications (DMA...

Cartilage proteoglycans inhibit fibronectin-mediated adhesion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rich, A. M.; Pearlstein, E.; Weissmann, G.; Hoffstein, S. T.

1981-09-01

Normal tissues and organs show, on histological examination, a pattern of cellular and acellular zones that is characteristic and unique for each organ or tissue. This pattern is maintained in health but is sometimes destroyed by disease. For example, in mobile joints, the articular surfaces consist of relatively acellular hyaline cartilage, and the joint space is enclosed by a capsule of loose connective tissue with a lining of fibroblasts and macrophages. In the normal joint these cells are confined to the synovial lining and the articular surface remains acellular. In in vitro culture, macrophages and their precursor monocytes are very adhesive, and fibroblasts can migrate and overgrow surfaces such as collagen or plastic used for tissue culture. The fibroblasts adhere to collagen by means of fibronectin, which they synthesize and secrete1. Because the collagen of cartilage is capable of binding serum fibronectin2 and fibronectin is present in cartilage during its development3, these cells should, in theory, slowly migrate from the synovial lining to the articular surface. It is their absence from the articular cartilage in normal circumstances, and then presence in such pathological states as rheumatoid arthritis, that is striking. We therefore set out to determine whether a component of cartilage could prevent fibroblast adherence in a defined adhesion assay. As normal cartilage is composed of 50% proteoglycans and 50% collagen by dry weight4, we tested the possibility that the proteoglycans in cartilage inhibit fibroblast adhesion to collagen. We present here evidence that fibroblast spreading and adhesion to collagenous substrates is inhibited by cartilage proteoglycans.

Development of biomimetic quadruped walking robot with 2-DOF waist joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kyoung-Ho; Park, Se-Hoon; Lee, Yun-Jung

2005-12-01

This paper presented a novel bio-mimetic quadruped walking robot with 2-DOF (Degree Of Freedom) waist joint, which connects the front and the rear parts of the body. The waist-jointed walking robot can guarantee more stable and more animal-like gait than that of a conventional single-rigid-body walking robot. The developed robot, called ELIRO-II (Eating LIzard RObot version 2), can bend its body from side to side by using 1-DOF passive waist joint while the legs is transferred, thereby increasing the stride and speed of the robot. In addition, ELIRO-II has one more active DOF to bend its body up and down, which increases the mobility in irregular terrain such as slope and stairs. We design the mechanical structure of the robot, which is small and light to have high mobility. This research described characteristics of the 2-DOF waists joint and leg mechanism as well as a hardware and software of the controller of ELIRO-II.

Influence of step length and landing pattern on patellofemoral joint kinetics during running.

PubMed

Willson, J D; Ratcliff, O M; Meardon, S A; Willy, R W

2015-12-01

Elevated patellofemoral joint kinetics during running may contribute to patellofemoral joint symptoms. The purpose of this study was to test for independent effects of foot strike pattern and step length on patellofemoral joint kinetics while running. Effects were tested relative to individual steps and also taking into account the number of steps required to run a kilometer with each step length. Patellofemoral joint reaction force and stress were estimated in 20 participants running at their preferred speed. Participants ran using a forefoot strike and rearfoot strike pattern during three different step length conditions: preferred step length, long (+10%) step length, and short (-10%) step length. Patellofemoral kinetics was estimated using a biomechanical model of the patellofemoral joint that accounted for cocontraction of the knee flexors and extensors. We observed independent effects of foot strike pattern and step length. Patellofemoral joint kinetics per step was 10-13% less during forefoot strike conditions and 15-20% less with a shortened step length. Patellofemoral joint kinetics per kilometer decreased 12-13% using a forefoot strike pattern and 9-12% with a shortened step length. To the extent that patellofemoral joint kinetics contribute to symptoms among runners, these running modifications may be advisable for runners with patellofemoral pain. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Thoracic costotransverse joint pain patterns: a study in normal volunteers.

PubMed

Young, Brian A; Gill, Howard E; Wainner, Robert S; Flynn, Timothy W

2008-10-15

Pain referral patterns of asymptomatic costotransverse joints have not been established. The objective of this study was to determine the pain referral patterns of asymptomatic costotransverse joints via provocative intra-articular injection. Eight asymptomatic male volunteers received a combined total of 21 intra-articular costotransverse joint injections. Fluoroscopic imaging was used to identify and isolate each costotransverse joint and guide placement of a 25 gauge, 2.5 inch spinal needle into the costotransverse joint. Following contrast medium injection, the quality, intensity, and distribution of the resultant pain produced were recorded. Of the 21 costotransverse joint injections, 16 (76%) were classified as being intra-articular via arthrograms taken at the time of injection, and 14 of these injections produced a pain sensation distinctly different from that of needle placement. Average pain produced was 3.3/10 on a 0-10 verbal pain scale. Pain was described generally as a deep, dull ache, and pressure sensation. Pain patterns were located superficial to the injected joint, with only the right T2 injections showing referred pain 2 segments cranially and caudally. No chest wall, upper extremity or pseudovisceral pains were reported. This study provides preliminary data of the pain referral patterns of costotransverse joints. Further research is needed to compare these findings with those elicited from symptomatic subjects.

Effect of rotator cuff strengthening as an adjunct to standard care in subjects with adhesive capsulitis: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Rawat, Pallavi; Eapen, Charu; Seema, Kulathuran Pillai

Randomized controlled trial. To study the effect of adding rotator cuff (RC) muscles strengthening to joint mobilization and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in patients with adhesive capsulitis. A prospective, parallel-group, randomised clinical trial was conducted on 42 patients. One group received TENS and joint mobilization and in the other group RC muscles strengthening was added. Treatment was given for 12 sessions within 4 weeks. When compared between the groups statistically significant changes were seen in all the outcome measures in the group that received RC muscle strengthening exercises vs TENS and mobilization. VAS 12.76 ± 1.04 vs 4.05 ± 1.32; SPADI 34.66 ± 6.69 vs 54.29 ± 12.17; PFPS 3.06 ± 0.80 vs 4.70 ± 0.81; and ROM (elevation >125 vs >110 degrees and rotations >70 vs >48 degrees). Addition of a structured RC strengthening program to TENS and joint mobilization in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis resulted in improvement in pain, ROM and function. 1b. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Musculoskeletal disorders of the upper cervical spine in women with episodic or chronic migraine.

PubMed

Ferracini, Gabriela N; Florencio, Lidiane L; Dach, Fabíola; Bevilaqua Grossi, Débora; Palacios-Ceña, María; Ordás-Bandera, Carlos; Chaves, Thais C; Speciali, José G; Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César

2017-06-01

The role of musculoskeletal disorders of the cervical spine in migraine is under debate. To investigate differences in musculoskeletal impairments of the neck including active global and upper cervical spine mobility, the presence of symptomatic upper cervical spine joints, cervicocephalic kinesthesia and head/neck posture between women with episodic migraine, chronic migraine, and controls. A cross-sectional study. Tertiary university-based hospital. Fifty-five women with episodic migraine, 16 with chronic migraine, and 22 matched healthy women. Active cervical range of motion, upper cervical spine mobility (i.e., flexion-rotation test), referred pain from upper cervical joints, cervicocephalic kinesthesia (joint position sense error test, JPSE), and head/neck posture (i.e. the cranio-vertebral and cervical lordosis angles) were assessed by an assessor blinded to the subject's condition. Women with migraine showed reduced cervical rotation than healthy women (P=0.012). No differences between episodic and chronic migraine were found in cervical mobility. Significant differences for flexion-rotation test were also reported, suggesting that upper cervical spine mobility was restricted in both migraine groups (P<0.001). Referred pain elicited on manual examination of the upper cervical spine mimicking pain symptoms was present in 50% of migraineurs. No differences were observed on the frequency of symptomatic upper cervical joints between episodic and chronic migraine. No differences on JPSE or posture were found among groups (P>0.121). Women with migraine exhibit musculoskeletal impairments of the upper cervical spine expressed as restricted cervical rotation, decreased upper cervical rotation, and the presence of symptomatic upper cervical joints. No differences were found between episodic or chronic migraine. Identification treatment of the musculoskeletal impairments of the cervical spine may help to clinician for better management of patients with migraine.

Mobile Router Technology Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivancic, William D.; Stewart, David H.; Bell, Terry L.; Kachmar, Brian A.; Shell, Dan; Leung, Kent

2002-01-01

Cisco Systems and NASA have been performing joint research on mobile routing technology under a NASA Space Act Agreement. Cisco developed mobile router technology and provided that technology to NASA for applications to aeronautic and space-based missions. NASA has performed stringent performance testing of the mobile router, including the interaction of routing and transport-level protocols. This paper describes mobile routing, the mobile router, and some key configuration parameters. In addition, the paper describes the mobile routing test network and test results documenting the performance of transport protocols in dynamic routing environments.

In vivo kinematics of the salto total ankle prosthesis.

PubMed

Leszko, Filip; Komistek, Richard D; Mahfouz, Mohamed R; Ratron, Yves-Alain; Judet, Thierry; Bonnin, Michel; Colombier, Jean-Alain; Lin, Sheldon S

2008-11-01

Recent technological advancements in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) have included the introduction of the mobile bearing concept. This bearing has several advantages, but researchers have questioned whether or not increased mobility sacrifices joint stability or durability of the implant. The present study evaluated the kinematics of this type of prosthesis implanted in patients. Fluoroscopy and 3D-to-2D registration techniques were used to determine the in vivo kinematics for 20 TAA subjects performing two activities: gait and step-up. The motion of the prostheses was described in terms of clinical rotations and as rotation about the helical (screw) axis. Then, the anterior-posterior translation and axial rotation of the mobile bearing insert were determined. Among the clinical rotations, the dorsi-/plantarflexion was the most dominant, revealing the greatest pattern change and the largest magnitude. During gait, the orientation of the prosthetic components changed smoothly from plantarflexion to dorsiflexion. The average range of this motion was 9.2 degrees. For step-up activity, the range was 8.0 degrees. However, between 33% and 66% of stance phase, the talar component's orientation changed from dorsiflexion to plantarflexion. The average absolute range of anterior-posterior translation of the mobile bearing insert was 1.5 mm and 2.3 mm for gait and step-up, respectively. These measured translations were relatively small and may suggest that the rotational portion of the motion was more dominant than translational and provided sufficient mobility.

Results and Analysis from Space Suit Joint Torque Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matty, Jennifer

2010-01-01

This joint mobility KC lecture included information from two papers, "A Method for and Issues Associated with the Determination of Space Suit Joint Requirements" and "Results and Analysis from Space Suit Joint Torque Testing," as presented for the International Conference on Environmental Systems in 2009 and 2010, respectively. The first paper discusses historical joint torque testing methodologies and approaches that were tested in 2008 and 2009. The second paper discusses the testing that was completed in 2009 and 2010.

A Method for and Issues Associated with the Determination of Space Suit Joint Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matty, Jennifer E.; Aitchison, Lindsay

2010-01-01

This joint mobility KC lecture included information from two papers, "A Method for and Issues Associated with the Determination of Space Suit Joint Requirements" and "Results and Analysis from Space Suit Joint Torque Testing," as presented for the International Conference on Environmental Systems in 2009 and 2010, respectively. The first paper discusses historical joint torque testing methodologies and approaches that were tested in 2008 and 2009. The second paper discusses the testing that was completed in 2009 and 2010.

Metabolic Assessment of Suited Mobility Using Functional Tasks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Norcross, J. R.; McFarland, S. M.; Ploutz-Snyder, Robert

2016-01-01

Existing methods for evaluating extravehicular activity (EVA) suit mobility have typically focused on isolated joint range of motion or torque, but these techniques have little to do with how well a crewmember functionally performs in an EVA suit. To evaluate suited mobility at the system level through measuring metabolic cost (MC) of functional tasks.

An Mobility Typology of US Cities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

KC, B.; Stewart, R.; King, A. W.

2017-12-01

Urban mobility is a pressing problem and one growing with urbanization. Urban mobility, for example, accounts for 28 % of all CO2 emissions from road transport and restrictions in urban mobility have economic and social consequences. Occupational flow, movement to and from work, plays a vital role in shaping urban mobility patterns and is dependent on urban infrastructures as well as the geographical distribution of households and occupations. Urban mobility varies among different population subgroups such as race, age, and income in complex multivariate patterns. To explore and quantify these patterns, we use multivariate clustering to build a typology of urban mobility for the Metropolitan Statistical Areas of the United States using the occupational flow data from US Census Bureau's Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics- Origin-Destination Employment Statistics. We use characteristics such as work radius, connectivity, and number of jobs for different population subgroups such as income, age, and industry to define the typology, objectively classifying metropolitan areas with similar mobility patterns as belonging to the same mobility type. The mobility typology addresses whether urban areas with similar transportation infrastructure have similar mobility patterns. Additionally, similarities and differences in the mobility typology of the demographic groups provides valuable insights into overall mobility experience which can help transportation planners design equitable and sustainable transportation infrastructures.

The Art of Amphibious Operations: Can Europe Play the American Way

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

communications, mobility, logistic 3 Cobbold R. (1997), A Joint Maritime-Based Expeditionary...the Netherlands, the Dutch consider to buy either the blueprint or the British Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVP) Mark V itself, to...Decisive Joint Capabilities (Proceedings, October 2002). Cobbold R. (1997), A Joint Maritime-Based Expeditionary Capability (RUSI Journal), 23-30

Resource intensification and osteoarthritis patterns: changes in activity in the prehistoric Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta region.

PubMed

Cheverko, Colleen M; Bartelink, Eric J

2017-10-01

Ethnohistoric accounts and archaeological research from Central California document a shift from the use of lower-cost, high-ranked resources (e.g., large game) toward the greater use of higher-cost, low-ranked resources (e.g., acorns and small seeds) during the Late Holocene (4500-200 BP). The subsistence transition from higher consumption of large game toward an increased reliance on acorns was likely associated with increases in levels of logistical mobility and physical activity. This study predicts that mobility and overall workload patterns changed during this transition to accommodate new food procurement strategies and incorporate new dietary resources during the Late Holocene in Central California. Osteoarthritis prevalence was scored in the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee of adult individuals (n = 256) from seven archaeological sites in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta region. Comparisons were made between osteoarthritis prevalence, sex, age-at-death, and time period using ANCOVAs. The results of this study indicate significant increases in osteoarthritis prevalence in the hip of adult males and females during the Late Period (1200-200 BP), even after correcting for the cumulative effects of age. No differences were observed between the sexes or between time periods for the shoulder, elbow, and knee joints. The temporal increase in hip osteoarthritis supports the hypothesis that there was an increasing need for greater logistical mobility over time to procure key resources away from the village sites. Additionally, the lack of sex differences in osteoarthritis prevalence may suggest that females and males likely performed similar levels of activity during these periods. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Theoretical Analysis of the Geography of Schistosomiasis in Burkina Faso Highlights the Roles of Human Mobility and Water Resources Development in Disease Transmission

PubMed Central

Perez-Saez, Javier; Mari, Lorenzo; Bertuzzo, Enrico; Casagrandi, Renato; Sokolow, Susanne H.; De Leo, Giulio A.; Mande, Theophile; Ceperley, Natalie; Froehlich, Jean-Marc; Sou, Mariam; Karambiri, Harouna; Yacouba, Hamma; Maiga, Amadou; Gatto, Marino; Rinaldo, Andrea

2015-01-01

We study the geography of schistosomiasis across Burkina Faso by means of a spatially explicit model of water-based disease dynamics. The model quantitatively addresses the geographic stratification of disease burden in a novel framework by explicitly accounting for drivers and controls of the disease, including spatial information on the distributions of population and infrastructure, jointly with a general description of human mobility and climatic/ecological drivers. Spatial patterns of disease are analysed by the extraction and the mapping of suitable eigenvectors of the Jacobian matrix subsuming the stability of the disease-free equilibrium. The relevance of the work lies in the novel mapping of disease burden, a byproduct of the parametrization induced by regional upscaling, by model-guided field validations and in the predictive scenarios allowed by exploiting the range of possible parameters and processes. Human mobility is found to be a primary control at regional scales both for pathogen invasion success and the overall distribution of disease burden. The effects of water resources development highlighted by systematic reviews are accounted for by the average distances of human settlements from water bodies that are habitats for the parasite’s intermediate host. Our results confirm the empirical findings about the role of water resources development on disease spread into regions previously nearly disease-free also by inspection of empirical prevalence patterns. We conclude that while the model still needs refinements based on field and epidemiological evidence, the proposed framework provides a powerful tool for large-scale public health planning and schistosomiasis management. PMID:26513655

A Novel Method for Characterizing Spacesuit Mobility Through Metabolic Cost

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McFarland, Shane M.; Norcross, Jason R.

2014-01-01

Historically, spacesuit mobility has been characterized by directly measuring both range of motion and joint torque of individual anatomic joints. The work detailed herein aims to improve on this method, which is often prone to uncertainly, lack of repeatability, and a general lack of applicability to real-world functional tasks. Specifically, the goal of this work is to characterize suited mobility performance by directly measuring the metabolic performance of the occupant. Pilot testing was conducted in 2013, employing three subjects performing a range of functional tasks in two different suits prototypes, the Mark III and Z-1. Cursory analysis of the results shows the approach has merit, with consistent performance trends toward one suit over the other. Forward work includes the need to look at more subjects, a refined task set, and another suit in a different mass/mobility regime to validate the approach.

Motion at the Tibial and Polyethylene Component Interface in a Mobile-Bearing Total Ankle Replacement.

PubMed

Lundeen, Gregory A; Clanton, Thomas O; Dunaway, Linda J; Lu, Minggen

2016-08-01

Normal biomechanics of the ankle joint includes sagittal as well as axial rotation. Current understanding of mobile-bearing motion at the tibial-polyethylene interface in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is limited to anterior-posterior (AP) motion of the polyethylene component. The purpose of our study was to define the motion of the polyethylene component in relation to the tibial component in a mobile-bearing TAA in both the sagittal and axial planes in postoperative patients. Patients who were a minimum of 12 months postoperative from a third-generation mobile-bearing TAA were identified. AP images were saved at maximum internal and external rotation, and the lateral images were saved in maximum plantarflexion and dorsiflexion. Sagittal range of motion and AP translation of the polyethylene component were measured from the lateral images. Axial rotation was determined by measuring the relative position of the 2 wires within the polyethylene component on AP internal and external rotation imaging. This relationship was compared to a table developed from fluoroscopic images taken at standardized degrees of axial rotation of a nonimplanted polyethylene with the associated length relationship of the 2 imbedded wires. Sixteen patients were included in this investigation, 9 (56%) were male and average age was 68 (range, 49-80) years. Time from surgery averaged 25 (range, 12-38) months. Total sagittal range of motion averaged 23±9 (range, 9-33) degrees. Axial motion for total internal and external rotation of the polyethylene component on the tibial component averaged 6±5 (range, 0-18) degrees. AP translation of the polyethylene component relative to the tibial component averaged 1±1 (range, 0-3) mm. There was no relationship between axial rotation or AP translation of the polyethylene component and ankle joint range of motion (P > .05). To our knowledge, this is the first investigation to measure axial and sagittal motion of the polyethylene component at the tibial implant interface in patients following a mobile-bearing TAA. Based on outcome scores and range-of-motion measurements, we believe the patients in this study are a representative cross section of subjects compared to other TAA research results. The results from this investigation indicate the potential for a mobile-bearing TAA to fall within the parameters of normal polyaxial ankle motion. The multiplanar articulation in a mobile-bearing TAA may reduce excessively high peak pressures during the complex dynamic tibial and talar motion, which may have a positive influence on gait pattern, polyethylene wear, and implant longevity. Level IV, case series. © The Author(s) 2016.

The Mobile Learning Network: Getting Serious about Games Technologies for Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Petley, Rebecca; Parker, Guy; Attewell, Jill

2011-01-01

The Mobile Learning Network currently in its third year, is a unique collaborative initiative encouraging and enabling the introduction of mobile learning in English post-14 education. The programme, funded jointly by the Learning and Skills Council and participating colleges and schools and supported by LSN has involved nearly 40,000 learners and…

Mobile assemblies of Bennett linkages from four-crease origami patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiao; Chen, Yan

2018-02-01

This paper deals with constructing mobile assemblies of Bennett linkages inspired by four-crease origami patterns. A transition technique has been proposed by taking the thick-panel form of an origami pattern as an intermediate bridge. A zero-thickness rigid origami pattern and its thick-panel form share the same sector angles and folding behaviours, while the thick-panel origami and the mobile assembly of linkages are kinematically equivalent with differences only in link profiles. Applying this transition technique to typical four-crease origami patterns, we have found that the Miura-ori and graded Miura-ori patterns lead to assemblies of Bennett linkages with identical link lengths. The supplementary-type origami patterns with different mountain-valley crease assignments correspond to different types of Bennett linkage assemblies with negative link lengths. And the identical linkage-type origami pattern generates a new mobile assembly. Hence, the transition technique offers a novel approach to constructing mobile assemblies of spatial linkages from origami patterns.

Mobile assemblies of Bennett linkages from four-crease origami patterns.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiao; Chen, Yan

2018-02-01

This paper deals with constructing mobile assemblies of Bennett linkages inspired by four-crease origami patterns. A transition technique has been proposed by taking the thick-panel form of an origami pattern as an intermediate bridge. A zero-thickness rigid origami pattern and its thick-panel form share the same sector angles and folding behaviours, while the thick-panel origami and the mobile assembly of linkages are kinematically equivalent with differences only in link profiles. Applying this transition technique to typical four-crease origami patterns, we have found that the Miura-ori and graded Miura-ori patterns lead to assemblies of Bennett linkages with identical link lengths. The supplementary-type origami patterns with different mountain-valley crease assignments correspond to different types of Bennett linkage assemblies with negative link lengths. And the identical linkage-type origami pattern generates a new mobile assembly. Hence, the transition technique offers a novel approach to constructing mobile assemblies of spatial linkages from origami patterns.

Chaperonin containing T-complex polypeptide subunit eta is a potential marker of joint contracture: an experimental study in the rat.

PubMed

He, Ronghan; Wang, Zhe; Lu, Yunxiang; Huang, Junqi; Ren, Jianhua; Wang, Kun

2015-11-01

Joint contracture is a fibroproliferative disorder that restricts joint mobility, resulting in tissue degeneration and deformity. However, the etiology of joint contracture is still unknown. Chaperonin containing T-complex polypeptide subunit eta (CCT-eta) is reported to increase in fibrotic diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether CCT-eta is implicated in joint contracture and to determine the role of CCT-eta in the progression of joint contracture by analyzing a rat model. We immobilized the left knee joint of rat by internal fixation for 8 weeks. The non-immobilized right leg served as a control. The range of motion (ROM) of the knee was investigated. Fibroblasts were obtained from the posterior joint capsule of the joints. The outcome was followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blot, fibroblast migration assay, and collagen assay. The effect of CCT-eta on the functions of fibroblasts was observed by utilizing a short inhibitory RNA (siRNA) targeting CCT-eta. The ROM of the immobilized joints was significantly limited compared to the contralateral joints (p < 0.05). Fibroblasts derived from the contractive joints showed higher mRNA and protein expressions of CCT-eta in parallel with alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) compared to the cells from the contralateral knees (p < 0.05). siRNA-mediated downregulation of CCT-eta inhibited the expressions of both CCT-eta and α-SMA. Moreover, the reduction of CCT-eta also significantly decreased fibroblast functions such as cell mobility and collagen synthesis (all p < 0.05). Our findings indicate that CCT-eta appears to be a potential marker of joint contracture disease.

Does the Dual-Mobility Hip Prosthesis Produce Better Joint Kinematics During Extreme Hip Flexion Task?

PubMed

Catelli, Danilo S; Kowalski, Erik; Beaulé, Paul E; Lamontagne, Mario

2017-10-01

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) using dual-mobility (DM) design permits larger hip range of motion. However, it is unclear how it benefits the patients during activities of daily living. The purpose was to compare kinematic variables of the operated limb between THA patients using either DM or single-bearing (SB) implants during a squat task. Twenty-four THA patients were randomly assigned to either a DM or SB implant and matched to 12 healthy controls (CTRLs). They underwent 3-dimensional squat motion analysis before and 9 months after surgery. Sagittal and frontal plane angles of the pelvis and the hip were analyzed using statistical parametric mapping. Paired analyses compared presurgery and postsurgery squat depth. Peak sagittal pelvis angle of DM was closer to normal compared with that of SB. Both implant groups had similar hip angle patterns and magnitude but significantly lower than the CTRLs. SB reached a much large hip abduction compared with the other groups. Both surgical groups had significantly worst squat depth than the CTRLs. Neither THA implant groups were able to return pelvis and hip kinematics to the level of CTRLs. The deficit of DM implants at the pelvis combined with the poorer functional scores should caution clinicians to use this implant design in active patients. SB design causes a larger hip abduction to reach their maximum squat depth. Post-THA rehabilitation should focus on improving joint range of motion and strength. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

No difference in joint awareness after mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty: 3-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Schotanus, M G M; Pilot, P; Vos, R; Kort, N P

2017-12-01

To compare the patients ability to forget the artificial knee joint in everyday life who were randomized to be operated for mobile- or fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This single-center randomized controlled trial evaluated the 3-year follow-up of the cemented mobile- and fixed-bearing TKA from the same brand in a series of 41 patients. Clinical examination was during the pre-, 6-week, 6-month, 1-, 2- and 3-year follow-up containing multiple patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) including the 12-item Forgotten Joint Score (FJS-12) at 3 years. Effect size was calculated for each PROM at 3-year follow-up to quantify the size of the difference between both bearings. At 3-year follow-up, general linear mixed model analysis showed that there were no significant or clinically relevant differences between the two groups for all outcome measures. Calculated effect sizes were small (<0.3) for all the PROMs except for the FJS-12; these were moderate (0.5). The results of this study demonstrate that joint awareness was slightly lower in patients operated with the MB TKA with comparable improved clinical outcome and PROMs at 3-year follow-up. Measuring joint awareness with the FJS-12 is useful and provides more stringent information at 3-year follow-up compared to other PROMs and should be the PROM of choice at each follow-up after TKA. Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Use of Design Patterns According to Hand Dominance in a Mobile User Interface

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Samarraie, Hosam; Ahmad, Yusof

2016-01-01

User interface (UI) design patterns for mobile applications provide a solution to design problems and can improve the usage experience for users. However, there is a lack of research categorizing the uses of design patterns according to users' hand dominance in a learning-based mobile UI. We classified the main design patterns for mobile…

Effect of spine motion on mobility in quadruped running

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Dongliang; Liu, Qi; Dong, Litao; Wang, Hong; Zhang, Qun

2014-11-01

Most of current running quadruped robots have similar construction: a stiff body and four compliant legs. Many researches have indicated that the stiff body without spine motion is a main factor in limitation of robots' mobility. Therefore, investigating spine motion is very important to build robots with better mobility. A planar quadruped robot is designed based on cheetahs' morphology. There is a spinal driving joint in the body of the robot. When the spinal driving joint acts, the robot has spine motion; otherwise, the robot has not spine motion. Six group prototype experiments with the robot are carried out to study the effect of spine motion on mobility. In each group, there are two comparative experiments: the spinal driving joint acts in one experiment but does not in the other experiment. The results of the prototype experiments indicate that the average speeds of the robot with spine motion are 8.7%-15.9% larger than those of the robot without spine motion. Furthermore, a simplified sagittal plane model of quadruped mammals is introduced. The simplified model also has a spinal driving joint. Using a similar process as the prototype experiments, six group simulation experiments with the simplified model are conducted. The results of the simulation experiments show that the maximum rear leg horizontal thrusts of the simplified mode with spine motion are 68.2%-71.3% larger than those of the simplified mode without spine motion. Hence, it is found that spine motion can increase the average running speed and the intrinsic reason of speed increase is the improvement of the maximum rear leg horizontal thrust.

RELATIONSHIP OF PRESEASON MOVEMENT SCREENS WITH OVERUSE SYMPTOMS IN COLLEGIATE BASEBALL PLAYERS

PubMed Central

Clifton, Daniel R.; Onate, James A.; Ramsey, Vincent K.; Cromartie, Fred

2017-01-01

Background: The shoulder mobility screen of the Functional Movement Screen™ (FMS™) and the upper extremity patterns of the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) assess global, multi-joint movement capabilities in the upper-extremities. Identifying which assessment can most accurately determine if baseball players are at an increased risk of experiencing overuse symptoms in the shoulder or elbow throughout a competitive season may reduce throwing-related injuries requiring medical attention. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if preseason FMS™ or SFMA scores were related to overuse severity scores in the shoulder or elbow during the preseason and competitive season. Study design: Cohort study. Methods: Sixty healthy, male, Division III collegiate baseball players (mean age = 20.1 ± 2.0 years) underwent preseason testing using the FMS™ shoulder mobility screen, and SFMA upper extremity patterns. Their scores were dichotomized into good and bad movement scores, and were compared to weekly questionnaires registering overuse symptoms and pain severity in the shoulder or elbow during the season. Results: Poor FMS™ performance was associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing at least one overuse symptom during the preseason independent of grade and position (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 5.14, p = 0.03). Poor SFMA performance was associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing at least one overuse symptom during the preseason (adjusted OR = 6.10, p = 0.03) and during the competitive season (adjusted OR = 17.07, p = 0.03) independent of grade and position. Conclusion: FMS™ shoulder mobility and SFMA upper extremity pattern performance were related to the likelihood of experiencing overuse symptoms during a baseball season. Participants with poor FMSTM performances may be more likely to experience at least one overuse symptom in their shoulder or elbow during the preseason. Additionally, individuals with poor SFMA performances may be more likely to report overuse symptoms during the preseason or competitive season. Level of evidence: Level 3 PMID:29158957

Clinical and radiographic study of bone and joint lesions in 26 dogs with leishmaniasis.

PubMed

Agut, A; Corzo, N; Murciano, J; Laredo, F G; Soler, M

2003-11-22

Twenty-six dogs with parasitologically confirmed leishmaniasis and abnormalities of gait were studied to determine the most common radiological patterns of bone and joint lesions. The clinical findings included either lameness, joint pain and crepitation, soft tissue swelling and/or muscle atrophy. Bone lesions were observed radiographically in 12 of the 26 dogs; the radius and ulna were affected in seven, the tibia in six and the femur in six. Joint lesions were observed radiographically in 15 of the 26 dogs; the carpus and stifle were affected in all 15, and the tarsus in nine. There was a tendency for the bones and joints to be affected bilaterally. The radiographic patterns observed were different in the long bones and the joints. In the long bones, the most common pattern was periosteal and intramedullary proliferation, involving the diaphyses and related to the nutrient foramen; in the joints, two patterns, either non-erosive or erosive polyarthritis with soft-tissue swelling, were observed. The changes observed in the synovial fluid were associated in most cases with osteolytic lesions. However, Leishmania organisms were identified in the synovial fluid from joints without bony radiographic changes.

Less Is More: How to App-ify Your Library Services

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Berika S.

2012-01-01

How will your library serve mobile device users? By building apps from scratch? By offering entirely separate content? Or by modifying your site for mobile devices? This author found that the best fit for a joint library serving Victoria College and the University of Houston-Victoria was to build a mobile website in HTML and CSS using mobile…

Immediate effect of a single anteroposterior talus mobilization on dorsiflexion range of motion in participants with orthopedic dysfunction of the ankle and foot.

PubMed

Teixeira, Luciana Mundim; Pires, Tatiana; Silva, Rafael Duarte; de Resende, Marcos Antônio

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate effects of a single anteroposterior mobilization of the talus on the active dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) in participants with different orthopedic foot and ankle injuries. This study included 30 male and female participants aged 18 to 50 years with unilateral orthopedic foot and ankle dysfunction. All participants underwent 3 sets of active dorsiflexion ROM measurement in both ankles. Measurements included baseline, post-first treatment, and post-second treatment values. Participants received either joint mobilization or manual contact (control) on the affected ankle. Active dorsiflexion ROM was assessed using a biplanar goniometer with participants in the prone position and 90° of knee flexion. Both groups (joint mobilization and manual contact) showed increased active dorsiflexion ROM. However, the mean difference of dorsiflexion measurements before and after mobilization was greater than before and after control treatment. A single session of articular mobilization of the talus did not significantly increase dorsiflexion ROM in participants with orthopedic dysfunctions of the ankle and foot compared with a manual contact procedure. Copyright © 2013 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Phenotypical expression of reduced mobility during limb ontogeny in frogs: the knee-joint case

PubMed Central

Abdala, Virginia

2016-01-01

Movement is one of the most important epigenetic factors for normal development of the musculoskeletal system, particularly during genesis and joint development. Studies regarding alterations to embryonic mobility, performed on anurans, chickens and mammals, report important phenotypical similarities as a result of the reduction or absence of this stimulus. The precise stage of development at which the stimulus modification generates phenotypic modifications however, is yet to be determined. In this work we explore whether the developmental effects of abnormal mobility can appear at any time during development or whether they begin to express themselves in particular phases of tadpole ontogeny. We conducted five experiments that showed that morphological abnormalities are not visible until Stages 40–42. Morphology in earlier stages remains normal, probably due to the fact that the bones/muscles/tendons have not yet developed and therefore are not affected by immobilization. These results suggest the existence of a specific period of phenotypical expression in which normal limb movement is necessary for the correct development of the joint tissue framework. PMID:26925340

Joint dynamics of rear- and fore-foot unplanned sidestepping.

PubMed

Donnelly, Cyril J; Chinnasee, Chamnan; Weir, Gillian; Sasimontonkul, Siriporn; Alderson, Jacqueline

2017-01-01

Compare the lower-limb mechanics and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk of athletes using a habitual rear-foot (RF) and fore-foot (FF) fall pattern during unplanned sidestepping (UnSS). Experimental cross-sectional. Nineteen elite female field hockey players attended one biomechanical motion capture testing session, which consisted of a random series of pre-planned and unplanned sidestepping sport tasks. Following data collection, participants were classified as possessing a habitual RF or FF fall pattern during UnSS. Hip, knee and ankle joint angles, moments, instantaneous powers and net joint work were calculated during weight acceptance. Between group differences were evaluated using independent sample t-tests (α=0.05). Athletes using a habitual RF fall pattern during UnSS absorbed significantly more work and power through their knee joint (p<0.001), which was coupled with significantly elevated externally applied peak non-sagittal plane peak ankle moments (p<0.05) as well as peak flexion and abduction knee moments (p<0.005). Athletes using a habitual FF fall pattern during UnSS absorbed more power through their ankle joint (p<0.001). A RF fall pattern during UnSS places a large mechanical demand on the knee joint, which is associated with elevated ACL injury risk. Conversely, a FF fall pattern placed a large mechanical demand on the ankle joint. Modifying an athlete's foot fall pattern during UnSS may be viable technique recommendation when returning from knee or ankle injury. Copyright © 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Treatment of fractures of proximal phalanx of fingers by Eiffel Tower percutaneous pinning method. A review of 45 cases].

PubMed

Chbani, B; Amar, M F; Loudyi, D; Boutayeb, F

2010-04-01

The authors report in the treatment of fractures of the proximal phalanx of the fingers, the use of Eiffel Tower pinning, a relatively simple method, fast and stable, associated to a protection and early rehabilitation. The objective of this method is to offer to the patient a pollici-digital grip. Our study is a retrospective study of 45 patients treated for fractures of the proximal phalanx of the fingers by percutaneous pinning according to Eiffel Tower method. We detail this simple and economic technique and examine the functional and radiological results of this series of patients. The amplitude of the active total motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint is on average 94.16 degrees (78.5 % of the normal active mobility of the proximal interphalangeal joint), and the amplitude of the active total motion of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint is on average 90.05 degrees (75 % of the normal active mobility of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint). Copyright 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

The effect of partial rostral hemimandibulectomy on mandibular mobility and temporomandibular joint morphology in the dog.

PubMed

Umphlet, R C; Johnson, A L; Eurell, J C; Losonsky, J

1988-01-01

Partial rostral hemimandibulectomy was performed in 10 adult dogs. The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) were examined radiographically and tomographically before surgery, and mandibular stability was evaluated before and immediately after surgery. Radiographic, tomographic, and hemimandibular mobility assessments were made again at months 3 and 6. The TMJs were examined grossly and histologically in five dogs euthanatized at month 3 and in five dogs euthanatized at month 6. Statistically significant hemimandibular instability (p less than 0.05) persisted in all subjects throughout the study. The radiographic appearance of the joints remained unaltered; however, space asymmetry was identified in postoperative tomograms of three dogs at month 3 and four dogs at month 6. The TMJs were grossly normal at necropsy. Histologically, there were degenerative changes in articular cartilage and subchondral bone in all of the joints. The authors conclude that partial rostral hemimandibulectomy causes TMJ degeneration, as a consequence of hemimandibular instability or abnormal loading, or both.

A wearable robotic orthosis with a spring-assist actuator.

PubMed

Seungmin Jung; Chankyu Kim; Jisu Park; Dongyoub Yu; Jaehwan Park; Junho Choi

2016-08-01

This paper introduces a wearable robotic orthosis with spring-assist actuators, which is designed to assist people who have difficulty in walking. The spring-assist actuator consists of an electrical motor and a spring, which are attached to a rotational axis in parallel to each other. The spring-assist actuator is developed based on the analysis on the stiffness of the knee and hip joints during walking. "COWALK-Mobile," which is a wearable robotic orthosis, is developed using the spring-assist actuators to reduce the required motor torque during walking. The COWALK-Mobile has active hip and knee joints and passive ankle joints to provide assistive torque to the wearer. The required joint torque is generated by the spring as well as the electrical motor, which results in a decrease of maximum required torque for the motor. In order to evaluate the performance of the spring-assist actuator, experiments are carried out. The experiments show that the spring-assist actuators reduced the required motor torque during walking.

Lunar Balance and Locomotion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paloski, William H.

2008-01-01

Balance control and locomotor patterns were altered in Apollo crewmembers on the lunar surface, owing, presumably, to a combination of sensory-motor adaptation during transit and lunar surface operations, decreased environmental affordances associated with the reduced gravity, and restricted joint mobility as well as altered center-of-gravity caused by the EVA pressure suits. Dr. Paloski will discuss these factors, as well as the potential human and mission impacts of falls and malcoordination during planned lunar sortie and outpost missions. Learning objectives: What are the potential impacts of postural instabilities on the lunar surface? CME question: What factors affect balance control and gait stability on the moon? Answer: Sensory-motor adaptation to the lunar environment, reduced mechanical and visual affordances, and altered biomechanics caused by the EVA suit.

A Joint Time-Frequency and Matrix Decomposition Feature Extraction Methodology for Pathological Voice Classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghoraani, Behnaz; Krishnan, Sridhar

2009-12-01

The number of people affected by speech problems is increasing as the modern world places increasing demands on the human voice via mobile telephones, voice recognition software, and interpersonal verbal communications. In this paper, we propose a novel methodology for automatic pattern classification of pathological voices. The main contribution of this paper is extraction of meaningful and unique features using Adaptive time-frequency distribution (TFD) and nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF). We construct Adaptive TFD as an effective signal analysis domain to dynamically track the nonstationarity in the speech and utilize NMF as a matrix decomposition (MD) technique to quantify the constructed TFD. The proposed method extracts meaningful and unique features from the joint TFD of the speech, and automatically identifies and measures the abnormality of the signal. Depending on the abnormality measure of each signal, we classify the signal into normal or pathological. The proposed method is applied on the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) voice disorders database which consists of 161 pathological and 51 normal speakers, and an overall classification accuracy of 98.6% was achieved.

The AMSC mobile satellite system: Design summary and comparative analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noreen, Gary K.

1989-01-01

Mobile satellite communications will be provided in the United States by the American Mobile Satellite Consortium (AMSC). Telesat Mobile, Inc. (TMI) and AMSC are jointly developing MSAT, the first regional Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) system. MSAT will provide diverse mobile communications services - including voice, data and position location - to mobiles on land, water, and in the air throughout North America. Described here are the institutional relationships between AMSC, TMI and other organizations participating in MSAT, including the Canadian Department of Communications and NASA. The regulatory status of MSAT in the United States and international allocations to MSS are reviewed. The baseline design is described.

Domestic mobile satellite systems in North America

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wachira, Muya

1990-01-01

Telest Mobile Inc. (TMI) and the American Mobile Satellite Corporation (AMSC) are authorized to provide mobile satellite services (MSS) in Canada and the United States respectively. They are developing compatible systems and are undertaking joint specification and procurement of spacecraft and ground segment with the aim of operational systems by late 1993. Early entry (phase 1) mobile data services are offered in 1990 using space segment capacity leased from Inmarsat. Here, an overview is given of these domestic MSS with an emphasis on the TMI component of the MSAT systen.

Whole-body patterns of the range of joint motion in young adults: masculine type and feminine type.

PubMed

Moromizato, Keiichi; Kimura, Ryosuke; Fukase, Hitoshi; Yamaguchi, Kyoko; Ishida, Hajime

2016-10-01

Understanding the whole-body patterns of joint flexibility and their related biological and physical factors contributes not only to clinical assessments but also to the fields of human factors and ergonomics. In this study, ranges of motion (ROMs) at limb and trunk joints of young adults were analysed to understand covariation patterns of different joint motions and to identify factors associated with the variation in ROM. Seventy-eight healthy volunteers (42 males and 36 females) living on Okinawa Island, Japan, were recruited. Passive ROM was measured at multiple joints through the whole body (31 measurements) including the left and right side limbs and trunk. Comparisons between males and females, dominant and non-dominant sides, and antagonistic motions indicated that body structures influence ROMs. In principal component analysis (PCA) on the ROM data, the first principal component (PC1) represented the sex difference and a similar covariation pattern appeared in the analysis within each sex. Multiple regression analysis showed that this component was associated with sex, age, body fat %, iliospinale height, and leg extension strength. The present study identified that there is a spectrum of "masculine" and "feminine" types in the whole-body patterns of joint flexibility. This study also suggested that body proportion and composition, muscle mass and strength, and possibly skeletal structures partly explain such patterns. These results would be important to understand individual variation in susceptibility to joint injuries and diseases and in one's suitable and effective postures and motions.

Hand kinematics of piano playing

PubMed Central

Flanders, Martha; Soechting, John F.

2011-01-01

Dexterous use of the hand represents a sophisticated sensorimotor function. In behaviors such as playing the piano, it can involve strong temporal and spatial constraints. The purpose of this study was to determine fundamental patterns of covariation of motion across joints and digits of the human hand. Joint motion was recorded while 5 expert pianists played 30 excerpts from musical pieces, which featured ∼50 different tone sequences and fingering. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis using an expectation-maximization algorithm revealed that joint velocities could be categorized into several patterns, which help to simplify the description of the movements of the multiple degrees of freedom of the hand. For the thumb keystroke, two distinct patterns of joint movement covariation emerged and they depended on the spatiotemporal patterns of the task. For example, the thumb-under maneuver was clearly separated into two clusters based on the direction of hand translation along the keyboard. While the pattern of the thumb joint velocities differed between these clusters, the motions at the metacarpo-phalangeal and proximal-phalangeal joints of the four fingers were more consistent. For a keystroke executed with one of the fingers, there were three distinct patterns of joint rotations, across which motion at the striking finger was fairly consistent, but motion of the other fingers was more variable. Furthermore, the amount of movement spillover of the striking finger to the adjacent fingers was small irrespective of the finger used for the keystroke. These findings describe an unparalleled amount of independent motion of the fingers. PMID:21880938

Active tactile sampling by an insect in a step-climbing paradigm

PubMed Central

Krause, André F.; Dürr, Volker

2012-01-01

Many insects actively explore their near-range environment with their antennae. Stick insects (Carausius morosus) rhythmically move their antennae during walking and respond to antennal touch by repetitive tactile sampling of the object. Despite its relevance for spatial orientation, neither the spatial sampling patterns nor the kinematics of antennation behavior in insects are understood. Here we investigate unrestrained bilateral sampling movements during climbing of steps. The main objectives are: (1) How does the antennal contact pattern relate to particular object features? (2) How are the antennal joints coordinated during bilateral tactile sampling? We conducted motion capture experiments on freely climbing insects, using steps of different height. Tactile sampling was analyzed at the level of antennal joint angles. Moreover, we analyzed contact patterns on the surfaces of both the obstacle and the antenna itself. Before the first contact, both antennae move in a broad, mostly elliptical exploratory pattern. After touching the obstacle, the pattern switches to a narrower and faster movement, caused by higher cycle frequencies and lower cycle amplitudes in all joints. Contact events were divided into wall- and edge-contacts. Wall contacts occurred mostly with the distal third of the flagellum, which is flexible, whereas edge contacts often occurred proximally, where the flagellum is stiff. The movement of both antennae was found to be coordinated, exhibiting bilateral coupling of functionally analogous joints [e.g., left head-scape (HS) joint with right scape-pedicel (SP) joint] throughout tactile sampling. In comparison, bilateral coupling between homologous joints (e.g., both HS joints) was significantly weaker. Moreover, inter-joint coupling was significantly weaker during the contact episode than before. In summary, stick insects show contact-induced changes in frequency, amplitude and inter-joint coordination during tactile sampling of climbed obstacles. PMID:22754513

Geo-located Twitter as proxy for global mobility patterns.

PubMed

Hawelka, Bartosz; Sitko, Izabela; Beinat, Euro; Sobolevsky, Stanislav; Kazakopoulos, Pavlos; Ratti, Carlo

2014-05-27

Pervasive presence of location-sharing services made it possible for researchers to gain an unprecedented access to the direct records of human activity in space and time. This article analyses geo-located Twitter messages in order to uncover global patterns of human mobility. Based on a dataset of almost a billion tweets recorded in 2012, we estimate the volume of international travelers by country of residence. Mobility profiles of different nations were examined based on such characteristics as mobility rate, radius of gyration, diversity of destinations, and inflow-outflow balance. Temporal patterns disclose the universally valid seasons of increased international mobility and the particular character of international travels of different nations. Our analysis of the community structure of the Twitter mobility network reveals spatially cohesive regions that follow the regional division of the world. We validate our result using global tourism statistics and mobility models provided by other authors and argue that Twitter is exceptionally useful for understanding and quantifying global mobility patterns.

Biomechanical effects of mobile computer location in a vehicle cab.

PubMed

Saginus, Kyle A; Marklin, Richard W; Seeley, Patricia; Simoneau, Guy G; Freier, Stephen

2011-10-01

The objective of this research is to determine the best location to place a conventional mobile computer supported by a commercially available mount in a light truck cab. U.S. and Canadian electric utility companies are in the process of integrating mobile computers into their fleet vehicle cabs. There are no publications on the effect of mobile computer location in a vehicle cab on biomechanical loading, performance, and subjective assessment. The authors tested four locations of mobile computers in a light truck cab in a laboratory study to determine how location affected muscle activity of the lower back and shoulders; joint angles of the shoulders, elbows, and wrist; user performance; and subjective assessment. A total of 22 participants were tested in this study. Placing the mobile computer closer to the steering wheel reduced low back and shoulder muscle activity. Joint angles of the shoulders, elbows, and wrists were also closer to neutral angle. Biomechanical modeling revealed substantially less spinal compression and trunk muscle force. In general, there were no practical differences in performance between the locations. Subjective assessment indicated that users preferred the mobile computer to be as close as possible to the steering wheel. Locating the mobile computer close to the steering wheel reduces risk of injuries, such as low back pain and shoulder tendonitis. Results from the study can guide electric utility companies in the installation of mobile computers into vehicle cabs. Results may also be generalized to other industries that use trucklike vehicles, such as construction.

A mobile concrete laboratory to support quality concrete, technology transfer, and training.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-07-01

This report is a summary of work performed by the Mobile Infrastructure Materials Testing Laboratory (MIMTL) as a part of the Joint : Transportation Research Program (JTRP) through SPR-3858. The development of the MIMTL began in February of 2014 and ...

The Rationale for Joint Mobilization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burkhardt, Sandy

This paper presents an overview of the functions of connective tissue and the mechanisms of joint injury and contracture formation in relation to therapeutic exercise. The components of connective tissue operation are explained, including fibroblasts, macrophages, plasma cells, and collagen. An examination of the histology of connective tissue as…

A Heuristic Approach to the Theater Distribution Problem

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-27

outstanding guidance on this thesis research as well as the introduction to joint mobility modeling in OPER 674 which sparked my interest in this area of...32 xi List of Acronyms Acronym Definition AMP Analysis of Mobility Platform DARP Dial-A-Ride problem...tabu SMM Strategic Mobility Modeling TDD time definite delivery TDM Theater Distribution Model TDP Theater Distribution Problem TPFDD Time Phased Force

Effect of intraarticular tramadol administration in the rat model of knee joint inflammation.

PubMed

Garlicki, Jarosław; Dorazil-Dudzik, Magdalena; Wordliczek, Jerzy; Przewłocka, Barbara

2006-01-01

Local administration of exogenous opioids may cause effective analgesia without adverse symptoms from the central nervous system. Experiments show that peripheral antinociceptive effect of opioids is observed especially in inflammatory pain. The aim of the research was to estimate the effect of tramadol on nociceptive process at the level of peripheral nervous system, after its local administration in the model of knee joint inflammation. Tramadol was administered intraarticulary into the rat knee joint, before the inflammation as a preemptive analgesia and, for comparison, after the intraarticular injection of carrageenan. The research determined the influence of tramadol injection on pain threshold for thermal stimuli, development of inflammatory processes using the measurement of joint edema and motor function following the induction of knee joint inflammation in the rat. Functional assessment of knee joint with inflammation, in terms of rats' mobility and body position as well as joint loading and mobility were studied. The results of the experiments show that local administration of tramadol induces antinociceptive effect. The effect of tramadol, which elicits also a decrease in inflammatory edema, appears not only after its administration after carrageenan when inflammation was already present, but also in the case of its injection prior to carrageenan in the scheme of preemptive analgesia. The results of the described research show that not only morphine but also another opioid, tramadol, widely used in clinical practice, inhibits nociception, edema and functional impairment of the paw after its local application directly to the inflamed knee joint.

Understanding the spreading patterns of mobile phone viruses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Pu; Gonzalez, Marta; Hidalgo, Cesar; Barabasi, Albert-Laszlo

2009-03-01

Mobile viruses are little more than a nuisance today, but given our increased reliance on wireless communication, in the near future they could pose more risk than their PC based counterparts. Despite of the more than three hundred mobile viruses known so far, little is known about their spreading pattern, partly due to a lack of data on the communication and travel patterns of mobile phone users. Starting from the traffic and the communication pattern of six million mobile phone users, we model the vulnerability of mobile communications against potential virus outbreaks. We show that viruses exploiting Bluetooth and multimedia messaging services (MMS) follow markedly different spreading patterns. The Bluetooth virus can reach all susceptible handsets, but spreads relatively slowly, as its spread is driven by human mobility. In contrast, an MMS virus can spread rapidly, but because the underlying social network is fragmented, it can reach only a small fraction of all susceptible users. This difference affects both their spreading rate, the number of infected users, as well as the defense measures one needs to take to protect the system against potential viral outbreak.

Joint stiffness and running economy during imposed forefoot strike before and after a long run in rearfoot strike runners.

PubMed

Melcher, Daniel A; Paquette, Max R; Schilling, Brian K; Bloomer, Richard J

2017-12-01

Research has focused on the effects of acute strike pattern modifications on lower extremity joint stiffness and running economy (RE). Strike pattern modifications on running biomechanics have mostly been studied while runners complete short running bouts. This study examined the effects of an imposed forefoot strike (FFS) on RE and ankle and knee joint stiffness before and after a long run in habitual rearfoot strike (RFS) runners. Joint kinetics and RE were collected before and after a long run. Sagittal joint kinetics were computed from kinematic and ground reaction force data that were collected during over-ground running trials in 13 male runners. RE was measured during treadmill running. Knee flexion range of motion, knee extensor moment and ankle joint stiffness were lower while plantarflexor moment and knee joint stiffness were greater during imposed FFS compared with RFS. The long run did not influence the difference in ankle and knee joint stiffness between strike patterns. Runners were more economical during RFS than imposed FFS and RE was not influenced by the long run. These findings suggest that using a FFS pattern towards the end of a long run may not be mechanically or metabolically beneficial for well-trained male RFS runners.

Joint Mobile Data Collection and Wireless Energy Transfer in Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks.

PubMed

Zhong, Ping; Li, Ya-Ting; Liu, Wei-Rong; Duan, Gui-Hua; Chen, Ying-Wen; Xiong, Neal

2017-08-16

In wireless rechargeable sensor networks (WRSNs), there is a way to use mobile vehicles to charge node and collect data. It is a rational pattern to use two types of vehicles, one is for energy charging, and the other is for data collecting. These two types of vehicles, data collection vehicles (DCVs) and wireless charging vehicles (WCVs), are employed to achieve high efficiency in both data gathering and energy consumption. To handle the complex scheduling problem of multiple vehicles in large-scale networks, a twice-partition algorithm based on center points is proposed to divide the network into several parts. In addition, an anchor selection algorithm based on the tradeoff between neighbor amount and residual energy, named AS-NAE, is proposed to collect the zonal data. It can reduce the data transmission delay and the energy consumption for DCVs' movement in the zonal. Besides, we design an optimization function to achieve maximum data throughput by adjusting data rate and link rate of each node. Finally, the effectiveness of proposed algorithm is validated by numerical simulation results in WRSNs.

Joint Mobile Data Collection and Wireless Energy Transfer in Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Li, Ya-Ting; Liu, Wei-Rong; Duan, Gui-Hua; Chen, Ying-Wen

2017-01-01

In wireless rechargeable sensor networks (WRSNs), there is a way to use mobile vehicles to charge node and collect data. It is a rational pattern to use two types of vehicles, one is for energy charging, and the other is for data collecting. These two types of vehicles, data collection vehicles (DCVs) and wireless charging vehicles (WCVs), are employed to achieve high efficiency in both data gathering and energy consumption. To handle the complex scheduling problem of multiple vehicles in large-scale networks, a twice-partition algorithm based on center points is proposed to divide the network into several parts. In addition, an anchor selection algorithm based on the tradeoff between neighbor amount and residual energy, named AS-NAE, is proposed to collect the zonal data. It can reduce the data transmission delay and the energy consumption for DCVs’ movement in the zonal. Besides, we design an optimization function to achieve maximum data throughput by adjusting data rate and link rate of each node. Finally, the effectiveness of proposed algorithm is validated by numerical simulation results in WRSNs. PMID:28813029

An Exploratory Examination of the Association Between Altered Lumbar Motor Control, Joint Mobility and Low Back Pain in Athletes

PubMed Central

Corkery, Marie B.; O’Rourke, Brittany; Viola, Samantha; Yen, Sheng-Che; Rigby, Joseph; Singer, Kevin; Thomas, Adam

2014-01-01

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common cause of lost playing time and can be a challenging clinical condition in competitive athletes. LBP in athletes may be associated with joint and ligamentous hypermobility and impairments in activation and coordination of the trunk musculature, however there is limited research in this area. Objectives: To determine if there is an association between altered lumbar motor control, joint mobility and low back pain (LBP) in a sample of athletes. Materials and Methods: Fifteen athletes with LBP were matched by age, gender and body mass index (BMI) with controls without LBP. Athletes completed a questionnaire with questions pertaining to demographics, activity level, medical history, need to self-manipulate their spine, pain intensity and location. Flexibility and lumbar motor control were assessed using: active and passive straight leg raise, lumbar range of motion (ROM), hip internal rotation ROM (HIR), Beighton ligamentous laxity scale, prone instability test (PIT), observation of lumbar aberrant movements, double leg lowering and Trendelenburg tests. Descriptive statistics were compiled and the chi square test was used to analyze results. Results: Descriptive statistics showed that 40% of athletes with LBP exhibited aberrant movements (AM), compared to 6% without LBP. 66% of athletes with LBP reported frequently self-manipulating their spine compared to 40% without LBP. No significant differences in motor control tests were found between groups. Athletes with LBP tended to have less lumbar flexion (63 ± 11°) compared to those without LBP (66 ± 13°). Chi-Square tests revealed that the AM were more likely to be present in athletes with LBP than those without (X2 = 4.66, P = 0.03). Conclusions: The presence of aberrant movement patterns is a significant clinical finding and associated with LBP in athletes. PMID:25741418

Potential effect modifiers of the association between physical activity patterns and joint symptoms in middle aged women.

PubMed

Peeters, Geeske; Edwards, Kimberley L; Brown, Wendy J; Barker, Anna L; Arden, Nigel; Redmond, Anthony C; Conaghan, Philip G; Cicuttini, Flavia; Mishra, Gita D

2017-12-06

To examine whether body mass index (BMI), menopausal status and hormone therapy (HT) use modify the association between physical activity (PA) patterns throughout middle age and incidence and prevalence of joint symptoms in later middle age in women. Data were from 6661 participants (born 1946-1951) in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Surveys were completed every three years from 1998 to 2010 with questions on joint pain and stiffness, PA, height and weight, menopausal symptoms, and HT use. PA patterns were defined as 'none-or-low', 'low-or-meeting-guidelines', 'fluctuating' or 'meeting guidelines-at-all-times' (reference pattern). Logistic regression was used to examine the association between PA patterns and prevalent (in 2010) and cumulative incident (1998-2010) joint symptoms and effect modification by patterns of BMI, menopausal status and HT. The groups representing 'fluctuating' (odds ratio [OR]=1.34, 99% confidence interval [CI]=1.04-1.72) and 'none-or-low' physical activity (OR=1.60, CI =1.08-2.35) had higher odds of incident joint symptoms than those 'meeting guidelines-at-all-times'. Stratification by BMI showed that this association was statistically significant in the obese group only. No evidence was found for effect modification by menopausal status or HT use. The findings were similar for prevalent joint symptoms. Maintaining at least low levels of physical activity throughout middle age was associated with lower prevalence and incidence of joint symptoms in later life. This apparent protective effect of physical activity on joint symptoms was stronger in obese women than in under or normal weight women, and not related to menopause and HT status. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Effect of low back pain on the kinematics and joint coordination of the lumbar spine and hip during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit.

PubMed

Shum, Gary L K; Crosbie, Jack; Lee, Raymond Y W

2005-09-01

Experimental study to describe lumbar spine and hip joint movements during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit. To examine differences in the kinematics and joint coordination of the lumbar spine and hips during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit between healthy subjects and patients with subacute low back pain (LBP). There is a paucity of information on the coordination of movements of lumbar spine and hips during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit. The effect of LBP, with or without nerve root signs, is largely unknown. A three-dimensional real-time electromagnetic tracking device was used to measure movements of the lumbar spine and hips during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit. Sixty subacute LBP participants with or without straight leg raise signs and 20 healthy asymptomatic participants were recruited. The kinematic patterns of lumbar spine and hips were analyzed. Coordination between the two joints was studied by relative phase angle analysis. The mobility of the spine and hips was significantly limited in back pain subjects. It was observed that LBP subjects employed various strategies to compensate for the limited motions at the hips and lumbar spine. The contribution of the lumbar spine relative to that of the hip was found to be reduced for subjects with LBP. The lumbar spine-hip joint coordination was significantly altered in back pain subjects, in particular, those with positive straight leg raise sign. Back pain was related to changes in the kinematics and coordination of the lumbar spine and hips during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit. Assessment of back pain patients should include kinematic analysis of the hips as well as the spine.

Integrating Joint Intratheater Airlift Command and Control with the Needs of the Modular Army: A Perspective of Current and Past Nonlinear Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-13

Mobility Division AMLO Air Mobility Liaison Officer AMR Air Movement Request AO Area of Operations AOC Air and Space Operations Center BAE...those forces and by doctrine can only advise the AOC Director. Adding to this confused chain of command, the Air Mobility Liaison Officers ( AMLO ...there is not a commander of airlift forces and the AMLO typically answers to Air Mobility Command’s (AMC) 18th Air Force Commander when deployed to

Peripheral and spinal activation of cannabinoid receptors by joint mobilization alleviates postoperative pain in mice.

PubMed

Martins, D F; Mazzardo-Martins, L; Cidral-Filho, F J; Gadotti, V M; Santos, A R S

2013-01-01

The present study was undertaken to investigate the relative contribution of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) subtypes and to analyze cannabimimetic mechanisms involved in the inhibition of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol degradation on the antihyperalgesic effect of ankle joint mobilization (AJM). Mice (25-35g) were subjected to plantar incision (PI) and 24h after surgery animals received the following treatments, AJM for 9min, AEA (10mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.]), WIN 55,212-2 (1.5mg/kg, i.p.), URB937 (0.01-1mg/kg, i.p.; a fatty acid amide hydrolase [FAAH] inhibitor) or JZL184 (0.016-16mg/kg, i.p.; a monoacylglycerol lipase [MAGL] inhibitor). Withdrawal frequency to mechanical stimuli was assessed 24h after PI and at different time intervals after treatments. Receptor specificity was investigated using selective CB1R (AM281) and CB2R (AM630) antagonists. In addition, the effect of the FAAH and MAGL inhibitors on the antihyperalgesic action of AJM was investigated. AJM, AEA, WIN 55,212-2, URB937 and JZL184 decreased mechanical hyperalgesia induced by PI. The antihyperalgesic effect of AJM was reversed by pretreatment with AM281 given by intraperitoneal and intrathecal routes, but not intraplantarly. Additionally, intraperitoneal and intraplantar, but not intrathecal administration of AM630 blocked AJM-induced antihyperalgesia. Interestingly, in mice pretreated with FAAH or the MAGL inhibitor the antihyperalgesic effect of AJM was significantly longer. This article presents data addressing the CBR mechanisms underlying the antihyperalgesic activity of joint mobilization as well as of the endocannabinoid catabolic enzyme inhibitors in the mouse postoperative pain model. Joint mobilization and these enzymes offer potential targets to treat postoperative pain. Copyright © 2013 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review.

PubMed

Cheatham, Scott W; Lee, Matt; Cain, Matt; Baker, Russell

2016-09-01

Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a popular treatment for myofascial restriction. IASTM uses specially designed instruments to provide a mobilizing effect to scar tissue and myofascial adhesions. Several IASTM tools and techniques are available such as the Graston® technique. Currently, there are no systematic reviews that have specifically appraised the effects of IASTM as a treatment or to enhance joint range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study was to systematically appraise the current evidence assessing the effects of IASTM as an intervention to treat a musculoskeletal pathology or to enhance joint ROM. A search of the literature was conducted during the month of December 2015 which included the following databases: PubMed, PEDro, Science Direct, and the EBSCOhost collection. A direct search of known journals was also conducted to identify potential publications. The search terms included individual or a combination of the following: instrument; assisted; augmented; soft-tissue; mobilization; Graston®; and technique. A total of 7 randomized controlled trials were appraised. Five of the studies measured an IASTM intervention versus a control or alternate intervention group for a musculoskeletal pathology. The results of the studies were insignificant (p>.05) with both groups displaying equal outcomes. Two studies measured an IASTM intervention versus a control or alternate intervention group on the effects of joint ROM. The IASTM intervention produced significant (P<.05) short term gains up to 24 hours. The literature measuring the effects of IASTM is still emerging. The current research has indicated insignificant results which challenges the efficacy of IASTM as a treatment for common musculoskeletal pathology, which may be due to the methodological variability among studies. There appears to be some evidence supporting its ability to increase short term joint ROM.

Sensory-Targeted Ankle Rehabilitation Strategies for Chronic Ankle Instability.

PubMed

McKeon, Patrick O; Wikstrom, Erik A

2016-05-01

Deficient sensory input from damaged ankle ligament receptors is thought to contribute to sensorimotor deficits in those with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Targeting other viable sensory receptors may then enhance sensorimotor control in these patients. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of 2 wk of sensory-targeted ankle rehabilitation strategies (STARS) on patient- and clinician-oriented outcomes in those with CAI. Eighty patients with self-reported CAI participated. All patients completed patient-oriented questionnaires capturing self-reported function as well as the weight-bearing lunge test and an eyes-closed single-limb balance test. After baseline testing, patients were randomly allocated to four STARS groups: joint mobilization, plantar massage, triceps surae stretching, or control. Each patient in the intervention groups received six 5-min treatments of their respective STARS over 2 wk. All subjects were reassessed on patient- and clinician-oriented measures immediately after the intervention and completed a 1-month follow-up that consisted of patient-oriented measures. Change scores of the three STARS groups were compared with the control using independent t-tests and Hedges' g effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals. The joint mobilization group had the greatest weight-bearing lunge test improvement. Plantar massage had the most meaningful single-limb balance improvement. All STARS groups improved patient-oriented outcomes with joint mobilization having the most meaningful effect immediately after the intervention and plantar massage at the 1-month follow-up. Each STARS treatment offers unique contributions to the patient- and clinician-oriented rehabilitation outcomes of those with CAI. Both joint mobilization and plantar massage appear to demonstrate the greatest potential to improve sensorimotor function in those with CAI.

Student Mobility and Doctoral Education in South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sehoole, Chika Trevor

2011-01-01

This article analyses doctoral education programmes in South Africa with a particular focus on student mobility. It investigates pull and push factors as a conceptual framework, arguing that the patterns of student mobility in doctoral education programmes in South Africa follow the patterns of international student mobility elsewhere, which are…

Dynamic Mobility Applications Policy Analysis: Policy and Institutional Issues for Integrated Dynamic Transit Operations (IDTO). [supporting datasets

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-01-27

The datasets in this zip file are in support of Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) report FHWA-JPO-14-134, "Dynamic Mobility Applications Policy Analysis: Policy and Institutional Issues for Integrated Dynamic Transit O...

The effects of range-of-motion therapy on the plantar pressures of patients with diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Goldsmith, Jon R; Lidtke, Roy H; Shott, Susan

2002-10-01

A randomized controlled study of 19 patients with diabetes mellitus (10 men, 9 women) was undertaken to determine the effects of home exercise therapy on joint mobility and plantar pressures. Of the 19 subjects, 9 subjects performed unsupervised active and passive range-of-motion exercises of the joints in their feet. Each subject was evaluated for joint stiffness and peak plantar pressures at the beginning and conclusion of the study. After only 1 month of therapy, a statistically significant average decrease of 4.2% in peak plantar pressures was noted in the subjects performing the range-of-motion exercises. In the control group, an average increase of 4.4% in peak plantar pressures was noted. Although the joint mobility data revealed no statistically significant differences between the groups, there was a trend for a decrease in joint stiffness in the treatment group. The results of this study demonstrate that an unsupervised range-of-motion exercise program can reduce peak plantar pressures in the diabetic foot. Given that high plantar pressures have been linked to diabetic neuropathic ulceration, it may be possible to reduce the risk of such ulceration with this therapy.

An equilibrium-point model of electromyographic patterns during single-joint movements based on experimentally reconstructed control signals.

PubMed

Latash, M L; Goodman, S R

1994-01-01

The purpose of this work has been to develop a model of electromyographic (EMG) patterns during single-joint movements based on a version of the equilibrium-point hypothesis, a method for experimental reconstruction of the joint compliant characteristics, the dual-strategy hypothesis, and a kinematic model of movement trajectory. EMG patterns are considered emergent properties of hypothetical control patterns that are equally affected by the control signals and peripheral feedback reflecting actual movement trajectory. A computer model generated the EMG patterns based on simulated movement kinematics and hypothetical control signals derived from the reconstructed joint compliant characteristics. The model predictions have been compared to published recordings of movement kinematics and EMG patterns in a variety of movement conditions, including movements over different distances, at different speeds, against different-known inertial loads, and in conditions of possible unexpected decrease in the inertial load. Changes in task parameters within the model led to simulated EMG patterns qualitatively similar to the experimentally recorded EMG patterns. The model's predictive power compares it favourably to the existing models of the EMG patterns. Copyright © 1994. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

From BASE-ASIA Toward 7-SEAS: A Satellite-Surface Perspective of Boreal Spring Biomass-Burning Aerosols and Clouds in Southeast Asia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsay, Si-Chee; Hsu, N. Christina; Lau, William K.-M.; Li, Can; Gabriel, Philip M.; Ji, Qiang; Holben, Brent N.; Welton, E. Judd; Nguyen, Anh X.; Janjai, Serm;

Early self-managed focal sensorimotor rehabilitative training enhances functional mobility and sensorimotor function in patients following total knee replacement: a controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Moutzouri, Maria; Gleeson, Nigel; Coutts, Fiona; Tsepis, Elias; John, Gliatis

2018-02-01

To assess the effects of early self-managed focal sensorimotor training compared to functional exercise training after total knee replacement on functional mobility and sensorimotor function. A single-blind controlled clinical trial. University Hospital of Rion, Greece. A total of 52 participants following total knee replacement. The primary outcome was the Timed Up and Go Test and the secondary outcomes were balance, joint position error, the Knee Outcome Survey Activities of Daily Living Scale, and pain. Patients were assessed on three separate occasions (presurgery, 8 weeks post surgery, and 14 weeks post surgery). Participants were randomized to either focal sensorimotor exercise training (experimental group) or functional exercise training (control group). Both groups received a 12-week home-based programme prescribed for 3-5 sessions/week (35-45 minutes). Consistently greater improvements ( F 2,98  = 4.3 to 24.8; P < 0.05) in group mean scores favour the experimental group compared to the control group: Timed Up and Go (7.8 ± 2.9 seconds vs. 4.6 ± 2.6 seconds); balance (2.1 ± 0.9° vs. 0.7 ± 1.2°); joint position error (13.8 ± 7.3° vs. 6.2 ± 9.1°); Knee Outcome Survey Activities of Daily Living Scale (44.2 ± 11.3 vs. 26.1 ± 11.4); and pain (5.9 ± 1.3 cm vs. 4.6 ± 1.1 cm). Patterns of improvement for the experimental group over time were represented by a relative effect size range of 1.3-6.5. Overall, the magnitude of improvements in functional mobility and sensorimotor function endorses using focal sensorimotor training as an effective mode of rehabilitation following knee replacement.

Multi-optimization Criteria-based Robot Behavioral Adaptability and Motion Planning

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pin, Francois G.

2002-06-01

Robotic tasks are typically defined in Task Space (e.g., the 3-D World), whereas robots are controlled in Joint Space (motors). The transformation from Task Space to Joint Space must consider the task objectives (e.g., high precision, strength optimization, torque optimization), the task constraints (e.g., obstacles, joint limits, non-holonomic constraints, contact or tool task constraints), and the robot kinematics configuration (e.g., tools, type of joints, mobile platform, manipulator, modular additions, locked joints). Commercially available robots are optimized for a specific set of tasks, objectives and constraints and, therefore, their control codes are extremely specific to a particular set of conditions. Thus,more » there exist a multiplicity of codes, each handling a particular set of conditions, but none suitable for use on robots with widely varying tasks, objectives, constraints, or environments. On the other hand, most DOE missions and tasks are typically ''batches of one''. Attempting to use commercial codes for such work requires significant personnel and schedule costs for re-programming or adding code to the robots whenever a change in task objective, robot configuration, number and type of constraint, etc. occurs. The objective of our project is to develop a ''generic code'' to implement this Task-space to Joint-Space transformation that would allow robot behavior adaptation, in real time (at loop rate), to changes in task objectives, number and type of constraints, modes of controls, kinematics configuration (e.g., new tools, added module). Our specific goal is to develop a single code for the general solution of under-specified systems of algebraic equations that is suitable for solving the inverse kinematics of robots, is useable for all types of robots (mobile robots, manipulators, mobile manipulators, etc.) with no limitation on the number of joints and the number of controlled Task-Space variables, can adapt to real time changes in number and type of constraints and in task objectives, and can adapt to changes in kinematics configurations (change of module, change of tool, joint failure adaptation, etc.).« less

Different knee joint loading patterns in ACL deficient copers and non-copers during walking.

PubMed

Alkjær, Tine; Henriksen, Marius; Simonsen, Erik B

2011-04-01

Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) causes changes in the walking pattern. ACL deficient subjects classified as copers and non-copers have been observed to adopt different post-injury walking patterns. How these different patterns affect the knee compression and shear forces is unresolved. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate how different walking patterns observed between copers, non-copers, and controls affect the knee compression and shear forces during walking. Three-dimensional gait analyses were performed in copers (n = 9), non-copers (n = 10), and control subjects (n =19). The net knee joint moment, knee joint reaction forces, and the sagittal knee joint angle were input parameters to a biomechanical model that assessed the knee compression and shear forces. The results showed that the non-copers walked with significantly reduced knee compression and shear forces than the controls. The overall knee compression force pattern was similar between the copers and controls, although this variable was significantly increased at heel strike in the copers compared to both non-copers and controls. The peak shear force was significantly dependent on the peak knee extensor moment. This covariance was significantly different between groups meaning that at a given knee extensor moment the shear force was significantly reduced in the copers compared to controls. The different knee joint loading patterns observed between non-copers and copers reflected the different walking strategies adopted by these groups, which may have implications for the knee joint stability. The strategy adopted by the copers may resemble an effective way to stabilize the knee joint during walking after an ACL rupture and that the knee kinematics may play a key role for this strategy. It is clinically relevant to investigate if gait retraining would enable non-copers to walk as copers and thereby improve their knee joint stability.

Analysis and testing of a space crane articulating joint testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutter, Thomas R.; Wu, K. Chauncey

1992-01-01

The topics are presented in viewgraph form and include: space crane concept with mobile base; mechanical versus structural articulating joint; articulating joint test bed and reference truss; static and dynamic characterization completed for space crane reference truss configuration; improved linear actuators reduce articulating joint test bed backlash; 1-DOF space crane slew maneuver; boom 2 tip transient response finite element dynamic model; boom 2 tip transient response shear-corrected component modes torque driver profile; peak root member force vs. slew time torque driver profile; and open loop control of space crane motion.

Does ankle joint power reflect type of muscle action of soleus and gastrocnemius during walking in cats and humans?

PubMed

Cronin, Neil J; Prilutsky, Boris I; Lichtwark, Glen A; Maas, Huub

2013-04-26

The main objective of this paper is to highlight the difficulties of identifying shortening and lengthening contractions based on analysis of power produced by resultant joint moments. For that purpose, we present net ankle joint powers and muscle fascicle/muscle-tendon unit (MTU) velocities for medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (SO) muscles during walking in species of different size (humans and cats). For the cat, patterns of ankle joint power and MTU velocity of MG and SO during stance were similar: negative power (ankle moment×angular velocity<0), indicating absorption of mechanical energy, was associated with MTU lengthening, and positive power (generation of mechanical energy) was found during MTU shortening. This was also found for the general fascicle velocity pattern in SO. In contrast, substantial differences between ankle joint power and fascicle velocity patterns were observed for MG muscle. In humans, like cats, the patterns of ankle joint power and MTU velocity of SO and MG were similar. Unlike the cat, there were substantial differences between patterns of fascicle velocity and ankle joint power during stance in both muscles. These results indicate that during walking, only a small fraction of mechanical work of the ankle moment is either generated or absorbed by the muscle fascicles, thus confirming the contribution of in-series elastic structures and/or energy transfer via two-joint muscles. We conclude that ankle joint negative power does not necessarily indicate eccentric action of muscle fibers and that positive power cannot be exclusively attributed to muscle concentric action, especially in humans. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

ANYmal - A Highly Mobile and Dynamic Quadrupedal Robot

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-09

ANYmal - A Highly Mobile and Dynamic Quadrupedal Robot * Marco Hutter1, Christian Gehring2, Dominic Jud1, Andreas Lauber1, C. Dario Bellicoso1...Abstract— This paper introduces ANYmal, a quadrupedal robot that features outstanding mobility and dynamic motion capability. Thanks to novel...compliant joint modules with integrated electronics, the 30 kg, 0.5 m tall robotic dog is torque controllable and very robust against impulsive loads during

Longitudinal patient-reported mobility assessment in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).

PubMed

Kaplan, Frederick S; Al Mukaddam, Mona; Pignolo, Robert J

2018-04-01

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare, disabling genetic disorder characterized by episodic soft tissue swelling (flare-ups) that leads to progressive heterotopic ossification and restricted joint mobility. Here we present the first longitudinal patient-reported mobility assessment (PRMA) in FOP based on a simple evaluation tool. At initial presentation and follow-up (1-11year span; median: 6 year span), 64 patients (36 females; 28 males) with classic FOP completed a questionnaire designed to rapidly assess mobility at 15 sites (three axial; six upper limb, and six lower limb). In order to validate this instrument, twenty-one of 64 patients (33%) underwent a cumulative analogue joint involvement scale (CAJIS) evaluation by two physicians within six months of their second self-assessment. We found that: 1) mobility changes were episodic and regional, occurring first in the neck and trunk, followed by the upper limbs and finally the lower limbs; 2) interval improvements in mobility did occur, most notably in the lower limbs (18%), and less so in the upper limbs (12%) and trunk (3%), and 3) patient-reported mobility assessments correlate highly (R 2 =0.81) with physician-reported CAJIS evaluations. This is the first longitudinal PRMA in FOP and provides a simple and valid tool that can be used in the design and evaluation of clinical trials in this progressively disabling disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optical Energy Transfer and Conversion System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hogan, Bartholomew P. (Inventor); Stone, William C. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

An optical power transfer system comprising a fiber spooler, a fiber optic rotary joint mechanically connected to the fiber spooler, and an electrical power extraction subsystem connected to the fiber optic rotary joint with an optical waveguide. Optical energy is generated at and transferred from a base station through fiber wrapped around the spooler, through the rotary joint, and ultimately to the power extraction system at a remote mobility platform for conversion to another form of energy.

Energy optimization in mobile sensor networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Shengwei

Mobile sensor networks are considered to consist of a network of mobile robots, each of which has computation, communication and sensing capabilities. Energy efficiency is a critical issue in mobile sensor networks, especially when mobility (i.e., locomotion control), routing (i.e., communications) and sensing are unique characteristics of mobile robots for energy optimization. This thesis focuses on the problem of energy optimization of mobile robotic sensor networks, and the research results can be extended to energy optimization of a network of mobile robots that monitors the environment, or a team of mobile robots that transports materials from stations to stations in a manufacturing environment. On the energy optimization of mobile robotic sensor networks, our research focuses on the investigation and development of distributed optimization algorithms to exploit the mobility of robotic sensor nodes for network lifetime maximization. In particular, the thesis studies these five problems: 1. Network-lifetime maximization by controlling positions of networked mobile sensor robots based on local information with distributed optimization algorithms; 2. Lifetime maximization of mobile sensor networks with energy harvesting modules; 3. Lifetime maximization using joint design of mobility and routing; 4. Optimal control for network energy minimization; 5. Network lifetime maximization in mobile visual sensor networks. In addressing the first problem, we consider only the mobility strategies of the robotic relay nodes in a mobile sensor network in order to maximize its network lifetime. By using variable substitutions, the original problem is converted into a convex problem, and a variant of the sub-gradient method for saddle-point computation is developed for solving this problem. An optimal solution is obtained by the method. Computer simulations show that mobility of robotic sensors can significantly prolong the lifetime of the whole robotic sensor network while consuming negligible amount of energy for mobility cost. For the second problem, the problem is extended to accommodate mobile robotic nodes with energy harvesting capability, which makes it a non-convex optimization problem. The non-convexity issue is tackled by using the existing sequential convex approximation method, based on which we propose a novel procedure of modified sequential convex approximation that has fast convergence speed. For the third problem, the proposed procedure is used to solve another challenging non-convex problem, which results in utilizing mobility and routing simultaneously in mobile robotic sensor networks to prolong the network lifetime. The results indicate that joint design of mobility and routing has an edge over other methods in prolonging network lifetime, which is also the justification for the use of mobility in mobile sensor networks for energy efficiency purpose. For the fourth problem, we include the dynamics of the robotic nodes in the problem by modeling the networked robotic system using hybrid systems theory. A novel distributed method for the networked hybrid system is used to solve the optimal moving trajectories for robotic nodes and optimal network links, which are not answered by previous approaches. Finally, the fact that mobility is more effective in prolonging network lifetime for a data-intensive network leads us to apply our methods to study mobile visual sensor networks, which are useful in many applications. We investigate the joint design of mobility, data routing, and encoding power to help improving the video quality while maximizing the network lifetime. This study leads to a better understanding of the role mobility can play in data-intensive surveillance sensor networks.

Investigating Learner Preparedness for and Usage Patterns of Mobile Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stockwell, Glenn

2008-01-01

While the use of mobile devices for language learning has sparked the interest of an increasing number of researchers in recent years (e.g., Aizawa & Kiernan, 2003; Thornton & Houser, 2005), our knowledge of learners' preferences for the mobile platform and their usage patterns remains limited. Are learners prepared to use mobile phones…

75 FR 66420 - ITS Joint Program Office; IntelliDriveSM

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-28

... issues; details of the IntelliDrive program's open data environment and its open source mobility... host a free two-day public workshop to discuss the IntelliDrive\\SM\\ Real-Time Data Capture and... communicate with stakeholders interested in the data capture and dynamic mobility components of the Intelli...

Feasibility of an Air Liaison Officer Career Field: Improving the Theater Air-Ground System

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

for Plans and Operations ALO air liaison officer AMLO air mobility liaison officer ANG Air National Guard ASOC air support operations center ASOG air...liaison officers ( AMLOs ) to liaison elements at Army corps, division, and other jointly validated headquarters to provide air mobility liaison. 1

Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Preparations in Joint Airlock Quest

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-03-23

ISS018-E-042704 (23 March 2009) --- Astronaut Richard Arnold, STS-119 mission specialist, attired in his Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuit, gives a ?thumbs-up? signal as he prepares for the mission's third scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA) in the Quest Airlock of the International Space Station.

Mechanical Influences on Morphogenesis of the Knee Joint Revealed through Morphological, Molecular and Computational Analysis of Immobilised Embryos

PubMed Central

Roddy, Karen A.; Prendergast, Patrick J.; Murphy, Paula

2011-01-01

Very little is known about the regulation of morphogenesis in synovial joints. Mechanical forces generated from muscle contractions are required for normal development of several aspects of normal skeletogenesis. Here we show that biophysical stimuli generated by muscle contractions impact multiple events during chick knee joint morphogenesis influencing differential growth of the skeletal rudiment epiphyses and patterning of the emerging tissues in the joint interzone. Immobilisation of chick embryos was achieved through treatment with the neuromuscular blocking agent Decamethonium Bromide. The effects on development of the knee joint were examined using a combination of computational modelling to predict alterations in biophysical stimuli, detailed morphometric analysis of 3D digital representations, cell proliferation assays and in situ hybridisation to examine the expression of a selected panel of genes known to regulate joint development. This work revealed the precise changes to shape, particularly in the distal femur, that occur in an altered mechanical environment, corresponding to predicted changes in the spatial and dynamic patterns of mechanical stimuli and region specific changes in cell proliferation rates. In addition, we show altered patterning of the emerging tissues of the joint interzone with the loss of clearly defined and organised cell territories revealed by loss of characteristic interzone gene expression and abnormal expression of cartilage markers. This work shows that local dynamic patterns of biophysical stimuli generated from muscle contractions in the embryo act as a source of positional information guiding patterning and morphogenesis of the developing knee joint. PMID:21386908

VisitSense: Sensing Place Visit Patterns from Ambient Radio on Smartphones for Targeted Mobile Ads in Shopping Malls.

PubMed

Kim, Byoungjip; Kang, Seungwoo; Ha, Jin-Young; Song, Junehwa

2015-07-16

In this paper, we introduce a novel smartphone framework called VisitSense that automatically detects and predicts a smartphone user's place visits from ambient radio to enable behavioral targeting for mobile ads in large shopping malls. VisitSense enables mobile app developers to adopt visit-pattern-aware mobile advertising for shopping mall visitors in their apps. It also benefits mobile users by allowing them to receive highly relevant mobile ads that are aware of their place visit patterns in shopping malls. To achieve the goal, VisitSense employs accurate visit detection and prediction methods. For accurate visit detection, we develop a change-based detection method to take into consideration the stability change of ambient radio and the mobility change of users. It performs well in large shopping malls where ambient radio is quite noisy and causes existing algorithms to easily fail. In addition, we proposed a causality-based visit prediction model to capture the causality in the sequential visit patterns for effective prediction. We have developed a VisitSense prototype system, and a visit-pattern-aware mobile advertising application that is based on it. Furthermore, we deploy the system in the COEX Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Korea, and conduct diverse experiments to show the effectiveness of VisitSense.

[Meniscoids of the intervertebral joints].

PubMed

Kos, J; Hert, J; Sevcík, P

2002-01-01

A large amount of material was used to study the distribution, location and shape of meniscoids in intervertebral joints of the human spine, from the atlanto-occipital joint to the sacrum, in order to find out how many of intervertebral joints had mobile meniscoids. These might be regarded as possible causes of spinal blockade or other vertebrogenous complaints. The materials provided by the Department of Anatomy and Department of Forensic Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine of Charles University in Pilznen included 20 cadaverous spines from humans aged 20 to 80 years. Access to each joint was provided by dissection of the articular capsule from the lower articular processes of the vertebra situated above. In the orthograde view, all meniscoids were described in terms of shape, size, consistence and location. Their structure was ascertained by histological examination of cross sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Meniscoids varying in shape and size were found in all of the intervertebral joints. They were classified by their histological structure as synovial, fat and fibrous meniscoids. The first category was observed frequently, the last only rarely. A total of 29 mobile meniscoids were recorded, most of them in the lumbar spine. Most of the meniscoids present in the cervical spine were of synovial and less frequently of fat types. Meniscoids found in the thoracic spine were poorly developed synovial ones and those present in the lumbar spine were of all types and were also largest in size. The most conspicuous meniscoids were seen in the spines that showed degenerative changes in intervertebral joints. Large fat pads were found in atlanto-occipital and atlanto-axial joints. Mobile meniscoids, most of them present in the lumbar spine (6.4% of all joints.), were connected with the capsule by a thin pedicle and it was possible to move them over a half of the articular surface. Some inter-individual changes were also found; in some spines, the most developed meniscoids were fat pads, in the others, these were synovial meniscoids. Spines of younger individuals showed a predominance of synovial meniscoids with smooth surfaces that arched against the articular cavity. In spines of elderly individuals, meniscoids were rough, in some cases fibrous in structure, and had a lobulated or frayed edge. The shape, location of meniscoids and their presence in every joint indicate their definite role for the spine: they compensate the incongruence of articular surfaces, fill in empty spaces and facilitate spread of synovial fluid during translation movements. Variability in shape, size and location of meniscoids give support to the view that meniscoids developed secondarily in relation to the morphogenesis of articular surfaces and that they are fully adapted to the shape and function of the joint. Mobile meniscoids, particularly fibrous ones, can get wedged between articular surfaces due to a sudden, rush movement (entrapment theory) or can be caught between the edge of an articular surface and the articular capsule attachment (extrapment theory). This situation may result in either mechanical or functional blockade of the spine and a subsequent painful condition due to compression of nerves and reflex contraction of muscles. Direct evidence of such blockade and the validity of either hypothesis can today be provided by magnetic resonance imaging. All intervertebral joints, along the length of spine, possess capsule processes, i.e., meniscoids, which can be classified as synovial, fat and fibrous. Meniscoids are most developed in the lumbar and cervical spine. They serve to compensate for the incongruence of articular surfaces and to fill in empty spaces. Mobile, peduncular meniscoids can, at sudden or non-physiological movements, be caught between articular surfaces and cause spinal blockade and painful conditions. Manipulative treatment is, therefore, justified in indicated cases.

No Differences Identified in Transverse Plane Biomechanics Between Medial Pivot and Rotating Platform Total Knee Implant Designs.

PubMed

Papagiannis, Georgios I; Roumpelakis, Ilias M; Triantafyllou, Athanasios I; Makris, Ioannis N; Babis, George C

2016-08-01

Total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) using well-designed, fixed bearing prostheses, such as medial pivot (MP), have produced good long-term results. Rotating-platform, posterior-stabilized (RP-PS) mobile bearing implants were designed to decrease polyethylene wear. Sagittal and coronal plane TKA biomechanics are well examined and correlated to polyethylene wear. However, limited research findings describe this relationship in transverse plane. We assumed that although axial plane biomechanics might not be the most destructive parameters on polyethylene wear, it is important to clarify their role because both joint kinematics and kinetics in all 3 planes are important input parameters for TKA wear testing (International Organization for Standardization 14243-1 and 14343-3). Our hypothesis was that transverse plane overall range of motion (ROM) and/or peak moment show differences that reflect on wear advantages when compared RP-PS implants to MP designs. Two groups (MPs = 24 and RP-PSs = 22 subjects) were examined by using 3D gait analysis. The variables were total internal-external rotation (IER) ROM and peak IER moments. No statistically significant difference was demonstrated between the 2 groups in kinetics (P = .389) or kinematics (P = .275). In the present study, no wear advantages were found between 2 TKAs. Both designs showed identical kinetics at the transverse plane in level-ground walking. Kinematic analysis could not illustrate any statistically significant difference in terms of overall IER ROM. Nevertheless, kinematic gait pattern differences observed possibly reflect different patterns of joint surface motion or abnormal gait patterns. Thus, wear testing with various input waveforms combined with functional data analysis will be necessary to identify the actual effects of gait variability on polyethylene wear. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Saw injuries causing phalangeal neck fractures in adults.

PubMed

Al-Qattan, Mohammad M

2012-07-01

The outcome of adult phalangeal neck fractures caused by saws has not been previously investigated. Over a 15-year period, a total of 36 cases of saw-related injuries resulting in phalangeal neck fractures of the middle phalanx of the finger or the proximal phalanx of the thumb were treated. All injuries were industrial and covered by insurance. They were all adult males with type II fractures. The fracture were managed by K-wire fixation, immobilizing the distal joint only. The proximal joints were mobilized immediately after surgery and the K-wire was removed after 5 weeks. The following 2 patterns of saw injuries were observed: dorsal impact injuries resulting in a phalangeal neck fracture and concurrent extensor tendon injury (group I, n = 20 patients), and dorsolateral impact injuries resulting in concurrent extensor (± partial flexor) tendon and nerve injury (group II, n = 16 patients). The outcome with respect to range of motion and return to work was significantly better in the former group. Major complications such as nonunion, malunion, avascular necrosis of the phalangeal head, osteomyelitis, or contractures of the proximal interphalangeal joints were not observed. Two patients (1 in each group) had superficial pin-site infection. It was concluded that adult phalangeal neck fractures caused by saws is a separate entity from the previously reported series of closed phalangeal neck fractures in adults.

Interdependency of the maximum range of flexion-extension of hand metacarpophalangeal joints.

PubMed

Gracia-Ibáñez, V; Vergara, M; Sancho-Bru, J-L

2016-12-01

Mobility of the fingers metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints depends on the posture of the adjacent ones. Current Biomechanical hand models consider fixed ranges of movement at joints, regardless of the posture, thus allowing for non-realistic postures, generating wrong results in reach studies and forward dynamic analyses. This study provides data for more realistic hand models. The maximum voluntary extension (MVE) and flexion (MVF) of different combinations of MCP joints were measured covering their range of motion. Dependency of the MVF and MVE on the posture of the adjacent MCP joints was confirmed and mathematical models obtained through regression analyses (RMSE 7.7°).

Changes in co-contraction during stair descent after manual therapy protocol in knee osteoarthritis: A pilot, single-blind, randomized study.

PubMed

Cruz-Montecinos, Carlos; Flores-Cartes, Rodrigo; Montt-Rodriguez, Agustín; Pozo, Esteban; Besoaín-Saldaña, Alvaro; Horment-Lara, Giselle

2016-10-01

Manual therapy has shown clinical results in patients with knee osteoarthritis. However, the biomechanical aspects during functional tasks have not been explored in depth. Through surface electromyography, the medial and lateral co-contractions of the knee were measured while descending stairs, prior and posterior to applying a manual therapy protocol in the knee, with emphasis on techniques of joint mobilization and soft-tissue management. Sixteen females with slight or moderate knee osteoarthritis were recruited (eight experimental, eight control). It was observed that the lateral co-contraction index of the experimental group, posterior to intervention, increased by 11.7% (p = 0.014). The application of a manual therapy protocol with emphasis on techniques of joint mobilization and soft-tissue management modified lateral co-contraction, which would have a protective effect on the joint. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Monitoring Human Performance During Suited Operations: A Technology Feasibility Study Using EMU Gloves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bekdash, Omar; Norcross, Jason; McFarland, Shane

2015-01-01

Mobility tracking of human subjects while conducting suited operations still remains focused on the external movement of the suit and little is known about the human movement within it. For this study, accelerometers and bend sensitive resistors were integrated into a custom carrier glove to quantify range of motion and dexterity from within the pressurized glove environment as a first stage feasibility study of sensor hardware, integration, and reporting capabilities. Sensors were also placed on the exterior of the pressurized glove to determine if it was possible to compare a glove joint angle to the anatomical joint angle of the subject during tasks. Quantifying human movement within the suit was feasible, with accelerometers clearly detecting movements in the wrist and reporting expected joint angles at maximum flexion or extension postures with repeatability of plus or minus 5 degrees between trials. Bend sensors placed on the proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints performed less well. It was not possible to accurately determine the actual joint angle using these bend sensors, but these sensors could be used to determine when the joint was flexed to its maximum and provide a general range of mobility needed to complete a task. Further work includes additional testing with accelerometers and the possible inclusion of hardware such as magnetometers or gyroscopes to more precisely locate the joint in 3D space. We hope to eventually expand beyond the hand and glove and develop a more comprehensive suit sensor suite to characterize motion across more joints (knee, elbow, shoulder, etc.) and fully monitor the human body operating within the suit environment.

Deformity or dysfunction? Osteopathic manipulation of the idiopathic cavus foot: A clinical suggestion.

PubMed Central

Gidali, Adi; Harris, Valerie

2010-01-01

Observed gait abnormalities are often related to a variety of foot deformities such as the cavus foot, also known as pes cavus, cavovarus, uncompensated varus, and the high arched foot. When gait abnormalities related to cavus foot deformities produce symptoms or contribute to dysfunctional movement of the lower extremity, foot orthotics are commonly used to accommodate the deformity and optimize the function of the lower extremity. In more severe cases, surgical intervention is common. Hypomobility of the many joints of the foot and ankle may be mistaken as an idiopathic cavus foot deformity. As for any other limb segment suspected of musculoskeletal dysfunction, it is suggested that joint mobility testing and mobilization, if indicated, be attempted on the foot and ankle joints before assuming the presence of a bony cavus deformity. The purpose of this clinical suggestion is to describe the use of osteopathic manipulations of the foot and ankle in the context of an illustrative case of bilateral idiopathic cavus feet to demonstrate that apparent foot deformities may actually be joint hypomobility dysfunctions. PMID:21509155

Patterns of Mobile Technology Use in Teaching: The Teacher Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seifert, Tami

2016-01-01

The use of mobile learning spaces is an opportunity to break the boundaries of the classroom and to prepare teacher-educators and pre-service teachers for future school classes. The purpose of this study is to examine the implementation of mobile technology and usage patterns in the mobile technology space among lecturers in a teacher education…

Comparing the Social Knowledge Construction Behavioral Patterns of Problem-Based Online Asynchronous Discussion in E/M-Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lan, Yu-Feng; Tsai, Pei-Wei; Yang, Shih-Hsien; Hung, Chun-Ling

2012-01-01

In recent years, researchers have conducted various studies on applying wireless networking technology and mobile devices in education settings. However, research on behavioral patterns in learners' online asynchronous discussions with mobile devices is limited. The purposes of this study are to develop a mobile learning system, mobile interactive…

Staged lengthening arthroplasty for pediatric osteosarcoma around the knee.

PubMed

Kong, Chang-Bae; Lee, Soo-Yong; Jeon, Dae-Geun

2010-06-01

Orthopaedic oncologists often must address leg-length discrepancy after resection of tumors in growing patients with osteosarcoma. There are various alternatives to address this problem. We describe a three-stage procedure: (1) temporary arthrodesis, (2) lengthening by Ilizarov apparatus, and (3) tumor prosthesis. We asked (1) to what extent are affected limbs actually lengthened; (2) how many of the patients who undergo a lengthening procedure eventually achieve joint arthroplasty; and (3) can the three-stage procedure give patients a functioning joint with equalization of limb length? We reviewed 56 patients (younger than 14 years) with osteosarcoma who had staged lengthening arthroplasty between 1991 and 2004. Thirty-five of the 56 patients (63%) underwent soft tissue lengthening, and of these 35, 28 (50% of the original group of 56) had implantation of a mobile joint. Three of the 28 prostheses were later removed owing to infection after arthroplasty. The overall average length gained was 7.8 cm (range, 4-14 cm), and 25 (71%) of the 35 patients had a mobile joint at final followup. The average Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional score was 23.2 (range, 15-28) and limb-length discrepancy at final followup was 2.6 cm (range, 0-6.5 cm). Although most mobile joints had an acceptable ROM (average, 74.2 degrees ; range, 35 degrees -110 degrees ), extension lag was frequent. Our approach is one option for skeletally immature patients, especially in situations where an expandable prosthesis is not available. However, this technique requires multiple stages and would be inappropriate for patients who cannot accept prolonged functional deficit owing to a limited lifespan or other reasons. Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Alternatives to Contingency Response Group Organization: Tradeoffs to Balance Capability and Capacity

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-13

mobility liaison officers ( AMLOs ) aligned under them that have the mission of providing mobility expertise to Army and Marine Corps brigade and...division level commander. This paper will not address changes to the MSAS or AMLO organization, capability or capacity. Instead, this paper will examine...in the areas of enroute support, ABO, BPC, Air Mobility Division augmentation and AMLO capability (Joint Chiefs of Staff, 2013). In addition to four

Inferring human mobility using communication patterns.

PubMed

Palchykov, Vasyl; Mitrović, Marija; Jo, Hang-Hyun; Saramäki, Jari; Pan, Raj Kumar

2014-08-22

Understanding the patterns of mobility of individuals is crucial for a number of reasons, from city planning to disaster management. There are two common ways of quantifying the amount of travel between locations: by direct observations that often involve privacy issues, e.g., tracking mobile phone locations, or by estimations from models. Typically, such models build on accurate knowledge of the population size at each location. However, when this information is not readily available, their applicability is rather limited. As mobile phones are ubiquitous, our aim is to investigate if mobility patterns can be inferred from aggregated mobile phone call data alone. Using data released by Orange for Ivory Coast, we show that human mobility is well predicted by a simple model based on the frequency of mobile phone calls between two locations and their geographical distance. We argue that the strength of the model comes from directly incorporating the social dimension of mobility. Furthermore, as only aggregated call data is required, the model helps to avoid potential privacy problems.

Inferring human mobility using communication patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palchykov, Vasyl; Mitrović, Marija; Jo, Hang-Hyun; Saramäki, Jari; Pan, Raj Kumar

2014-08-01

Understanding the patterns of mobility of individuals is crucial for a number of reasons, from city planning to disaster management. There are two common ways of quantifying the amount of travel between locations: by direct observations that often involve privacy issues, e.g., tracking mobile phone locations, or by estimations from models. Typically, such models build on accurate knowledge of the population size at each location. However, when this information is not readily available, their applicability is rather limited. As mobile phones are ubiquitous, our aim is to investigate if mobility patterns can be inferred from aggregated mobile phone call data alone. Using data released by Orange for Ivory Coast, we show that human mobility is well predicted by a simple model based on the frequency of mobile phone calls between two locations and their geographical distance. We argue that the strength of the model comes from directly incorporating the social dimension of mobility. Furthermore, as only aggregated call data is required, the model helps to avoid potential privacy problems.

The effect of tibio-femoral traction mobilization on passive knee flexion motion impairment and pain: a case series

PubMed Central

Maher, Sara; Creighton, Doug; Kondratek, Melodie; Krauss, John; Qu, Xianggui

2010-01-01

The purpose of this case series was to explore the effects of tibio-femoral (TF) manual traction on pain and passive range of motion (PROM) in individuals with unilateral motion impairment and pain in knee flexion. Thirteen participants volunteered for the study. All participants received 6 minutes of TF traction mobilization applied at end-range passive knee flexion. PROM measurements were taken before the intervention and after 2, 4, and 6 minutes of TF joint traction. Pain was measured using a visual analog scale with the TF joint at rest, at end-range passive knee flexion, during the application of joint traction, and immediately post-treatment. There were significant differences in PROM after 2 and 4 minutes of traction, with no significance noted after 4 minutes. A significant change in knee flexion of 25.9°, which exceeded the MDC95, was found when comparing PROM measurements pre- to final intervention. While pain did not change significantly over time, pain levels did change significantly during each treatment session. Pain significantly increased when the participant’s knee was passively flexed to end range; it was reduced, although not significantly, during traction mobilization; and it significantly decreased following traction. This case series supports TF joint traction as a means of stretching shortened articular and periarticular tissues without increasing reported levels of pain during or after treatment. In addition, this is the first study documenting the temporal aspects of treatment effectiveness in motion restoration. PMID:21655421

PubMed Central

Lafond, Danik; Normand, Martin C; Gosselin, Guy

1998-01-01

The presence of movement at the SI joint has been increasingly investigated and discussed. Even though it has been contested in the past, the presence of movement at this articulation is now accepted. Since this joint must be relatively mobile, it is now considered that abnormal movement might be related to low back pain. Biomechanical models have been developed recently in order to better understand the relationship between SI joints and low back pain. It appears that the sacrum mobility control might necessitate the action of pelvic girdle muscles. The erector spinae, gluteus maximus, biceps femoris and latissimus dorsi muscles would produce moments necessary to lock the SI joint via the thoraco-lumbar fascia. This mechanism would increase the compressive forces on the joints surfaces and provide greater stability to and a more efficient load transfer from the spine to the lower extremity. Therefore the aim of this study is to determine the effect of increased tension of the thoraco-lumbar fascia and hip extension muscles on sacrum mobility. Ten male, weight-lifter subjects, aged between 18 and 25 participated in this study. A load displacement apparatus was developed in our laboratory. The subject is placed prone on a horizontal patient subject board or on a 30° triangular shaped board in order to produce tension on the thoraco-lumbar fascia. A total force of 250 N in 50 N increments is applied for every experimental situation. An isometric contraction of hip extensors of more than 80% of maximal muscle force is produced in each experimental condition. Results demonstrate that the overall force/displacement ratio obtained in this study is inferior to the data obtained by Miller et al. (1987) but similar to Brunner et al. (1991) and Vleeming et al. (1992b) in cadaveric specimens. Generally, the movement range of motion increases significantly (p < 0.001) in relation to the level of force applied. In our weight-lifters, hip contraction reduced sacrum mobility significantly (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the efficiency of the hip extensors in reducing the movement is still significant at 250 N. Our results indicate that the thoraco-lumbar fascia does not seem to participate in the locking of the SI joint, although other biomechanical variables must be evaluated before concluding on its implication. This study has demonstrated the efficiency of the experimental in vivo SI locking mechanism of the SI articulation. ImagesFigure 1Figure 2Figure 3

Morphogen-based simulation model of ray growth and joint patterning during fin development and regeneration.

PubMed

Rolland-Lagan, Anne-Gaëlle; Paquette, Mathieu; Tweedle, Valerie; Akimenko, Marie-Andrée

2012-03-01

The fact that some organisms are able to regenerate organs of the correct shape and size following amputation is particularly fascinating, but the mechanism by which this occurs remains poorly understood. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) caudal fin has emerged as a model system for the study of bone development and regeneration. The fin comprises 16 to 18 bony rays, each containing multiple joints along its proximodistal axis that give rise to segments. Experimental observations on fin ray growth, regeneration and joint formation have been described, but no unified theory has yet been put forward to explain how growth and joint patterns are controlled. We present a model for the control of fin ray growth during development and regeneration, integrated with a model for joint pattern formation, which is in agreement with published, as well as new, experimental data. We propose that fin ray growth and joint patterning are coordinated through the interaction of three morphogens. When the model is extended to incorporate multiple rays across the fin, it also accounts for how the caudal fin acquires its shape during development, and regains its correct size and shape following amputation.

Biomechanics of the natural, arthritic, and replaced human ankle joint

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

The human ankle joint complex plays a fundamental role in gait and other activities of daily living. At the same time, it is a very complicated anatomical system but the large literature of experimental and modelling studies has not fully described the coupled joint motion, position and orientation of the joint axis of rotation, stress and strain in the ligaments and their role in guiding and stabilizing joint motion, conformity and congruence of the articular surfaces, patterns of contact at the articular surfaces, patterns of rolling and sliding at the joint surfaces, and muscle lever arm lengths. The present review article addresses these issues as described in the literature, reporting the most recent relevant findings. PMID:24499639

Mobile phone use patterns and preferences in safety net office-based buprenorphine patients

PubMed Central

Tofighi, Babak; Grossman, Ellie; Buirkle, Emily; McNeely, Jennifer; Gourevitch, Marc; Lee, Joshua D.

2015-01-01

Background Integrating mobile phone technologies in addiction treatment is of increasing importance, and may optimize patient engagement with their care and enhance the delivery of existing treatment strategies. Few studies have evaluated mobile phone and text message (TM) use patterns in persons enrolled in addiction treatment, and none have assessed use in safety net, office-based buprenorphine practices. Methods A 28-item, quantitative and qualitative semi-structured survey was administered to opiate-dependent adults in an urban, publicly funded, office-based buprenorphine program. Survey domains included: demographic characteristics, mobile phone and TM use patterns, and mobile phone and TM use patterns and preferences pertaining to their recovery. Results Surveyors approached 73 of the 155 eligible subjects (47%); 71 respondents completed the survey. Nearly all participants reported mobile phone ownership (93%) and TM use (93%), and most reported ‘very much’ or ‘somewhat’ comfort sending TM (79%). TM contact with 12-step group sponsors, friends, family members, and counselors was also described (32%). Nearly all preferred having their providers’ mobile phone number (94%) and alerting the clinic via TM in the event of a potential relapse to receive both supportive TM and a phone call from their buprenorphine provider was also well received (62%). Conclusions Mobile phone and TM use patterns and preferences among this sample of office-based buprenorphine participants highlight the potential of adopting patient-centered mobile phone based interventions in this treatment setting. PMID:25918966

Perceived self-efficacy and specific self-reported outcomes in persons with lower-limb amputation using a non-microprocessor-controlled versus a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee.

PubMed

Möller, Saffran; Hagberg, Kerstin; Samulesson, Kersti; Ramstrand, Nerrolyn

2018-04-01

To measure self-efficacy in a group of individuals who have undergone a lower-limb amputation and investigate the relationship between self-efficacy and prosthetic-specific outcomes including prosthetic use, mobility, amputation-related problems and global health. A second purpose was to examine if differences exist in outcomes based upon the type of prosthetic knee unit being used. Cross-sectional study using the General Self-Efficacy (GSE) Scale and the Questionnaire for Persons with a Transfemoral Amputation (Q-TFA). Forty-two individuals participated in the study. Twenty-three used a non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joint (non-MPK) and 19 used a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joint (MPK). The study sample had quite high GSE scores (32/40). GSE scores were significantly correlated to the Q-TFA prosthetic use, mobility and problem scores. High GSE scores were related to higher levels of prosthetic use, mobility, global scores and negatively related to problem score. No significant difference was observed between individuals using a non-MPK versus MPK joints. Individuals with high self-efficacy used their prosthesis to a higher degree and high self-efficacy was related to higher level of mobility, global scores and fewer problems related to the amputation in individuals who have undergone a lower-limb amputation and were using a non-MPK or MPK knee. Implications for rehabilitation Perceived self-efficacy has has been shown to be related to quality of life, prosthetic mobility and capability as well as social activities in daily life. Prosthetic rehabilitation is primary focusing on physical improvement rather than psychological interventions. More attention should be directed towards the relationship between self-efficacy and prosthetic related outcomes during prosthetic rehabilitation after a lower-limb amputation.

Biomechanical measures of knee joint mobilization.

PubMed

Silvernail, Jason L; Gill, Norman W; Teyhen, Deydre S; Allison, Stephen C

2011-08-01

The purpose of this study was to quantify the biomechanical properties of specific manual therapy techniques in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Twenty subjects (7 female/13 male, age 54±8 years, ht 1·7±0·1 m, wt 94·2±21·8 kg) participated in this study. One physical therapist delivered joint mobilizations (tibiofemoral extension and flexion; patellofemoral medial-lateral and inferior glide) at two grades (Maitland's grade III and grade IV). A capacitance-based pressure mat was used to capture biomechanical characteristics of force and frequency during 2 trials of 15 second mobilizations. Statistical analysis included intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC(3,1)) for intrarater reliability and 2×4 repeated measures analyses of variance and post-hoc comparison tests. Force (Newtons) measurements (mean, max.) for grade III were: extension 45, 74; flexion 39, 61; medial-lateral glide 20, 34; inferior glide 16, 27. Force (Newtons) measurements (mean, max.) for grade IV were: extension 57, 76; flexion 47, 68; medial-lateral glide 23, 36; inferior glide 18, 35. Frequency (Hz) measurements were between 0·9 and 1·2 for grade III, and between 2·1 and 2·4 for grade IV. ICCs were above 0·90 for almost all measures. Maximum force measures were between the ranges reported for cervical and lumbar mobilization at similar grades. Mean force measures were greater at grade IV than III. Oscillation frequency and peak-to-peak amplitude measures were consistent with the grade performed (i.e. greater frequency at grade IV, greater peak-to-peak amplitude at grade III). Intrarater reliability for force, peak-to-peak amplitude and oscillation frequency for knee joint mobilizations was excellent.

Biomechanical measures of knee joint mobilization

PubMed Central

Silvernail, Jason L; Gill, Norman W; Teyhen, Deydre S; Allison, Stephen C

2011-01-01

Background and purpose The purpose of this study was to quantify the biomechanical properties of specific manual therapy techniques in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Methods Twenty subjects (7 female/13 male, age 54±8 years, ht 1·7±0·1 m, wt 94·2±21·8 kg) participated in this study. One physical therapist delivered joint mobilizations (tibiofemoral extension and flexion; patellofemoral medial–lateral and inferior glide) at two grades (Maitland’s grade III and grade IV). A capacitance-based pressure mat was used to capture biomechanical characteristics of force and frequency during 2 trials of 15 second mobilizations. Statistical analysis included intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC3,1) for intrarater reliability and 2×4 repeated measures analyses of variance and post-hoc comparison tests. Results Force (Newtons) measurements (mean, max.) for grade III were: extension 45, 74; flexion 39, 61; medial–lateral glide 20, 34; inferior glide 16, 27. Force (Newtons) measurements (mean, max.) for grade IV were: extension 57, 76; flexion 47, 68; medial–lateral glide 23, 36; inferior glide 18, 35. Frequency (Hz) measurements were between 0·9 and 1·2 for grade III, and between 2·1 and 2·4 for grade IV. ICCs were above 0·90 for almost all measures. Discussion and conclusion Maximum force measures were between the ranges reported for cervical and lumbar mobilization at similar grades. Mean force measures were greater at grade IV than III. Oscillation frequency and peak-to-peak amplitude measures were consistent with the grade performed (i.e. greater frequency at grade IV, greater peak-to-peak amplitude at grade III). Intrarater reliability for force, peak-to-peak amplitude and oscillation frequency for knee joint mobilizations was excellent. PMID:22851879

The association between asymmetric hip mobility and neck pain in young adults.

PubMed

Lee, Hsin-Yi; Wang, Jung-Der; Wang, Jung-Er; Chang, Hsiao-Lan; He, Yang-Chien; Chu, Mei-Mang; Chen, Li-Fei

2013-01-01

The objective of this cross-sectional observational study was to determine whether asymmetric hip mobility was associated with neck pain in young adults. Three hundred twenty-seven freshmen students were recruited from an urban university and underwent the Patrick's flexion, abduction, external rotation, extension (FABERE) test for comparison of the functional mobility of bilateral hip joints during the health examination. A logistic regression model was constructed to determine whether the asymmetry measured by the Patrick's FABERE test was associated with neck pain after adjusting for factors of sex and exercise habits. The frequency of asymmetric results of the Patrick's FABERE test among the students who reported neck pain was significantly higher than that of those without neck pain (54.2% vs 26.5%; P < .001). After adjusting for the above confounders, the odds ratio of asymmetric results of a Patrick's FABERE test was 2.99 (95% confidence interval, 1.57-5.72; P < .001). Imbalanced mobility of the hip joints might be associated with an increased incidence of neck pain. Copyright © 2013 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

A neural network approach for determining gait modifications to reduce the contact force in knee joint implant.

PubMed

Ardestani, Marzieh Mostafavizadeh; Chen, Zhenxian; Wang, Ling; Lian, Qin; Liu, Yaxiong; He, Jiankang; Li, Dichen; Jin, Zhongmin

2014-10-01

There is a growing interest in non-surgical gait rehabilitation treatments to reduce the loading in the knee joint. In particular, synergetic kinematic changes required for joint offloading should be determined individually for each subject. Previous studies for gait rehabilitation designs are typically relied on a "trial-and-error" approach, using multi-body dynamic (MBD) analysis. However MBD is fairly time demanding which prevents it to be used iteratively for each subject. This study employed an artificial neural network to develop a cost-effective computational framework for designing gait rehabilitation patterns. A feed forward artificial neural network (FFANN) was trained based on a number of experimental gait trials obtained from literature. The trained network was then hired to calculate the appropriate kinematic waveforms (output) needed to achieve desired knee joint loading patterns (input). An auxiliary neural network was also developed to update the ground reaction force and moment profiles with respect to the predicted kinematic waveforms. The feasibility and efficiency of the predicted kinematic patterns were then evaluated through MBD analysis. Results showed that FFANN-based predicted kinematics could effectively decrease the total knee joint reaction forces. Peak values of the resultant knee joint forces, with respect to the bodyweight (BW), were reduced by 20% BW and 25% BW in the midstance and the terminal stance phases. Impulse values of the knee joint loading patterns were also decreased by 17% BW*s and 24%BW*s in the corresponding phases. The FFANN-based framework suggested a cost-effective forward solution which directly calculated the kinematic variations needed to implement a given desired knee joint loading pattern. It is therefore expected that this approach provides potential advantages and further insights into knee rehabilitation designs. Copyright © 2014 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intra-articular calcaneal fractures: effect of open reduction and internal fixation on the contact characteristics of the subtalar joint.

PubMed

Mulcahy, D M; McCormack, D M; Stephens, M M

1998-12-01

Intra-articular calcaneal fractures are associated with significant long-term morbidity, and considerable controversy exists regarding the optimum method of treating them. The contact characteristics in the intact subtalar joint were determined at known loads and for different positions of the ankle and subtalar joint, using pressure-sensitive film (Super Low; Fuji, Itochu Canada Ltd, Montreal, Quebec). We measured the contact area to joint area ratio (pressure > 5 kg force/cm2 [kgf/cm2]) which normalizes for differences in joint size and the ratio of high pressure zone (>20 kgf/cm2) as a reflection of overall increase in joint pressure. Three simulated fracture patterns were then created and stabilized with either 1 or 2 mm of articular incongruity. Eight specimens were prepared with a primary fracture line through the posterior facet, eight with a joint depression-type fracture, and six with a central joint depression fracture. A measure of 1 to 2 mm of incongruity in the posterior facet for all three fracture patterns produced significant unloading of the depressed fragment, with a redistribution of the overall pattern of pressure distribution to parts of the facet that were previously unloaded.

The effect of additional ankle and midfoot mobilizations on plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Shashua, Anat; Flechter, Shlomo; Avidan, Liat; Ofir, Dani; Melayev, Alex; Kalichman, Leonid

2015-04-01

A single-blind randomized controlled trial. To evaluate the efficacy of ankle and midfoot mobilization on pain and function of patients with plantar fasciitis (PF). Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative process of the plantar fascia, with a lifetime prevalence of approximately 10%. Limited ankle dorsiflexion is a common finding and apparently acts as a contributing factor to the development of PF. Fifty patients with PF, aged 23 to 73 years, were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Both groups received 8 treatments, twice a week, consisting of stretching exercises and ultrasound. In addition, the intervention group received mobilization of the ankle and midfoot joints. Dorsiflexion range of motion was measured at the beginning and at the end of treatment. The results were evaluated by 3 outcomes: the numeric pain-rating scale, Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and algometry. No significant difference was found between groups in any of the outcomes. Both groups showed a significant difference in the numeric pain-rating scale and Lower Extremity Functional Scale. Both groups significantly improved in dorsiflexion range of motion, with no difference between groups. The addition of ankle and foot joint mobilization aimed at improving dorsiflexion range of motion is not more effective than stretching and ultrasound alone in treating PF. The association between limited ankle dorsiflexion and PF is most probably due to soft tissue limitations, not the joints. Trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number NCT01439932). Therapy, level 1b.

VisitSense: Sensing Place Visit Patterns from Ambient Radio on Smartphones for Targeted Mobile Ads in Shopping Malls

PubMed Central

Kim, Byoungjip; Kang, Seungwoo; Ha, Jin-Young; Song, Junehwa

2015-01-01

In this paper, we introduce a novel smartphone framework called VisitSense that automatically detects and predicts a smartphone user’s place visits from ambient radio to enable behavioral targeting for mobile ads in large shopping malls. VisitSense enables mobile app developers to adopt visit-pattern-aware mobile advertising for shopping mall visitors in their apps. It also benefits mobile users by allowing them to receive highly relevant mobile ads that are aware of their place visit patterns in shopping malls. To achieve the goal, VisitSense employs accurate visit detection and prediction methods. For accurate visit detection, we develop a change-based detection method to take into consideration the stability change of ambient radio and the mobility change of users. It performs well in large shopping malls where ambient radio is quite noisy and causes existing algorithms to easily fail. In addition, we proposed a causality-based visit prediction model to capture the causality in the sequential visit patterns for effective prediction. We have developed a VisitSense prototype system, and a visit-pattern-aware mobile advertising application that is based on it. Furthermore, we deploy the system in the COEX Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Korea, and conduct diverse experiments to show the effectiveness of VisitSense. PMID:26193275

Respiratory pattern changes during costovertebral joint movement.

PubMed

Shannon, R

1980-05-01

Experiments were conducted to determine if costovertebral joint manipulation (CVJM) could influence the respiratory pattern. Phrenic efferent activity (PA) was monitored in dogs that were anesthetized with Dial-urethane, vagotomized, paralyzed, and artificially ventilated. Ribs 6-10 (bilaterally) were cut and separated from ribs 5-11. Branches of thoracic nerves 5-11 were cut, leaving only the joint nerve supply intact. Manual joint movement in an inspiratory or expiratory direction had an inhibitory effect on PA. Sustained displacement of the ribs could inhibit PA for a duration equal to numerous respiratory cycles. CVJM in synchrony with PA resulted in an increased respiratory rate. The inspiratory inhibitory effect of joint receptor stimulation was elicited with manual chest compression in vagotomized spontaneously breathing dogs, but not with artificial lung inflation or deflation. It is concluded that the effect of CVJM on the respiratory pattern is due to stimulation of joint mechanoreceptors, and that they exert their influence in part via the medullary-pontine rhythm generator.

FMS Scores Change With Performers' Knowledge of the Grading Criteria-Are General Whole-Body Movement Screens Capturing "Dysfunction"?

PubMed

Frost, David M; Beach, Tyson A C; Callaghan, Jack P; McGill, Stuart M

2015-11-01

Deficits in joint mobility and stability could certainly impact individuals' Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores; however, it is also plausible that the movement patterns observed are influenced by the performers' knowledge of the grading criteria. Twenty-one firefighters volunteered to participate, and their FMS scores were graded before and immediately after receiving knowledge of the movement patterns required to achieve a perfect score on the FMS. Standardized verbal instructions were used to administer both screens, and the participants were not provided with any coaching or feedback. Time-synchronized sagittal and frontal plane videos were used to grade the FMS. The firefighters significantly (p < 0.001) improved their FMS scores from 14.1 (1.8) to 16.7 (1.9) when provided with knowledge pertaining to the specific grading criteria. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) were also noted in the deep squat (1.4 [0.7]-2.0 [0.6]), hurdle step (2.1 [0.4]-2.4 [0.5]), in-line lunge (2.1 [0.4]-2.7 [0.5]), and shoulder mobility (1.8 [0.8]-2.4 [0.7]) tests. Because a knowledge of a task's grading criteria can alter a general whole-body movement screen score, FMS or otherwise, observed changes may not solely reflect "dysfunction." The instant that individuals are provided with coaching and feedback regarding their performance on a particular task, the task may lose its utility to evaluate the transfer of training or predict musculoskeletal injury risk.

Joint Angular Velocity in Spastic Gait and the Influence of Muscle-Tendon Lengthening*

PubMed Central

GRANATA, KEVIN P.; ABEL, MARK F.; DAMIANO, DIANE L.

2006-01-01

Background Joint angular velocity (the rate of flexion and extension of a joint) is related to the dynamics of muscle activation and force generation during walking. Therefore, the goal of this research was to examine the joint angular velocity in normal and spastic gait and changes resulting from muscle-tendon lengthening (recession and tenotomy) in patients who have spastic cerebral palsy. Methods The gait patterns of forty patients who had been diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy (mean age, 8.3 years; range, 3.7 to 14.8 years) and of seventy-three age-matched, normally developing subjects were evaluated with three-dimensional motion analysis and electromyography. The patients who had cerebral palsy were evaluated before muscle-tendon lengthening and nine months after treatment. Results The gait patterns of the patients who had cerebral palsy were characterized by increased flexion of the knee in the stance phase, premature plantar flexion of the ankle, and reduced joint angular velocities compared with the patterns of the normally developing subjects. Even though muscle-tendon lengthening altered sagittal joint angles in gait, the joint angular velocities were generally unchanged at the hip and knee. Only the ankle demonstrated modified angular velocities, including reduced dorsiflexion velocity at foot-strike and improved dorsiflexion velocity through midstance, after treatment. Electromyographic changes included reduced amplitude of the gastrocnemius-soleus during the loading phase and decreased knee coactivity (the ratio of quadriceps and hamstring activation) at toe-off. Principal component analyses showed that, compared with joint-angle data, joint angular velocity was better able to discriminate between the gait patterns of the normal and cerebral palsy groups. Conclusions This study showed that muscle-tendon lengthening corrects biomechanical alignment as reflected by changes in sagittal joint angles. However, joint angular velocity and electromyographic data suggest that the underlying neural input remains largely unchanged at the hip and knee. Conversely, electromyographic changes and changes in velocity in the ankle indicate that the activation pattern of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex in response to stretch was altered by recession of the complex. PMID:10682726

Mobile phone ownership and use among school children in three Hungarian cities.

PubMed

Mezei, Gabor; Benyi, Maria; Muller, Agnes

2007-05-01

In spite of rapid worldwide increase in mobile phone use and public concerns about associated potential health effects, little is known about patterns of mobile phone ownership and use in the general population and among children. In April 2005, we conducted a survey of mobile phone ownership and use among fourth grade school children in three Hungarian cities. From 24 schools, 1301 student filled out a short, self-administered questionnaire on basic demographics, mobile phone ownership, pattern of mobile phone use, and after-school activities. Overall, 989 students (76%) owned a mobile phone. Three hundred thirteen students (24%) used a mobile phone daily to make phone calls, and an additional 427 students (33%) used mobile phones for phone calls at least several times per week. Sixty-six students (5%) sent text messages daily and an additional 308 students (24%) sent text messages at least several times per week. Girls, children with no siblings, children who were members of a sport club, and children who played computer games daily were more likely to own and use mobile phones regularly. A higher number of socially disadvantaged children in a class predicted lower likelihood of regular mobile phone use among children. Our results suggest that mobile phone ownership and regular use is highly prevalent among school children in Hungary. Due to rapid changes in ownership patterns follow up surveys will be required to obtain information on temporal trends and changes in mobile phone ownership and pattern of use among school children. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

More Feedback Is Better than Less: Learning a Novel Upper Limb Joint Coordination Pattern with Augmented Auditory Feedback

PubMed Central

Fujii, Shinya; Lulic, Tea; Chen, Joyce L.

2016-01-01

Motor learning is a process whereby the acquisition of new skills occurs with practice, and can be influenced by the provision of feedback. An important question is what frequency of feedback facilitates motor learning. The guidance hypothesis assumes that the provision of less augmented feedback is better than more because a learner can use his/her own inherent feedback. However, it is unclear whether this hypothesis holds true for all types of augmented feedback, including for example sonified information about performance. Thus, we aimed to test what frequency of augmented sonified feedback facilitates the motor learning of a novel joint coordination pattern. Twenty healthy volunteers first reached to a target with their arm (baseline phase). We manipulated this baseline kinematic data for each individual to create a novel target joint coordination pattern. Participants then practiced to learn the novel target joint coordination pattern, receiving either feedback on every trial i.e., 100% feedback (n = 10), or every other trial, i.e., 50% feedback (n = 10; acquisition phase). We created a sonification system to provide the feedback. This feedback was a pure tone that varied in intensity in proportion to the error of the performed joint coordination relative to the target pattern. Thus, the auditory feedback contained information about performance in real-time (i.e., “concurrent, knowledge of performance feedback”). Participants performed the novel joint coordination pattern with no-feedback immediately after the acquisition phase (immediate retention phase), and on the next day (delayed retention phase). The root-mean squared error (RMSE) and variable error (VE) of joint coordination were significantly reduced during the acquisition phase in both 100 and 50% feedback groups. There was no significant difference in VE between the groups at immediate and delayed retention phases. However, at both these retention phases, the 100% feedback group showed significantly smaller RMSE than the 50% group. Thus, contrary to the guidance hypothesis, our findings suggest that the provision of more, concurrent knowledge of performance auditory feedback during the acquisition of a novel joint coordination pattern, may result in better skill retention. PMID:27375414

Application of Mobile Router to Military Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, David H.; Ivancic, William D.; Bell, Terry L.; Kachmar, Brian A.; Shell, Dan; Leung, Kent

2002-01-01

Cisco Systems and NASA Glenn Research Center under a NASA Space Act Agreement have been performing joint networking research to apply Internet technologies and protocols to space-based communications. During this time, Cisco Systems developed the mobile-router which NASA and Cisco jointly tested. The early field trials of this technology have been successfully completed. The mobile-router is software code that resides in a network router. A Mobile-Router allows entire networks to roam while maintaining connectivity to the Internet. This router code is pertinent to a myriad of applications for both the government and commercial sectors. This technology will be applied to the wireless battlefield. NASA and the Department of Defense will utilize this technology for near-planetary observation and sensing spacecraft. It is the enabling technology for communication via the Internet or Intranets to aircraft. Information such as weather, air traffic control, voice and video can be easily and inexpensively transmitted to the aircraft using Internet protocols. The mobile router can be incorporated into emergency vehicles particularly ambulances and life-flight aircraft to provide real-time connectivity back to the hospital and healthcare experts. Commercial applications include entertainment services, IP telephone, and Internet connectivity for cruise ships, commercial shipping, tour busses, aircraft, and eventually cars. This paper will briefly describe the mobile router operation. An upcoming wide area network field test with application to US Coast Guard communications will be described. The paper will also highlight military and government networks that will benefit from the deployment of mobile router and the associated applications.

Pain and mobility improvement and MDA plasma levels in degenerative osteoarthritis, low back pain, and rheumatoid arthritis after infrared A-irradiation.

PubMed

Siems, Werner; Bresgen, Nikolaus; Brenke, Rainer; Siems, Renate; Kitzing, Manfred; Harting, Heike; Eckl, Peter M

2010-01-01

Infrared (IR)-A irradiation can be useful in back and musculoskeletal pain therapy. In this study joint and vertebral column pain and mobility were measured during two weeks of IR-A irradiation treatment of patients suffering from degenerative osteoarthritis of hip and knee, low back pain, or rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, before and after IR-A treatment MDA serum levels were measured to check if MDA variations accompany changes in pain intensity and mobility. Two-hundred and seven patients were divided into verum groups getting IR-irradiation, placebo groups getting visible, but not IR irradiation, and groups getting no irradiation. In osteoarthritis significant pain reduction according to Visual Analogue Scale and mobility improvements occurred in the verum group. Even though beneficial mean value changes occurred in the placebo group, the improvements in the placebo and No Irradiation groups were without statistical significance. In low back pain, pain and mobility improvements (by 35-40%) in the verum group were found, too. A delayed (2nd week) mobility improvement in rheumatoid arthritis was seen. However, pain relief was seen immediately. In patients suffering from low back pain or rheumatoid arthritis, the pain and mobility improvements were accompanied by significant changes of MDA serum levels. However, MDA appears not a sensitive biofactor for changes of the pain intensity in degenerative osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, unaffected or lowered MDA levels during intensive IR-A therapy argue against previous reports on free radical formation upon infrared. In conclusion, rapid beneficial effects of IR-A towards musculoskeletal pain and joint mobility loss were demonstrated.

Preduction of Vehicle Mobility on Large-Scale Soft-Soil Terrain Maps Using Physics-Based Simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-02

PREDICTION OF VEHICLE MOBILITY ON LARGE-SCALE SOFT- SOIL TERRAIN MAPS USING PHYSICS-BASED SIMULATION Tamer M. Wasfy, Paramsothy Jayakumar, Dave...NRMM • Objectives • Soft Soils • Review of Physics-Based Soil Models • MBD/DEM Modeling Formulation – Joint & Contact Constraints – DEM Cohesive... Soil Model • Cone Penetrometer Experiment • Vehicle- Soil Model • Vehicle Mobility DOE Procedure • Simulation Results • Concluding Remarks 2UNCLASSIFIED

Strategic Mobility 21. Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) Reference Model - Global Transportation Management System Architecture

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-10-07

SECTION A. BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 1 INTRODUCTION The Strategic Mobility 21 (SM21) program is currently in the process of developing the Joint...Platform ( BPP ) which enables the ability to rapidly compose new business processes and expand the core TMS feature-set to adapt to the challenges...Reference: Strategic Mobility 21 Contract N00014-06-C-0060 Dear Paul, In accordance with the requirements of referenced contract, we are pleased to

a Multidisciplinary Analytical Framework for Studying Active Mobility Patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orellana, D.; Hermida, C.; Osorio, P.

2016-06-01

Intermediate cities are urged to change and adapt their mobility systems from a high energy-demanding motorized model to a sustainable low-motorized model. In order to accomplish such a model, city administrations need to better understand active mobility patterns and their links to socio-demographic and cultural aspects of the population. During the last decade, researchers have demonstrated the potential of geo-location technologies and mobile devices to gather massive amounts of data for mobility studies. However, the analysis and interpretation of this data has been carried out by specialized research groups with relatively narrow approaches from different disciplines. Consequently, broader questions remain less explored, mainly those relating to spatial behaviour of individuals and populations with their geographic environment and the motivations and perceptions shaping such behaviour. Understanding sustainable mobility and exploring new research paths require an interdisciplinary approach given the complex nature of mobility systems and their social, economic and environmental impacts. Here, we introduce the elements for a multidisciplinary analytical framework for studying active mobility patterns comprised of three components: a) Methodological, b) Behavioural, and c) Perceptual. We demonstrate the applicability of the framework by analysing mobility patterns of cyclists and pedestrians in an intermediate city integrating a range of techniques, including: GPS tracking, spatial analysis, auto-ethnography, and perceptual mapping. The results demonstrated the existence of non-evident spatial behaviours and how perceptual features affect mobility. This knowledge is useful for developing policies and practices for sustainable mobility planning.

Comparison of biomechanical function at ideal and varied surgical placement for two lumbar artificial disc implant designs: mobile-core versus fixed-core.

PubMed

Moumene, Missoum; Geisler, Fred H

2007-08-01

Finite element model. To estimate the effect of lumbar mobile-core and fixed-core artificial disc design and placement on the loading of the facet joints, and stresses on the polyethylene core. Although both mobile-core and fixed-core lumbar artificial disc designs have been used clinically, the effect of their design and the effect of placement within the disc space on the structural element loading, and in particular the facets and the implant itself, have not been investigated. A 3D nonlinear finite element model of an intact ligamentous L4-L5 motion segment was developed and validated in all 6 df based on previous experiments conducted on human cadavers. Facet loading of a mobile-core TDR and a fixed-core TDR were estimated with 4 different prosthesis placements for 3 different ranges of motion. Placing the mobile-core TDR anywhere within the disc space reduced facet loading by more than 50%, while the fixed-core TDR increased facet loading by more than 10% when compared with the intact disc in axial rotation. For central (ideal) placement, the mobile- and fixed-core implants were subjected to compressive stresses on the order of 3 MPa and 24 MPa, respectively. The mobile-core stresses were not affected by implant placement, while the fixed-core stresses increased by up to 40%. A mobile-core artificial disc design is less sensitive to placement, and unloads the facet joints, compared with a fixed-core design. The decreased core stress may result in a reduced potential for wear in a mobile-core prosthesis compared with a fixed-core prosthesis, which may increase the functional longevity of the device.

Recent advances in aerospace composite NDE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Georgeson, Gary E.

2002-06-01

As the aerospace industry continues to advance the design and use of composite structure, the NDE community faces the difficulties of trying to keep up. The challenges lie in manufacturing evaluation of the newest aerospace structures and materials and the in-service inspection and monitoring of damaged or aging composites. This paper provides examples of several promising NDI applications in the world of aerospace composites. Airborne (or non-contact) Ultrasonic Testing (UT) has been available for decades, but recently has generated new interest due to significant improvements in transducer design and low noise electronics. Boeing is developing inspection techniques for composite joints and core blankets using this technology. In-service inspection techniques for thick, multi-layer structures are also being advanced. One effective technique integrates the S-9 Sondicator, a traditional bond testing device, with Boeing's Mobile Automated Scanner (MAUS) platform. Composite patches have seen limited use on-aircraft, due, in part, to the difficulty of determining the quality of a bonded joint. A unique approach using Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry (ESPI) is showing promise as a bonded patch-inspection method. Other NDI techniques currently being developed for aerospace application are also briefly discussed.

Walk and roll robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Andrew (Inventor); Punnoose, Andrew (Inventor); Strausser, Katherine (Inventor); Parikh, Neil (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A mobile robotic unit features a main body, a plurality of legs for supporting the main body on and moving the main body in forward and reverse directions about a base surface, and a drive assembly. According to an exemplary embodiment each leg includes a respective pivotal hip joint, a pivotal knee joint, and a wheeled foot adapted to roll along the base surface. Also according to an exemplary embodiments the drive assembly includes a motor operatively associated with the hip and knee joints and the wheeled foot for independently driving pivotal movement of the hip joint and the knee joint and rolling motion of the wheeled foot. The hip joint may include a ball-and-socket-type joint interconnecting top portion of the leg to the main body, such that the hip joint is adapted to pivot said leg in a direction transverse to a forward-and-reverse direction.

A prospective cohort study investigating the effect of generalized joint hypermobility on outcomes after arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization.

PubMed

Koyonos, Loukas; Kraeutler, Matthew J; O'Brien, Daniel F; Ciccotti, Michael G; Dodson, Christopher C

2016-11-01

Generalized joint laxity has been proposed as a significant risk factor for failure after arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization. The purpose of this study was to prospectively measure joint mobility in patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization and to determine whether hypermobility is a risk factor for worse outcomes compared with patients having normal joint mobility. Patients with anterior shoulder instability were prospectively enrolled. Generalized joint hypermobility was measured using the Beighton Hypermobility Score and the Rowe, UCLA, SANE, SST, and WOSI scores were administered and reported as patient outcomes preoperatively and following arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization at 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months postoperatively. Patients were stratified into two groups based on their Beighton Hypermobility Score, with scores ≥ 4/9 indicative of joint hypermobility. Sixteen patients with joint hypermobility (JH) and 18 non-hypermobile patients (NJH) were enrolled. At baseline, there were no significant differences in demographic characteristics or baseline patient-reported outcomes. Significantly more patients in the NJH group had SLAP tears (n = 10) compared to the JH group (n = 2) (p = .013). At all follow-up times, there were no significant differences between the NJH and JH groups with regard to patient-reported outcome scores (p > .05). In the JH group, 17% of patients reported recurrent instability at two years postoperatively compared to 25% of patients in the NJH group. There was no significant difference in failure rate (p = .67). There was no significant difference in patient-reported outcomes or recurrent instability in patients with versus without joint hypermobility undergoing arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization.

Agricultural activity shapes the communication and migration patterns in Senegal.

PubMed

Martin-Gutierrez, S; Borondo, J; Morales, A J; Losada, J C; Tarquis, A M; Benito, R M

2016-06-01

The communication and migration patterns of a country are shaped by its socioeconomic processes. The economy of Senegal is predominantly rural, as agriculture employs over 70% of the labor force. In this paper, we use mobile phone records to explore the impact of agricultural activity on the communication and mobility patterns of the inhabitants of Senegal. We find two peaks of phone calls activity emerging during the growing season. Moreover, during the harvest period, we detect an increase in the migration flows throughout the country. However, religious holidays also shape the mobility patterns of the Senegalese people. Hence, in the light of our results, agricultural activity and religious holidays are the primary drivers of mobility inside the country.

Agricultural activity shapes the communication and migration patterns in Senegal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin-Gutierrez, S.; Borondo, J.; Morales, A. J.; Losada, J. C.; Tarquis, A. M.; Benito, R. M.

2016-06-01

The communication and migration patterns of a country are shaped by its socioeconomic processes. The economy of Senegal is predominantly rural, as agriculture employs over 70% of the labor force. In this paper, we use mobile phone records to explore the impact of agricultural activity on the communication and mobility patterns of the inhabitants of Senegal. We find two peaks of phone calls activity emerging during the growing season. Moreover, during the harvest period, we detect an increase in the migration flows throughout the country. However, religious holidays also shape the mobility patterns of the Senegalese people. Hence, in the light of our results, agricultural activity and religious holidays are the primary drivers of mobility inside the country.

Student Mobility: Changing Patterns Challenging Policymakers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pusser, Brian; Turner, Julie Kirsten

2004-01-01

Over the past decade, the understanding of student mobility patterns has increased considerably through research based in the analysis of longitudinal data sets. A significant challenge to crafting effective policies on student mobility emerges from most states focusing on full-time, 18-to-24-year-old students. While fewer than half of…

Cervical hip fractures do not occur in arthrotic joints. A clinicoradiographic study of 256 patients.

PubMed

Dretakis, E K; Steriopoulos, K A; Kontakis, G M; Giaourakis, G; Economakis, G; Dretakis, K E

1998-08-01

We studied endogenic factors for the occurrence of cervical hip fractures in 256 patients. 230 underwent hemiarthroplasty, and 26 were treated with internal fixation or without surgery. The condition of the fractured hip and of the ipsilateral knee, as well as the mobility of the patient before the fracture, were studied in all 256 patients. The removed femoral heads were examined, photographed and radiographs were taken with sensitive film. The acetabulum and the femoral head were macroscopically normal in all 230 cases and there was no radiographic evidence of arthrosis. 64% of the patients were fully mobile before the fracture, 34% were mobile with the aid of a cane and 2% were dependent. In 88%, the ipsilateral knee was normal both clinically and radiographically, and in 12%, there was moderate arthrosis. When comparing the mobility before the fracture and the condition of the ipsilateral hip and knee in 100 patients having a cervical fracture with 100 patients having a trochanteric fracture matched for age and sex, we found that a normal hip joint was sine qua non while a normal ipsilateral knee and a fully mobile individual were important additional conditions for the occurrence of a cervical hip fracture, instead of a trochanteric one, after a fall in an elderly person.

Analysis of ecstasy in oral fluid by ion mobility spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy after liquid-liquid extraction.

PubMed

Armenta, Sergio; Garrigues, Salvador; de la Guardia, Miguel; Brassier, Judit; Alcalà, Manel; Blanco, Marcelo

2015-03-06

We developed and evaluated two different strategies for determining abuse drugs based on (i) the analysis of saliva by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) after thermal desorption and (ii) the joint use of IMS and infrared (IR) spectroscopy after liquid-liquid microextraction (LLME) to enable the sensitivity-enhanced detection and double confirmation of ecstasy (MDMA) abuse. Both strategies proved effective for the intended purpose. Analysing saliva by IMS after thermal desorption, which provides a limit of detection (LOD) of 160μgL(-1), requires adding 0.2M acetic acid to the sample and using the truncated negative second derivative of the ion mobility spectrum. The joint use of IMS and IR spectroscopy after LLME provides an LOD of 11μgL(-1) with the former technique and 800μgL(-1) with the latter, in addition to a limit of confirmation (LOC) of 1.5mgL(-1). Using IMS after thermal desorption simplifies the operational procedure, and using it jointly with IR spectroscopy after LLME allows double confirmation of MDMA abuse with two techniques based on different principles (viz., IMS drift times and IR spectra). Also, it affords on-site analyses, albeit at a lower throughput. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Successful treatment of a guitarist with a finger joint injury using instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization: a case report

PubMed Central

Terry Loghmani, M.; Bayliss, Amy J.; Clayton, Greg; Gundeck, Evelina

2015-01-01

Finger injuries are common and can greatly affect a musician’s quality of life. A 55-year-old man, who had injured the proximal interphalangeal joint of the left index finger 6 months prior to any intervention, was treated with a manual therapy approach incorporating instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). Initial examination findings included self-reported pain and functional limitations and physical impairments that significantly impeded his ability to play the acoustic guitar. He was treated once a week for 6 weeks with IASTM, joint mobilization, therapeutic exercise, and ice massage. Additionally, a home exercise program and self-care instructions were provided. The patient gained positive outcomes with improvements in pain (Numerical Pain Rating Scale while playing the guitar: initial 5/10, discharge 1/10) and function (Disability Arm Shoulder Hand Sports-Performing Arts Optional Module: initial 75; discharge 6·25), each reaching a minimum clinically important difference. Importantly, he was able to play the guitar with minimal to no pain as desired. Physical measures also improved, including an immediate gain in finger range of motion with IASTM alone. Manual therapy approaches integrating IASTM may provide an effective conservative treatment strategy for patients with finger/hand conditions in the performing arts and other patient populations. PMID:26952165

Dynamic Analysis of the Abnormal Isometric Strength Movement Pattern between Shoulder and Elbow Joint in Patients with Hemiplegia.

PubMed

Liu, Yali; Hong, Yuezhen; Ji, Linhong

2018-01-01

Patients with hemiplegia usually have weak muscle selectivity and usually perform strength at a secondary joint (secondary strength) during performing a strength at one joint (primary strength). The abnormal strength pattern between shoulder and elbow joint has been analyzed by the maximum value while the performing process with strength changing from 0 to maximum then to 0 was a dynamic process. The objective of this study was to develop a method to dynamically analyze the strength changing process. Ten patients were asked to perform four group asks (maximum and 50% maximum voluntary strength in shoulder abduction, shoulder adduction, elbow flexion, and elbow extension). Strength and activities from seven muscles were measured. The changes of secondary strength had significant correlation with those of primary strength in all tasks ( R > 0.76, p < 0.01). The antagonistic muscles were moderately influenced by the primary strength ( R > 0.4, p < 0.01). Deltoid muscles, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and brachioradialis had significant influences on the abnormal strength pattern (all p < 0.01). The dynamic method was proved to be efficient to analyze the different influences of muscles on the abnormal strength pattern. The muscles, deltoid muscles, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and brachioradialis, much influenced the stereotyped movement pattern between shoulder and elbow joint.

Dynamic Analysis of the Abnormal Isometric Strength Movement Pattern between Shoulder and Elbow Joint in Patients with Hemiplegia

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Patients with hemiplegia usually have weak muscle selectivity and usually perform strength at a secondary joint (secondary strength) during performing a strength at one joint (primary strength). The abnormal strength pattern between shoulder and elbow joint has been analyzed by the maximum value while the performing process with strength changing from 0 to maximum then to 0 was a dynamic process. The objective of this study was to develop a method to dynamically analyze the strength changing process. Ten patients were asked to perform four group asks (maximum and 50% maximum voluntary strength in shoulder abduction, shoulder adduction, elbow flexion, and elbow extension). Strength and activities from seven muscles were measured. The changes of secondary strength had significant correlation with those of primary strength in all tasks (R > 0.76, p < 0.01). The antagonistic muscles were moderately influenced by the primary strength (R > 0.4, p < 0.01). Deltoid muscles, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and brachioradialis had significant influences on the abnormal strength pattern (all p < 0.01). The dynamic method was proved to be efficient to analyze the different influences of muscles on the abnormal strength pattern. The muscles, deltoid muscles, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and brachioradialis, much influenced the stereotyped movement pattern between shoulder and elbow joint. PMID:29610654

Invariant hip moment pattern while walking with a robotic hip exoskeleton

PubMed Central

Lewis, Cara L.; Ferris, Daniel P.

2011-01-01

Robotic lower limb exoskeletons hold significant potential for gait assistance and rehabilitation; however, we have a limited understanding of how people adapt to walking with robotic devices. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that people reduce net muscle moments about their joints when robotic assistance is provided. This reduction in muscle moment results in a total joint moment (muscle plus exoskeleton) that is the same as the moment without the robotic assistance despite potential differences in joint angles. To test this hypothesis, eight healthy subjects trained with the robotic hip exoskeleton while walking on a force-measuring treadmill. The exoskeleton provided hip flexion assistance from approximately 33% to 53% of the gait cycle. We calculated the root mean squared difference (RMSD) between the average of data from the last 15 minutes of the powered condition and the unpowered condition. After completing three 30-minute training sessions, the hip exoskeleton provided 27% of the total peak hip flexion moment during gait. Despite this substantial contribution from the exoskeleton, subjects walked with a total hip moment pattern (muscle plus exoskeleton) that was almost identical and more similar to the unpowered condition than the hip angle pattern (hip moment RMSD 0.027, angle RMSD 0.134, p<0.001). The angle and moment RMSD were not different for the knee and ankle joints. These findings support the concept that people adopt walking patterns with similar joint moment patterns despite differences in hip joint angles for a given walking speed. PMID:21333995

Safety and effectiveness of fascial therapy in adult patients with hemophilic arthropathy. A pilot study.

PubMed

Donoso-Úbeda, Elena; Meroño-Gallut, Javier; López-Pina, José Antonio; Cuesta-Barriuso, Rubén

2018-10-01

The primary clinical manifestations of hemophilia are muscle and joint bleeding. Recurrent bleeding leads to a degenerative process known as hemophilic arthropathy. Fascial therapy is one of the most used physiotherapy techniques today to improve joint dysfunctions and chronic pain. To assess the safety and efficacy of fascial therapy treatment in patients with hemophilic arthropathy of ankle and knee. Non-randomized, controlled clinical trial. Sixteen patients with hemophilia were allocated to an experimental group or to a control group. The physiotherapy intervention was performed through three sessions (one per week), for 60 min per session. Patients received a physiotherapy treatment using a fascial therapy protocol for patients with hemophilia. The joint status was evaluated using the Hemophilia Joint Health Score; pain was assessed with the Visual Analogue Scale; the range of movement was evaluated using a universal goniometer; the flexibility of the hamstring muscles was assessed with the fingertip-to-floor, and the lumbar mobility through the Schöber test. We observed significant differences in the experimental group for both quality of life and illness behavior. There was no significant improvement in the joint status; however, an improvement was noted in terms of perception of pain in the ankle. A physiotherapy program based on fascial therapy is safe in patients with hemophilia. Fascial therapy may improve joint status, pain, and mobility in patients with hemophiliac arthropathy of the knee and ankle.

Lower-Limb Joint Coordination Pattern in Obese Subjects

PubMed Central

Ranavolo, Alberto; Donini, Lorenzo M.; Mari, Silvia; Serrao, Mariano; Silvetti, Alessio; Iavicoli, Sergio; Cava, Edda; Asprino, Rosa; Pinto, Alessandro; Draicchio, Francesco

2013-01-01

The coordinative pattern is an important feature of locomotion that has been studied in a number of pathologies. It has been observed that adaptive changes in coordination patterns are due to both external and internal constraints. Obesity is characterized by the presence of excess mass at pelvis and lower-limb areas, causing mechanical constraints that central nervous system could manage modifying the physiological interjoint coupling relationships. Since an altered coordination pattern may induce joint diseases and falls risk, the aim of this study was to analyze whether and how coordination during walking is affected by obesity. We evaluated interjoint coordination during walking in 25 obese subjects as well as in a control group. The time-distance parameters and joint kinematics were also measured. When compared with the control group, obese people displayed a substantial similarity in joint kinematic parameters and some differences in the time-distance and in the coupling parameters. Obese subjects revealed higher values in stride-to-stride intrasubjects variability in interjoint coupling parameters, whereas the coordinative mean pattern was unaltered. The increased variability in the coupling parameters is associated with an increased risk of falls and thus should be taken into account when designing treatments aimed at restoring a normal locomotion pattern. PMID:23484078

On-Line Method and Apparatus for Coordinated Mobility and Manipulation of Mobile Robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seraji, Homayoun (Inventor)

1996-01-01

A simple and computationally efficient approach is disclosed for on-line coordinated control of mobile robots consisting of a manipulator arm mounted on a mobile base. The effect of base mobility on the end-effector manipulability index is discussed. The base mobility and arm manipulation degrees-of-freedom are treated equally as the joints of a kinematically redundant composite robot. The redundancy introduced by the mobile base is exploited to satisfy a set of user-defined additional tasks during the end-effector motion. A simple on-line control scheme is proposed which allows the user to assign weighting factors to individual degrees-of-mobility and degrees-of-manipulation, as well as to each task specification. The computational efficiency of the control algorithm makes it particularly suitable for real-time implementations. Four case studies are discussed in detail to demonstrate the application of the coordinated control scheme to various mobile robots.

Effect of the walking speed to the lower limb joint angular displacements, joint moments and ground reaction forces during walking in water.

PubMed

Miyoshi, Tasuku; Shirota, Takashi; Yamamoto, Shin-ichiro; Nakazawa, Kimitaka; Akai, Masami

2004-06-17

The purpose of this study was to compare the changes in ground reaction forces (GRF), joint angular displacements (JAD), joint moments (JM) and electromyographic (EMG) activities that occur during walking at various speeds in water and on land. Fifteen healthy adults participated in this study. In the water experiments, the water depth was adjusted so that body weight was reduced by 80%. A video-motion analysis system and waterproof force platform was used to obtain kinematics and kinetics data and to calculate the JMs. Results revealed that (1) the anterior-posterior GRF patterns differed between walking in water and walking on land, whereas the medio-lateral GRF patterns were similar, (2) the JAD patterns of the hip and ankle were similar between water- and land-walking, whereas the range of motion at the knee joint was lower in water than on land, (3) the JMs in all three joints were lower in water than on land throughout the stance phase, and (4) the hip joint extension moment and hip extensor muscle EMG activity were increased as walking speed increase during walking in water. Rehabilitative water-walking exercise could be designed to incorporate large-muscle activities, especially of the lower-limb extensor muscles, through full joint range of motion and minimization of joint moments.

Analyzing the Effects of UAV Mobility Patterns on Data Collection in Wireless Sensor Networks.

PubMed

Rashed, Sarmad; Soyturk, Mujdat

2017-02-20

Sensor nodes in a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) can be dispersed over a remote sensing area (e.g., the regions that are hardly accessed by human beings). In such kinds of networks, datacollectionbecomesoneofthemajorissues. Getting connected to each sensor node and retrieving the information in time introduces new challenges. Mobile sink usage-especially Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)-is the most convenient approach to covering the area and accessing each sensor node in such a large-scale WSN. However, the operation of the UAV depends on some parameters, such as endurance time, altitude, speed, radio type in use, and the path. In this paper, we explore various UAV mobility patterns that follow different paths to sweep the operation area in order to seek the best area coverage with the maximum number of covered nodes in the least amount of time needed by the mobile sink. We also introduce a new metric to formulate the tradeoff between maximizing the covered nodes and minimizing the operation time when choosing the appropriate mobility pattern. A realistic simulation environment is used in order to compare and evaluate the performance of the system. We present the performance results for the explored UAV mobility patterns. The results are very useful to present the tradeoff between maximizing the covered nodes and minimizing the operation time to choose the appropriate mobility pattern.

Analyzing the Effects of UAV Mobility Patterns on Data Collection in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Rashed, Sarmad; Soyturk, Mujdat

2017-01-01

Sensor nodes in a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) can be dispersed over a remote sensing area (e.g., the regions that are hardly accessed by human beings). In such kinds of networks, data collection becomes one of the major issues. Getting connected to each sensor node and retrieving the information in time introduces new challenges. Mobile sink usage—especially Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)—is the most convenient approach to covering the area and accessing each sensor node in such a large-scale WSN. However, the operation of the UAV depends on some parameters, such as endurance time, altitude, speed, radio type in use, and the path. In this paper, we explore various UAV mobility patterns that follow different paths to sweep the operation area in order to seek the best area coverage with the maximum number of covered nodes in the least amount of time needed by the mobile sink. We also introduce a new metric to formulate the tradeoff between maximizing the covered nodes and minimizing the operation time when choosing the appropriate mobility pattern. A realistic simulation environment is used in order to compare and evaluate the performance of the system. We present the performance results for the explored UAV mobility patterns. The results are very useful to present the tradeoff between maximizing the covered nodes and minimizing the operation time to choose the appropriate mobility pattern. PMID:28230727

Joint Services Electronics Program.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-05-01

STATEMMEN A Approved for public release, COD Distribution Unlimited.99 Joint Services Electronics Program* _-ANNUAL PROGRESS RP O. 93) 7 / Covering Period...and the temperature dependence of that (dispersive transport) trap limited mobility has shown interesting new effects. Publications of the Research...Low-Cost Laboratory Computer Interface System," (Scheduled for publication May, 1980, Review ot Scinti’i3 Instruments). | i III. INFORMATION

Morphological integration in the forelimb of musteloid carnivorans

PubMed Central

Fabre, Anne-Claire; Goswami, Anjali; Peigné, Stéphane; Cornette, Raphaël

2014-01-01

The forelimb forms a functional unit that allows a variety of behaviours and needs to be mobile, yet at the same time stable. Both mobility and stability are controlled, amongst others, at the level of the elbow joint. This joint is composed of the humero-ulnar articulation, mainly involved during parasagittal movements; and the radio-ulnar articulation, mainly allowing rotation. In contrast, the humero-radial articulation allows both movements of flexion–extension and rotation. Here, we study the morphological integration between each bone of the forelimb at the level of the entire arm, as well as at the elbow joint, in musteloid carnivorans. To do so, we quantitatively test shape co-variation using surface 3D geometric morphometric data. Our results show that morphological integration is stronger for bones that form functional units. Different results are obtained depending on the level of investigation: for the entire arm, results show a greater degree of shape co-variation between long bones of the lower arm than between the humerus and either bone of the lower arm. Thus, at this level the functional unit of the lower arm is comprised of the radius and ulna, permitting rotational movements of the lower arm. At the level of the elbow, results display a stronger shape co-variation between bones allowing flexion and stability (humerus and ulna) than between bones allowing mobility (ulna and radius and humerus and radius). Thus, the critical functional unit appears to be the articulation between the humerus and ulna providing the stability of the joint. PMID:24836555

Joint immobilization inhibits spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration induced by a novel double-network gel implantation.

PubMed

Arakaki, Kazunobu; Kitamura, Nobuto; Kurokawa, Takayuki; Onodera, Shin; Kanaya, Fuminori; Gong, Jian-Ping; Yasuda, Kazunori

2011-02-01

We have recently discovered that spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration can be induced in an osteochondral defect in the rabbit, when we implant a novel double-network (DN) gel plug at the bottom of the defect. To clarify whether joint immobilization inhibits the spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration, we conducted this study with 20 rabbits. At 4 or 12 weeks after surgery, the defect in the mobile knees was filled with a sufficient volume of the hyaline cartilage tissue rich in proteoglycan and type-2 collagen, while no cartilage tissues were observed in the defect in the immobilized knees. Type-2 collagen, Aggrecan, and SOX9 mRNAs were expressed only in the mobile knees at each period. This study demonstrated that joint immobilization significantly inhibits the spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration induced by the DN gel implantation. This fact suggested that the mechanical environment is one of the significant factors to induce this phenomenon.

Plain faces are more expressive: comparative study of facial colour, mobility and musculature in primates

PubMed Central

Santana, Sharlene E.; Dobson, Seth D.; Diogo, Rui

2014-01-01

Facial colour patterns and facial expressions are among the most important phenotypic traits that primates use during social interactions. While colour patterns provide information about the sender's identity, expressions can communicate its behavioural intentions. Extrinsic factors, including social group size, have shaped the evolution of facial coloration and mobility, but intrinsic relationships and trade-offs likely operate in their evolution as well. We hypothesize that complex facial colour patterning could reduce how salient facial expressions appear to a receiver, and thus species with highly expressive faces would have evolved uniformly coloured faces. We test this hypothesis through a phylogenetic comparative study, and explore the underlying morphological factors of facial mobility. Supporting our hypothesis, we find that species with highly expressive faces have plain facial colour patterns. The number of facial muscles does not predict facial mobility; instead, species that are larger and have a larger facial nucleus have more expressive faces. This highlights a potential trade-off between facial mobility and colour patterning in primates and reveals complex relationships between facial features during primate evolution. PMID:24850898

An anatomically based protocol for the description of foot segment kinematics during gait.

PubMed

Leardini, A; Benedetti, M G; Catani, F; Simoncini, L; Giannini, S

1999-10-01

To design a technique for the in vivo description of ankle and other foot joint rotations to be applied in routine functional evaluation using non-invasive stereophotogrammetry. Position and orientation of tibia/fibula, calcaneus, mid-foot, 1st metatarsal and hallux segments were tracked during the stance phase of walking in nine asymptomatic subjects. Rigid clusters of reflective markers were used for foot segment pose estimation. Anatomical landmark calibration was applied for the reconstruction of anatomical landmarks. Previous studies have analysed only a limited number of joints or have proposed invasive techniques. Anatomical landmark trajectories were reconstructed in the laboratory frame using data from the anatomical calibration procedure. Anatomical co-ordinate frames were defined using the obtained landmark trajectories. Joint co-ordinate systems were used to calculate corresponding joint rotations in all three anatomical planes. The patterns of the joint rotations were highly repeatable within subjects. Consistent patterns between subjects were also exhibited at most of the joints. The method proposed enables a detailed description of ankle and other foot joint rotations on an anatomical base. Joint rotations can therefore be expressed in the well-established terminology necessary for their clinical interpretation. Functional evaluation of patients affected by foot diseases has recently called for more detailed and non-invasive protocols for the description of foot joint rotations during gait. The proposed method can help clinicians to distinguish between normal and pathological pattern of foot joint rotations, and to quantitatively assess the restoration of normal function after treatment.

Effect of Footwear on Joint Pain and Function in Older Adults With Lower Extremity Osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Wagner, Amy; Luna, Sarah

Lower extremity osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition among older adults; given the risks of surgical and pharmaceutical interventions, conservative, lower-cost management options such as footwear warrant further investigation. This systematic review investigated the effects of footwear, including shoe inserts, in reducing lower extremity joint pain and improving gait, mobility, and quality of life in older adults with OA. The CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, RECAL, and Web of Knowledge databases were searched for publications from January 1990 to September 2014, using the terms "footwear," "shoes," "gait," "pain," and "older adult." Participants who were 50 years or older and those who had OA in at least one lower extremity joint narrowed the results. Outcomes of interest included measures of pain, comfort, function, gait, or quality of life. Exclusion criteria applied to participants with rheumatoid arthritis, amputation, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, use of modified footwear or custom orthotics, purely biomechanical studies, and outcomes of balance or falls only. Single-case studies, qualitative narrative descriptions, and expert opinions were also excluded. The initial search resulted in a total of 417 citations. Eleven articles met inclusion criteria. Two randomized controlled trials and 3 quasiexperimental studies reported lateral wedge insoles may have at least some pain-relieving effects and improved functional mobility in older adults at 4 weeks to 2 years' follow-up, particularly when used with subtalar and ankle strapping. Three randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes reported that lateral wedges provided no knee pain relief compared with flat insoles. Hardness of shoe soles did not significantly affect joint comfort in the foot in a quasiexperimental study. A quasiexperimental designed study investigating shock-absorbing insoles showed reduction in knee joint pain with 1 month of wear. Finally, a cross-sectional prognostic study indicated poor footwear at early ages exhibits an association with hindfoot pain later in life. Because of the limited number of randomized control trials, it is not possible to make a definitive conclusion about the long-term effects of footwear on lower extremity joint pain caused by OA. There is mounting evidence that shock-absorbing insoles, subtalar strapping, and avoidance of high heels and sandals early in life may prevent lower extremity joint pain in older adults, but no conclusive evidence exists to show that lateral wedge insoles will provide long-term relief from knee joint pain and improved mobility in older adults with OA. More high-quality randomized control trials are needed to study the effectiveness of footwear and shoe inserts on joint pain and function in older adults with OA.

Social Network Analysis of International Student Mobility: Uncovering the Rise of Regional Hubs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kondakci, Yasar; Bedenlier, Svenja; Zawacki-Richter, Olaf

2018-01-01

Research on the patterns of international student mobility and the dynamics shaping these patterns has been dominated by studies reflecting a Western orientation, discourse, and understanding. Considering political, economic, cultural, historical, and ecological factors, this study argues that international student mobility is not only an issue of…

Social Patterns in Mobile Technology Mediated Collaboration among Members of the Professional Distance Education Community

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Laru, Jari; Jarvela, Sanna

2008-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify social patterns in mobile technology mediated collaboration among distributed members of the professional distance education community. Ten participants worked for 12 weeks designing a master's programme in information sciences. The participants' mobile technology usage activity and interview data were first…

Analysis of polyethylene terephthalate PET plastic bottle jointing system using finite element method (FEM)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaidi, N. A.; Rosli, Muhamad Farizuan; Effendi, M. S. M.; Abdullah, Mohamad Hariri

2017-09-01

For almost all injection molding applications of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic was analyzed the strength, durability and stiffness of properties by using Finite Element Method (FEM) for jointing system of wood furniture. The FEM was utilized for analyzing the PET jointing system for Oak and Pine as wood based material of furniture. The difference pattern design of PET as wood jointing furniture gives the difference value of strength furniture itself. The results show the wood specimen with grooves and eclipse pattern design PET jointing give lower global estimated error is 28.90%, compare to the rectangular and non-grooves wood specimen of global estimated error is 63.21%.

Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation with Ipsilateral Mid Third Clavicle, Mid Shaft Humerus and Coracoid Process Fracture - A Case Report.

PubMed

Sharma, Naveen; Mandloi, Avinash; Agrawal, Ashish; Singh, Shailendra

2016-01-01

The clavicle, humerus and acromioclavicular (AC) joint separately are very commonly involved in traumatic injuries around the shoulder. Acromioclavicular joint dislocation with distal clavicle fracture is a well recognized entity in clinical practice. AC joint dislocation with mid shaft clavicle fracture is uncommon and only few cases have been reported in literature. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe an acromioclavicular dislocation with ipsilateral mid shaft clavicle, mid shaft humerus and coracoid process fracture. Fractures of the humerus and clavicle along with the acromioclavicular joint dislocation were fixed at the same setting. A 65-year-old male met with a high velocity road traffic accident. Plain radiographs showed displaced mid third clavicle fracture with acromioclavicular joint dislocation with mid shaft humerus fracture. Surgical fixation was planned for humerus with interlocking nail, clavicle with locking plate and acromioclavicular joint with reconstruction of coracoclavicular ligaments. Intraoperatively, coracoid process was found to have a comminuted fracture. The operative plan had to be changed on table as coracoclavicular fixation was not possible. So acromioclavicular joint fixation was done using tension band wiring and the coracoclavicular ligament was repaired using a 2-0 ethibond. The comminuted coracoid fracture was managed conservatively. K wires were removed at 6 weeks. Early mobilization was started. In acromioclavicular joint injuries, clavicle must be evaluated for any injury. Although it is more commonly associated with distal clavicle fractures, it can be associated with middle third clavicle fractures. As plain radiographs, AP view are most of the times insufficient for viewing integrity of coracoid process, either special views like Stryker notch or CT scan may help in diagnosing such concealed injuries. When associated with fractures of the humerus and clavicle, anatomical restoration of acromioclavicular joint along with anatomical reduction and a rigid fixation of associated fractures is essential. Proper rehabilitation protocol is a must for achieving promising results. In our case, we were able to achieve a stable surgical fixation of both the fractures as well as AC joint, which enabled us to start early joint mobilization and rehabilitation.

Crack Damage Parameters and Dilatancy of Artificially Jointed Granite Samples Under Triaxial Compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walton, G.; Alejano, L. R.; Arzua, J.; Markley, T.

2018-06-01

A database of post-peak triaxial test results was created for artificially jointed planes introduced in cylindrical compression samples of a Blanco Mera granite. Aside from examining the artificial jointing effect on major rock and rock mass parameters such as stiffness, peak strength and residual strength, other strength parameters related to brittle cracking and post-yield dilatancy were analyzed. Crack initiation and crack damage values for both the intact and artificially jointed samples were determined, and these damage envelopes were found to be notably impacted by the presence of jointing. The data suggest that with increased density of jointing, the samples transition from a combined matrix damage and joint slip yielding mechanism to yield dominated by joint slip. Additionally, post-yield dilation data were analyzed in the context of a mobilized dilation angle model, and the peak dilation angle was found to decrease significantly when there were joints in the samples. These dilatancy results are consistent with hypotheses in the literature on rock mass dilatancy.

Understanding the spreading patterns of mobile phone viruses.

PubMed

Wang, Pu; González, Marta C; Hidalgo, César A; Barabási, Albert-László

2009-05-22

We modeled the mobility of mobile phone users in order to study the fundamental spreading patterns that characterize a mobile virus outbreak. We find that although Bluetooth viruses can reach all susceptible handsets with time, they spread slowly because of human mobility, offering ample opportunities to deploy antiviral software. In contrast, viruses using multimedia messaging services could infect all users in hours, but currently a phase transition on the underlying call graph limits them to only a small fraction of the susceptible users. These results explain the lack of a major mobile virus breakout so far and predict that once a mobile operating system's market share reaches the phase transition point, viruses will pose a serious threat to mobile communications.

Analysis of mobile fronthaul bandwidth and wireless transmission performance in split-PHY processing architecture.

PubMed

Miyamoto, Kenji; Kuwano, Shigeru; Terada, Jun; Otaka, Akihiro

2016-01-25

We analyze the mobile fronthaul (MFH) bandwidth and the wireless transmission performance in the split-PHY processing (SPP) architecture, which redefines the functional split of centralized/cloud RAN (C-RAN) while preserving high wireless coordinated multi-point (CoMP) transmission/reception performance. The SPP architecture splits the base stations (BS) functions between wireless channel coding/decoding and wireless modulation/demodulation, and employs its own CoMP joint transmission and reception schemes. Simulation results show that the SPP architecture reduces the MFH bandwidth by up to 97% from conventional C-RAN while matching the wireless bit error rate (BER) performance of conventional C-RAN in uplink joint reception with only 2-dB signal to noise ratio (SNR) penalty.

Development and evaluation of gas-pressurized elastic sleeves for extravehicular activity.

PubMed

Tanaka, Kunihiko; Tohnan, Momoka; Abe, Chikara; Iwata, Chihiro; Yamagata, Kenji; Tanaka, Masao; Tanaka, Nobuyuki; Morita, Hironobu

2010-07-01

In space, mobility of the current extravehicular activity space suit is limited due to the pressure differential between the inside and outside of the suit. We have previously demonstrated that an elastic glove increased mobility when compared with a non-elastic glove such as that found in the current suit. Extending this work, we hypothesized that an elastic sleeve would also have more mobility compared to a non-elastic sleeve, but a partially elastic sleeve, consisting of elastic joints sewn to non-elastic parts in low mobility areas, might generate similar mobility to a wholly elastic sleeve. The right arms of 10 volunteers were studied with wholly elastic, partially elastic, and non-elastic sleeves in a chamber pressure of -220 mmHg. Range of motion (ROM) of the wrist and electromyography (EMG) of the flexor carpi radialis muscle and the biceps brachii muscle during wrist and elbow flexion were measured. ROM of the wrist was similar among all the sleeves. However, EMG amplitudes during wrist flexion with both elastic sleeves were significantly smaller than that with the non-elastic sleeve. EMG amplitudes during 90 degrees of elbow flexion were also significantly smaller in both elastic sleeves. However, no significant difference in EMG amplitudes was observed between the two elastic sleeves (0.53 +/- 0.06, 0.56 +/- 0.07, 1.14 +/- 0.10 V for wholly elastic, partially elastic, and non-elastic sleeves, respectively). The mobility of elastic sleeves is better than that of a non-elastic sleeve. Elasticity over the joints is important; however the elasticity of the other parts does not appear to affect mobility.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION: JOINT (NSF-EPA) VERIFICATION STATEMENT AND REPORT FOR TREATMENT OF WASTEWATER GENERATED DURING DECONTAMINATION ACTIVITIES - ULTRASTRIP SYSTEMS, INC., MOBILE EMERGENCY FILTRATION SYSTEM (MEFS) - 04/14/WQPC-HS

EPA Science Inventory

Performance verification testing of the UltraStrip Systems, Inc., Mobile Emergency Filtration System (MEFS) was conducted under EPA's Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Program at the EPA Test and Evaluation (T&E) Facility in Cincinnati, Ohio, during November, 2003, thr...

Analysis, modeling, and simulation (AMS) testbed development and evaluation to support dynamic mobility applications (DMA) and active transportation and demand management (ATDM) programs — summary report for the Chicago testbed. [supporting datasets - Chicago Testbed

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-04-01

The datasets in this zip file are in support of Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) report FHWA-JPO-16-385, "Analysis, Modeling, and Simulation (AMS) Testbed Development and Evaluation to Support Dynamic Mobility Applica...

Analysis, modeling, and simulation (AMS) testbed development and evaluation to support dynamic mobility applications (DMA) and active transportation and demand management (ATDM) programs : Dallas testbed analysis plan. [supporting datasets - Dallas Testbed

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-07-26

The datasets in this zip file are in support of Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) report FHWA-JPO-16-385, "Analysis, Modeling, and Simulation (AMS) Testbed Development and Evaluation to Support Dynamic Mobility Applica...

Development of Listening and Linguistic Skills through the Use of a Mobile Application

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramos, Lizeth; Valderruten, Arturo

2017-01-01

The purpose of this article is to present the results of a research that was developed with eight groups of students of undergraduate programs of the Language Institute at Santiago de Cali University. The research was developed with four groups of students who used a mobile application developed jointly by foreign language professors, a software…

Sacroiliac joint motion in patients with degenerative lumbar spine disorders.

PubMed

Nagamoto, Yukitaka; Iwasaki, Motoki; Sakaura, Hironobu; Sugiura, Tsuyoshi; Fujimori, Takahito; Matsuo, Yohei; Kashii, Masafumi; Murase, Tsuyoshi; Yoshikawa, Hideki; Sugamoto, Kazuomi

2015-08-01

OBJECT Usually additional anchors into the ilium are necessary in long fusion to the sacrum for degenerative lumbar spine disorders (DLSDs), especially for adult spine deformity. Although the use of anchors is becoming quite common, surgeons must always keep in mind that the sacroiliac (SI) joint is mobile and they should be aware of the kinematic properties of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs, including adult spinal deformity. No previous study has clarified in vivo kinematic changes in the SI joint with respect to patient age, sex, or parturition status or the presence of DLSDs. The authors conducted a study to clarify the mobility and kinematic characteristics of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs in comparison with healthy volunteers by using in vivo 3D motion analysis with voxel-based registration, a highly accurate, noninvasive method. METHODS Thirteen healthy volunteers (the control group) and 20 patients with DLSDs (the DLSD group) underwent low-dose 3D CT of the lumbar spine and pelvis in 3 positions (neutral, maximal trunk flexion, and maximal trunk extension). SI joint motion was calculated by computer processing of the CT images (voxel-based registration). 3D motion of the SI joint was expressed as both 6 df by Euler angles and translations on the coordinate system and a helical axis of rotation. The correlation between joint motion and the cross-sectional area of the trunk muscles was also investigated. RESULTS SI joint motion during trunk flexion-extension was minute in healthy volunteers. The mean rotation angles during trunk flexion were 0.07° around the x axis, -0.02° around the y axis, and 0.16° around the z axis. The mean rotation angles during trunk extension were 0.38° around the x axis, -0.08° around the y axis, and 0.08° around the z axis. During trunk flexion-extension, the largest amount of motion occurred around the x axis. In patients with DLSDs, the mean rotation angles during trunk flexion were 0.57° around the x axis, 0.01° around the y axis, and 0.19° around the z axis. The mean rotation angles during trunk extension were 0.68° around the x axis, -0.11° around the y axis, and 0.05° around the z axis. Joint motion in patients with DLSDs was significantly greater, with greater individual difference, than in healthy volunteers. Among patients with DLSDs, women had significantly more motion than men did during trunk extension. SI joint motion was significantly negatively correlated with the cross-sectional area of the trunk muscles during both flexion and extension of the trunk. CONCLUSIONS The authors elucidated the mobility and kinematic characteristics of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs compared with healthy volunteers for the first time. This information is useful for spine surgeons because of the recent increase in spinopelvic fusion for the treatment of DLSDs.

Does distal tibiofibular joint mobilization decrease limitation of ankle dorsiflexion?

PubMed

Fujii, Misaki; Suzuki, Daisuke; Uchiyama, Eiichi; Muraki, Takayuki; Teramoto, Atsushi; Aoki, Mitsuhiro; Miyamoto, Shigenori

2010-02-01

Limitation of ankle motion is in many cases treated by joint mobilization (JM), a kind of manual physical therapy technique. Until now, the JM approach has mainly focused on the talocrural joint, with less attention to the distal tibiofibular joint. We applied cyclic loading to the lateral malleolus as in JM in order to clarify the relationship between the dorsiflexion angle and the excursion of the lateral malleolus. Seven normal, fresh-frozen cadaver legs were used. To each specimen, cyclic loading with a 30N force was applied 1000 times to the lateral malleolus at a speed of 15N/s. The displacement of the lateral malleolus was measured with a magnetic tracking system. The maximum dorsiflexion angle was measured before and after cyclic loading. After the first 100 and 1000 times of cyclic loading, the tibia was displaced 0.44+/-0.30mm and 0.75+/-0.36mm, respectively, and the fibula was displaced 0.44+/-0.28mm and 0.92+/-0.39mm, respectively. The average dorsiflexion angle increased from 14.36+/-7.51 degrees to 16.74+/-7.21 degrees after cyclic loading (P<0.05). Movement of the distal tibiofibular joint led to a significant increase in the range of ankle dorsiflexion. These results suggest that tibiofibular JM would be effective for limitation of ankle dorsiflexion.

Explaining the power-law distribution of human mobility through transportation modality decomposition.

PubMed

Zhao, Kai; Musolesi, Mirco; Hui, Pan; Rao, Weixiong; Tarkoma, Sasu

2015-03-16

Human mobility has been empirically observed to exhibit Lévy flight characteristics and behaviour with power-law distributed jump size. The fundamental mechanisms behind this behaviour has not yet been fully explained. In this paper, we propose to explain the Lévy walk behaviour observed in human mobility patterns by decomposing them into different classes according to the different transportation modes, such as Walk/Run, Bike, Train/Subway or Car/Taxi/Bus. Our analysis is based on two real-life GPS datasets containing approximately 10 and 20 million GPS samples with transportation mode information. We show that human mobility can be modelled as a mixture of different transportation modes, and that these single movement patterns can be approximated by a lognormal distribution rather than a power-law distribution. Then, we demonstrate that the mixture of the decomposed lognormal flight distributions associated with each modality is a power-law distribution, providing an explanation to the emergence of Lévy Walk patterns that characterize human mobility patterns.

Explaining the power-law distribution of human mobility through transportation modality decomposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Kai; Musolesi, Mirco; Hui, Pan; Rao, Weixiong; Tarkoma, Sasu

2015-03-01

Human mobility has been empirically observed to exhibit Lévy flight characteristics and behaviour with power-law distributed jump size. The fundamental mechanisms behind this behaviour has not yet been fully explained. In this paper, we propose to explain the Lévy walk behaviour observed in human mobility patterns by decomposing them into different classes according to the different transportation modes, such as Walk/Run, Bike, Train/Subway or Car/Taxi/Bus. Our analysis is based on two real-life GPS datasets containing approximately 10 and 20 million GPS samples with transportation mode information. We show that human mobility can be modelled as a mixture of different transportation modes, and that these single movement patterns can be approximated by a lognormal distribution rather than a power-law distribution. Then, we demonstrate that the mixture of the decomposed lognormal flight distributions associated with each modality is a power-law distribution, providing an explanation to the emergence of Lévy Walk patterns that characterize human mobility patterns.

Explaining the power-law distribution of human mobility through transportation modality decomposition

PubMed Central

Zhao, Kai; Musolesi, Mirco; Hui, Pan; Rao, Weixiong; Tarkoma, Sasu

2015-01-01

Human mobility has been empirically observed to exhibit Lévy flight characteristics and behaviour with power-law distributed jump size. The fundamental mechanisms behind this behaviour has not yet been fully explained. In this paper, we propose to explain the Lévy walk behaviour observed in human mobility patterns by decomposing them into different classes according to the different transportation modes, such as Walk/Run, Bike, Train/Subway or Car/Taxi/Bus. Our analysis is based on two real-life GPS datasets containing approximately 10 and 20 million GPS samples with transportation mode information. We show that human mobility can be modelled as a mixture of different transportation modes, and that these single movement patterns can be approximated by a lognormal distribution rather than a power-law distribution. Then, we demonstrate that the mixture of the decomposed lognormal flight distributions associated with each modality is a power-law distribution, providing an explanation to the emergence of Lévy Walk patterns that characterize human mobility patterns. PMID:25779306

RELIABILITY OF ANKLE-FOOT MORPHOLOGY, MOBILITY, STRENGTH, AND MOTOR PERFORMANCE MEASURES.

PubMed

Fraser, John J; Koldenhoven, Rachel M; Saliba, Susan A; Hertel, Jay

2017-12-01

Assessment of foot posture, morphology, intersegmental mobility, strength and motor control of the ankle-foot complex are commonly used clinically, but measurement properties of many assessments are unclear. To determine test-retest and inter-rater reliability, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change of morphology, joint excursion and play, strength, and motor control of the ankle-foot complex. Reliability study. 24 healthy, recreationally-active young adults without history of ankle-foot injury were assessed by two clinicians on two occasions, three to ten days apart. Measurement properties were assessed for foot morphology (foot posture index, total and truncated length, width, arch height), joint excursion (weight-bearing dorsiflexion, rearfoot and hallux goniometry, forefoot inclinometry, 1 st metatarsal displacement) and joint play, strength (handheld dynamometry), and motor control rating during intrinsic foot muscle (IFM) exercises. Clinician order was randomized using a Latin Square. The clinicians performed independent examinations and did not confer on the findings for the duration of the study. Test-retest and inter-tester reliability and agreement was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 2,k ) and weighted kappa ( K w ). Test-retest reliability ICC were as follows: morphology: .80-1.00, joint excursion: .58-.97, joint play: -.67-.84, strength: .67-.92, IFM motor rating: K W -.01-.71. Inter-rater reliability ICC were as follows: morphology: .81-1.00, joint excursion: .32-.97, joint play: -1.06-1.00, strength: .53-.90, and IFM motor rating: K w .02-.56. Measures of ankle-foot posture, morphology, joint excursion, and strength demonstrated fair to excellent test-retest and inter-rater reliability. Test-retest reliability for rating of perceived difficulty and motor performance was good to excellent for short-foot, toe-spread-out, and hallux exercises and poor to fair for lesser toe extension. Joint play measures had poor to fair reliability overall. The findings of this study should be considered when choosing methods of clinical assessment and outcome measures in practice and research. 3.

Location Management in Distributed Mobile Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-09-01

carried out to evaluate the performanceof di erent static strategies for various communica-tion and mobility patterns. Simulation results indi-cate...results ofsimulations carried out to evaluate the performanceof proposed static location management strategies forvarious call and mobility patterns...Systems, Austin, Sept. 1994. U.S. Government or Federal Rights License 14. ABSTRACT 15. SUBJECT TERMS 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17

Sacroiliac joint pain as an important element of psoriatic arthritis diagnosis.

PubMed

Krawczyk-Wasielewska, Agnieszka; Skorupska, Elżbieta; Samborski, Włodzimierz

2013-04-01

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the coexistence of arthritis with psoriasis of the skin and nails. The sacroiliac joints were observed in 34-78% of patients with psoriatic arthritis. Due to such a high prevalence of SIJ dysfunction, understanding pathophysiology of pain and the associated pain pattern becomes a very important aspect of PsA diagnosis. As far as the etiology of SI joint dysfunction is concerned, it has not been disambiguated yet. Among the main causative factors, injuries and strains of the structures surrounding the joint are noted. Joint pathology usually manifests itself by pain occurring within the area of the joint. The causes of pain may be divided into two categories: intra-articular and extra-articular. Pain caused by the SI joint may be nociceptive or neural in nature, whereas the pain pattern characteristic of the joint correlates with its innervation and is consistent with S2 dorsal rami.

Sacroiliac joint pain as an important element of psoriatic arthritis diagnosis

PubMed Central

Skorupska, Elżbieta; Samborski, Włodzimierz

2013-01-01

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the coexistence of arthritis with psoriasis of the skin and nails. The sacroiliac joints were observed in 34-78% of patients with psoriatic arthritis. Due to such a high prevalence of SIJ dysfunction, understanding pathophysiology of pain and the associated pain pattern becomes a very important aspect of PsA diagnosis. As far as the etiology of SI joint dysfunction is concerned, it has not been disambiguated yet. Among the main causative factors, injuries and strains of the structures surrounding the joint are noted. Joint pathology usually manifests itself by pain occurring within the area of the joint. The causes of pain may be divided into two categories: intra-articular and extra-articular. Pain caused by the SI joint may be nociceptive or neural in nature, whereas the pain pattern characteristic of the joint correlates with its innervation and is consistent with S2 dorsal rami. PMID:24278057

Entropic measures of individual mobility patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallotti, Riccardo; Bazzani, Armando; Degli Esposti, Mirko; Rambaldi, Sandro

2013-10-01

Understanding human mobility from a microscopic point of view may represent a fundamental breakthrough for the development of a statistical physics for cognitive systems and it can shed light on the applicability of macroscopic statistical laws for social systems. Even if the complexity of individual behaviors prevents a true microscopic approach, the introduction of mesoscopic models allows the study of the dynamical properties for the non-stationary states of the considered system. We propose to compute various entropy measures of the individual mobility patterns obtained from GPS data that record the movements of private vehicles in the Florence district, in order to point out new features of human mobility related to the use of time and space and to define the dynamical properties of a stochastic model that could generate similar patterns. Moreover, we can relate the predictability properties of human mobility to the distribution of time passed between two successive trips. Our analysis suggests the existence of a hierarchical structure in the mobility patterns which divides the performed activities into three different categories, according to the time cost, with different information contents. We show that a Markov process defined by using the individual mobility network is not able to reproduce this hierarchy, which seems the consequence of different strategies in the activity choice. Our results could contribute to the development of governance policies for a sustainable mobility in modern cities.

Mobile phone use patterns and preferences in safety net office-based buprenorphine patients.

PubMed

Tofighi, Babak; Grossman, Ellie; Buirkle, Emily; McNeely, Jennifer; Gourevitch, Marc; Lee, Joshua D

2015-01-01

Integrating mobile phone technologies in addiction treatment is of increasing importance and may optimize patient engagement with their care and enhance the delivery of existing treatment strategies. Few studies have evaluated mobile phone and text message (TM) use patterns in persons enrolled in addiction treatment, and none have assessed the use in safety net, office-based buprenorphine practices. A 28-item, quantitative and qualitative semistructured survey was administered to opiate-dependent adults in an urban, publicly funded, office-based buprenorphine program. Survey domains included demographic characteristics, mobile phone and TM use patterns, and preferences pertaining to their recovery. Surveyors approached 73 of the 155 eligible subjects (47%); 71 respondents completed the survey. Nearly all participants reported mobile phone ownership (93%) and TM use (93%), and most reported "very much" or "somewhat" comfort sending TM (79%). Text message contact with 12-step group sponsors, friends, family members, and counselors was also described (32%). Nearly all preferred having their providers' mobile phone number (94%), and alerting the clinic via TM in the event of a potential relapse to receive both supportive TM and a phone call from their buprenorphine provider was also well received (62%). Mobile phone and TM use patterns and preferences among this sample of office-based buprenorphine participants highlight the potential of adopting patient-centered mobile phone-based interventions in this treatment setting.

Invariant hip moment pattern while walking with a robotic hip exoskeleton.

PubMed

Lewis, Cara L; Ferris, Daniel P

2011-03-15

Robotic lower limb exoskeletons hold significant potential for gait assistance and rehabilitation; however, we have a limited understanding of how people adapt to walking with robotic devices. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that people reduce net muscle moments about their joints when robotic assistance is provided. This reduction in muscle moment results in a total joint moment (muscle plus exoskeleton) that is the same as the moment without the robotic assistance despite potential differences in joint angles. To test this hypothesis, eight healthy subjects trained with the robotic hip exoskeleton while walking on a force-measuring treadmill. The exoskeleton provided hip flexion assistance from approximately 33% to 53% of the gait cycle. We calculated the root mean squared difference (RMSD) between the average of data from the last 15 min of the powered condition and the unpowered condition. After completing three 30-min training sessions, the hip exoskeleton provided 27% of the total peak hip flexion moment during gait. Despite this substantial contribution from the exoskeleton, subjects walked with a total hip moment pattern (muscle plus exoskeleton) that was almost identical and more similar to the unpowered condition than the hip angle pattern (hip moment RMSD 0.027, angle RMSD 0.134, p<0.001). The angle and moment RMSD were not different for the knee and ankle joints. These findings support the concept that people adopt walking patterns with similar joint moment patterns despite differences in hip joint angles for a given walking speed. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

From Joint Experimentation to Laissez-Faire: Transdisciplinary Innovation Research for the Institutional Strengthening of a Water Users Association in Khorezm, Uzbekistan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Djanibekov, Nodir; Hornidge, Anna-Katharina; Ul-Hassan, Mehmood

2012-01-01

Purpose: This article assesses a participatory action and innovation research experience, in which project researchers, farmers and staff members of a local water users association (WUA) came together to: (a) jointly test and adapt a social mobilization and institutional strengthening approach according to the local context, and by doing so, to…

USING THE SELECTIVE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT ASSESSMENT AND REGIONAL INTERDEPENDENCE THEORY TO GUIDE TREATMENT OF AN ATHLETE WITH BACK PAIN: A CASE REPORT.

PubMed

Goshtigian, Gabriella R; Swanson, Brian T

2016-08-01

Despite the multidirectional quality of human movement, common measurement procedures used in physical therapy examination are often uni-planar and lack the ability to assess functional complexities involved in daily activities. Currently, there is no widely accepted, validated standard to assess movement quality. The Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) is one possible system to objectively assess complex functional movements. The purpose of this case report is to illustrate the application of the SFMA as a guide to the examination, evaluation, and management of a patient with non-specific low back pain (LBP). An adolescent male athlete with LBP was evaluated using the SFMA. It was determined that the patient had mobility limitations remote to the site of pain (thoracic spine and hips) which therapists hypothesized were leading to compensatory hypermobility at the lumbar spine. Guided by the SFMA, initial interventions focused on local (lumbar) symptom management, progressing to remote mobility deficits, and then addressing the local stability deficit. All movement patterns became functional/non-painful except the right upper extremity medial rotation-extension pattern. At discharge, the patient demonstrated increased soft tissue extensibility of hip musculature and joint mobility of the thoracic spine along with normalization of lumbopelvic motor control. Improvements in pain exceeded minimal clinically important differences, from 2-7/10 on a verbal analog scale at initial exam to 0-2/10 at discharge. Developing and progressing a plan of care for an otherwise healthy and active adolescent with non-specific LBP can be challenging. Human movement is a collaborative effort of muscle groups that are interdependent; the use of a movement-based assessment model can help identify weak links affecting overall function. The SFMA helped guide therapists to dysfunctional movements not seen with more conventional examination procedures. Level 4.

Hand reach star excursion balance test: An alternative test for dynamic postural control and functional mobility.

PubMed

Eriksrud, Ola; Federolf, Peter; Anderson, Patrick; Cabri, Jan

2018-01-01

Tests of dynamic postural control eliciting full-body three-dimensional joint movements in a systematic manner are scarce. The well-established star excursion balance test (SEBT) elicits primarily three-dimensional lower extremity joint movements with minimal trunk and no upper extremity joint movements. In response to these shortcomings we created the hand reach star excursion balance test (HSEBT) based on the SEBT reach directions. The aims of the current study were to 1) compare HSEBT and SEBT measurements, 2) compare joint movements elicited by the HSEBT to both SEBT joint movements and normative range of motion values published in the literature. Ten SEBT and HSEBT reaches for each foot were obtained while capturing full-body kinematics in twenty recreationally active healthy male subjects. HSEBT and SEBT areas and composite scores (sum of reaches) for total, anterior and posterior subsections and individual reaches were correlated. Total reach score comparisons showed fair to moderate correlations (r = .393 to .606), while anterior and posterior subsections comparisons had fair to good correlations (r = .269 to .823). Individual reach comparisons had no to good correlations (r = -.182 to .822) where lateral and posterior reaches demonstrated the lowest correlations (r = -.182 to .510). The HSEBT elicited more and significantly greater joint movements than the SEBT, except for hip external rotation, knee extension and plantarflexion. Comparisons to normative range of motion values showed that 3 of 18 for the SEBT and 8 of 22 joint movements for the HSEBT were within normative values. The findings suggest that the HSEBT can be used for the assessment of dynamic postural control and is particularly suitable for examining full-body functional mobility.

Development of a clinical prediction rule for identifying women with tension-type headache who are likely to achieve short-term success with joint mobilization and muscle trigger point therapy.

PubMed

Fernández-de-las-Peñas, César; Cleland, Joshua A; Palomeque-del-Cerro, Luis; Caminero, Ana Belén; Guillem-Mesado, Amparo; Jiménez-García, Rodrigo

2011-02-01

To identify prognostic factors from the history and physical examination in women with tension-type headache (TTH) who are likely to experience self-perceived clinical improvement following a multimodal physical therapy session including joint mobilization and muscle trigger point (TrP) therapies. No definitive therapeutic intervention is available for TTH. It would be useful for clinicians to have a clinical prediction rule for selecting which TTH patients may experience improved outcomes following a multimodal physical therapy program. Women diagnosed with pure TTH by 3 experienced neurologists according to the International Headache Society criteria from different neurology departments were included. They underwent a standardized examination (neck mobility, pressure pain thresholds, total tenderness score, presence of muscle TrPs, Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form, the Neck Disability Index [NDI], the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Headache Disability Inventory) and then a multimodal physical therapy session including joint mobilization and TrP therapies. The treatment session included a 30-second grade III or IV central posterior-anterior nonthrust mobilization applied from T4 to T1 thoracic vertebrae, at C7-T1 cervico-thoracic junction and C1-C2 vertebrae for an overall intervention time of 5 minutes Different TrP techniques, particularly soft tissue stroke, pressure release, or muscle energy were applied to head and neck-shoulder muscles (temporalis, suboccipital, upper trapezius, splenius capitis, semispinalis capitis, sternocleidomastoid) to inactivate active muscle TrPs. Participants were classified as having achieved a successful outcome 1 week after the session based on their self-perceived recovery. Potential prognostic variables were entered into a stepwise logistic regression model to determine the most accurate set of variables for prediction of success. Data for 76 subjects were included in the analysis, of which 36 experienced a successful outcome (48%). Eight prognostic variables were retained in the regression model: mean age <44.5 years, presence of left sternocleidomastoid TrP, presence of suboccipital TrP, presence of left superior oblique muscle TrP, cervical rotation to the left > 69°, total tenderness score <20.5, NDI <18.5, referred pain area of right upper trapezius muscle TrP >42.23. The current clinical prediction rule may allow clinicians to make an a priori identification of women with TTH who are likely to experience short-term self-report improvement with a multimodal session including joint mobilizations and TrP therapies. Future studies are necessary to validate these findings. © 2010 American Headache Society.

Prolonged stretching of the ankle plantarflexors elicits muscle-tendon adaptations relevant to ankle gait kinetics in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Martín Lorenzo, Teresa; Rocon, Eduardo; Martínez Caballero, Ignacio; Ramírez Barragán, Ana; Lerma Lara, Sergio

2017-11-01

Tissue related ankle hyper-resistance has been reported to contribute to equinus gait in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Hence, ankle plantarflexor stretching programs have been developed in order to restore passive ankle dorsiflexion. Despite high quality evidence on the limited effects of stretching on passive joint mobility, further muscle-tendon adaptations have been reported which may impact gait performance. As such, children with spastic cerebral palsy subject to long-term manual static stretching achieved dorsiflexion gains through the reduction of muscle and fascicle strain whilst preserving tendon strain, and prolonged use of ankle-foot orthoses achieved similar dorsiflexion gains through increased tendon strain whilst preserving muscle and fascicle strain. The latter concurred with normalization of early stance plantarflexor moment yet reductions in push-off plantarflexor moment given the increase in tendon compliance. Therefore, similar limited gains in passive ankle joint mobility in response to stretching may be achieved either by preserving/restoring optimal muscle-tendon function, or at the expense of muscle-tendon function and thus contributing gait impairments. The largest increase in ankle passive joint mobility in children with SCP has been obtained through prolonged plantarflexor stretching through ankle casting combined with botulinum neurotoxin type A. However, to our knowledge, there are no published studies on muscle-tendinous adaptations to ankle casting combined with botulinum toxin type A and its effect on ankle joint gait kinetics. Therefore, we hypothesized that ankle casting elicits muscle-tendon adaptations which concur with altered ankle joint kinetics during the stance phase of gait in children with SCP. More information is needed about the relationships between muscle structure and function, and the effect of specific interventions designed to alter muscle properties and associated functional outcomes in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhancement of field effect mobility of poly(3-hexylthiophene) thin film transistors by soft-lithographical nanopatterning on the gate-dielectric surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jeong-Ho; Kang, Seok-Ju; Park, Jeong-Woo; Lim, Bogyu; Kim, Dong-Yu

2007-11-01

The submicroscaled octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) line patterns on gate-dielectric surfaces were introduced into the fabrication of organic field effect transistors (OFETs). These spin-cast regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) films on soft-lithographically patterned SiO2 surfaces yielded a higher hole mobility (˜0.072cm2/Vs ) than those of unpatterned (˜0.015cm2/Vs) and untreated (˜5×10-3cm2/Vs) OFETs. The effect of mobility enhancement as a function of the patterned line pitch was investigated in structural and geometric characteristics. The resulting improved mobility is likely attributed to the formation of efficient π-π stacking as a result of guide-assisted, local self-organization-involved molecular interactions between the poly(3-hexylthiophene) polymer and the geometrical OTS patterns.

Dynamic assessment of exposure to air pollution using mobile phone data.

PubMed

Dewulf, Bart; Neutens, Tijs; Lefebvre, Wouter; Seynaeve, Gerdy; Vanpoucke, Charlotte; Beckx, Carolien; Van de Weghe, Nico

2016-04-21

Exposure to air pollution can have major health impacts, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Traditionally, only the air pollution concentration at the home location is taken into account in health impact assessments and epidemiological studies. Neglecting individual travel patterns can lead to a bias in air pollution exposure assessments. In this work, we present a novel approach to calculate the daily exposure to air pollution using mobile phone data of approximately 5 million mobile phone users living in Belgium. At present, this data is collected and stored by telecom operators mainly for management of the mobile network. Yet it represents a major source of information in the study of human mobility. We calculate the exposure to NO2 using two approaches: assuming people stay at home the entire day (traditional static approach), and incorporating individual travel patterns using their location inferred from their use of the mobile phone network (dynamic approach). The mean exposure to NO2 increases with 1.27 μg/m(3) (4.3%) during the week and with 0.12 μg/m(3) (0.4%) during the weekend when incorporating individual travel patterns. During the week, mostly people living in municipalities surrounding larger cities experience the highest increase in NO2 exposure when incorporating their travel patterns, probably because most of them work in these larger cities with higher NO2 concentrations. It is relevant for health impact assessments and epidemiological studies to incorporate individual travel patterns in estimating air pollution exposure. Mobile phone data is a promising data source to determine individual travel patterns, because of the advantages (e.g. low costs, large sample size, passive data collection) compared to travel surveys, GPS, and smartphone data (i.e. data captured by applications on smartphones).

Joint Coordination and Muscle Activities of Ballet Dancers During Tiptoe Standing.

PubMed

Tanabe, Hiroko; Fujii, Keisuke; Kouzaki, Motoki

2017-01-01

We aimed to investigate joint coordination of lower limbs in dancers during tiptoe standing and the relationship between joint coordination and muscle coactivation. Seven female ballet dancers performed tiptoe standing with six leg positions (fi e classical dance positions and one modern dance position) for 10 s. The kinematic data of the metatarsophalangeal (MP), ankle, knee, and hip joints was collected, and surface electromyography (EMG) of over 13 lower limb muscles was conducted. Principal component analysis was performed to determine joint coordination. MP-ankle and ankle-knee had in-phase coordination, whereas knee-hip showed anti-phase coordination in the sagittal plane. In addition, most EMG-EMG coherence around the MP and ankle joints was significant up to 50 Hz when these two joints swayed with in-phase. This suggests that different joint coordination patterns are associated with neural processing related to different muscle coactivation patterns. In conclusion, ballet dancers showed in-phase coordination from the MP to knee joints, which was associated with muscle coactivation to a higher frequency domain (up to 50 Hz) in comparison with anti-phase coordination.

Radiographic hand osteoarthritis: patterns and associations with hand pain and function in a community-dwelling sample.

PubMed

Marshall, M; van der Windt, D; Nicholls, E; Myers, H; Hay, E; Dziedzic, K

2009-11-01

Patterns of radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA) of the hand are often examined by row, with the four joints of the thumb studied inconsistently. The objectives of this study were to determine relationships of ROA at different hand joints, use the findings to define radiographic sub-groups and investigate their associations with pain and function. Sixteen joints in each hand were scored for the presence of ROA in a community-dwelling cohort of adults, 50-years-and-over, with self-reported hand pain or problems. Principal components analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation was used to study patterns of ROA in the hand joints and identify distinct sub-groups. Differences in pain and function between these sub-groups were assessed using Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Index (AUSCAN), Grip Ability Test (GAT) and grip and pinch strength. PCA was undertaken on data from 592 participants and identified four components: distal interphalangeal joints (DIPs), proximal interphalangeal joints (PIPs), metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPs), thumb joints. However, the left thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint cross-loaded with the PIP and thumb groups. On this basis, participants were categorised into four radiographic sub-groups: no osteoarthritis (OA), finger only OA, thumb only OA and combined thumb and finger OA. Statistically significant differences were found between the sub-groups for AUSCAN function, and in women alone for grip and pinch strength. Participants with combined thumb and finger OA had the worst scores. Individual thumb joints can be clustered together as a joint group in ROA. Four radiographic sub-groups of hand OA can be distinguished. Pain and functional difficulties were highest in participants with both thumb and finger OA.

Mating patterns and pollinator mobility are critical traits in forest fragmentation genetics

PubMed Central

Breed, M F; Ottewell, K M; Gardner, M G; Marklund, M H K; Dormontt, E E; Lowe, A J

2015-01-01

Most woody plants are animal-pollinated, but the global problem of habitat fragmentation is changing the pollination dynamics. Consequently, the genetic diversity and fitness of the progeny of animal-pollinated woody plants sired in fragmented landscapes tend to decline due to shifts in plant-mating patterns (for example, reduced outcrossing rate, pollen diversity). However, the magnitude of this mating-pattern shift should theoretically be a function of pollinator mobility. We first test this hypothesis by exploring the mating patterns of three ecologically divergent eucalypts sampled across a habitat fragmentation gradient in southern Australia. We demonstrate increased selfing and decreased pollen diversity with increased fragmentation for two small-insect-pollinated eucalypts, but no such relationship for the mobile-bird-pollinated eucalypt. In a meta-analysis, we then show that fragmentation generally does increase selfing rates and decrease pollen diversity, and that more mobile pollinators tended to dampen these mating-pattern shifts. Together, our findings support the premise that variation in pollinator form contributes to the diversity of mating-pattern responses to habitat fragmentation. PMID:24002239

A mobile compression device for thrombosis prevention in hip and knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Colwell, Clifford W; Froimson, Mark I; Anseth, Scott D; Giori, Nicholas J; Hamilton, William G; Barrack, Robert L; Buehler, Knute C; Mont, Michael A; Padgett, Douglas E; Pulido, Pamela A; Barnes, C Lowery

2014-02-05

Venous thromboembolic events, either deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, are important complications in patients undergoing knee or hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile compression device (ActiveCare+S.F.T.) with or without aspirin compared with current pharmacological protocols for prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing elective primary unilateral arthroplasty of a lower-extremity joint. A multicenter registry was established to capture the rate of symptomatic venous thromboembolic events following primary knee arthroplasty (1551 patients) or hip arthroplasty (1509 patients) from ten sites. All patients were eighteen years of age or older with no known history of venous thromboembolism, coagulation disorder, or solid tumor. Use of the compression device began perioperatively and continued for a minimum of ten days. Patients with symptoms of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism underwent duplex ultrasonography and/or spiral computed tomography. All patients were evaluated at three months postoperatively to document any evidence of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Of 3060 patients, twenty-eight (0.92%) had venous thromboembolism (twenty distal deep venous thrombi, three proximal deep venous thrombi, and five pulmonary emboli). One death occurred, with no autopsy performed. Symptomatic venous thromboembolic rates observed in patients who had an arthroplasty of a lower-extremity joint using the mobile compression device were noninferior (not worse than), at a margin of 1.0%, to the rates reported for pharmacological prophylaxis, including warfarin, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran, except in the knee arthroplasty group, in which the mobile compression device fell short of the rate reported for rivaroxaban by 0.06%. Use of the mobile compression device with or without aspirin for patients undergoing arthroplasty of a lower-extremity joint provides a noninferior risk for the development of venous thromboembolism compared with current pharmacological protocols.

Condylar Joint Fusion and Stabilization (by Screws and Plates) in Nontraumatic Atlanto-Occipital Dislocation: Technical Report of 2 Cases.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Forhad H; Haque, Mohammod Raziul; Alam, Sarwar Murshed; Khaled Chowdhury, S M Noman; Khan, Shamsul Islam; Goel, Atul

2017-11-01

Nontraumatic spontaneous atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) is rare. In this report, we discuss the technical steps of condylar joint fusion and stabilization (by screws and plates) in nontraumatic AOD. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report of such techniques. A young girl and a young man with progressive quadriparesis due to nontraumatic spontaneous atlanto-occipital dislocation were managed by microsurgical reduction, fusion, and stabilization of the joint by occipital condylar and C1 lateral mass screw and plate fixation after mobilization of vertebral artery. In both cases, condylar joints fixation and fusion were done successfully. Condylar joint stabilization and fusion may be a good or alternative option for AOD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Space trajectory calculation based on G-sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Biya; Zhan, Yinwei; Shao, Yang

2017-08-01

At present, without full use of the mobile phone around us, most of the research in human body posture recognition field is use camera or portable acceleration sensor to collect data. In this paper, G-sensor built-in mobile phone is use to collect data. After processing data with the way of moving average filter and acceleration integral, joint point's space three-dimensional coordinates can be abtained accurately.

Analysis, Modeling, and Simulation (AMS) Testbed Development and Evaluation to Support Dynamic Mobility Applications (DMA) and Active Transportation and Demand Management (ATDM) Programs : Evaluation Report for the San Diego Testbed : Draft Report. [supporting datasets - San Diego

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-06-26

The datasets in this zip file are in support of Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office (ITS JPO) report FHWA-JPO-16-385, "Analysis, Modeling, and Simulation (AMS) Testbed Development and Evaluation to Support Dynamic Mobility Applica...

Security patterns and a weighting scheme for mobile agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, Jessie J.

The notion of mobility has always been a prime factor in human endeavor and achievement. This need to migrate by humans has been distilled into software entities, which are their representatives on distant environments. Software agents are developed to act on behalf of a user. Mobile agents were born from the understanding that many times it was much more useful to move the code (program) to where the resources are located, instead of connecting remotely. Within the mobile agent research community, security has traditionally been the most defining issue facing the community and preventing the paradigm from gaining wide acceptance. There are still numerous difficult problems being addressed with very few practical solutions, such as the malicious host and agent problems. These problems are some of the most active areas of research within the mobile agent community. The major principles, facets, fundamental concepts, techniques and architectures of the field are well understood within the community. This is evident by the many mobile agent systems developed in the last decade that share common core components such as agent management, communication facilities, and mobility services. In other words new mobile agent systems and frameworks do not provide any new insights into agent system architecture or mobility services, agent coordination, communication that could be useful to the agent research community, although these new mobile agent systems do in many instances validate, refine, demonstrate the reuse of many previously proposed and discussed mobile agent research elements. Since mobile agent research for the last decade has been defined by security and related issues, our research into security patterns are within this narrow arena of mobile agent research. The research presented in this thesis examines the issue of mobile agent security from the standpoint of security pattern documented from the universe of mobile agent systems. In addition, we explore how these documented security patterns can be quantitatively compared based on a unique weighting scheme. The scheme is formalized into a theory that can be used improve the development of secure mobile agents and agent-based systems.

A patterned microtexture to reduce friction and increase longevity of prosthetic hip joints

PubMed Central

Chyr, Anthony; Qiu, Mingfeng; Speltz, Jared; Jacobsen, Ronald L.; Sanders, Anthony P.; Raeymaekers, Bart

2014-01-01

More than 285,000 total hip replacement surgeries are performed in the US each year. Most prosthetic hip joints consist of a cobalt-chromium (CoCr) femoral head that articulates with a polyethylene acetabular component, lubricated with synovial fluid. The statistical survivorship of these metal-on-polyethylene prosthetic hip joints declines significantly after 10 to 15 years of use, primarily as a result of polyethylene wear and wear debris incited disease. The current engineering paradigm to increase the longevity of prosthetic hip joints is to improve the mechanical properties of the polyethylene component, and to manufacture ultra-smooth articulating surfaces. In contrast, we show that adding a patterned microtexture to the ultra-smooth CoCr femoral head reduces friction when articulating with the polyethylene acetabular liner. The microtexture increases the load-carrying capacity and the thickness of the joint lubricant film, which reduces contact between the articulating surfaces. As a result, friction and wear is reduced. We have used a lubrication model to design the geometry of the patterned microtexture, and experimentally demonstrate reduced friction for the microtextured compared to conventional smooth surrogate prosthetic hip joints. PMID:25013240

The effects of bending speed on the lumbo-pelvic kinematics and movement pattern during forward bending in people with and without low back pain.

PubMed

Tsang, Sharon M H; Szeto, Grace P Y; Li, Linda M K; Wong, Dim C M; Yip, Millie M P; Lee, Raymond Y W

2017-04-17

Impaired lumbo-pelvic movement in people with low back pain during bending task has been reported previously. However, the regional mobility and the pattern of the lumbo-pelvic movement were found to vary across studies. The inconsistency of the findings may partly be related to variations in the speed at which the task was executed. This study examined the effects of bending speeds on the kinematics and the coordination lumbo-pelvic movement during forward bending, and to compare the performance of individuals with and without low back pain. The angular displacement, velocity and acceleration of the lumbo-pelvic movement during the repeated forward bending executed at five selected speeds were acquired using the three dimensional motion tracking system in seventeen males with low back pain and eighteen males who were asymptomatic. The regional kinematics and the degree of coordination of the lumbo-pelvic movement during bending was compared and analysed between two groups. Significantly compromised performance in velocity and acceleration of the lumbar spine and hip joint during bending task at various speed levels was shown in back pain group (p < 0.01). Both groups displayed a high degree of coordination of the lumbo-pelvic displacement during forward bending executed across the five levels of speed examined. Significant between-group difference was revealed in the coordination of the lumbo-pelvic velocity and acceleration (p < 0.01). Asymptomatic group moved with a progressively higher degree of lumbo-pelvic coordination for velocity and acceleration while the back pain group adopted a uniform lumbo-pelvic pattern across all the speed levels examined. The present findings show that bending speed imposes different levels of demand on the kinematics and pattern of the lumbo-pelvic movement. The ability to regulate the lumbo-pelvic movement pattern during the bending task that executed at various speed levels was shown only in pain-free individuals but not in those with low back pain. Individuals with low back pain moved with a stereotyped strategy at their lumbar spine and hip joints. This specific aberrant lumbo-pelvic movement pattern may have a crucial role in the maintenance of the chronicity in back pain.

Model driven mobile care for patients with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Skrøvseth, Stein Olav; Arsand, Eirik; Godtliebsen, Fred; Joakimsen, Ragnar M

2012-01-01

We gathered a data set from 30 patients with type 1 diabetes by giving the patients a mobile phone application, where they recorded blood glucose measurements, insulin injections, meals, and physical activity. Using these data as a learning data set, we describe a new approach of building a mobile feedback system for these patients based on periodicities, pattern recognition, and scale-space trends. Most patients have important patterns for periodicities and trends, though better resolution of input variables is needed to provide useful feedback using pattern recognition.

Truthful Incentive Mechanisms for Social Cost Minimization in Mobile Crowdsourcing Systems

PubMed Central

Duan, Zhuojun; Yan, Mingyuan; Cai, Zhipeng; Wang, Xiaoming; Han, Meng; Li, Yingshu

2016-01-01

With the emergence of new technologies, mobile devices are capable of undertaking computational and sensing tasks. A large number of users with these mobile devices promote the formation of the Mobile Crowdsourcing Systems (MCSs). Within a MCS, each mobile device can contribute to the crowdsourcing platform and get rewards from it. In order to achieve better performance, it is important to design a mechanism that can attract enough participants with mobile devices and then allocate the tasks among participants efficiently. In this paper, we are interested in the investigation of tasks allocation and price determination in MCSs. Two truthful auction mechanisms are proposed for different working patterns. A Vickrey–Clarke–Groves (VCG)-based auction mechanism is proposed to the continuous working pattern, and a suboptimal auction mechanism is introduced for the discontinuous working pattern. Further analysis shows that the proposed mechanisms have the properties of individual rationality and computational efficiencies. Experimental results suggest that both mechanisms guarantee all the mobile users bidding with their truthful values and the optimal maximal social cost can be achieved in the VCG-based auction mechanism. PMID:27058541

Heterogeneous Mobile Phone Ownership and Usage Patterns in Kenya

PubMed Central

Wesolowski, Amy; Eagle, Nathan; Noor, Abdisalan M.; Snow, Robert W.; Buckee, Caroline O.

2012-01-01

The rapid adoption of mobile phone technologies in Africa is offering exciting opportunities for engaging with high-risk populations through mHealth programs, and the vast volumes of behavioral data being generated as people use their phones provide valuable data about human behavioral dynamics in these regions. Taking advantage of these opportunities requires an understanding of the penetration of mobile phones and phone usage patterns across the continent, but very little is known about the social and geographical heterogeneities in mobile phone ownership among African populations. Here, we analyze a survey of mobile phone ownership and usage across Kenya in 2009 and show that distinct regional, gender-related, and socioeconomic variations exist, with particularly low ownership among rural communities and poor people. We also examine patterns of phone sharing and highlight the contrasting relationships between ownership and sharing in different parts of the country. This heterogeneous penetration of mobile phones has important implications for the use of mobile technologies as a source of population data and as a public health tool in sub-Saharan Africa. PMID:22558140

Heterogeneous mobile phone ownership and usage patterns in Kenya.

PubMed

Wesolowski, Amy; Eagle, Nathan; Noor, Abdisalan M; Snow, Robert W; Buckee, Caroline O

2012-01-01

The rapid adoption of mobile phone technologies in Africa is offering exciting opportunities for engaging with high-risk populations through mHealth programs, and the vast volumes of behavioral data being generated as people use their phones provide valuable data about human behavioral dynamics in these regions. Taking advantage of these opportunities requires an understanding of the penetration of mobile phones and phone usage patterns across the continent, but very little is known about the social and geographical heterogeneities in mobile phone ownership among African populations. Here, we analyze a survey of mobile phone ownership and usage across Kenya in 2009 and show that distinct regional, gender-related, and socioeconomic variations exist, with particularly low ownership among rural communities and poor people. We also examine patterns of phone sharing and highlight the contrasting relationships between ownership and sharing in different parts of the country. This heterogeneous penetration of mobile phones has important implications for the use of mobile technologies as a source of population data and as a public health tool in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Effect of Manipulating Subject Mass on Lower Extremity Torque Patterns During Locomotion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeWitt, John K.; Cromwell, Ronita L.; Hagan, R. Donald

2007-01-01

During locomotion, humans adapt their motor patterns to maintain coordination despite changing conditions (Reisman et al., 2005). Bernstein (1967) proposed that in addition to the present state of a given joint, other factors, including limb inertia and velocity, must be taken into account to allow proper motion to occur. During locomotion with added mass counterbalanced using vertical suspension to maintain body weight, vertical ground reaction forces (GRF's) increase during walking but decrease during running, suggesting that adaptation may be velocity-specific (De Witt et al., 2006). It is not known, however, how lower extremity joint torques adapt to changes in inertial forces. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of increasing body mass while maintaining body weight upon lower-limb joint torque during walking and running. We hypothesized that adaptations in joint torque patterns would occur with the addition of body mass.

Coupling human mobility and social ties.

PubMed

Toole, Jameson L; Herrera-Yaqüe, Carlos; Schneider, Christian M; González, Marta C

2015-04-06

Studies using massive, passively collected data from communication technologies have revealed many ubiquitous aspects of social networks, helping us understand and model social media, information diffusion and organizational dynamics. More recently, these data have come tagged with geographical information, enabling studies of human mobility patterns and the science of cities. We combine these two pursuits and uncover reproducible mobility patterns among social contacts. First, we introduce measures of mobility similarity and predictability and measure them for populations of users in three large urban areas. We find individuals' visitations patterns are far more similar to and predictable by social contacts than strangers and that these measures are positively correlated with tie strength. Unsupervised clustering of hourly variations in mobility similarity identifies three categories of social ties and suggests geography is an important feature to contextualize social relationships. We find that the composition of a user's ego network in terms of the type of contacts they keep is correlated with mobility behaviour. Finally, we extend a popular mobility model to include movement choices based on social contacts and compare its ability to reproduce empirical measurements with two additional models of mobility. © 2015 The Author(s) Published by the Royal Society. All rights reserved.

Demonstration of movement in the sacroiliac joint using ultrasound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krupinski, Elizabeth A.; Brooks, William J.; Lund, Pamela J.

1995-05-01

The goal of this study was to demonstrate quantitatively, using ultrasound (US) recording techniques, the extent of motion of the sacroiliac joint achieved using manual medicine techniques. Initial judgements of perceived (i.e., felt) SI mobility during manual examination were made on 22 subjects. Baseline no movement ultrasound images (static) were obtained of the left and right SI joints at two levels-- posterior-superior-iliac-spine and inferior (PSIS, INF)--and two projections (AP and LAT). Manual medicine spring testing of the SI joint was then performed while ultrasound recordings (on video) were made. The differences between baseline separation of the SI joint and displacement distance during spring testing were measured by six radiologists who typically read US images. Significant movement of at least one SI joint was demonstrated in 91% of the subjects using ultrasound recordings. The extent of movement appeared to corroborate the experience of manual medicine practitioners.

Articular dysfunction patterns in patients with mechanical low back pain: A clinical algorithm to guide specific mobilization and manipulation techniques.

PubMed

Dewitte, V; Cagnie, B; Barbe, T; Beernaert, A; Vanthillo, B; Danneels, L

2015-06-01

Recent systematic reviews have demonstrated reasonable evidence that lumbar mobilization and manipulation techniques are beneficial. However, knowledge on optimal techniques and doses, and its clinical reasoning is currently lacking. To address this, a clinical algorithm is presented so as to guide therapists in their clinical reasoning to identify patients who are likely to respond to lumbar mobilization and/or manipulation and to direct appropriate technique selection. Key features in subjective and clinical examination suggestive of mechanical nociceptive pain probably arising from articular structures, can categorize patients into distinct articular dysfunction patterns. Based on these patterns, specific mobilization and manipulation techniques are suggested. This clinical algorithm is merely based on empirical clinical expertise and complemented through knowledge exchange between international colleagues. The added value of the proposed articular dysfunction patterns should be considered within a broader perspective. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fundamental and future prospects of printed ambipolar fluorene-type polymer light-emitting transistors for improved external quantum efficiency, mobility, and emission pattern

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kajii, Hirotake

2018-05-01

In this review, we focus on the improved external quantum efficiency, field-effect mobility, and emission pattern of top-gate-type polymer light-emitting transistors (PLETs) based on ambipolar fluorene-type polymers. A low-temperature, high-efficiency, printable red phosphorescent PLET based on poly(alkylfluorene) with modified alkyl side chains fabricated by a film transfer process is demonstrated. Device fabrication based on oriented films leads to an improved EL intensity owing to the increase in field-effect mobility. There are three factors that affect the transport of carriers, i.e., the energy level, threshold voltage, and mobility of each layer for heterostructure PLETs, which result in various emission patterns such as the line-shaped, multicolor and in-plane emission pattern in the full-channel area between source and drain electrodes. Fundamentals and future prospects in heterostructure devices are discussed and reviewed.

Mid-term results of lateral unicondylar mobile bearing knee arthroplasty: a multicentre study of 363 cases.

PubMed

Walker, T; Zahn, N; Bruckner, T; Streit, M R; Mohr, G; Aldinger, P R; Clarius, M; Gotterbarm, T

2018-01-01

The aim of this independent multicentre study was to assess the mid-term results of mobile bearing unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) for isolated lateral osteoarthritis of the knee joint. We retrospectively evaluated 363 consecutive, lateral UKAs (346 patients) performed using the Oxford domed lateral prosthesis undertaken in three high-volume knee arthroplasty centres between 2006 and 2014. Mean age of the patients at surgery was 65 years (36 to 88) with a mean final follow-up of 37 months (12 to 93) RESULTS: A total of 36 (10.5%) patients underwent revision surgery, giving a survival rate of 90.1% at three years (95% confidence intervals (CI) 86.1 to 93.1; number at risk: 155) and 85.0% at five years (95% CI 77.9 to 89.9; number at risk: 43). Dislocation of the mobile bearing occurred in 18 patients (5.6%) at three years (95% CI 1.0 to 16.4; number at risk: 154) and in 20 patients (8.5%) at five years (95% CI 1.0 to 27.0; number at risk: 42). There were no significant differences in the dislocation rate between the participating centres or the surgeons. We were not able to identify an effect of each surgeon's learning curve on the dislocation rate of the mobile bearing. The clinical outcome in patients without revision surgery at final follow-up was good to excellent, with a mean Oxford knee score of 40.3 (95% CI 39.4 to 41.2), a mean Tegner activity score of 3.2 (95% CI 3.1 to 3.3) and a mean University of California, Los Angeles score of 5.7 (95% CI 5.5 to 5.9). Our data, which consists of a high number of patients treated with mobile bearing UKA in the lateral compartment, indicates a high revision rate of 15% at five years with dislocation of the mobile bearing being the main reason for implant failure. Despite the good functional and clinical results and the high patient satisfaction in our study group, we therefore discontinued using mobile-bearing lateral UKA in favour of a fixed-bearing component. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:42-9. ©2018 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

A Review of Strategic Mobility Models and Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

Logistics Directorate of the Joint Staff, (JS-J-4) specifically by the Studies , Concepts, and Analysis Division (SCAD), which conducts long-range...their analysis objec- tives. This study was designed to assist the Logistics Directorate of the Joint Staff (JS/J-4) to understand and improve the...This study concentrated on resource planning, which is the type of planning performed by the Logistics Directorate’s Studies , Concepts, and Analysis

Regularity and predictability of human mobility in personal space.

PubMed

Austin, Daniel; Cross, Robin M; Hayes, Tamara; Kaye, Jeffrey

2014-01-01

Fundamental laws governing human mobility have many important applications such as forecasting and controlling epidemics or optimizing transportation systems. These mobility patterns, studied in the context of out of home activity during travel or social interactions with observations recorded from cell phone use or diffusion of money, suggest that in extra-personal space humans follow a high degree of temporal and spatial regularity - most often in the form of time-independent universal scaling laws. Here we show that mobility patterns of older individuals in their home also show a high degree of predictability and regularity, although in a different way than has been reported for out-of-home mobility. Studying a data set of almost 15 million observations from 19 adults spanning up to 5 years of unobtrusive longitudinal home activity monitoring, we find that in-home mobility is not well represented by a universal scaling law, but that significant structure (predictability and regularity) is uncovered when explicitly accounting for contextual data in a model of in-home mobility. These results suggest that human mobility in personal space is highly stereotyped, and that monitoring discontinuities in routine room-level mobility patterns may provide an opportunity to predict individual human health and functional status or detect adverse events and trends.

Socio-Psychological Dimensions of Mobile Phone Addiction and Usage Patterns amongst Teenagers in Higher Institutions of Learning in Kwara State

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Titilope, Afolayan Oluyinka

2014-01-01

Mobile phone addiction is now a common phenomenon in the 21st century, especially among teenagers due to the unusual cravings in the use of technological devices. In view of this phenomenon, the study examined the socio-psychological dimensions of mobile phone addiction and usage patterns amongst teenagers in three Higher Institutions of Learning…

Positive effects of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on Bouchard's and Heberden's osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Baltzer, Axel W A; Ostapczuk, Martin S; Stosch, Daniel

2016-07-01

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic disorder. While research usually focuses on OA of the large joints, OA of the hand receives relatively little attention resulting in a lack of a therapeutic gold standard. Low level laser therapy (LLLT)/photobiomodulation therapy has been successfully used to treat a variety of medical conditions. Nevertheless, its merits in the treatment of (hand) OA remain controversial. The aim of the present study was to examine the longitudinal effect of LLLT on the three major hand OA symptoms-pain, swelling, reduced joint mobility-in patients suffering from Bouchard's and Heberden's OA. Thirty-four patients (32 females) aged 61.21 ± 2.13 years were administered 5-10 LLLT sessions to 85 joints (47 proximal and 38 distal interphalangeal joints). Therapy took place twice a week. Pain (Visual Analogue Scale), ring size (perimeter in mm), and range of motion (extension/flexion) were measured at baseline and after five treatments for all patients, and additionally after seven sessions and 8 weeks after treatment ended for patients who received more than five and seven treatments, respectively. Eighteen patients (37 joints) received only five treatments, 10 patients (29 joints) were administered seven treatments, and six patients (19 joints) were administered 10 LLLT sessions. LLLT significantly reduced pain and ring size and increased range of motion after five and seven treatments (all P's < 0.001). The effects were very large (all η(2) 's > 0.14). No further significant change occurred between 7 and 10 treatments. The effects achieved after seven sessions persisted for 8 weeks. LLLT is a safe, non-invasive, efficient and efficacious means to reduce pain and swelling and to increase joint mobility in patients suffering from Heberden's and Bourchard's OA. Further randomized controlled studies are needed to examine medium- to long-term effects as well as the ideal LLLT parameters. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:498-504, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The effects of rear-wheel camber on the kinematics of upper extremity during wheelchair propulsion

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The rear-wheel camber, defined as the inclination of the rear wheels, is usually used in wheelchair sports, but it is becoming increasingly employed in daily propulsion. Although the rear-wheel camber can increase stability, it alters physiological performance during propulsion. The purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of rear-wheel cambers on temporal-spatial parameters, joint angles, and propulsion patterns. Methods Twelve inexperienced subjects (22.3±1.6 yr) participated in the study. None had musculoskeletal disorders in their upper extremities. An eight-camera motion capture system was used to collect the three-dimensional trajectory data of markers attached to the wheelchair-user system during propulsion. All participants propelled the same wheelchair, which had an instrumented wheel with cambers of 0°, 9°, and 15°, respectively, at an average velocity of 1 m/s. Results The results show that the rear-wheel camber significantly affects the average acceleration, maximum end angle, trunk movement, elbow joint movement, wrist joint movement, and propulsion pattern. The effects are especially significant between 0° and 15°. For a 15° camber, the average acceleration and joint peak angles significantly increased (p < 0.01). A single loop pattern (SLOP) was adopted by most of the subjects. Conclusions The rear-wheel camber affects propulsion patterns and joint range of motion. When choosing a wheelchair with camber adjustment, the increase of joint movements and the base of support should be taken into consideration. PMID:23173938

The effects of rear-wheel camber on the kinematics of upper extremity during wheelchair propulsion.

PubMed

Tsai, Chung-Ying; Lin, Chien-Ju; Huang, Yueh-Chu; Lin, Po-Chou; Su, Fong-Chin

2012-11-22

The rear-wheel camber, defined as the inclination of the rear wheels, is usually used in wheelchair sports, but it is becoming increasingly employed in daily propulsion. Although the rear-wheel camber can increase stability, it alters physiological performance during propulsion. The purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of rear-wheel cambers on temporal-spatial parameters, joint angles, and propulsion patterns. Twelve inexperienced subjects (22.3±1.6 yr) participated in the study. None had musculoskeletal disorders in their upper extremities. An eight-camera motion capture system was used to collect the three-dimensional trajectory data of markers attached to the wheelchair-user system during propulsion. All participants propelled the same wheelchair, which had an instrumented wheel with cambers of 0°, 9°, and 15°, respectively, at an average velocity of 1 m/s. The results show that the rear-wheel camber significantly affects the average acceleration, maximum end angle, trunk movement, elbow joint movement, wrist joint movement, and propulsion pattern. The effects are especially significant between 0° and 15°. For a 15° camber, the average acceleration and joint peak angles significantly increased (p < 0.01). A single loop pattern (SLOP) was adopted by most of the subjects. The rear-wheel camber affects propulsion patterns and joint range of motion. When choosing a wheelchair with camber adjustment, the increase of joint movements and the base of support should be taken into consideration.

Where Am I? Location Archetype Keyword Extraction from Urban Mobility Patterns

PubMed Central

Kostakos, Vassilis; Juntunen, Tomi; Goncalves, Jorge; Hosio, Simo; Ojala, Timo

2013-01-01

Can online behaviour be used as a proxy for studying urban mobility? The increasing availability of digital mobility traces has provided new insights into collective human behaviour. Mobility datasets have been shown to be an accurate proxy for daily behaviour and social patterns, and behavioural data from Twitter has been used to predict real world phenomena such as cinema ticket sale volumes, stock prices, and disease outbreaks. In this paper we correlate city-scale urban traffic patterns with online search trends to uncover keywords describing the pedestrian traffic location. By analysing a 3-year mobility dataset we show that our approach, called Location Archetype Keyword Extraction (LAKE), is capable of uncovering semantically relevant keywords for describing a location. Our findings demonstrate an overarching relationship between online and offline collective behaviour, and allow for advancing analysis of community-level behaviour by using online search keywords as a practical behaviour proxy. PMID:23704964

Where am I? Location archetype keyword extraction from urban mobility patterns.

PubMed

Kostakos, Vassilis; Juntunen, Tomi; Goncalves, Jorge; Hosio, Simo; Ojala, Timo

2013-01-01

Can online behaviour be used as a proxy for studying urban mobility? The increasing availability of digital mobility traces has provided new insights into collective human behaviour. Mobility datasets have been shown to be an accurate proxy for daily behaviour and social patterns, and behavioural data from Twitter has been used to predict real world phenomena such as cinema ticket sale volumes, stock prices, and disease outbreaks. In this paper we correlate city-scale urban traffic patterns with online search trends to uncover keywords describing the pedestrian traffic location. By analysing a 3-year mobility dataset we show that our approach, called Location Archetype Keyword Extraction (LAKE), is capable of uncovering semantically relevant keywords for describing a location. Our findings demonstrate an overarching relationship between online and offline collective behaviour, and allow for advancing analysis of community-level behaviour by using online search keywords as a practical behaviour proxy.

Changes in foot and shank coupling due to alterations in foot strike pattern during running.

PubMed

Pohl, Michael B; Buckley, John G

2008-03-01

Determining if and how the kinematic relationship between adjacent body segments changes when an individual's gait pattern is experimentally manipulated can yield insight into the robustness of the kinematic coupling across the associated joint(s). The aim of this study was to assess the effects on the kinematic coupling between the forefoot, rearfoot and shank during ground contact of running with alteration in foot strike pattern. Twelve subjects ran over-ground using three different foot strike patterns (heel strike, forefoot strike, toe running). Kinematic data were collected of the forefoot, rearfoot and shank, which were modelled as rigid segments. Coupling at the ankle-complex and midfoot joints was assessed using cross-correlation and vector coding techniques. In general good coupling was found between rearfoot frontal plane motion and transverse plane shank rotation regardless of foot strike pattern. Forefoot motion was also strongly coupled with rearfoot frontal plane motion. Subtle differences were noted in the amount of rearfoot eversion transferred into shank internal rotation in the first 10-15% of stance during heel strike running compared to forefoot and toe running, and this was accompanied by small alterations in forefoot kinematics. These findings indicate that during ground contact in running there is strong coupling between the rearfoot and shank via the action of the joints in the ankle-complex. In addition, there was good coupling of both sagittal and transverse plane forefoot with rearfoot frontal plane motion via the action of the midfoot joints.

Clinical and ultrasound findings in patients with calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease.

PubMed

Vele, Paulina; Simon, Siao-Pin; Damian, Laura; Felea, Ioana; Muntean, Laura; Filipescu, Ileana; Rednic, Simona

2018-05-02

To evaluate the presence and distribution of calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) deposits in joints commonly affected by CPP deposition (CPPD) disease (acromio-clavicular, gleno-humeral, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, and symphysis pubis joints) using ultrasound (US). Thirty consecutive patients fulfilling McCarty diagnostic criteria for CPPD were consecutively enrolled in the study. The data registered using the US included the affected joints, the calcification site, and the pattern of calcification (thin hyperechoic bands, parallel to the surface of the hyaline cartilage, hyperechoic spots, and hyperechoic nodular or oval deposits). The presence of CPP crystals in knees was confirmed by polarized light microscopy examination of the synovial fluid and radiographs of the knees were performed in all patients. In 30 patients, 390 joints were scanned, (13 joints in every patient). The mean±standard deviation number of joints with US CPPD evidence per patient was 2.93±1.8 (range 1-9). The knee was the most common joint involved both clinically and using US examination. The second US pattern (with hyperechoic spots) was the most frequent. Fibrocartilage calcifications were more common than hyaline calcification. Using radiography as reference method, the sensitivity and specificity of US for diagnosis CPPD in knees was 79.31%, 95CI(66.65%-88.83%), and 14.29%, 95CI(1.78%-42.81%), respectively. The knee is the most frequent joint affected by CPPD. The second ultrasound pattern is the most common. CPPD affects the fibrocartilage to a greater extent than the hyaline cartilage.

Mobility assessment of a rural population in the Netherlands using GPS measurements.

PubMed

Klous, Gijs; Smit, Lidwien A M; Borlée, Floor; Coutinho, Roel A; Kretzschmar, Mirjam E E; Heederik, Dick J J; Huss, Anke

2017-08-09

The home address is a common spatial proxy for exposure assessment in epidemiological studies but mobility may introduce exposure misclassification. Mobility can be assessed using self-reports or objectively measured using GPS logging but self-reports may not assess the same information as measured mobility. We aimed to assess mobility patterns of a rural population in the Netherlands using GPS measurements and self-reports and to compare GPS measured to self-reported data, and to evaluate correlates of differences in mobility patterns. In total 870 participants filled in a questionnaire regarding their transport modes and carried a GPS-logger for 7 consecutive days. Transport modes were assigned to GPS-tracks based on speed patterns. Correlates of measured mobility data were evaluated using multiple linear regression. We calculated walking, biking and motorised transport durations based on GPS and self-reported data and compared outcomes. We used Cohen's kappa analyses to compare categorised self-reported and GPS measured data for time spent outdoors. Self-reported time spent walking and biking was strongly overestimated when compared to GPS measurements. Participants estimated their time spent in motorised transport accurately. Several variables were associated with differences in mobility patterns, we found for instance that obese people (BMI > 30 kg/m 2 ) spent less time in non-motorised transport (GMR 0.69-0.74) and people with COPD tended to travel longer distances from home in motorised transport (GMR 1.42-1.51). If time spent walking outdoors and biking is relevant for the exposure to environmental factors, then relying on the home address as a proxy for exposure location may introduce misclassification. In addition, this misclassification is potentially differential, and specific groups of people will show stronger misclassification of exposure than others. Performing GPS measurements and identifying explanatory factors of mobility patterns may assist in regression calibration of self-reports in other studies.

Accelerometer-based step initiation control for gait-assist neuroprostheses.

PubMed

Foglyano, Kevin M; Schnellenberger, John R; Kobetic, Rudi; Lombardo, Lisa; Pinault, Gilles; Selkirk, Stephen; Makowski, Nathaniel S; Triolo, Ronald J

2016-01-01

Electrical activation of paralyzed musculature can generate or augment joint movements required for walking after central nervous system trauma. Proper timing of stimulation relative to residual volitional control is critical to usefully affecting ambulation. This study evaluates three-dimensional accelerometers and customized algorithms to detect the intent to step from voluntary movements to trigger stimulation during walking in individuals with significantly different etiologies, mobility limitations, manual dexterities, and walking aids. Three individuals with poststroke hemiplegia or partial spinal cord injury exhibiting varying gait deficits were implanted with multichannel pulse generators to provide joint motions at the hip, knee, and ankle. An accelerometer integrated into the external control unit was used to detect heel strike or walker movement, and wireless accelerometers were used to detect crutch strike. Algorithms were developed for each sensor location to detect intent to step to progress through individualized stimulation patterns. Testing these algorithms produced detection accuracies of at least 90% on both level ground and uneven terrain. All participants use their accelerometer-triggered implanted gait systems in the community; the validation/system testing was completed in the hospital. The results demonstrated that safe, reliable, and convenient accelerometer-based step initiation can be achieved regardless of specific gait deficits, manual dexterities, and walking aids.

Toward development of mobile application for hand arthritis screening.

PubMed

Akhbardeh, Farhad; Vasefi, Fartash; Tavakolian, Kouhyar; Bradley, David; Fazel-Rezai, Reza

2015-01-01

Arthritis is one of the most common health problems affecting people throughout the world. The goal of the work presented in this paper is to provide individuals, who may be developing or have developed arthritis, with a mobile application to assess and monitor the progress of their disease using their smartphone. The image processing algorithm includes finger border detection algorithm to monitor joint thickness and angular deviation abnormalities, which are common symptoms of arthritis. In this work, we have analyzed and compared gradient, thresholding and Canny algorithms for border detection. The effect of image spatial resolution (down-sampling) is also investigated. The results calculated based on 36 joint measurements show that the mean errors for gradient, thresholding, and Canny methods are 0.20, 2.13, and 2.03 mm, respectively. In addition, the average error for different image resolutions is analyzed and the minimum required resolution is determined for each method. The results confirm that recent smartphone imaging capabilities can provide enough accuracy for hand border detection and finger joint analysis based on gradient method.

Anesthetic Management of a Patient With Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Ohshita, Naohiro; Gamoh, Shoko; Kanazumi, Masahiko; Nakajima, Masahiro; Momota, Yoshihiro; Tsutsumi, Yasuo M.

2017-01-01

A 54-year-old woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 19 years was scheduled to undergo temporomandibular joint mobilization. She was currently in a remission phase from her MS but with persistent sequelae, including impaired eyesight and muscle weakness of the limbs. In addition, the blood vessels in her upper limbs were compromised by the formation of internal shunts secondary to vascular prosthesis replacements for plasma exchange therapy in MS. After a previous joint mobilization surgery, her temporomandibular joint developed adhesions with resultant trismus. One of the adverse effects of general anesthesia can be exacerbations of MS symptoms. Minimizing mental and physical stress caused by surgical and anesthetic procedures and maintenance of stable body temperature are important considerations. Awake intubation was performed under sedation with midazolam and fentanyl. After intubation, anesthesia was induced with propofol, remifentanil, and rocuronium. Maintenance of anesthesia was achieved with oxygen-N2O-sevoflurane, remifentanil, fentanyl, and rocuronium. In this case, no adverse events occurred intraoperatively. However, the patient experienced lingering weakness of the limbs in the postoperative period, and activities of daily living of the patient were affected. PMID:28604090

Early Experiences with Mobile Electronic Health Records Application in a Tertiary Hospital in Korea

PubMed Central

Park, Minah; Hong, Eunseok; Kim, Sunhyu; Ahn, Ryeok; Hong, Jungseok; Song, Seungyeol; Kim, Tak; Kim, Jeongkeun; Yeo, Seongwoon

2015-01-01

Objectives Recent advances in mobile technology have opened up possibilities to provide strongly integrated mobile-based services in healthcare and telemedicine. Although the number of mobile Electronic Health Record (EHR) applications is large and growing, there is a paucity of evidence demonstrating the usage patterns of these mobile applications by healthcare providers. This study aimed to illustrate the deployment process for an integrated mobile EHR application and to analyze usage patterns after provision of the mobile EHR service. Methods We developed an integrated mobile application that aimed to enhance the mobility of healthcare providers by improving access to patient- and hospital-related information during their daily medical activities. The study included mobile EHR users who accessed patient healthcare records between May 2013 and May 2014. We performed a data analysis using a web server log file analyzer from the integrated EHR system. Cluster analysis was applied to longitudinal user data based on their application usage pattern. Results The mobile EHR service named M-UMIS has been in service since May 2013. Every healthcare provider in the hospital could access the mobile EHR service and view the medical charts of their patients. The frequency of using services and network packet transmission on the M-UMIS increased gradually during the study period. The most frequently accessed service in the menu was the patient list. Conclusions A better understanding regarding the adoption of mobile EHR applications by healthcare providers in patient-centered care provides useful information to guide the design and implementation of future applications. PMID:26618036

Security Issues and Resulting Security Policies for Mobile Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

protecting it. The Army has requested that the capabilities of these devices be delivered rapidly to the battlefield. Programs like Joint Battle...Explosives (ATF) has already deployed 50 iPads, with interest in deploying 50 additional devices. Despite the desire to rapidly deploy these devices, little...come in many different forms, such as personal data assistants, smart phones, and tablets . Today, the most popular mobile devices are characterized by

[Effects of irrigation and planting patterns on photosynthetic characteristics of flag leaf and yield at late growth stages of winter wheat].

PubMed

Dong, Hao; Bi, Jun; Xia, Guang-Li; Zhou, Xun-Bo; Chen, Yu-Hai

2014-08-01

High-yield winter wheat cultivar Jimai 22 was used to study effects of irrigation and planting patterns on water consumption characteristics and photosynthetic characteristics of winter wheat in field from 2009 to 2011. Three different planting patterns (uniform row, wide-narrow row and furrow) and four irrigation schedules (W0, no irrigation; W1, irrigation at jointing stage; W2, irrigations at jointing and anthesis stages; W3, irrigation at jointing, anthesis and milking stages. Each irrigation rate was 60 mm) were designed in the experiment. Results showed that, with the increasing of irrigation amount, flag leaf area, net photosynthesis rate, maximum photochemical efficiency and actual light transformation efficiency at late growth stages of winter wheat increased. Compared with W0 treatment, the other irrigation treatments had higher grain yields, but lower water use efficiencies. Under the same irrigation condition, the flag leaf net photosynthesis, maximum photochemical efficiency and actual light transformation efficiency were much higher in furrow pattern. Grain yields of winter wheat under furrow pattern and W2 treatment were significantly higher than that of the other treatments. Taking grain yield and WUE into consideration, furrow pattern combined with irrigation at jointing and anthesis stages might be the optimal water-saving and planting mode for the winter wheat production in North China Plain.

Human mobility: Models and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbosa, Hugo; Barthelemy, Marc; Ghoshal, Gourab; James, Charlotte R.; Lenormand, Maxime; Louail, Thomas; Menezes, Ronaldo; Ramasco, José J.; Simini, Filippo; Tomasini, Marcello

2018-03-01

Recent years have witnessed an explosion of extensive geolocated datasets related to human movement, enabling scientists to quantitatively study individual and collective mobility patterns, and to generate models that can capture and reproduce the spatiotemporal structures and regularities in human trajectories. The study of human mobility is especially important for applications such as estimating migratory flows, traffic forecasting, urban planning, and epidemic modeling. In this survey, we review the approaches developed to reproduce various mobility patterns, with the main focus on recent developments. This review can be used both as an introduction to the fundamental modeling principles of human mobility, and as a collection of technical methods applicable to specific mobility-related problems. The review organizes the subject by differentiating between individual and population mobility and also between short-range and long-range mobility. Throughout the text the description of the theory is intertwined with real-world applications.

Pre and post-amputation mobility of trans-tibial amputees: correlation to medical problems, age and mortality.

PubMed

Johnson, V J; Kondziela, S; Gottschalk, F

1995-12-01

This retrospective study compares pre and post-amputation mobility and the influence of age and associated medical problems. Data from the charts of 120 male patients who underwent unilateral trans-tibial (below-knee) amputation at the Dallas Veteran's Administration Hospital between June, 1983 and October, 1991, were collected and analyzed. Mobility was assessed with a six level scale developed by Volpicelli et al. (1983). The presence of cardiac disease, pulmonary disease (COPD), peripheral vascular disease (PVD), diabetes mellitus, degenerative joint disease, blindness, cerebral vascular accident (CVA), and age are correlated with changes in mobility after amputation. Older patients had more medical problems and lower post-amputation scores Individual medical problems did not influence mobility scores, but the presence of COPD and PVD lowered pre-amputation mobility scores. Cardiac disease and diabetes mellitus influenced post-amputation mobility scores by lowering them, either together or individually. Regardless of age, however, patients with more medical problems were poor ambulators. The cause of amputation per se did not influence mobility scores.

Forelimb muscle and joint actions in Archosauria: insights from Crocodylus johnstoni (Pseudosuchia) and Mussaurus patagonicus (Sauropodomorpha)

PubMed Central

Allen, Vivian

2017-01-01

Many of the major locomotor transitions during the evolution of Archosauria, the lineage including crocodiles and birds as well as extinct Dinosauria, were shifts from quadrupedalism to bipedalism (and vice versa). Those occurred within a continuum between more sprawling and erect modes of locomotion and involved drastic changes of limb anatomy and function in several lineages, including sauropodomorph dinosaurs. We present biomechanical computer models of two locomotor extremes within Archosauria in an analysis of joint ranges of motion and the moment arms of the major forelimb muscles in order to quantify biomechanical differences between more sprawling, pseudosuchian (represented the crocodile Crocodylus johnstoni) and more erect, dinosaurian (represented by the sauropodomorph Mussaurus patagonicus) modes of forelimb function. We compare these two locomotor extremes in terms of the reconstructed musculoskeletal anatomy, ranges of motion of the forelimb joints and the moment arm patterns of muscles across those ranges of joint motion. We reconstructed the three-dimensional paths of 30 muscles acting around the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints. We explicitly evaluate how forelimb joint mobility and muscle actions may have changed with postural and anatomical alterations from basal archosaurs to early sauropodomorphs. We thus evaluate in which ways forelimb posture was correlated with muscle leverage, and how such differences fit into a broader evolutionary context (i.e. transition from sprawling quadrupedalism to erect bipedalism and then shifting to graviportal quadrupedalism). Our analysis reveals major differences of muscle actions between the more sprawling and erect models at the shoulder joint. These differences are related not only to the articular surfaces but also to the orientation of the scapula, in which extension/flexion movements in Crocodylus (e.g. protraction of the humerus) correspond to elevation/depression in Mussaurus. Muscle action is highly influenced by limb posture, more so than morphology. Habitual quadrupedalism in Mussaurus is not supported by our analysis of joint range of motion, which indicates that glenohumeral protraction was severely restricted. Additionally, some active pronation of the manus may have been possible in Mussaurus, allowing semi-pronation by a rearranging of the whole antebrachium (not the radius against the ulna, as previously thought) via long-axis rotation at the elbow joint. However, the muscles acting around this joint to actively pronate it may have been too weak to drive or maintain such orientations as opposed to a neutral position in between pronation and supination. Regardless, the origin of quadrupedalism in Sauropoda is not only linked to manus pronation but also to multiple shifts of forelimb morphology, allowing greater flexion movements of the glenohumeral joint and a more columnar forelimb posture. PMID:29188140

[Compensatory joints at the pelvis (author's transl)].

PubMed

Schumacher, G; Weber, M

1980-10-01

An osteochondrosis ischio-pubica represents a "testing site" for the integrity of the pelvis not only during child age but in adults as well. If all naturally available compensatory mechanisms have been exhausted especially following a change of range of motion in the pelvis ring structure, fatigue fractures or zones in transformation in the area typical of osteochondrosis ischio-pubica may appear. These fractures or transformation zones respectively to our mind have joint character, because they are capable of temporarily replacing lost mobility of physiological joints. Healing is achieved through rest, muscular balance and a specific physiotherapy. The purpose of this muscular training is to cushion all unphysiological motions in the pelvis and to support and boost the function of those joints still well preserved.

Android Based Mobile Environment for Moodle Users

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Clunie, Gisela T.; Clunie, Clifton; Castillo, Aris; Rangel, Norman

2013-01-01

This paper is about the development of a platform that eases, throughout Android based mobile devices, mobility of users of virtual courses at Technological University of Panama. The platform deploys computational techniques such as "web services," design patterns, ontologies and mobile technologies to allow mobile devices communicate…

[Effects of irrigation and planting pattern on winter wheat water consumption characteristics and dry matter production].

PubMed

Dong, Hao; Chen, Yu-Hai; Zhou, Xun-Bo

2013-07-01

Taking high-yield winter wheat cultivar 'Jimai 22' as test material, a field experiment was conducted in 2008-2010 to study the effects of different irrigation and planting modes on the water consumption characteristics and dry matter accumulation and distribution of winter wheat. Three planting patterns (uniform row, wide-narrow row, and furrow) and four irrigation schedules (no irrigation, W0; irrigation at jointing stage, W1; irrigation at jointing and anthesis stages, W2; and irrigation at jointing, anthesis, and milking stages, W3; with 60 mm per irrigation) were installed. With increasing amount of irrigation, the total water consumption and the ratio of irrigation water to total water consumption under different planting patterns all increased, while the soil water consumption and its ratio to total water consumption decreased significantly. As compared with W0, the other three irrigation schedules had a higher dry matter accumulation after anthesis and a higher grain yield, but a lower water use efficiency (WUE). Under the same irrigation schedules, furrow pattern had higher water consumption ratio, grain yield, and WUE. Taking the grain yield and WUE into consideration, furrow pattern combined with irrigation at jointing and anthesis stages would be the optimal water-saving and planting modes for the winter wheat production in North China Plain.

Ankle dorsiflexion may play an important role in falls in women with fibromyalgia.

PubMed

Góes, Suelen M; Leite, Neiva; Stefanello, Joice M F; Homann, Diogo; Lynn, Scott K; Rodacki, André L F

2015-07-01

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition, which involves reduced range of motion. This leads to gait changes and high incidence of falls. The understanding of the gait patterns in subjects with fibromyalgia and their relationship with falls may be useful when designing intervention programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the range of motion of the hip and ankle joints during gait in women with and without fibromyalgia. Further, we determined the relationship between joint range of motion and falls in this population. Middle-aged women (16 with fibromyalgia and 16 as control group) were recruited. Pain intensity, physical activity level, and fall prevalence were assessed. Three dimensional gait analysis provided temporal and joint kinematic variables. In general, hip and ankle range of motion were similar between groups, except that fibromyalgia group showed higher plantar flexion during toe-off (P<0.05) and reduced dorsiflexion during stance phase (P<0.05). Additionally, in the fibromyalgia group the higher number of falls was correlated to reduced dorsiflexion during stance phase. This limitation in dorsiflexion was related to longer length of time with fibromyalgia symptoms. Women with fibromyalgia showed a higher number of falls, reduced dorsiflexion during stance phase, and increased plantar flexion during toe-off. Also, the higher number of falls reported in the fibromyalgia group was related to reduced dorsiflexion during stance phase, which was correlated to a longer length of time living with fibromyalgia symptoms. These data suggest that improving ankle kinematics in patients with fibromyalgia may help prevent falls and improve mobility. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Experience in organization of joint actions of expert divisions during the accident at P.S. Podporozniy Sayano-Shushenskaya hydroelectric power station].

PubMed

Kolkutin, V V; Ivanov, P L; Fetisov, V A; Afanas'ev, S A; Dorozhkin, O A; Vognerubov, R N; Kuznetsov, T L

2010-01-01

The authors illustrate positive experience in organization and coordination of joint actions of expert divisions of different sectors during the accident at P.S. Podporozniy Sayano-Shushenskaya hydroelectric power station in August 2009. Special emphasis is laid on the participation of experts of quick-reaction teams formed by territorial forensic medical bureaus, mobile and supporting forces from the adjacent regions.

Joint Rapid Airfield Construction (JRAC) 2007 Technology Demonstration

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

ER D C/ G SL T R- 08 -1 7 Joint Rapid Airfield Construction (JRAC) 2007 Technology Demonstration Gary L. Anderton, Ernest S. Berney IV...Technology Demonstration Gary L. Anderton, Ernest S. Berney IV, Travis A. Mann, J. Kent Newman, E. Alex Baylot, Daniel K. Miller, and Quint Mason... Berney IV, Dr. J. Kent Newman, Daniel K. Miller, Quint Mason, Airfields and Pavements Branch (APB), and E. Alex Baylot, Mobility Systems Branch. The

Strategic Mobility 21: SM21 CONOPS Revised - Phase II, Joint Force Deployment and Distribution Support Platform: Joint Operational Concept

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-02

an overarching regional information technology architecture to synchronize the vessel arrival and departure schedules with marine terminal, short... wakeup call for the rest of the nation’s ports and regions. The impacts of these disruptions are felt throughout the supply chain - in the national...and equipment repositioning. Supply chain unreliability wreaks havoc with planning, scheduling , purchasing, sales, and distribution. Suppliers are

The benefits of 'One Health' for pastoralists in Africa.

PubMed

Greter, Helena; Jean-Richard, Vreni; Crump, Lisa; Béchir, Mahamat; Alfaroukh, Idriss O; Schelling, Esther; Bonfoh, Bassirou; Zinsstag, Jakob

2014-04-23

'One health' is particularly suited to serve mobile pastoralists. Dinka pastoralists in Sudan inspired Calvin Schwabe to coin the term 'one medicine', indicating that there is no difference in paradigm between human and veterinary medicine. Our contemporary definition of 'one health' is any added value in terms of improved health of humans and animals or financial savings or environmental services resulting from a closer cooperation of human and animal health sectors. Here we present a summary of 'one health' studies with mobile pastoralists in Africa which were done in research partnership, demonstrating such an added value. Initial joint human and animal health studies revealed higher livestock vaccination coverage than in the pastoralist community, leading to joint animal and human vaccination intervention studies which demonstrated a better access to primary health care services for pastoralists in Chad. Further simultaneous animal and human serological studies showed that camel breeding was associated with human Q-fever seropositivity. In Borana communities in Ethiopia, human cases of Mycobacterium bovis infection could be related to strains isolated from cattle. A challenge remained with regard to how to assess vaccination coverage in mobile populations. With the advent of mobile phones, health and demographic surveillance could be established for mobile pastoralists and their animals. This presents vast possibilities for surveillance and control of human and animal diseases. Pastoralists prefer a 'one health' approach and therefore contribute toward the validation of this concept by showing real added value of the cooperation between human and animal health services.

Mobile-bearing medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty restores limb alignment comparable to that of the unaffected contralateral limb

PubMed Central

Mullaji, Arun B; Shah, Siddharth; Shetty, Gautam M

2017-01-01

Background and purpose — Medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is undertaken in patients with a passively correctable varus deformity. We investigated whether restoration of natural soft tissue tension would result in a lower limb alignment similar to that of the contralateral unaffected lower limb after mobile-bearing medial UKA. Patients and methods — In this retrospective study, hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle, position of the weight-bearing axis (WBA), and knee joint line obliquity (KJLO) after mobile-bearing medial UKA was compared with that of the unaffected (clinically and radiologically) contralateral lower limb in 123 patients. Results — Postoperatively, HKA angle was restored to within ±3° of the contralateral lower limb in 87% of the patients and the WBA passed within ±1 Kennedy and White’s tibial zone of the unaffected contralateral lower limb in 95% of the patients. The mean KJLO in the operated limbs was not significantly different from that in the unaffected lower limbs (p = 0.07) and the KJLO in the operated limb was restored to within ±3° of that in the contralateral lower limb in 96% of the patients. Interpretation — Lower limb alignment and knee joint line obliquity after mobile-bearing medial UKA were comparable to that of the unaffected contralateral limb in most patients. Comparison with the contralateral unaffected lower limb is a reliable method for evaluation and validation of limb mechanical alignment after mobile-bearing medial UKA. PMID:27794622

A Theoretical Basis for Entropy-Scaling Effects in Human Mobility Patterns.

PubMed

Osgood, Nathaniel D; Paul, Tuhin; Stanley, Kevin G; Qian, Weicheng

2016-01-01

Characterizing how people move through space has been an important component of many disciplines. With the advent of automated data collection through GPS and other location sensing systems, researchers have the opportunity to examine human mobility at spatio-temporal resolution heretofore impossible. However, the copious and complex data collected through these logging systems can be difficult for humans to fully exploit, leading many researchers to propose novel metrics for encapsulating movement patterns in succinct and useful ways. A particularly salient proposed metric is the mobility entropy rate of the string representing the sequence of locations visited by an individual. However, mobility entropy rate is not scale invariant: entropy rate calculations based on measurements of the same trajectory at varying spatial or temporal granularity do not yield the same value, limiting the utility of mobility entropy rate as a metric by confounding inter-experimental comparisons. In this paper, we derive a scaling relationship for mobility entropy rate of non-repeating straight line paths from the definition of Lempel-Ziv compression. We show that the resulting formulation predicts the scaling behavior of simulated mobility traces, and provides an upper bound on mobility entropy rate under certain assumptions. We further show that this formulation has a maximum value for a particular sampling rate, implying that optimal sampling rates for particular movement patterns exist.

On data processing required to derive mobility patterns from passively-generated mobile phone data

PubMed Central

Wang, Feilong; Chen, Cynthia

2018-01-01

Passively-generated mobile phone data is emerging as a potential data source for transportation research and applications. Despite the large amount of studies based on the mobile phone data, only a few have reported the properties of such data, and documented how they have processed the data. In this paper, we describe two types of common mobile phone data: Call Details Record (CDR) data and sightings data, and propose a data processing framework and the associated algorithms to address two key issues associated with the sightings data: locational uncertainty and oscillation. We show the effectiveness of our proposed methods in addressing these two issues compared to the state of art algorithms in the field. We also demonstrate that without proper processing applied to the data, the statistical regularity of human mobility patterns—a key, significant trait identified for human mobility—is over-estimated. We hope this study will stimulate more studies in examining the properties of such data and developing methods to address them. Though not as glamorous as those directly deriving insights on mobility patterns (such as statistical regularity), understanding properties of such data and developing methods to address them is a fundamental research topic on which important insights are derived on mobility patterns. PMID:29398790

RSA migration of total knee replacements.

PubMed

Pijls, Bart G; Plevier, José W M; Nelissen, Rob G H H

2018-06-01

Purpose - We performed a systematic review and meta-analyses to evaluate the early and long-term migration patterns of tibial components of TKR of all known RSA studies. Methods - Migration pattern was defined as at least 2 postoperative RSA follow-up moments. Maximal total point motion (MTPM) at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years were considered. Results - The literature search yielded 1,167 hits of which 53 studies were included, comprising 111 study groups and 2,470 knees. The majority of the early migration occurred in the first 6 months postoperatively followed by a period of stability, i.e., no or very little migration. Cemented and uncemented tibial components had different migration patterns. For cemented tibial components there was no difference in migration between all-poly and metal-backed components, between mobile bearing and fixed bearing, between cruciate retaining and posterior stabilized. Furthermore, no difference existed between TKR measured with model-based RSA or marker-based RSA methods. For uncemented TKR there was some variation in migration with the highest migration for uncoated TKR. Interpretation - The results from this meta-analysis on RSA migration of TKR are in line with both the survival analyses results from joint registries of these TKRs as well as revision rates results from meta-analyses, thus providing further proof for the association between early migration and late revision for loosening. The pooled migration patterns can be used both as benchmarks and for defining migration thresholds for future evaluation of new TKR.

Erosive osteoarthritis: a more severe form of radiographic hand osteoarthritis rather than a distinct entity?

PubMed Central

Marshall, Michelle; Nicholls, Elaine; Kwok, Wing-Yee; Peat, George; Kloppenburg, Margreet; van der Windt, Danielle; Myers, Helen; Dziedzic, Krysia

2015-01-01

Objectives To determine whether erosive osteoarthritis shares the same pattern of joint involvement and risk profile as increasing grades of non-erosive hand osteoarthritis. Methods Participants were from two population-based cohorts, aged ≥50 years, reporting hand symptoms in the previous month. Interphalangeal joints were assessed for erosive osteoarthritis (Verbruggen–Veys erosive or remodelled phase) and radiographic osteoarthritis (sliding cut-offs of K&L≥2, K&L≥3 and K&L=4). At the joint level, similarities in the frequency and pattern of erosive and non-erosive osteoarthritis were assessed by Spearman's rank correlation coefficients and generalised estimating equations. At the person level, individuals with erosive osteoarthritis were compared to those with non-erosive osteoarthritis using logistic regression, adjusted for age and gender (aOR), for the following exposures: family history, previous injury, overuse and metabolic factors (BMI, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes). Results In 1076 symptomatic participants the ranked frequency of involvement for erosive joints was comparable to joints with K&L≥3 and K&L=4 (r>0.95). Patterns of joint involvement in erosive osteoarthritis were strongest for symmetry (aOR=6.5; 95% CI 3.0 to 14.1), followed by row (2.0; 0.8 to 5.0) and ray (0.3; 0.0 to 2.5), which was similar to joints with K&L≥3 and K&L=4. Individuals with erosive osteoarthritis (n=80) had an increased risk of metabolic syndrome (2.7; 1.0 to 7.1), notably dyslipidaemia (4.7; 2.1 to 10.6) compared with non-erosive osteoarthritis classed K&L≥3 (n=193). Conclusions The similar frequency of radiographic joint involvement and patterning in erosive osteoarthritis and more severe non-erosive osteoarthritis is consistent with prevalent erosive osteoarthritis being a severe form of hand osteoarthritis rather than a distinct entity. Metabolic exposures, dyslipidaemia in particular, may be implicated in erosive osteoarthritis. PMID:24095935

Develop a wearable ankle robot for in-bed acute stroke rehabilitation.

PubMed

Ren, Yupeng; Xu, Tao; Wang, Liang; Yang, Chung Yong; Guo, Xin; Harvey, Richard L; Zhang, Li-Qun

2011-01-01

Movement training is important in motor recovery post stroke and early intervention is critical to stroke rehabilitation. However, acute stroke survivors are actively trained with activities helpful for recovery of mobility in only 13% of the time in the acute phase. Considering the first few months post stroke is critical in stroke recovery (neuroplasticity), there is a strong need for movement therapy and manipulate/mobilize the joints. There is a lack of in-bed robotic rehabilitation in acute stroke. This study seeks to meet the clinic need and deliver intensive passive and active movement therapy using a wearable robot to enhance motor function in acute stroke. Passively, the wearable robot stretches the joint to its extreme positions safely and forcefully. Actively, movement training is conducted and game playing is used to guide and motivate the patient in movement training.

Major trends in mobility technology research and development: overview of the results of the NSF-WTEC European study.

PubMed

Reinkensmeyer, David J; Bonato, Paolo; Boninger, Michael L; Chan, Leighton; Cowan, Rachel E; Fregly, Benjamin J; Rodgers, Mary M

2012-04-20

Mobility technologies, including wheelchairs, prostheses, joint replacements, assistive devices, and therapeutic exercise equipment help millions of people participate in desired life activities. Yet, these technologies are not yet fully transformative because many desired activities cannot be pursued or are difficult to pursue for the millions of individuals with mobility related impairments. This WTEC study, initiated and funded by the National Science Foundation, was designed to gather information on European innovations and trends in technology that might lead to greater mobility for a wider range of people. What might these transformative technologies be and how might they arise? Based on visits to leading mobility technology research labs in western Europe, the WTEC panel identified eight major trends in mobility technology research. This commentary summarizes these trends, which are then described in detail in companion papers appearing in this special issue.

Major trends in mobility technology research and development: Overview of the results of the NSF-WTEC European study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Mobility technologies, including wheelchairs, prostheses, joint replacements, assistive devices, and therapeutic exercise equipment help millions of people participate in desired life activities. Yet, these technologies are not yet fully transformative because many desired activities cannot be pursued or are difficult to pursue for the millions of individuals with mobility related impairments. This WTEC study, initiated and funded by the National Science Foundation, was designed to gather information on European innovations and trends in technology that might lead to greater mobility for a wider range of people. What might these transformative technologies be and how might they arise? Based on visits to leading mobility technology research labs in western Europe, the WTEC panel identified eight major trends in mobility technology research. This commentary summarizes these trends, which are then described in detail in companion papers appearing in this special issue. PMID:22520596

Study of Imaging Pattern in Bone Marrow Oedema in MRI in Recent Knee Injuries and its Correlation with Type of Knee Injury.

PubMed

Sahoo, Kulamani; Garg, Ashish; Saha, Pramod; Dodia, Jainesh Valjibhai; Raj, Vinay Rajappa; Bhairagond, Shweta Jagadish

2016-04-01

The knee is a major weight bearing joint that provides mobility and stability during physical activity as well as balance while standing. If the knee is exposed to forces beyond its physiologic range, risk of injury to bone or soft tissue structures increases. A thorough understanding of knee injury patterns and their mechanisms may help in achieving more accurate assessment of injuries. To identify imaging pattern in bone marrow oedema and to correlate the pattern of bone marrow oedema retrospectively with type of knee injury from clinical history. A cross-sectional study was done on all patients referred to Krishna Hospital, Karad for MRI knee with history of recent (< 6 weeks) knee injury. Study was conducted between May 2014 to September 2015 with a sample size of 200 patients. Plain radiograph of knee was done in all patients and they were scanned using 1.5 Tesla Seimens Avanto (Tim + Dot) with Tx/Rx 15 channel knee coil # Tim. Among the 200 cases, bone marrow contusion was noted in 138 cases (69%) and absent contusion in 62 cases (31%). Bone marrow contusion showed five patterns (according to Sanders classification) i.e., Clip injury in 39 cases (28.3%), Pivot shift injury in 78 cases (56.5%), Dashboard injury in eight cases (5.8%), Hyperextension injury in four cases (2.9%), Lateral patellar dislocation in three cases (2.2%). In six cases (4.3%) no pattern of bone marrow contusion could be explained and was categorized as unclassified pattern. Pivot shift pattern is most common contusion pattern and the most common type/mode of sports related injury. By analysing bone marrow contusion pattern, type/mode can be determined in most of the cases. By applying a biomechanical approach in MR interpretation, it is possible to detect lesions like ligament rupture and osseous contusion, to predict subtle but it might overlook important abnormalities.

OceanRoute: Vessel Mobility Data Processing and Analyzing Model Based on MapReduce

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chao; Liu, Yingjian; Guo, Zhongwen; Jing, Wei

2018-06-01

The network coverage is a big problem in ocean communication, and there is no low-cost solution in the short term. Based on the knowledge of Mobile Delay Tolerant Network (MDTN), the mobility of vessels can create the chances of end-to-end communication. The mobility pattern of vessel is one of the key metrics on ocean MDTN network. Because of the high cost, few experiments have focused on research of vessel mobility pattern for the moment. In this paper, we study the traces of more than 4000 fishing and freight vessels. Firstly, to solve the data noise and sparsity problem, we design two algorithms to filter the noise and complement the missing data based on the vessel's turning feature. Secondly, after studying the traces of vessels, we observe that the vessel's traces are confined by invisible boundary. Thirdly, through defining the distance between traces, we design MR-Similarity algorithm to find the mobility pattern of vessels. Finally, we realize our algorithm on cluster and evaluate the performance and accuracy. Our results can provide the guidelines on design of data routing protocols on ocean MDTN.

Characterization of Joint Sets Through UAV Photogrammetry on Sedimentary Rock Sea Cliffs and Abrasion Platforms in Northern Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsieh, P. C.; LU, A.; Yeh, C. H.; Huang, W. K.; Lin, H. H.; Lin, M. L.

2017-12-01

Rockfall hazards are very common in obsequent slope and oblique slope. In the coastal area of northern Taiwan, many sea cliffs are formed by obsequent slope and oblique slope. A famous case of rockfall failure happened on Aug. 31, 2013, a 150-ton rock block fell on the highway in Badouzi, Keelung, during a high intensity rainfall event which was caused by Typhoon No.15 (Kong-rey). To reduce this kind of rockfall hazard, it is important to characterize discontinuous planes in the bedrock because rock blocks are mainly divided from bedrock by two or more sets of discontinuous planes including joint planes and the bedding plane. For doing characterization of those fracture patterns of joint sets, it is necessary to do detailed field investigations. However, the survey of discontinuous planes, especially joint sets, are usually difficult and cannot get enough characterization data about joint sets. The first reason is that doing field investigations on the surface of sea cliffs is very dangerous and difficult for engineers or geologists to approach the upper part of outcrop. The second reason is the complexity of joint sets. In Badouzi area, each cliff is constituted by many different layers such as sandstone, shale, or alternations of sandstone and shale, and each layer has different fracture pattern of joint sets. In this study, we use UAV photogrammetry as a solution of these difficulties. UAV photogrammetry can produce a high-resolution digital surface model (DSM), orthophoto, and anaglyph of sea cliffs and abrasion platforms. Than we use self-developed geoprocessing toolsets to auto-trace joint planes with DSM data and produce fracture pattern of joint sets semi-automatically and systematically. Our method can provide basic information for rock mass rating on rock slope stability and rockfall hazards evaluation.

Does a not-so-recent ankle sprain influence interjoint coordination during walking?

PubMed

Dedieu, Philippe; Chamoun, Rima; Lacaud, Guilhaume; Moulinat, Thibault; Queron, Maxime; Zanone, Pier-Giorgio

2017-12-01

Ankle sprains are common joint injuries in daily and sports activities, whose underlying mechanisms have been amply studied. If joint structures are directly damaged, neuromuscular activity can be affected, particularly in the time domain. This study aims to establish whether previous ankle injury correlates with changes in the inter-joint synergy of the entire lower limb and in the muscle activity pattern during walking. Three-dimensional walking-gait analysis was conducted on twenty-four adults. Ten of them had never suffered from ankle sprain; fourteen had suffered from ankle sprain at least once during the three preceding years. Continuous Relative Phase (CRP) between the moving limbs assessed inter-joint coordination, and muscular activity was recorded by EMG. CRP between ankle and knee and between ankle and hip indicates that both joints moved in tight synchronization in the same direction on the injured side, whereas there was a time lag between joints on the healthy side for each sprained participants or on both side for the control group. Start-time and/or duration of muscular activity of tibialis anterior, soleus and peroneus longus occurred earlier and were longer on the injured side, respectively. Our findings suggest that ankle sprain modifies inter-joint coordination and muscular activity of the injured limb, inducing not an entirely new pattern of coordination but an alteration of the existing pattern. CRP revealed slight modifications in the extant inter-joint coordination which may not be captured by other kinematic variables, which opens perspectives on therapy and relapse prevention. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rich do not rise early: spatio-temporal patterns in the mobility networks of different socio-economic classes

PubMed Central

Hurtado, Rafael G.; Floría, Luis Mario

2016-01-01

We analyse the urban mobility in the cities of Medellín and Manizales (Colombia). Each city is represented by six mobility networks, each one encoding the origin-destination trips performed by a subset of the population corresponding to a particular socio-economic status. The nodes of each network are the different urban locations whereas links account for the existence of a trip between two different areas of the city. We study the main structural properties of these mobility networks by focusing on their spatio-temporal patterns. Our goal is to relate these patterns with the partition into six socio-economic compartments of these two societies. Our results show that spatial and temporal patterns vary across these socio-economic groups. In particular, the two datasets show that as wealth increases the early-morning activity is delayed, the midday peak becomes smoother and the spatial distribution of trips becomes more localized. PMID:27853531

Osteoarthritis in Siberia's Cis-Baikal: Skeletal indicators of hunter-gatherer adaptation and cultural change.

PubMed

Lieverse, Angela R; Weber, Andrzej W; Bazaliiskiy, Vladimir Ivanovich; Goriunova, Olga Ivanovna; Savel'ev, Nikolai Aleksandrovich

2007-01-01

This examination of osteoarthritis in Siberia's Cis-Baikal region focuses on the reconstruction of mid-Holocene mobility and activity patterns with particular interest in an alleged fifth millennium BC biocultural hiatus. Five cemetery populations--two representing the pre-hiatus Kitoi culture (6800-4900 BC) and three the post-hiatus Serovo-Glaskovo (4200-1000 BC)-are considered. The objective is to investigate osteoarthritic prevalence and distribution (patterning) within and among these populations in order to reconstruct mobility and activity patterns among the Cis-Baikal foragers, and to test for possible disparities that may reflect differing adaptive strategies. The data reveal that levels of activity remained relatively constant throughout the mid-Holocene but that mobility and specific activity patterns did not. Although results are consistent with the current understanding of distinct Kitoi and Serovo-Glaskovo subsistence regimes, specifically the lower residential mobility and narrower resource base of the former, they also draw attention to adaptive characteristics shared by all occupants of the Cis-Baikal. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc

Body mass index affects knee joint mechanics during gait differently with and without moderate knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Harding, Graeme T; Hubley-Kozey, Cheryl L; Dunbar, Michael J; Stanish, William D; Astephen Wilson, Janie L

2012-11-01

Obesity is a highly cited risk factor for knee osteoarthritis (OA), but its role in knee OA pathogenesis and progression is not as clear. Excess weight may contribute to an increased mechanical burden and altered dynamic movement and loading patterns at the knee. The objective of this study was to examine the interacting role of moderate knee OA disease presence and obesity on knee joint mechanics during gait. Gait analysis was performed on 104 asymptomatic and 140 individuals with moderate knee OA. Each subject group was divided into three body mass categories based on body mass index (BMI): healthy weight (BMI<25), overweight (25≤BMI≤30), and obese (BMI>30). Three-dimensional knee joint angles and net external knee joint moments were calculated and waveform principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to extract major patterns of variability from each. PC scores for major patterns were compared between groups using a two-factor ANOVA. Significant BMI main effects were found in the pattern of the knee adduction moment, the knee flexion moment, and the knee rotation moment during gait. Two interaction effects between moderate OA disease presence and BMI were also found that described different changes in the knee flexion moment and the knee flexion angle with increased BMI with and without knee OA. Our results suggest that increased BMI is associated with different changes in biomechanical patterns of the knee joint during gait depending on the presence of moderate knee OA. Copyright © 2012 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Patterns and Limitations of Urban Human Mobility Resilience under the Influence of Multiple Types of Natural Disaster

PubMed Central

Wang, Qi; Taylor, John E.

2016-01-01

Natural disasters pose serious threats to large urban areas, therefore understanding and predicting human movements is critical for evaluating a population’s vulnerability and resilience and developing plans for disaster evacuation, response and relief. However, only limited research has been conducted into the effect of natural disasters on human mobility. This study examines how natural disasters influence human mobility patterns in urban populations using individuals’ movement data collected from Twitter. We selected fifteen destructive cases across five types of natural disaster and analyzed the human movement data before, during, and after each event, comparing the perturbed and steady state movement data. The results suggest that the power-law can describe human mobility in most cases and that human mobility patterns observed in steady states are often correlated with those in perturbed states, highlighting their inherent resilience. However, the quantitative analysis shows that this resilience has its limits and can fail in more powerful natural disasters. The findings from this study will deepen our understanding of the interaction between urban dwellers and civil infrastructure, improve our ability to predict human movement patterns during natural disasters, and facilitate contingency planning by policymakers. PMID:26820404

Patterns and Limitations of Urban Human Mobility Resilience under the Influence of Multiple Types of Natural Disaster.

PubMed

Wang, Qi; Taylor, John E

2016-01-01

Natural disasters pose serious threats to large urban areas, therefore understanding and predicting human movements is critical for evaluating a population's vulnerability and resilience and developing plans for disaster evacuation, response and relief. However, only limited research has been conducted into the effect of natural disasters on human mobility. This study examines how natural disasters influence human mobility patterns in urban populations using individuals' movement data collected from Twitter. We selected fifteen destructive cases across five types of natural disaster and analyzed the human movement data before, during, and after each event, comparing the perturbed and steady state movement data. The results suggest that the power-law can describe human mobility in most cases and that human mobility patterns observed in steady states are often correlated with those in perturbed states, highlighting their inherent resilience. However, the quantitative analysis shows that this resilience has its limits and can fail in more powerful natural disasters. The findings from this study will deepen our understanding of the interaction between urban dwellers and civil infrastructure, improve our ability to predict human movement patterns during natural disasters, and facilitate contingency planning by policymakers.

Self-reported dependence on mobile phones in young adults: A European cross-cultural empirical survey

PubMed Central

Lopez-Fernandez, Olatz; Kuss, Daria J.; Romo, Lucia; Morvan, Yannick; Kern, Laurence; Graziani, Pierluigi; Rousseau, Amélie; Rumpf, Hans-Jürgen; Bischof, Anja; Gässler, Ann-Kathrin; Schimmenti, Adriano; Passanisi, Alessia; Männikkö, Niko; Kääriänen, Maria; Demetrovics, Zsolt; Király, Orsolya; Chóliz, Mariano; Zacarés, Juan José; Serra, Emilia; Griffiths, Mark D.; Pontes, Halley M.; Lelonek-Kuleta, Bernadeta; Chwaszcz, Joanna; Zullino, Daniele; Rochat, Lucien; Achab, Sophia; Billieux, Joël

2017-01-01

Background and aims Despite many positive benefits, mobile phone use can be associated with harmful and detrimental behaviors. The aim of this study was twofold: to examine (a) cross-cultural patterns of perceived dependence on mobile phones in ten European countries, first, grouped in four different regions (North: Finland and UK; South: Spain and Italy; East: Hungary and Poland; West: France, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland), and second by country, and (b) how socio-demographics, geographic differences, mobile phone usage patterns, and associated activities predicted this perceived dependence. Methods A sample of 2,775 young adults (aged 18–29 years) were recruited in different European Universities who participated in an online survey. Measures included socio-demographic variables, patterns of mobile phone use, and the dependence subscale of a short version of the Problematic Mobile Phone Use Questionnaire (PMPUQ; Billieux, Van der Linden, & Rochat, 2008). Results The young adults from the Northern and Southern regions reported the heaviest use of mobile phones, whereas perceived dependence was less prevalent in the Eastern region. However, the proportion of highly dependent mobile phone users was more elevated in Belgium, UK, and France. Regression analysis identified several risk factors for increased scores on the PMPUQ dependence subscale, namely using mobile phones daily, being female, engaging in social networking, playing video games, shopping and viewing TV shows through the Internet, chatting and messaging, and using mobile phones for downloading-related activities. Discussion and conclusions Self-reported dependence on mobile phone use is influenced by frequency and specific application usage. PMID:28425777

Two thumbs and one index: A comparison of manual coordination in touch-typing and mobile-typing.

PubMed

Cerni, Tania; Longcamp, Marieke; Job, Remo

2016-06-01

It has been extensively demonstrated that in touch-typing, manual alternation is performed faster than manual repetition (see i.e. Rumelhart & Norman, 1982), due to parallel activation of successive keystrokes. In this experiment, we tested whether the manual coordination patterns typical of touch-typing can be observed in mobile-typing. We recruited skilled touch-typists and divided them into two groups depending on their typing habits on the mobile device. The "one-hand" group typed with one index finger on the mobile, and therefore produced words exclusively through manual repetition. The "two-hands" group used two thumbs, and therefore produced words through a combination of mobile-typing repetitions and alternations. The two groups were tested in a typing to dictation task with both a standard keyboard and a mobile keyboard. Results showed that manual alternation and manual repetition patterns are similar in touch-typing and in mobile-typing. For the "two-hands" group, the mean interkeystroke intervals (IKIs) for touch-typing decreased as manual alterations in words increased in both touch- and mobile-typing. The "one-hand" group showed an opposite pattern in mobile-typing. Bigram frequency was correlated with IKIs per bigrams in both tasks and groups, but the correlation for the "one-hand" group in mobile-typing was different. Our results suggest that manual coordination processes are the same in touch-typing and in mobile-typing despite different effectors, provided that both hands are used to type. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Self-reported dependence on mobile phones in young adults: A European cross-cultural empirical survey.

PubMed

Lopez-Fernandez, Olatz; Kuss, Daria J; Romo, Lucia; Morvan, Yannick; Kern, Laurence; Graziani, Pierluigi; Rousseau, Amélie; Rumpf, Hans-Jürgen; Bischof, Anja; Gässler, Ann-Kathrin; Schimmenti, Adriano; Passanisi, Alessia; Männikkö, Niko; Kääriänen, Maria; Demetrovics, Zsolt; Király, Orsolya; Chóliz, Mariano; Zacarés, Juan José; Serra, Emilia; Griffiths, Mark D; Pontes, Halley M; Lelonek-Kuleta, Bernadeta; Chwaszcz, Joanna; Zullino, Daniele; Rochat, Lucien; Achab, Sophia; Billieux, Joël

2017-06-01

Background and aims Despite many positive benefits, mobile phone use can be associated with harmful and detrimental behaviors. The aim of this study was twofold: to examine (a) cross-cultural patterns of perceived dependence on mobile phones in ten European countries, first, grouped in four different regions (North: Finland and UK; South: Spain and Italy; East: Hungary and Poland; West: France, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland), and second by country, and (b) how socio-demographics, geographic differences, mobile phone usage patterns, and associated activities predicted this perceived dependence. Methods A sample of 2,775 young adults (aged 18-29 years) were recruited in different European Universities who participated in an online survey. Measures included socio-demographic variables, patterns of mobile phone use, and the dependence subscale of a short version of the Problematic Mobile Phone Use Questionnaire (PMPUQ; Billieux, Van der Linden, & Rochat, 2008). Results The young adults from the Northern and Southern regions reported the heaviest use of mobile phones, whereas perceived dependence was less prevalent in the Eastern region. However, the proportion of highly dependent mobile phone users was more elevated in Belgium, UK, and France. Regression analysis identified several risk factors for increased scores on the PMPUQ dependence subscale, namely using mobile phones daily, being female, engaging in social networking, playing video games, shopping and viewing TV shows through the Internet, chatting and messaging, and using mobile phones for downloading-related activities. Discussion and conclusions Self-reported dependence on mobile phone use is influenced by frequency and specific application usage.

Burden of Restraint, Disablement and Ethnic Identity: A Case Study of Total Joint Replacement for Osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Harrison, Tracie

2010-01-01

Health disparities in total joint replacement have been documented based on gender and ethnicity in multiple countries. Absent are studies exploring the meaning of the procedures among diverse women, which is necessary to fully understand the impact of the disparity. Drawing on ethnographic data from a life course exploration of disablement among Mexican American women with mobility impairments, one woman’s reasons for forgoing a joint replacement are considered. It is suggested that inequalities in disablement cannot be understood without considering the mulitple cultural conflicts and loyalties that push and pull women in multiple directions. PMID:21767094

Dietary Assessment on a Mobile Phone Using Image Processing and Pattern Recognition Techniques: Algorithm Design and System Prototyping.

PubMed

Probst, Yasmine; Nguyen, Duc Thanh; Tran, Minh Khoi; Li, Wanqing

2015-07-27

Dietary assessment, while traditionally based on pen-and-paper, is rapidly moving towards automatic approaches. This study describes an Australian automatic food record method and its prototype for dietary assessment via the use of a mobile phone and techniques of image processing and pattern recognition. Common visual features including scale invariant feature transformation (SIFT), local binary patterns (LBP), and colour are used for describing food images. The popular bag-of-words (BoW) model is employed for recognizing the images taken by a mobile phone for dietary assessment. Technical details are provided together with discussions on the issues and future work.

Group-level spatio-temporal pattern recovery in MEG decoding using multi-task joint feature learning.

PubMed

Kia, Seyed Mostafa; Pedregosa, Fabian; Blumenthal, Anna; Passerini, Andrea

2017-06-15

The use of machine learning models to discriminate between patterns of neural activity has become in recent years a standard analysis approach in neuroimaging studies. Whenever these models are linear, the estimated parameters can be visualized in the form of brain maps which can aid in understanding how brain activity in space and time underlies a cognitive function. However, the recovered brain maps often suffer from lack of interpretability, especially in group analysis of multi-subject data. To facilitate the application of brain decoding in group-level analysis, we present an application of multi-task joint feature learning for group-level multivariate pattern recovery in single-trial magnetoencephalography (MEG) decoding. The proposed method allows for recovering sparse yet consistent patterns across different subjects, and therefore enhances the interpretability of the decoding model. Our experimental results demonstrate that the mutli-task joint feature learning framework is capable of recovering more meaningful patterns of varying spatio-temporally distributed brain activity across individuals while still maintaining excellent generalization performance. We compare the performance of the multi-task joint feature learning in terms of generalization, reproducibility, and quality of pattern recovery against traditional single-subject and pooling approaches on both simulated and real MEG datasets. These results can facilitate the usage of brain decoding for the characterization of fine-level distinctive patterns in group-level inference. Considering the importance of group-level analysis, the proposed approach can provide a methodological shift towards more interpretable brain decoding models. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Feature-extracted joint transform correlation.

PubMed

Alam, M S

1995-12-10

A new technique for real-time optical character recognition that uses a joint transform correlator is proposed. This technique employs feature-extracted patterns for the reference image to detect a wide range of characters in one step. The proposed technique significantly enhances the processing speed when compared with the presently available joint transform correlator architectures and shows feasibility for multichannel joint transform correlation.

Describing the Elephant: Framing a Discussion on Command and Control

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-01

Joint Communications System; and other governing doctrine. The prevalence of C2 in our joint doctrine reflects the centrality of performing C2 well...and the tragedy of doing it poorly (e.g., Operation Eagle Claw during the Iran hostage crisis ; the 1994 Blackhawk shoot-down in Operation Northern...from C2 in the air. By means of its mobility, airborne C2 offers range, reach, and adaptabil- ity—coupled with unique communications and surveillance

[Medial stress syndrome in military conscripts].

PubMed

Hald, N; Pedersen, O B; Hau, C; Hansen, B R

1989-08-14

Thirty-two Danish recruits had signs and symptoms compatible with shin splints. 65% of the cases noticed symptoms during the first four weeks of conscription. 78% were free from symptoms after 30 days exemption from physical exercise. The patients were examined together with a group without shin splints. The passive subtalar joint mobility was identical in the two groups. When examining the subtalar joint position in the standing position, increased eversion was found in the group with shin splints.

Use of hinged transarticular external fixation for adjunctive joint stabilization in dogs and cats: 14 cases (1999-2003).

PubMed

Jaeger, Gayle H; Wosar, Marc A; Marcellin-Little, Denis J; Lascelles, B Duncan X

2005-08-15

To describe placement of hinged transarticular external fixation (HTEF) frames and evaluate their ability to protect the primary repair of unstable joints while allowing joint mobility in dogs and cats. Retrospective study. 8 cats and 6 dogs. HTEF frames were composed of metal or epoxy connecting rods and a hinge. Measurements of range of motion of affected and contralateral joints and radiographs were made after fixator application and removal. 9 animals (4 cats and 5 dogs) had tarsal and 5 (4 cats and 1 dog) had stifle joint injuries. Treatment duration ranged from 45 to 100 days (median, 57 days). Ranges of motion in affected stifle and tarsal joints were 57% and 72% of control while HTEF was in place and 79% and 84% of control after frame removal. Complications were encountered in 3 cats and 2 dogs and included breakage of pins and connecting rods, hinge loosening, and failure at the hinge-epoxy interface. HTEF in animals with traumatic joint instability provided adjunctive joint stabilization during healing and protection of the primary repair and maintained joint motion during healing, resulting in early weight bearing of the affected limb.

The Consequence of a Medial Ankle Sprain on Physical and Self-reported Functional Limitations: A Case Study Over a 5-Month Period.

PubMed

Terada, Masafumi; Thomas, Abbey C; Pietrosimone, Brian; Hiller, Claire E; Bowker, Samantha; Gribble, Phillip A

2015-10-01

Case report. Little evidence exists about impairments and perceived disability following eversion injury to the deltoid ligament. This case study prospectively examined the neuromuscular, biomechanical, and psychological consequences of a case of a medial ankle sprain. A recreationally active man with a history of a lateral ankle sprain (grade I) was participating in a university Institutional Review Board-approved research study examining the neuromuscular and mechanical characteristics associated with chronic ankle instability. Twenty-two days after the testing session, the participant sustained an eversion injury to his left ankle while playing basketball. Outcomes The outcomes of this case are presented using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model. Outcome variables were assessed at preinjury (medial ankle sprain), 3 months postinjury, and 5 months postinjury. Measurements included neural excitability of the soleus, balance assessment, joint stability, and psychological assessments. Data from this case study revealed that a medial ankle sprain reduces joint mobility and alters neural excitability of the soleus, with concurrent deficits in balance and self-reported function. These impairments forced the participant to downgrade his physical activity lifestyle up to 5 months postinjury. These data suggest the need for the development of intervention strategies to address impairments in neural excitability and joint mobility at the ankle to help patients meet the goal of maintaining long-term joint health. Prognosis, level 4.

Next Place Prediction Based on Spatiotemporal Pattern Mining of Mobile Device Logs.

PubMed

Lee, Sungjun; Lim, Junseok; Park, Jonghun; Kim, Kwanho

2016-01-23

Due to the recent explosive growth of location-aware services based on mobile devices, predicting the next places of a user is of increasing importance to enable proactive information services. In this paper, we introduce a data-driven framework that aims to predict the user's next places using his/her past visiting patterns analyzed from mobile device logs. Specifically, the notion of the spatiotemporal-periodic (STP) pattern is proposed to capture the visits with spatiotemporal periodicity by focusing on a detail level of location for each individual. Subsequently, we present algorithms that extract the STP patterns from a user's past visiting behaviors and predict the next places based on the patterns. The experiment results obtained by using a real-world dataset show that the proposed methods are more effective in predicting the user's next places than the previous approaches considered in most cases.

Joint Transmit Antenna Selection and Power Allocation for ISDF Relaying Mobile-to-Mobile Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Xu, Lingwei; Zhang, Hao; Gulliver, T. Aaron

2016-01-01

The outage probability (OP) performance of multiple-relay incremental-selective decode-and-forward (ISDF) relaying mobile-to-mobile (M2M) sensor networks with transmit antenna selection (TAS) over N-Nakagami fading channels is investigated. Exact closed-form OP expressions for both optimal and suboptimal TAS schemes are derived. The power allocation problem is formulated to determine the optimal division of transmit power between the broadcast and relay phases. The OP performance under different conditions is evaluated via numerical simulation to verify the analysis. These results show that the optimal TAS scheme has better OP performance than the suboptimal scheme. Further, the power allocation parameter has a significant influence on the OP performance. PMID:26907282

Mobil-Badger technologies for benzene reduction in gasoline

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Goelzer, A.R.; Ram, S.; Hernandez, A.

1993-01-01

Many refiners will need to reduce the barrels per day of benzene entering the motor gasoline pool. Mobil and Badger have developed and now jointly license three potential refinery alternatives to conventional benzene hydrosaturation to achieve this: Mobil Benzene Reduction, Ethylbenzene and Cumene. The Mobil Benzene Reduction Process (MBR) uses dilute olefins in FCC offgas to extensively alkylate dilute benzene as found in light reformate, light FCC gasoline, or cyclic C[sub 6] naphtha. MBR raises octanes and lowers C[sub 5]+ olefins. MBR does not involve costly hydrogen addition. The refinery-based Mobil/Badger Ethylbenzene Process reacts chemical-grade benzene extracted from light reformatemore » with dilute ethylene found in treated FCC offgas to make high-purity ethylbenzene. EB is the principal feedstock for the production of styrene. The Mobil/Badger Cumene Process alkylates FCC-derived dilute propylene and extracted benzene to selectively yield isopropyl benzene (cumene). Cumene is the principal feedstock for the production of phenol. All three processes use Mobil developed catalysts.« less

Brief communication: Hip joint mobility in free-ranging rhesus macaques

PubMed Central

Hammond, Ashley S.; Johnson, Victoria P.; Higham, James P.

2016-01-01

Objectives We aimed to test for differences in hip joint range of motion (ROM) between captive and free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), particularly for hip joint abduction, which previous studies of captive macaques have found to be lower than predicted. Materials and Methods Hip ROM was assessed following standard joint measurement methodology in anesthetized adult free-ranging rhesus macaques (n=39) from Cayo Santiago, and compared to published ROM data from captive rhesus macaques (n=16) (Hammond 2014a, American Journal of Physical Anthropology). Significant differences between populations were detected using one-way analysis of variance (p<0.05). Results In a sample of pooled sexes and ages, free-ranging macaques are capable of increased hip abduction, flexion, and internal rotation compared to captive individuals. These differences in joint excursion resulted in free-ranging individuals having significantly increased ROM for hip adduction-abduction, rotation, flexion-extension, and the distance spanned by the knee during hip abduction. When looking at data for a smaller sample of age-matched males, fewer ROM differences are significant, but free-ranging males have significantly increased hip abduction, internal rotation, range of flexion-extension, and distance spanned by the knee during hip abduction compared to captive males of similar age. Discussion Our results suggest that a spatially restrictive environment results in decreased hip mobility in cage-confined animals and ultimately limits the potential limb postures in captive macaques. These results have implications for selection of animal samples in model validation studies, as well as laboratory animal husbandry practices. PMID:27731892

A Theoretical Basis for Entropy-Scaling Effects in Human Mobility Patterns

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Characterizing how people move through space has been an important component of many disciplines. With the advent of automated data collection through GPS and other location sensing systems, researchers have the opportunity to examine human mobility at spatio-temporal resolution heretofore impossible. However, the copious and complex data collected through these logging systems can be difficult for humans to fully exploit, leading many researchers to propose novel metrics for encapsulating movement patterns in succinct and useful ways. A particularly salient proposed metric is the mobility entropy rate of the string representing the sequence of locations visited by an individual. However, mobility entropy rate is not scale invariant: entropy rate calculations based on measurements of the same trajectory at varying spatial or temporal granularity do not yield the same value, limiting the utility of mobility entropy rate as a metric by confounding inter-experimental comparisons. In this paper, we derive a scaling relationship for mobility entropy rate of non-repeating straight line paths from the definition of Lempel-Ziv compression. We show that the resulting formulation predicts the scaling behavior of simulated mobility traces, and provides an upper bound on mobility entropy rate under certain assumptions. We further show that this formulation has a maximum value for a particular sampling rate, implying that optimal sampling rates for particular movement patterns exist. PMID:27571423

[Intramedullary nailing of the distal tibia illustrated with the Expert(TM) tibia nail].

PubMed

El Attal, R; Hansen, M; Rosenberger, R; Smekal, V; Rommens, P M; Blauth, M

2011-12-01

Restoration of axis, length, and rotation of the lower leg. Sufficient primary stability of the osteosynthesis for functional aftercare and to maintain joint mobility. Good bony healing in closed and open fractures. Closed and open fractures of the tibia and complete lower leg fractures distal to the isthmus (AO 42), extraarticular fractures of the distal tibia (AO 43 A1/A2/A3), segmental fractures of the tibia with a fracture in the distal tibia, and certain intraarticular fractures of the distal tibia without impression of the joint line with the use of additional implants (AO 43 C1) Patient in reduced general condition (e.g., bed ridden), flexion of the knee of less than 90°, patients with knee arthroplasty of the affected leg, infection in the area of the nail's insertion, infection of the tibial cavity, complex articular fractures of the proximal or distal tibia with joint depression. Closed reduction of the fracture preferably on a fracture table or using a distractor or an external fixation frame. If necessary, use pointed reduction clamps or sterile drapery. In some cases, additional implants like percutaneous small fragment screws, poller screws or k-wires are helpful. Open reduction is rarely necessary and must be avoided. Opening of the proximal tibia in line with the medullary canal. Canulated insertion of the Expert(TM) tibia nail (ETN; Synthes GmbH, Oberdorf, Switzerland) with reaming of the medullary canal. Control of axis, length, and rotation. Distal interlocking with the radiolucent drill and proximal interlocking with the targeting device. Immediate mobilization of ankle and knee joint. Mobilization with 20 kg weight-bearing with crutches. X-ray control 6 weeks postoperatively and increased weight-bearing depending on the fracture status. In cases with simple fractures, good bony contact, or transverse fracture pattern, full weight-bearing at the end of week 6 is targeted. Between July 2004 and May 2005, 180 patients were included in a multicenter study. The follow-up rate was 81% after 1 year. Of these, 91 fractures (50.6%) were located in the distal third of the tibia. In this segment, the rate of delayed union was 10.6%. Malalignment of > 5° was observed in 5.4%. A secondary malalignment after initial good reduction was detected in only 1.1% of all cases. The implant-specific risk for screw breakage was 3.2%. One patient sustained a deep infection. If additional fibula plating was performed an 8-fold higher risk for delayed bone healing was observed (95%CI: 2.9-21.2, p< 0.001). If the fracture of the fibula was at the same height as on the tibia, the risk for delayed healing was even 14-fold (95% CI: 3.4-62.5, p< 0.001). Biomechanically plating of the fibula does not increase stability in suprasyndesmal distal tibia-fibular fractures treated with an intramedullary nail. Using the ETN with its optimized locking options, fibula plating is not recommended, thus, avoiding soft tissue problems and potentially delayed bone healing.

Global Gene Expression Differences in Joints of Mice with Divergent Post Traumatic Osteoarthritis Phenotypes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kibui, J.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation which prompts pain, stiffness and swelling. Contributing factors include age, genetics, obesity, injury and overuse of joints. OA is defined by an acute phase and a chronic phase whereby inflammation and degeneration of articular cartilage and other tissues is followed by joint pain and limited mobility. Patients remain asymptomatic until substantial joint damage has occurred and therefore rely on long term surgical joint replacement and pain management as their sole treatment options. For this reason, there is an increasing need to identify early stage osteoarthritis biomarkers. Our study aimedmore » to identify and characterize gene expression variances in 3 different mouse strains (STR/ort, C57BL/6 and MRL/MpJ) with different susceptibility to post traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Through RNA sequence analysis of whole knee joint RNA, we identified differentially expressed genes associated with the initial stages of PTOA in relation to mice with divergent phenotypes. These results will help elucidate potential mechanisms responsible for PTOA outcomes.« less

Neuromuscular-skeletal origins of predominant patterns of coordination in rhythmic two-joint arm movement.

PubMed

de Rugy, Aymar; Riek, Stephan; Carson, Richard G

2006-01-01

The authors tested for predominant patterns of coordination in the combination of rhythmic flexion-extension (FE) and supination- (SP) at the elbow-joint complex. Participants (N=10) spontaneously established in-phase (supination synchronized with flexion) and antiphase (pronation synchronized with flexion) patterns. In addition, the authors used a motorized robot arm to generate involuntary SP movements with different phase relations with respect to voluntary FE. The involuntarily induced in-phase pattern was accentuated and was more consistent than other patterns. The result provides evidence that the predominance of the in-phase pattern originates in the influence of neuromuscular-skeletal constraints rather than in a preference dictated by perceptual-cognitive factors implicated in voluntary control. Neuromuscular-skeletal constraints involved in the predominance of the in-phase and the antiphase patterns are discussed.

Mobile work: Ergonomics in a rapidly changing work environment.

PubMed

Honan, Meg

2015-01-01

Places of work have been completely transformed by innovations in mobile work tools and ever-present access to internet data. This article characterizes use patterns and provides preliminary considerations for productive and comfortable use of common mobile devices. Two surveys described trends in mobile work. In the first, ergonomics professionals who oversee programs reported common mobile devices, their users and what data is accessed. The second, an end user survey, explored common activities performed on mobile devices, duration of use and locations where mobile work is common. The survey results provide a baseline data point for the status of mobile work in early 2014. Research indicates that additional risks have been introduced to the neck, thumbs and hands when using mobile devices. Possible trends regarding device use and work locations emerge. Intervention studies provide some direction for the practitioner. Practical strategies are outlined to reduce exposure intensity and duration. Contemporary mobile work presents tremendous change and opportunity for ergonomists and researchers to keep pace with fitting the changing models of work to the person. Continued research is needed on current mobile device use patterns to better understand ergonomic risk exposure in this rapidly changing realm.

New gliding mammaliaforms from the Jurassic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Qing-Jin; Grossnickle, David M.; Liu, Di; Zhang, Yu-Guang; Neander, April I.; Ji, Qiang; Luo, Zhe-Xi

2017-08-01

Stem mammaliaforms are Mesozoic forerunners to mammals, and they offer critical evidence for the anatomical evolution and ecological diversification during the earliest mammalian history. Two new eleutherodonts from the Late Jurassic period have skin membranes and skeletal features that are adapted for gliding. Characteristics of their digits provide evidence of roosting behaviour, as in dermopterans and bats, and their feet have a calcaneal calcar to support the uropagatium as in bats. The new volant taxa are phylogenetically nested with arboreal eleutherodonts. Together, they show an evolutionary experimentation similar to the iterative evolutions of gliders within arboreal groups of marsupial and placental mammals. However, gliding eleutherodonts possess rigid interclavicle-clavicle structures, convergent to the avian furculum, and they retain shoulder girdle plesiomorphies of mammaliaforms and monotremes. Forelimb mobility required by gliding occurs at the acromion-clavicle and glenohumeral joints, is different from and convergent to the shoulder mobility at the pivotal clavicle-sternal joint in marsupial and placental gliders.

Structure Assembly by a Heterogeneous Team of Robots Using State Estimation, Generalized Joints, and Mobile Parallel Manipulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Komendera, Erik E.; Adhikari, Shaurav; Glassner, Samantha; Kishen, Ashwin; Quartaro, Amy

2017-01-01

Autonomous robotic assembly by mobile field robots has seen significant advances in recent decades, yet practicality remains elusive. Identified challenges include better use of state estimation to and reasoning with uncertainty, spreading out tasks to specialized robots, and implementing representative joining methods. This paper proposes replacing 1) self-correcting mechanical linkages with generalized joints for improved applicability, 2) assembly serial manipulators with parallel manipulators for higher precision and stability, and 3) all-in-one robots with a heterogeneous team of specialized robots for agent simplicity. This paper then describes a general assembly algorithm utilizing state estimation. Finally, these concepts are tested in the context of solar array assembly, requiring a team of robots to assemble, bond, and deploy a set of solar panel mockups to a backbone truss to an accuracy not built into the parts. This paper presents the results of these tests.

A novel method for trajectory planning of cooperative mobile manipulators.

PubMed

Bolandi, Hossein; Ehyaei, Amir Farhad

2011-01-01

We have designed a two-stage scheme to consider the trajectory planning problem of two mobile manipulators for cooperative transportation of a rigid body in the presence of static obstacles. In the first stage, with regard to the static obstacles, we develop a method that searches the workspace for the shortest possible path between the start and goal configurations, by constructing a graph on a portion of the configuration space that satisfies the collision and closure constraints. The final stage is to calculate a sequence of time-optimal trajectories to go between the consecutive points of the path, with regard to the nonholonomic constraints and the maximum allowed joint accelerations. This approach allows geometric constraints such as joint limits and closed-chain constraints, along with differential constraints such as nonholonomic velocity constraints and acceleration limits, to be incorporated into the planning scheme. The simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

A Novel Method for Trajectory Planning of Cooperative Mobile Manipulators

PubMed Central

Bolandi, Hossein; Ehyaei, Amir Farhad

2011-01-01

We have designed a two-stage scheme to consider the trajectory planning problem of two mobile manipulators for cooperative transportation of a rigid body in the presence of static obstacles. In the first stage, with regard to the static obstacles, we develop a method that searches the workspace for the shortest possible path between the start and goal configurations, by constructing a graph on a portion of the configuration space that satisfies the collision and closure constraints. The final stage is to calculate a sequence of time-optimal trajectories to go between the consecutive points of the path, with regard to the nonholonomic constraints and the maximum allowed joint accelerations. This approach allows geometric constraints such as joint limits and closed-chain constraints, along with differential constraints such as nonholonomic velocity constraints and acceleration limits, to be incorporated into the planning scheme. The simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. PMID:22606656

Generation of Adaptive Gait Patterns for Quadruped Robot with CPG Network including Motor Dynamic Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Son, Yurak; Kamano, Takuya; Yasuno, Takashi; Suzuki, Takayuki; Harada, Hironobu

This paper describes the generation of adaptive gait patterns using new Central Pattern Generators (CPGs) including motor dynamic models for a quadruped robot under various environment. The CPGs act as the flexible oscillators of the joints and make the desired angle of the joints. The CPGs are mutually connected each other, and the sets of their coupling parameters are adjusted by genetic algorithm so that the quadruped robot can realize the stable and adequate gait patterns. As a result of generation, the suitable CPG networks for not only a walking straight gait pattern but also rotation gait patterns are obtained. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed CPG networks are effective to automatically adjust the adaptive gait patterns for the tested quadruped robot under various environment. Furthermore, the target tracking control based on image processing is achieved by combining the generated gait patterns.

Patellofemoral joint stress during running with alterations in foot strike pattern.

PubMed

Vannatta, Charles Nathan; Kernozek, Thomas W

2015-05-01

This study aimed to quantify differences in patellofemoral joint stress that may occur when healthy runners alter their foot strike pattern from their habitual rearfoot strike to a forefoot strike to gain insight on the potential etiology and treatment methods of patellofemoral pain. Sixteen healthy female runners completed 20 running trials in a controlled laboratory setting under rearfoot strike and forefoot strike conditions. Kinetic and kinematic data were used to drive a static optimization technique to estimate individual muscle forces to input into a model of the patellofemoral joint to estimate joint stress during running. Peak patellofemoral joint stress and the stress-time integral over stance phase decreased by 27% and 12%, respectively, in the forefoot strike condition (P < 0.001). Peak vertical ground reaction force increased slightly in the forefoot strike condition (P < 0.001). Peak quadriceps force and average hamstring force decreased, whereas gastrocnemius and soleus muscle forces increased when running with a forefoot strike (P < 0.05). Knee flexion angle at initial contact increased (P < 0.001), total knee excursion decreased (P < 0.001), and no change occurred in peak knee flexion angle (P = 0.238). Step length did not change between conditions (P = 0.375), but the leading leg landed with the foot positioned with a horizontal distance closer to the hip at initial contact in the forefoot strike condition (P < 0.001). Altering one's strike pattern to a forefoot strike results in consistent reductions in patellofemoral joint stress independent of changes in step length. Thus, implementation of forefoot strike training programs may be warranted in the treatment of runners with patellofemoral pain. However, it is suggested that the transition to a forefoot strike pattern should be completed in a graduated manner.

myBlackBox: Blackbox Mobile Cloud Systems for Personalized Unusual Event Detection.

PubMed

Ahn, Junho; Han, Richard

2016-05-23

We demonstrate the feasibility of constructing a novel and practical real-world mobile cloud system, called myBlackBox, that efficiently fuses multimodal smartphone sensor data to identify and log unusual personal events in mobile users' daily lives. The system incorporates a hybrid architectural design that combines unsupervised classification of audio, accelerometer and location data with supervised joint fusion classification to achieve high accuracy, customization, convenience and scalability. We show the feasibility of myBlackBox by implementing and evaluating this end-to-end system that combines Android smartphones with cloud servers, deployed for 15 users over a one-month period.

myBlackBox: Blackbox Mobile Cloud Systems for Personalized Unusual Event Detection

PubMed Central

Ahn, Junho; Han, Richard

2016-01-01

We demonstrate the feasibility of constructing a novel and practical real-world mobile cloud system, called myBlackBox, that efficiently fuses multimodal smartphone sensor data to identify and log unusual personal events in mobile users’ daily lives. The system incorporates a hybrid architectural design that combines unsupervised classification of audio, accelerometer and location data with supervised joint fusion classification to achieve high accuracy, customization, convenience and scalability. We show the feasibility of myBlackBox by implementing and evaluating this end-to-end system that combines Android smartphones with cloud servers, deployed for 15 users over a one-month period. PMID:27223292

Percutaneous adhesiolysis procedures in the medicare population: analysis of utilization and growth patterns from 2000 to 2011.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Helm Ii, Standiford; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Racz, Gabor B

2014-01-01

Multiple reviews have shown that interventional techniques for chronic pain have increased dramatically over the years. Of these interventional techniques, both sacroiliac joint injections and facet joint interventions showed explosive growth, followed by epidural procedures. Percutaneous adhesiolysis procedures have not been assessed for their utilization patterns separately from epidural injections. An analysis of the utilization patterns of percutaneous adhesiolysis procedures in managing chronic low back pain in the Medicare population from 2000 to 2011. To assess the utilization and growth patterns of percutaneous adhesiolysis in managing chronic low back pain. The study was performed utilizing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Physician Supplier Procedure Summary Master of Fee-For-Service (FFS) Data from 2000 to 2011. Percutaneous adhesiolysis procedures increased 47% with an annual growth rate of 3.6% in the FFS Medicare population from 2000 to 2011. These growth rates are significantly lower than the growth rates for sacroiliac joint injections (331%), facet joint interventions (308%), and epidural injections (130%), but substantially lower than lumbar transforaminal injections (665%) and lumbar facet joint neurolysis (544%). Study limitations include lack of inclusion of Medicare Advantage patients. In addition, the statewide data is based on claims which may include the contiguous or other states. Percutaneous adhesiolysis utilization increased moderately in Medicare beneficiaries from 2000 to 2011. Overall, there was an increase of 47% in the utilization of adhesiolysis procedures per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries, with an annual geometric average increase of 3.6%.

The impact of biases in mobile phone ownership on estimates of human mobility

PubMed Central

Wesolowski, Amy; Eagle, Nathan; Noor, Abdisalan M.; Snow, Robert W.; Buckee, Caroline O.

2013-01-01

Mobile phone data are increasingly being used to quantify the movements of human populations for a wide range of social, scientific and public health research. However, making population-level inferences using these data is complicated by differential ownership of phones among different demographic groups that may exhibit variable mobility. Here, we quantify the effects of ownership bias on mobility estimates by coupling two data sources from the same country during the same time frame. We analyse mobility patterns from one of the largest mobile phone datasets studied, representing the daily movements of nearly 15 million individuals in Kenya over the course of a year. We couple this analysis with the results from a survey of socioeconomic status, mobile phone ownership and usage patterns across the country, providing regional estimates of population distributions of income, reported airtime expenditure and actual airtime expenditure across the country. We match the two data sources and show that mobility estimates are surprisingly robust to the substantial biases in phone ownership across different geographical and socioeconomic groups. PMID:23389897

The impact of biases in mobile phone ownership on estimates of human mobility.

PubMed

Wesolowski, Amy; Eagle, Nathan; Noor, Abdisalan M; Snow, Robert W; Buckee, Caroline O

2013-04-06

Mobile phone data are increasingly being used to quantify the movements of human populations for a wide range of social, scientific and public health research. However, making population-level inferences using these data is complicated by differential ownership of phones among different demographic groups that may exhibit variable mobility. Here, we quantify the effects of ownership bias on mobility estimates by coupling two data sources from the same country during the same time frame. We analyse mobility patterns from one of the largest mobile phone datasets studied, representing the daily movements of nearly 15 million individuals in Kenya over the course of a year. We couple this analysis with the results from a survey of socioeconomic status, mobile phone ownership and usage patterns across the country, providing regional estimates of population distributions of income, reported airtime expenditure and actual airtime expenditure across the country. We match the two data sources and show that mobility estimates are surprisingly robust to the substantial biases in phone ownership across different geographical and socioeconomic groups.

Gas Source Localization via Behaviour Based Mobile Robot and Weighted Arithmetic Mean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeon, Ahmad Shakaff Ali; Kamarudin, Kamarulzaman; Visvanathan, Retnam; Mamduh Syed Zakaria, Syed Muhammad; Zakaria, Ammar; Munirah Kamarudin, Latifah

2018-03-01

This work is concerned with the localization of gas source in dynamic indoor environment using a single mobile robot system. Algorithms such as Braitenberg, Zig-Zag and the combination of the two were implemented on the mobile robot as gas plume searching and tracing behaviours. To calculate the gas source location, a weighted arithmetic mean strategy was used. All experiments were done on an experimental testbed consisting of a large gas sensor array (LGSA) to monitor real-time gas concentration within the testbed. Ethanol gas was released within the testbed and the source location was marked using a pattern that can be tracked by a pattern tracking system. A pattern template was also mounted on the mobile robot to track the trajectory of the mobile robot. Measurements taken by the mobile robot and the LGSA were then compared to verify the experiments. A combined total of 36.5 hours of real time experimental runs were done and the typical results from such experiments were presented in this paper. From the results, we obtained gas source localization errors between 0.4m to 1.2m from the real source location.

Chimpanzee and human midfoot motion during bipedal walking and the evolution of the longitudinal arch of the foot.

PubMed

Holowka, Nicholas B; O'Neill, Matthew C; Thompson, Nathan E; Demes, Brigitte

2017-03-01

The longitudinal arch of the human foot is commonly thought to reduce midfoot joint motion to convert the foot into a rigid lever during push off in bipedal walking. In contrast, African apes have been observed to exhibit midfoot dorsiflexion following heel lift during terrestrial locomotion, presumably due to their possession of highly mobile midfoot joints. This assumed dichotomy between human and African ape midfoot mobility has recently been questioned based on indirect assessments of in vivo midfoot motion, such as plantar pressure and cadaver studies; however, direct quantitative analyses of African ape midfoot kinematics during locomotion remain scarce. Here, we used high-speed motion capture to measure three-dimensional foot kinematics in two male chimpanzees and five male humans walking bipedally at similar dimensionless speeds. We analyzed 10 steps per chimpanzee subject and five steps per human subject, and compared ranges of midfoot motion between species over stance phase, as well as within double- and single-limb support periods. Contrary to expectations, humans used a greater average range of midfoot motion than chimpanzees over the full duration of stance. This difference was driven by humans' dramatic plantarflexion and adduction of the midfoot joints during the second double-limb support period, which likely helps the foot generate power during push off. However, chimpanzees did use slightly but significantly more midfoot dorsiflexion than humans in the single limb-support period, during which heel lift begins. These results indicate that both stiffness and mobility are important to longitudinal arch function, and that the human foot evolved to utilize both during push off in bipedal walking. Thus, the presence of human-like midfoot joint morphology in fossil hominins should not be taken as indicating foot rigidity, but may signify the evolution of pedal anatomy conferring enhanced push off mechanics. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of thumb joint mobilization on pressure pain threshold in elderly patients with thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Villafañe, Jorge H; Silva, Guillermo B; Fernandez-Carnero, Josue

2012-02-01

This study evaluated the effects of Maitland's passive accessory mobilization on local hypoalgesia and strength in thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis (TCOA). Twenty-eight patients between 70 and 90 years old with secondary TCOA were randomized into glide mobilization and sham groups. This study was designed as a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Therapy consisted of Maitland's passive accessory mobilization of the dominant hand during 4 sessions over 2 weeks. We measured pressure pain threshold (PPT) at the trapeziometacarpal joint (TMJ), the tubercle of the scaphoid bone, and the unciform apophysis of the hamate bone by algometry. The tip and tripod pinch strength was also measured. Grip strength was measured by a grip dynamometer. Measurements were taken before treatment and after 1 week (first follow-up [FU]) and 2 weeks (second FU). All values in sham group remained unchanged along the treatment period. In the treated group, the PPT in the TMJ was 3.85 ± 0.35 kg/cm(2), which increased after treatment to 3.99 ± 0.37 and was maintained at the same level during the first FU 3.94 ± 0.39 and second FU 4.74 ± 0.40. In contrast, we found no differences in PPT in the other studied structures after treatment. Similarly, tip, tripod pinch, and grip strength remained without change after treatment. Passive accessory mobilization increased PPT in the TMJ; however, it did not increase motor function in patients with TCOA. Copyright © 2012 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparative biomechanical analysis of current microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joints.

PubMed

Bellmann, Malte; Schmalz, Thomas; Blumentritt, Siegmar

2010-04-01

To investigate and identify functional differences of 4 microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joints (C-Leg, Hybrid Knee [also called Energy Knee], Rheo Knee, Adaptive 2). Tested situations were walking on level ground, on stairs and ramps; additionally, the fall prevention potentials for each design were examined. The measuring technology used included an optoelectronic camera system combined with 2 forceplates as well as a mobile spiroergometric system. The study was conducted in a gait laboratory. Subjects with unilateral transfemoral amputations (N=9; mobility grade, 3-4; age, 22-49y) were tested. Participants were fitted and tested with 4 different microprocessor-controlled knee joints. Static prosthetic alignment, time distance parameters, kinematic and kinetic data and metabolic energy consumption. Compared with the Hybrid Knee and the Adaptive 2, the C-Leg offers clear advantages in the provision of adequate swing phase flexion resistances and terminal extension damping during level walking at various speeds, especially at higher walking speeds. The Rheo Knee provides sufficient terminal extension; however, swing phase flexion resistances seem to be too low. The values for metabolic energy consumption show only slight differences during level walking. The joint resistances generated for descending stairs and ramps relieve the contralateral side to varying degrees. When walking on stairs, safety-relevant technical differences between the investigated joint types can be observed. Designs with adequate internal resistances offer stability advantages when the foot is positioned on the step. Stumble recovery tests reveal that the different knee joint designs vary in their effectiveness in preventing the patient from falling. The patient benefits provided by the investigated electronic prosthetic knee joints differ considerably. The C-Leg appears to offer the amputee greater functional and safety-related advantages than the other tested knee joints. Reduced loading of the contralateral side has been demonstrated during ramp and stair descent. Metabolic energy consumption does not vary significantly between the tested knees. Hence, this parameter seems not to be a suitable criterion for assessing microprocessor-controlled knee components. Copyright 2010 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Heads, Shoulders, Elbows, Knees, and Toes: Modular Gdf5 Enhancers Control Different Joints in the Vertebrate Skeleton

PubMed Central

Schoor, Michael; Mortlock, Doug P.; Reddi, A. Hari; Kingsley, David M.

2016-01-01

Synovial joints are crucial for support and locomotion in vertebrates, and are the frequent site of serious skeletal defects and degenerative diseases in humans. Growth and differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5) is one of the earliest markers of joint formation, is required for normal joint development in both mice and humans, and has been genetically linked to risk of common osteoarthritis in Eurasian populations. Here, we systematically survey the mouse Gdf5 gene for regulatory elements controlling expression in synovial joints. We identify separate regions of the locus that control expression in axial tissues, in proximal versus distal joints in the limbs, and in remarkably specific sub-sets of composite joints like the elbow. Predicted transcription factor binding sites within Gdf5 regulatory enhancers are required for expression in particular joints. The multiple enhancers that control Gdf5 expression in different joints are distributed over a hundred kilobases of DNA, including regions both upstream and downstream of Gdf5 coding exons. Functional rescue tests in mice confirm that the large flanking regions are required to restore normal joint formation and patterning. Orthologs of these enhancers are located throughout the large genomic region previously associated with common osteoarthritis risk in humans. The large array of modular enhancers for Gdf5 provide a new foundation for studying the spatial specificity of joint patterning in vertebrates, as well as new candidates for regulatory regions that may also influence osteoarthritis risk in human populations. PMID:27902701

US Army War College Interwar Period Curriculum: Logistics and Joint Coordination

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-25

indicated in the War Department General Mobilization Plan. Third, the G-3 Course, while receiving the same twenty- four days as the G-4 Course, also...transportation, and relations of supply and strategy. The G-4 Course was followed by the ASW Course for a total of forty- four days of logistics focused...Focusing on joint and logistics inclusion in the course, four were graduates of the NWC, and seven were graduates of the Army Industrial College. The ever

Mathematical Basis of Knowledge Discovery and Autonomous Intelligent Architectures - Technology for the Creation of Virtual objects in the Real World

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-12-14

control of position/orientation of mobile TV cameras. 9 Unit 9 Force interaction system Unit 6 Helmet mounted displays robot like device drive...joints of the master arm (see Unit 1) which joint coordinates are tracked by the virtual manipulator. Unit 6 . Two displays built in the helmet...special device for simulating the tactile- kinaesthetic effect of immersion. When virtual body is a manipulator it comprises: − master arm with 6

KSC-01pp1200

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-06-26

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The Joint Airlock Module, sporting a NASA logo, is moved toward the payload bay of Space Shuttle Atlantis for mission STS-104. Once installed and activated, the airlock becomes the primary path for International Space Station spacewalk entry and departure using U.S. spacesuits, which are known as Extravehicular Mobility Units, or EMUs. In addition, the Joint Airlock is designed to support the Russian Orlan spacesuit for EVA activity. Launch of Atlantis is scheduled no earlier than July 12 at 5:04 a.m. EDT

Facilities Engineering Applications Program: Lead Monitoring Strategies for Drinking Water Systems: Lessons Learned

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-02-01

significant amount of lead mobilization. Studies by Lyson and Lenihan,ŝ Wong and Berrang,2 ° and Ierrra, t al.2’ describe this action and document the...Karaleka,. Jr. 1m I) V. Dc err , c a). T. Lyson and J. Lcnihan. ’Corrosion in Solder Jointed Copper tbes Resulting in Lead Contamination of Drinking...Boston Area," Journal of the New England Water Works Association, Vol 90 (1976). Lyson , T., and J. Lenihan, "Corrosion in Solder Jointed Copper Tubes

Dietary Assessment on a Mobile Phone Using Image Processing and Pattern Recognition Techniques: Algorithm Design and System Prototyping

PubMed Central

Probst, Yasmine; Nguyen, Duc Thanh; Tran, Minh Khoi; Li, Wanqing

2015-01-01

Dietary assessment, while traditionally based on pen-and-paper, is rapidly moving towards automatic approaches. This study describes an Australian automatic food record method and its prototype for dietary assessment via the use of a mobile phone and techniques of image processing and pattern recognition. Common visual features including scale invariant feature transformation (SIFT), local binary patterns (LBP), and colour are used for describing food images. The popular bag-of-words (BoW) model is employed for recognizing the images taken by a mobile phone for dietary assessment. Technical details are provided together with discussions on the issues and future work. PMID:26225994

A mobile work station concept for mechanically aided astronaut assembly of large space trusses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heard, W. L., Jr.; Bush, H. G.; Wallson, R. E.; Jensen, J. K.

1983-01-01

This report presents results of a series of truss assembly tests conducted to evaluate a mobile work station concept intended to mechanically assist astronaut manual assembly of erectable space trusses. The tests involved assembly of a tetrahedral truss beam by a pair of test subjects with and without pressure (space) suits, both in Earth gravity and in simulated zero gravity (neutral buoyancy in water). The beam was assembled from 38 identical graphite-epoxy nestable struts, 5.4 m in length with aluminum quick-attachment structural joints. Struts and joints were designed to closely simulate flight hardware. The assembled beam was approximately 16.5 m long and 4.5 m on each of the four sides of its diamond-shaped cross section. The results show that average in-space assembly rates of approximately 38 seconds per strut can be expected for struts of comparable size. This result is virtually independent of the overall size of the structure being assembled. The mobile work station concept would improve astronaut efficiency for on-orbit manual assembly of truss structures, and also this assembly-line method is highly competitive with other construction methods being considered for large space structures.

Self-reported symptoms associated with exposure to electromagnetic fields: a questionnaire study.

PubMed

Küçer, Nermin; Pamukçu, Tuğba

2014-01-01

Abstract In the last years, it has been discussed frequently whether there are any harmful effects of electromagnetic fields on human health. Electromagnetic fields are generated by several natural and man-made sources. Part of the electromagnetic spectrum called Radiofrequency is used in communication systems such as mobile (cellular) phone and computer. The aim of our study was to explore different self-reported symptoms that may be associated with exposure to electromagnetic fields. This survey study was conducted, using a questionnaire, on 350 people aged +9 years in Turkey. The chi-square test was used for data analysis. Self-reported symptoms were headache, vertigo/dizziness, fatigue, forgetfulness, sleep disturbance-insomnia, tension-anxiety, joint and bone pain, lacrimation of the eyes, hearing loss and tinnitus. As a result of the survey, the study has shown that users of mobile phone and computer more often complained of headache, joint and bone pain, hearing loss, vertigo/dizziness, tension-anxiety symptoms according to time of daily usage (p < 0.05). In users of mobile phone and computer, women significantly (p < 0.05) complained more often of headache, vertigo/dizziness, fatigue, forgetfulness and tension-anxiety than men.

Shifting Patterns of Student Mobility in Asia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chan, Sheng-Ju

2012-01-01

During the past decade, Asia--traditionally one of the largest exporters of mobile students--has experienced major changes in student mobility within higher education. As the worldwide competition for international students has escalated, many Asian countries have adopted a wide range of mechanisms and strategies in facilitating student mobility.…

Articular dysfunction patterns in patients with mechanical neck pain: a clinical algorithm to guide specific mobilization and manipulation techniques.

PubMed

Dewitte, Vincent; Beernaert, Axel; Vanthillo, Bart; Barbe, Tom; Danneels, Lieven; Cagnie, Barbara

2014-02-01

In view of a didactical approach for teaching cervical mobilization and manipulation techniques to students as well as their use in daily practice, it is mandatory to acquire sound clinical reasoning to optimally apply advanced technical skills. The aim of this Masterclass is to present a clinical algorithm to guide (novice) therapists in their clinical reasoning to identify patients who are likely to respond to mobilization and/or manipulation. The presented clinical reasoning process is situated within the context of pain mechanisms and is narrowed to and applicable in patients with a dominant input pain mechanism. Based on key features in subjective and clinical examination, patients with mechanical nociceptive pain probably arising from articular structures can be categorized into specific articular dysfunction patterns. Pending on these patterns, specific mobilization and manipulation techniques are warranted. The proposed patterns are illustrated in 3 case studies. This clinical algorithm is the corollary of empirical expertise and is complemented by in-depth discussions and knowledge exchange with international colleagues. Consequently, it is intended that a carefully targeted approach contributes to an increase in specificity and safety in the use of cervical mobilizations and manipulation techniques as valuable adjuncts to other manual therapy modalities. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Joint Associations of Sedentary Time and Physical Activity With Mobility Disability in Older People: The NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study.

PubMed

DiPietro, Loretta; Jin, Yichen; Talegawkar, Sameera; Matthews, Charles E

2018-03-14

The purpose of this study was to determine the joint associations of sedentary time and physical activity with mobility disability in older age. We analyzed prospective data from 134,269 participants in the National Institutes of Health (NIH)-American Association of Retired Persons (NIH-AARP) Diet and Health Study between 1995-1996 and 2004-2005. Total sitting time (h/d), TV viewing time (h/d) and light- and moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (h/wk) were self-reported at baseline, and mobility disability at follow-up was defined as being "unable to walk" or having an "easy usual walking pace (<2 mph)." Multivariable logistic regression determined the independent and joint associations of sedentary time and total physical activity with the odds of disability. Among the most active participants (>7 h/wk), sitting <6 h/d was not related to excess disability at follow-up, and those in the most active group reporting the highest level of sitting time (≥7 h/d) still had a significantly lower odds (odds ratios = 1.11; 95% confidence interval = 1.02, 1.20) compared with those reporting the lowest level of sitting (<3 h/d) in the least active group (≤3 h/wk; odds ratios = 2.07; 95% confidence interval = 1.92, 2.23). Greater TV time was significantly related to increased disability within all levels of physical activity. Reduction of sedentary time, combined with increased physical activity may be necessary to maintain function in older age.

Shifting Patterns of Transnational Academic Mobility: A Comparative and Historical Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Terri

2009-01-01

This article is an initial attempt to illustrate how patterns of academic mobility in the history of universities have been framed by the international politics of particular time periods. The article briefly looks at "the medieval period" and then at the emergent colonial and nationalist periods, including the ways that institutions as…

A Constrained Least Squares Approach to Mobile Positioning: Algorithms and Optimality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheung, KW; So, HC; Ma, W.-K.; Chan, YT

2006-12-01

The problem of locating a mobile terminal has received significant attention in the field of wireless communications. Time-of-arrival (TOA), received signal strength (RSS), time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA), and angle-of-arrival (AOA) are commonly used measurements for estimating the position of the mobile station. In this paper, we present a constrained weighted least squares (CWLS) mobile positioning approach that encompasses all the above described measurement cases. The advantages of CWLS include performance optimality and capability of extension to hybrid measurement cases (e.g., mobile positioning using TDOA and AOA measurements jointly). Assuming zero-mean uncorrelated measurement errors, we show by mean and variance analysis that all the developed CWLS location estimators achieve zero bias and the Cramér-Rao lower bound approximately when measurement error variances are small. The asymptotic optimum performance is also confirmed by simulation results.

Early clinical results of a high-flexion, posterior-stabilized, mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty: a US investigational device exemption trial.

PubMed

Scuderi, Giles R; Hedden, David R; Maltry, John A; Traina, Steven M; Sheinkop, Mitchell B; Hartzband, Mark A

2012-03-01

Between May 2001 and June 2004, 388 total knee arthroplasty cases were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, multicenter investigational device exemption trial. Patients received either the investigational high-flexion mobile-bearing knee or a fixed-bearing control. At 2 to 4 years of follow-up, results in 293 patients with degenerative joint disease were compared using Knee Society Assessment and Function scores, radiographic results, complications analysis, and survival estimates. The mobile-bearing and fixed-bearing groups demonstrated similar, significant improvement over preoperative assessments in Knee Scores, maximum flexion, and range of motion. One mobile-bearing arthroplasty required revision. Radiographic results were unremarkable, and implant-related complications were rare in both groups. At this early follow-up, the investigational high-flexion mobile-bearing knee and its fixed-bearing counterpart demonstrated comparable, effective performance. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rates and Patterns of Professional Mobility in Student Personnel Work

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sherburne, Paul Rogers

1970-01-01

This study piloted the recently developed technique known in business as mobilography." Methods can be adapted to study the mobility among student personnel workers. Greater mobility can be expected within the entrance level. (Author)

A musculoskeletal model of the elbow joint complex

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gonzalez, Roger V.; Barr, Ronald E.; Abraham, Lawrence D.

1993-01-01

This paper describes a musculoskeletal model that represents human elbow flexion-extension and forearm pronation-supination. Musculotendon parameters and the skeletal geometry were determined for the musculoskeletal model in the analysis of ballistic elbow joint complex movements. The key objective was to develop a computational model, guided by optimal control, to investigate the relationship among patterns of muscle excitation, individual muscle forces, and movement kinematics. The model was verified using experimental kinematic, torque, and electromyographic data from volunteer subjects performing both isometric and ballistic elbow joint complex movements. In general, the model predicted kinematic and muscle excitation patterns similar to what was experimentally measured.

Suppressed carrier density for the patterned high mobility two-dimensional electron gas at γ-Al2O3/SrTiO3 heterointerfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Wei; Gan, Yulin; Zhang, Yu; Valbjørn Christensen, Dennis; von Soosten, Merlin; Wang, Xuefeng; Xu, Yongbing; Zhang, Rong; Pryds, Nini; Chen, Yunzhong

2017-07-01

The two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the non-isostructural interface between spinel γ-Al2O3 and perovskite SrTiO3 is featured by a record electron mobility among complex oxide interfaces in addition to a high carrier density up to the order of 1015 cm-2. Herein, we report on the patterning of 2DEG at the γ-Al2O3/SrTiO3 interface grown at 650 °C by pulsed laser deposition using a hard mask of LaMnO3. The patterned 2DEG exhibits a critical thickness of 2 unit cells of γ-Al2O3 for the occurrence of interface conductivity, similar to the unpatterned sample. However, its maximum carrier density is found to be approximately 3 × 1013 cm-2, much lower than that of the unpatterned sample (˜1015 cm-2). Remarkably, a high electron mobility of approximately 3600 cm2 V-1 s-1 was obtained at low temperatures for the patterned 2DEG at a carrier density of ˜7 × 1012 cm-2, which exhibits clear Shubnikov-de Haas quantum oscillations. The patterned high-mobility 2DEG at the γ-Al2O3/SrTiO3 interface paves the way for the design and application of spinel/perovskite interfaces for high-mobility all-oxide electronic devices.

Mechanisms of Shoulder Range of Motion Deficits in Asymptomatic Baseball Players.

PubMed

Bailey, Lane B; Shanley, Ellen; Hawkins, Richard; Beattie, Paul F; Fritz, Stacy; Kwartowitz, David; Thigpen, Charles A

2015-11-01

Shoulder range of motion (ROM) deficits have been identified as injury risk factors among baseball athletes. Despite the knowledge surrounding these risk factors, there is a lack of consensus regarding the specific tissues responsible for these deficits in ROM. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the primary mechanisms of posterior shoulder tightness (capsular, musculotendinous, bony) by examining the tissue responses that occur with the application of an acute intervention in baseball players with ROM deficits. The hypothesis was that posterior rotator cuff stiffness, not glenohumeral joint mobility, would be primarily responsible for ROM gains observed within an acute treatment setting. Controlled laboratory study. Through use of ultrasound elastography, electromagnetic motion analysis, and ultrasound imaging, posterior rotator cuff stiffness, glenohumeral joint translation, and humeral torsion were examined in 60 asymptomatic baseball players (age, mean ± SD, 19 ± 2 years) with shoulder ROM deficits. Tissue mechanisms were examined concurrently, with the ROM gains elicited by an acute application of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization plus self-stretching (n = 30) versus self-stretching only (n = 30). Separate 3-way analyses of variance (group × arm × time) and linear regression analyses were used to determine the treatment effects and relationships between tissue mechanisms and ROM gains. ROM gains were associated with decreases in rotator cuff stiffness (internal rotation: r = 0.35, P = .034; horizontal adduction: r = 0.44, P = .008) and increased humeral retrotorsion (internal rotation: r = -0.35, P = .034), not joint translation (P > .05). Players receiving instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization plus stretching displayed greater shoulder ROM gains (internal rotation, +5° ± 2° [P = .010]; total arc of motion, +8° ± 6° [P = .010]; horizontal adduction, +7° ± 2° [P = .004]; and decreased posterior rotator cuff stiffness, -0.2 ± 0.3 kPa [P = .050]) compared with players receiving self-stretching alone. Decreases in rotator cuff stiffness were associated with acute ROM gains in baseball players. The study results show that changes in rotator cuff stiffness, not glenohumeral joint mobility or humeral torsion, are most likely associated with the ROM deficits observed in adolescent baseball players. Reducing rotator cuff stiffness may be beneficial in improving the ROM deficits associated with injury risk in overhead athletes. © 2015 The Author(s).

Returners and explorers dichotomy in human mobility

PubMed Central

Pappalardo, Luca; Simini, Filippo; Rinzivillo, Salvatore; Pedreschi, Dino; Giannotti, Fosca; Barabási, Albert-László

2015-01-01

The availability of massive digital traces of human whereabouts has offered a series of novel insights on the quantitative patterns characterizing human mobility. In particular, numerous recent studies have lead to an unexpected consensus: the considerable variability in the characteristic travelled distance of individuals coexists with a high degree of predictability of their future locations. Here we shed light on this surprising coexistence by systematically investigating the impact of recurrent mobility on the characteristic distance travelled by individuals. Using both mobile phone and GPS data, we discover the existence of two distinct classes of individuals: returners and explorers. As existing models of human mobility cannot explain the existence of these two classes, we develop more realistic models able to capture the empirical findings. Finally, we show that returners and explorers play a distinct quantifiable role in spreading phenomena and that a correlation exists between their mobility patterns and social interactions. PMID:26349016

Vibration signaling in mobile devices for emergency alerting: a study with deaf evaluators.

PubMed

Harkins, Judith; Tucker, Paula E; Williams, Norman; Sauro, Jeff

2010-01-01

In the United States, a nationwide Commercial Mobile Alert Service (CMAS) is being planned to alert cellular mobile device subscribers to emergencies occurring near the location of the mobile device. The plan specifies a unique audio attention signal as well as a unique vibration attention signal (for mobile devices set to vibrate) to identify that the incoming message pertains to an emergency. Ratings of vibration signals of varying lengths and patterns were obtained from 44 deaf users of mobile devices for the perceived effectiveness of the signal in getting their attention in an emergency situation. Longer signals received higher ratings than shorter ones, and three signals with temporal on-off patterns were rated significantly better than a constant vibration. The U.S. government's recommended vibration signal for the CMAS, an important feature for access to emergency alerts by deaf persons, is supported by the results of the study.

European study of research and development in mobility technology for persons with disabilities.

PubMed

Caulfield, Brian; Conway, Ted A; Micera, Silvestro

2012-04-20

\\In the fall of 2010, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Veteran's Administration jointly supported a review of mobility technology in Europe. A delegation of American Scientists traveled to Europe to visit a number of research centers and engaged in a demonstration and dialogue related to the global state-of-the-art for mobility impairment rectification and augmentation. From the observations and exchanges between the U.S. delegation and host institutions, the researchers were able to derive a series of papers which are now published in this thematic series of Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation. The papers describe the main themes of the European mobility technology research activities showing a healthy picture of research and innovation in the field.

European study of research and development in mobility technology for persons with disabilities

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

In the fall of 2010, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Veteran's Administration jointly supported a review of mobility technology in Europe. A delegation of American Scientists traveled to Europe to visit a number of research centers and engaged in a demonstration and dialogue related to the global state-of-the-art for mobility impairment rectification and augmentation. From the observations and exchanges between the U.S. delegation and host institutions, the researchers were able to derive a series of papers which are now published in this thematic series of Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation. The papers describe the main themes of the European mobility technology research activities showing a healthy picture of research and innovation in the field. PMID:22520647

SHER: a colored petri net based random mobility model for wireless communications.

PubMed

Khan, Naeem Akhtar; Ahmad, Farooq; Khan, Sher Afzal

2015-01-01

In wireless network research, simulation is the most imperative technique to investigate the network's behavior and validation. Wireless networks typically consist of mobile hosts; therefore, the degree of validation is influenced by the underlying mobility model, and synthetic models are implemented in simulators because real life traces are not widely available. In wireless communications, mobility is an integral part while the key role of a mobility model is to mimic the real life traveling patterns to study. The performance of routing protocols and mobility management strategies e.g. paging, registration and handoff is highly dependent to the selected mobility model. In this paper, we devise and evaluate the Show Home and Exclusive Regions (SHER), a novel two-dimensional (2-D) Colored Petri net (CPN) based formal random mobility model, which exhibits sociological behavior of a user. The model captures hotspots where a user frequently visits and spends time. Our solution eliminates six key issues of the random mobility models, i.e., sudden stops, memoryless movements, border effect, temporal dependency of velocity, pause time dependency, and speed decay in a single model. The proposed model is able to predict the future location of a mobile user and ultimately improves the performance of wireless communication networks. The model follows a uniform nodal distribution and is a mini simulator, which exhibits interesting mobility patterns. The model is also helpful to those who are not familiar with the formal modeling, and users can extract meaningful information with a single mouse-click. It is noteworthy that capturing dynamic mobility patterns through CPN is the most challenging and virulent activity of the presented research. Statistical and reachability analysis techniques are presented to elucidate and validate the performance of our proposed mobility model. The state space methods allow us to algorithmically derive the system behavior and rectify the errors of our proposed model.

SHER: A Colored Petri Net Based Random Mobility Model for Wireless Communications

PubMed Central

Khan, Naeem Akhtar; Ahmad, Farooq; Khan, Sher Afzal

2015-01-01

In wireless network research, simulation is the most imperative technique to investigate the network’s behavior and validation. Wireless networks typically consist of mobile hosts; therefore, the degree of validation is influenced by the underlying mobility model, and synthetic models are implemented in simulators because real life traces are not widely available. In wireless communications, mobility is an integral part while the key role of a mobility model is to mimic the real life traveling patterns to study. The performance of routing protocols and mobility management strategies e.g. paging, registration and handoff is highly dependent to the selected mobility model. In this paper, we devise and evaluate the Show Home and Exclusive Regions (SHER), a novel two-dimensional (2-D) Colored Petri net (CPN) based formal random mobility model, which exhibits sociological behavior of a user. The model captures hotspots where a user frequently visits and spends time. Our solution eliminates six key issues of the random mobility models, i.e., sudden stops, memoryless movements, border effect, temporal dependency of velocity, pause time dependency, and speed decay in a single model. The proposed model is able to predict the future location of a mobile user and ultimately improves the performance of wireless communication networks. The model follows a uniform nodal distribution and is a mini simulator, which exhibits interesting mobility patterns. The model is also helpful to those who are not familiar with the formal modeling, and users can extract meaningful information with a single mouse-click. It is noteworthy that capturing dynamic mobility patterns through CPN is the most challenging and virulent activity of the presented research. Statistical and reachability analysis techniques are presented to elucidate and validate the performance of our proposed mobility model. The state space methods allow us to algorithmically derive the system behavior and rectify the errors of our proposed model. PMID:26267860

On the Use of Human Mobility Proxies for Modeling Epidemics

PubMed Central

Tizzoni, Michele; Bajardi, Paolo; Decuyper, Adeline; Kon Kam King, Guillaume; Schneider, Christian M.; Blondel, Vincent; Smoreda, Zbigniew; González, Marta C.; Colizza, Vittoria

2014-01-01

Human mobility is a key component of large-scale spatial-transmission models of infectious diseases. Correctly modeling and quantifying human mobility is critical for improving epidemic control, but may be hindered by data incompleteness or unavailability. Here we explore the opportunity of using proxies for individual mobility to describe commuting flows and predict the diffusion of an influenza-like-illness epidemic. We consider three European countries and the corresponding commuting networks at different resolution scales, obtained from (i) official census surveys, (ii) proxy mobility data extracted from mobile phone call records, and (iii) the radiation model calibrated with census data. Metapopulation models defined on these countries and integrating the different mobility layers are compared in terms of epidemic observables. We show that commuting networks from mobile phone data capture the empirical commuting patterns well, accounting for more than 87% of the total fluxes. The distributions of commuting fluxes per link from mobile phones and census sources are similar and highly correlated, however a systematic overestimation of commuting traffic in the mobile phone data is observed. This leads to epidemics that spread faster than on census commuting networks, once the mobile phone commuting network is considered in the epidemic model, however preserving to a high degree the order of infection of newly affected locations. Proxies' calibration affects the arrival times' agreement across different models, and the observed topological and traffic discrepancies among mobility sources alter the resulting epidemic invasion patterns. Results also suggest that proxies perform differently in approximating commuting patterns for disease spread at different resolution scales, with the radiation model showing higher accuracy than mobile phone data when the seed is central in the network, the opposite being observed for peripheral locations. Proxies should therefore be chosen in light of the desired accuracy for the epidemic situation under study. PMID:25010676

Influence of altered gait patterns on the hip joint contact forces.

PubMed

Carriero, Alessandra; Zavatsky, Amy; Stebbins, Julie; Theologis, Tim; Lenaerts, Gerlinde; Jonkers, Ilse; Shefelbine, Sandra J

2014-01-01

Children who exhibit gait deviations often present a range of bone deformities, particularly at the proximal femur. Altered gait may affect bone growth and lead to deformities by exerting abnormal stresses on the developing bones. The objective of this study was to calculate variations in the hip joint contact forces with different gait patterns. Muscle and hip joint contact forces of four children with different walking characteristics were calculated using an inverse dynamic analysis and a static optimisation algorithm. Kinematic and kinetic analyses were based on a generic musculoskeletal model scaled down to accommodate the dimensions of each child. Results showed that for all the children with altered gaits both the orientation and magnitude of the hip joint contact force deviated from normal. The child with the most severe gait deviations had hip joint contact forces 30% greater than normal, most likely due to the increase in muscle forces required to sustain his crouched stance. Determining how altered gait affects joint loading may help in planning treatment strategies to preserve correct loading on the bone from a young age.

Cascading Walks Model for Human Mobility Patterns

PubMed Central

Han, Xiao-Pu; Wang, Xiang-Wen; Yan, Xiao-Yong; Wang, Bing-Hong

2015-01-01

Background Uncovering the mechanism behind the scaling laws and series of anomalies in human trajectories is of fundamental significance in understanding many spatio-temporal phenomena. Recently, several models, e.g. the explorations-returns model (Song et al., 2010) and the radiation model for intercity travels (Simini et al., 2012), have been proposed to study the origin of these anomalies and the prediction of human movements. However, an agent-based model that could reproduce most of empirical observations without priori is still lacking. Methodology/Principal Findings In this paper, considering the empirical findings on the correlations of move-lengths and staying time in human trips, we propose a simple model which is mainly based on the cascading processes to capture the human mobility patterns. In this model, each long-range movement activates series of shorter movements that are organized by the law of localized explorations and preferential returns in prescribed region. Conclusions/Significance Based on the numerical simulations and analytical studies, we show more than five statistical characters that are well consistent with the empirical observations, including several types of scaling anomalies and the ultraslow diffusion properties, implying the cascading processes associated with the localized exploration and preferential returns are indeed a key in the understanding of human mobility activities. Moreover, the model shows both of the diverse individual mobility and aggregated scaling displacements, bridging the micro and macro patterns in human mobility. In summary, our model successfully explains most of empirical findings and provides deeper understandings on the emergence of human mobility patterns. PMID:25860140

Cascading walks model for human mobility patterns.

PubMed

Han, Xiao-Pu; Wang, Xiang-Wen; Yan, Xiao-Yong; Wang, Bing-Hong

2015-01-01

Uncovering the mechanism behind the scaling laws and series of anomalies in human trajectories is of fundamental significance in understanding many spatio-temporal phenomena. Recently, several models, e.g. the explorations-returns model (Song et al., 2010) and the radiation model for intercity travels (Simini et al., 2012), have been proposed to study the origin of these anomalies and the prediction of human movements. However, an agent-based model that could reproduce most of empirical observations without priori is still lacking. In this paper, considering the empirical findings on the correlations of move-lengths and staying time in human trips, we propose a simple model which is mainly based on the cascading processes to capture the human mobility patterns. In this model, each long-range movement activates series of shorter movements that are organized by the law of localized explorations and preferential returns in prescribed region. Based on the numerical simulations and analytical studies, we show more than five statistical characters that are well consistent with the empirical observations, including several types of scaling anomalies and the ultraslow diffusion properties, implying the cascading processes associated with the localized exploration and preferential returns are indeed a key in the understanding of human mobility activities. Moreover, the model shows both of the diverse individual mobility and aggregated scaling displacements, bridging the micro and macro patterns in human mobility. In summary, our model successfully explains most of empirical findings and provides deeper understandings on the emergence of human mobility patterns.

Early effects of embryonic movement: ‘a shot out of the dark’

PubMed Central

Pitsillides, Andrew A

2006-01-01

It has long been appreciated that studying the embryonic chick in ovo provides a variety of advantages, including the potential to control the embryo's environment and its movement independently of maternal influences. This allowed early workers to identify movement as a pivotal factor in the development of the locomotor apparatus. With an increasing focus on the earliest detectable movements, we have exploited this system by developing novel models and schemes to examine the influence of defined periods of movement during musculoskeletal development. Utilizing drugs with known neuromuscular actions to provoke hyperactivity (4-aminopyridine, AP) and either rigid (decamethonium bromide, DMB) or flaccid (pancuronium bromide, PB) paralysis, we have examined the role of movement in joint, osteochondral and muscle development. Our initial studies focusing on the joint showed that AP-induced hyperactivity had little, if any, effect on the timing or scope of joint cavity elaboration, suggesting that endogenous activity levels provide sufficient stimulus, and additional mobilization is without effect. By contrast, imposition of either rigid or flaccid paralysis prior to cavity formation completely blocked this process and, with time, produced fusion of cartilaginous elements and formation of continuous single cartilaginous rods across locations where joints would ordinarily form. The effect of these distinct forms of paralysis differed, however, when treatment was initiated after formation of an overt cavity; rigid, but not flaccid, paralysis partly conserved precavitated joints. This observation suggests that ‘static’ loading derived from ‘spastic’ rigidity can act to preserve joint cavities. Another facet of these studies was the observation that DMB-induced rigid paralysis produces a uniform and specific pattern of limb deformity whereas PB generated a diverse range of fixed positional deformities. Both also reduced limb growth, with different developmental periods preferentially modifying specific osteochondral components. Changes in cartilage and bone growth induced by 3-day periods of flaccid immobilization, imposed at distinct developmental phases, provides support for a diminution in cartilage elaboration at an early phase and for a relatively delayed influence of movement on osteogenesis, invoking critical periods during which the developing skeleton becomes receptive to the impact of movement. Immobilization also exerts differential impact along the proximo-distal axis of the limb. Finally, our preliminary results support the possibility that embryonic hyperactivity influences the potential for postnatal muscle growth. PMID:16637868

Generation, absorption, and transfer of mechanical energy during walking in children.

PubMed

Umberger, Brian R; Augsburger, Sam; Resig, JoAnne; Oeffinger, Donna; Shapiro, Robert; Tylkowski, Chester

2013-05-01

The purpose of this study was to characterize the manner in which net joint moments and non-muscular forces generate, absorb, and transfer mechanical energy during walking in able-bodied children. Standard gait data from seven healthy subjects between 6 and 17 years of age were combined with a dynamic model of the whole body to perform a power analysis based on induced acceleration techniques. These data were used to determine how each moment and force generates energy to, absorbs energy from, and transfers energy among the major body segments. The joint moments were found to induce transfers of mechanical energy between body segments that generally exceeded the magnitudes of energy generation and absorption. The amount of energy transferred by gravitational and velocity-dependent forces was considerably less than for the joint moments. The hip and ankle joint moments had relatively simple power patterns that tended to oppose each other, particularly over the stance phase. The knee joint moment had a more complex power pattern that appeared distinct from the hip and ankle moments. The general patterns of mechanical energy flow were similar to previous reports in adults. The approach described in this paper should provide a useful complement to standard clinical gait analysis procedures. Copyright © 2012 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Maximum in the middle: nonlinear response of microbial plankton to ultraviolet radiation and phosphorus.

PubMed

Medina-Sánchez, Juan Manuel; Delgado-Molina, José Antonio; Bratbak, Gunnar; Bullejos, Francisco José; Villar-Argaiz, Manuel; Carrillo, Presentación

2013-01-01

The responses of heterotrophic microbial food webs (HMFW) to the joint action of abiotic stressors related to global change have been studied in an oligotrophic high-mountain lake. A 2×5 factorial design field experiment performed with large mesocosms for >2 months was used to quantify the dynamics of the entire HMFW (bacteria, heterotrophic nanoflagellates, ciliates, and viruses) after an experimental P-enrichment gradient which approximated or surpassed current atmospheric P pulses in the presence vs. absence of ultraviolet radiation. HMFW underwent a mid-term (<20 days) acute development following a noticeable unimodal response to P enrichment, which peaked at intermediate P-enrichment levels and, unexpectedly, was more accentuated under ultraviolet radiation. However, after depletion of dissolved inorganic P, the HMFW collapsed and was outcompeted by a low-diversity autotrophic compartment, which constrained the development of HMFW and caused a significant loss of functional biodiversity. The dynamics and relationships among variables, and the response patterns found, suggest the importance of biotic interactions (predation/parasitism and competition) in restricting HMFW development, in contrast to the role of abiotic factors as main drivers of autotrophic compartment. The response of HMFW may contribute to ecosystem resilience by favoring the maintenance of the peculiar paths of energy and nutrient-mobilization in these pristine ecosystems, which are vulnerable to threats by the joint action of abiotic stressors related to global change.

A joint cross-border investigation of a cluster of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Austria, Romania and Germany in 2014 using classic, genotyping and whole genome sequencing methods: lessons learnt

PubMed Central

Fiebig, Lena; Kohl, Thomas A; Popovici, Odette; Mühlenfeld, Margarita; Indra, Alexander; Homorodean, Daniela; Chiotan, Domnica; Richter, Elvira; Rüsch-Gerdes, Sabine; Schmidgruber, Beatrix; Beckert, Patrick; Hauer, Barbara; Niemann, Stefan; Allerberger, Franz; Haas, Walter

2017-01-01

Molecular surveillance of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) using 24-loci MIRU-VNTR in the European Union suggests the occurrence of international transmission. In early 2014, Austria detected a molecular MDR-TB cluster of five isolates. Links to Romania and Germany prompted the three countries to investigate possible cross-border MDR-TB transmission jointly. We searched genotyping databases, genotyped additional isolates from Romania, used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to infer putative transmission links, and investigated pairwise epidemiological links and patient mobility. Ten isolates from 10 patients shared the same 24-loci MIRU-VNTR pattern. Within this cluster, WGS defined two subgroups of four patients each. The first comprised an MDR-TB patient from Romania who had sought medical care in Austria and two patients from Austria. The second comprised patients, two of them epidemiologically linked, who lived in three different countries but had the same city of provenance in Romania. Our findings strongly suggested that the two cases in Austrian citizens resulted from a newly introduced MDR-TB strain, followed by domestic transmission. For the other cases, transmission probably occurred in the same city of provenance. To prevent further MDR-TB transmission, we need to ensure universal access to early and adequate therapy and collaborate closely in tuberculosis care beyond administrative borders. PMID:28106529

Maximum in the Middle: Nonlinear Response of Microbial Plankton to Ultraviolet Radiation and Phosphorus

PubMed Central

Medina-Sánchez, Juan Manuel; Delgado-Molina, José Antonio; Bratbak, Gunnar; Bullejos, Francisco José; Villar-Argaiz, Manuel; Carrillo, Presentación

2013-01-01

The responses of heterotrophic microbial food webs (HMFW) to the joint action of abiotic stressors related to global change have been studied in an oligotrophic high-mountain lake. A 2×5 factorial design field experiment performed with large mesocosms for >2 months was used to quantify the dynamics of the entire HMFW (bacteria, heterotrophic nanoflagellates, ciliates, and viruses) after an experimental P-enrichment gradient which approximated or surpassed current atmospheric P pulses in the presence vs. absence of ultraviolet radiation. HMFW underwent a mid-term (<20 days) acute development following a noticeable unimodal response to P enrichment, which peaked at intermediate P-enrichment levels and, unexpectedly, was more accentuated under ultraviolet radiation. However, after depletion of dissolved inorganic P, the HMFW collapsed and was outcompeted by a low-diversity autotrophic compartment, which constrained the development of HMFW and caused a significant loss of functional biodiversity. The dynamics and relationships among variables, and the response patterns found, suggest the importance of biotic interactions (predation/parasitism and competition) in restricting HMFW development, in contrast to the role of abiotic factors as main drivers of autotrophic compartment. The response of HMFW may contribute to ecosystem resilience by favoring the maintenance of the peculiar paths of energy and nutrient-mobilization in these pristine ecosystems, which are vulnerable to threats by the joint action of abiotic stressors related to global change. PMID:23593178

Musculoskeletal manifestations and rheumatic symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) no observations of CF-specific arthropathy.

PubMed

Koch, Ann-Kristin; Brömme, Sabine; Wollschläger, Bettina; Horneff, Gerd; Keyszer, Gernot

2008-09-01

To determine the character and frequency of musculoskeletal manifestations and rheumatic symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Rheumatic symptoms and signs of 70 patients with CF (age 6 to 61 yrs) were determined by interview and clinical assessment. Age and sex-matched healthy volunteers served as a control group. In CF patients, laboratory measures and bone mineral density (BMD) were investigated. The data were correlated with the CF phenotype [Shwachman Score (ShS), Chrispin-Norman Score (ChNS), and pulmonary function tests (PFT)]. The prevalence of joint pain in the CF patients was 12.9%, with a mean duration of 7 days. Swollen joints were found in 4 patients. None fulfilled the criteria for rheumatoid arthritis or connective tissue disease. Adult CF patients complained more often about noninflammatory back pain and myalgia, and demonstrated reduced spine mobility and impaired everyday life functions compared with the controls. Symptomatic CF patients had elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels and performed worse on the ShS, ChNS, and PFT than asymptomatic patients. Antibodies against exotoxin A of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and recombinant Aspergillus fumigatus allergen f4 were found more frequently in CF patients with arthralgia. BMD was decreased in adult patients with more severe CF. In CF patients, the prevalence of rheumatic symptoms increases with age and CF severity. Our data suggest an association of infections with P. aeruginosa and A. fumigatus with the occurrence of rheumatic symptoms. However, no association of CF with definite inflammatory joint or connective tissue diseases was observed, and no CF-specific pattern of musculoskeletal symptoms was seen.

Predicting Negative Emotions Based on Mobile Phone Usage Patterns: An Exploratory Study

PubMed Central

Yang, Pei-Ching; Chang, Chia-Chi; Chiang, Jung-Hsien; Chen, Ying-Yeh

2016-01-01

Background Prompt recognition and intervention of negative emotions is crucial for patients with depression. Mobile phones and mobile apps are suitable technologies that can be used to recognize negative emotions and intervene if necessary. Objective Mobile phone usage patterns can be associated with concurrent emotional states. The objective of this study is to adapt machine-learning methods to analyze such patterns for the prediction of negative emotion. Methods We developed an Android-based app to capture emotional states and mobile phone usage patterns, which included call logs (and use of apps). Visual analog scales (VASs) were used to report negative emotions in dimensions of depression, anxiety, and stress. In the system-training phase, participants were requested to tag their emotions for 14 consecutive days. Five feature-selection methods were used to determine individual usage patterns and four machine-learning methods were tested. Finally, rank product scoring was used to select the best combination to construct the prediction model. In the system evaluation phase, participants were then requested to verify the predicted negative emotions for at least 5 days. Results Out of 40 enrolled healthy participants, we analyzed data from 28 participants, including 30% (9/28) women with a mean (SD) age of 29.2 (5.1) years with sufficient emotion tags. The combination of time slots of 2 hours, greedy forward selection, and Naïve Bayes method was chosen for the prediction model. We further validated the personalized models in 18 participants who performed at least 5 days of model evaluation. Overall, the predictive accuracy for negative emotions was 86.17%. Conclusion We developed a system capable of predicting negative emotions based on mobile phone usage patterns. This system has potential for ecological momentary intervention (EMI) for depressive disorders by automatically recognizing negative emotions and providing people with preventive treatments before it escalates to clinical depression. PMID:27511748

Defense planning for the Post-Cold War Era. Giving Meaning to Flexibility, Adaptiveness, and Robustness of Capability

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

with political leaders about alternative military strategies, there were few preliminary measures taken in response to strategic warning, the...NDRI). The project leader on this effort was Bernard Rostker. Rathbun, LCDR Robin E. (1992), " Strategic Mobility for the 1990s: The Mobility...PREFACE This study was prepared for the Joint Staff’s Director of Strategic Plans and Policy (D-5). It is intended primarily for mid- and high- level

Intra-Theater Air Mobility and Theater Distribution for the Joint Force Commander: Is the United States Central Command Model the Best (Revised)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

to ASOCs, each Army Corps possesses Air Mobility Liaison Officers ( AMLO ) at the corps, division, regiment, and brigade levels. These AMLOs may... AMLOs In PACOM, the DIRMOBFOR is expected to be an advisor to the COMAFFOR, JFACC and the JFACC’s AMD Chief, primarily with respect to integration...the AOR, PACAF will provide intra-theater AMLOs in accordance with AMLO -specific directives and theater MOAs. Specifically, PACAF will provide

Design, Simulation, Fabrication and Testing of a Bio-Inspired Amphibious Robot with Multiple Modes of Mobility

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

performance. Ob- stacle climbing using the tail is compared to results from a previous robot with a posterior body segment and body flexion joint. Actual...3. Mechanisms of Locomotion for Multi-Modal Mobility 3.1. Gate and Tail Design Demands of multi-modal locomotion motivated a quadruped design for...tail instead of a rear body segment simplifies waterproofing design requirements and adds stability both on land and in water. This new morphology is

Classifier dependent feature preprocessing methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, Benjamin M., II; Peterson, Gilbert L.

2008-04-01

In mobile applications, computational complexity is an issue that limits sophisticated algorithms from being implemented on these devices. This paper provides an initial solution to applying pattern recognition systems on mobile devices by combining existing preprocessing algorithms for recognition. In pattern recognition systems, it is essential to properly apply feature preprocessing tools prior to training classification models in an attempt to reduce computational complexity and improve the overall classification accuracy. The feature preprocessing tools extended for the mobile environment are feature ranking, feature extraction, data preparation and outlier removal. Most desktop systems today are capable of processing a majority of the available classification algorithms without concern of processing while the same is not true on mobile platforms. As an application of pattern recognition for mobile devices, the recognition system targets the problem of steganalysis, determining if an image contains hidden information. The measure of performance shows that feature preprocessing increases the overall steganalysis classification accuracy by an average of 22%. The methods in this paper are tested on a workstation and a Nokia 6620 (Symbian operating system) camera phone with similar results.

Biophysical evaluation of radiofrequency electromagnetic field effects on male reproductive pattern.

PubMed

Kesari, Kavindra Kumar; Kumar, Sanjay; Nirala, Jayprakash; Siddiqui, Mohd Haris; Behari, Jitendra

2013-03-01

There are possible hazardous health effects of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiations emitted from mobile phone on the human reproductive pattern. It is more effective while keeping mobile phones in pocket or near testicular organs. Present review examines the possible concern on radio frequency radiation interaction and biological effects such as enzyme induction, and toxicological effects, including genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, testicular cancer, and reproductive outcomes. Testicular infertility or testicular cancer due to mobile phone or microwave radiations suggests an increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Though generation of ROS in testis has been responsible for possible toxic effects on physiology of reproduction, the reviews of last few decades have well established that these radiations are very harmful and cause mutagenic changes in reproductive pattern and leads to infertility. The debate will be focused on bio-interaction mechanism between mobile phone and testicular cancer due to ROS formation. This causes the biological damage and leads to several changes like decreased sperm count, enzymatic and hormonal changes, DNA damage, and apoptosis formation. In the present review, physics of mobile phone including future research on various aspects has been discussed.

Rheumatoid arthritis (image)

MedlinePlus

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks itself. The pattern of joints ... other joints and is worse in the morning. Rheumatoid arthritis is also a systemic disease, involving other body ...

Patterns of geographic mobility predict barriers to engagement in HIV care and antiretroviral treatment adherence.

PubMed

Taylor, Barbara S; Reyes, Emily; Levine, Elizabeth A; Khan, Shah Z; Garduño, L Sergio; Donastorg, Yeycy; Hammer, Scott M; Brudney, Karen; Hirsch, Jennifer S

2014-06-01

Migration and geographic mobility increase risk for HIV infection and may influence engagement in HIV care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Our goal is to use the migration-linked communities of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and New York City, New York, to determine the impact of geographic mobility on HIV care engagement and adherence to treatment. In-depth interviews were conducted with HIV+Dominicans receiving antiretroviral therapy, reporting travel or migration in the past 6 months and key informants (n=45). Mobility maps, visual representations of individual migration histories, including lifetime residence(s) and all trips over the past 2 years, were generated for all HIV+ Dominicans. Data from interviews and field observation were iteratively reviewed for themes. Mobility mapping revealed five distinct mobility patterns: travel for care, work-related travel, transnational travel (nuclear family at both sites), frequent long-stay travel, and vacation. Mobility patterns, including distance, duration, and complexity, varied by motivation for travel. There were two dominant barriers to care. First, a fear of HIV-related stigma at the destination led to delays seeking care and poor adherence. Second, longer trips led to treatment interruptions due to limited medication supply (30-day maximum dictated by programs or insurers). There was a notable discordance between what patients and providers perceived as mobility-induced barriers to care and the most common barriers found in the analysis. Interventions to improve HIV care for mobile populations should consider motivation for travel and address structural barriers to engagement in care and adherence.

Patterns of Geographic Mobility Predict Barriers to Engagement in HIV Care and Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence

PubMed Central

Reyes, Emily; Levine, Elizabeth A.; Khan, Shah Z.; Garduño, L. Sergio; Donastorg, Yeycy; Hammer, Scott M.; Brudney, Karen; Hirsch, Jennifer S.

2014-01-01

Abstract Migration and geographic mobility increase risk for HIV infection and may influence engagement in HIV care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Our goal is to use the migration-linked communities of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and New York City, New York, to determine the impact of geographic mobility on HIV care engagement and adherence to treatment. In-depth interviews were conducted with HIV+Dominicans receiving antiretroviral therapy, reporting travel or migration in the past 6 months and key informants (n=45). Mobility maps, visual representations of individual migration histories, including lifetime residence(s) and all trips over the past 2 years, were generated for all HIV+ Dominicans. Data from interviews and field observation were iteratively reviewed for themes. Mobility mapping revealed five distinct mobility patterns: travel for care, work-related travel, transnational travel (nuclear family at both sites), frequent long-stay travel, and vacation. Mobility patterns, including distance, duration, and complexity, varied by motivation for travel. There were two dominant barriers to care. First, a fear of HIV-related stigma at the destination led to delays seeking care and poor adherence. Second, longer trips led to treatment interruptions due to limited medication supply (30-day maximum dictated by programs or insurers). There was a notable discordance between what patients and providers perceived as mobility-induced barriers to care and the most common barriers found in the analysis. Interventions to improve HIV care for mobile populations should consider motivation for travel and address structural barriers to engagement in care and adherence. PMID:24839872

Early Osteoarthritis of the Trapeziometacarpal Joint Is Not Associated With Joint Instability during Typical Isometric Loading

PubMed Central

Halilaj, Eni; Moore, Douglas C.; Patel, Tarpit K.; Ladd, Amy L.; Weiss, Arnold-Peter C.; Crisco, Joseph J.

2015-01-01

The saddle-shaped trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint contributes importantly to the function of the human thumb. A balance between mobility and stability is essential in this joint, which experiences high loads and is prone to osteoarthritis (OA). Since instability is considered a risk factor for TMC OA, we assessed TMC joint instability during the execution of three isometric functional tasks (key pinch, jar grasp, and jar twist) in 76 patients with early TMC OA and 44 asymptomatic controls. Computed tomography images were acquired while subjects held their hands relaxed and while they applied 80% of their maximum effort for each task. Six degree-of-freedom rigid body kinematics of the metacarpal with respect to the trapezium from the unloaded to the loaded task positions were computed in terms of a TMC joint coordinate system. Joint instability was expressed as a function of the metacarpal translation and the applied force. We found that the TMC joint was more unstable during a key pinch task than during a jar grasp or a jar twist task. Sex, age, and early OA did not have an effect on TMC joint instability, suggesting that instability during these three tasks is not a predisposing factor in TMC OA. PMID:25941135

A multi-perspective view of genetic variation in Cameroon.

PubMed

Coia, V; Brisighelli, F; Donati, F; Pascali, V; Boschi, I; Luiselli, D; Battaggia, C; Batini, C; Taglioli, L; Cruciani, F; Paoli, G; Capelli, C; Spedini, G; Destro-Bisol, G

2009-11-01

In this study, we report the genetic variation of autosomal and Y-chromosomal microsatellites in a large Cameroon population dataset (a total of 11 populations) and jointly analyze novel and previous genetic data (mitochondrial DNA and protein coding loci) taking geographic and cultural factors into consideration. The complex pattern of genetic variation of Cameroon can in part be described by contrasting two geographic areas (corresponding to the northern and southern part of the country), which differ substantially in environmental, biological, and cultural aspects. Northern Cameroon populations show a greater within- and among-group diversity, a finding that reflects the complex migratory patterns and the linguistic heterogeneity of this area. A striking reduction of Y-chromosomal genetic diversity was observed in some populations of the northern part of the country (Podokwo and Uldeme), a result that seems to be related to their demographic history rather than to sampling issues. By exploring patterns of genetic, geographic, and linguistic variation, we detect a preferential correlation between genetics and geography for mtDNA. This finding could reflect a female matrimonial mobility that is less constrained by linguistic factors than in males. Finally, we apply the island model to mitochondrial and Y-chromosomal data and obtain a female-to-male migration Nnu ratio that was more than double in the northern part of the country. The combined effect of the propensity to inter-populational admixture of females, favored by cultural contacts, and of genetic drift acting on Y-chromosomal diversity could account for the peculiar genetic pattern observed in northern Cameroon.

Geographic Mobility of Postsecondary Occupational Education Graduates. Phase II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Winter, Gene M.; Fadale, LaVerna M.

This report of the second phase of a study of the geographic mobility patterns of postsecondary occupational education graduates in New York State provides a further examination of reasons for the mobility of program completers, verifies the general magnitude of the identified mobility trends, and examines the occupational status of program…

Changing Academic Mobility Patterns and International Migration: What Will Academic Mobility Mean in the 21St Century?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoffman, David M.

2009-01-01

Several scholars have underlined connections between academic mobility and international migration. This qualitative study explores a spectrum of academic mobility articulated by Teichler that empirically contributes to consideration of these connections. This analysis of e-mail excerpts from 20 migrant academics, living in seven countries,…

Functional anatomy and adaptation of male gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) with comparison to male orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus).

PubMed

Zihlman, Adrienne L; McFarland, Robin K; Underwood, Carol E

2011-11-01

Great apes diversified during the Miocene in Old World forests. Two lineages, gorillas in Africa and orangutans in Asia, have sexual dimorphisms of super-sized males, though they presumably diverged from a smaller common ancestor. We test the hypothesis that they increased in body mass independently and convergently, and that their many postcranial differences reflect locomotor differences. Whole body dissections of five adult male gorillas and four adult male orangutans allowed quantification of body mass distribution to limb segments, of body composition (muscle, bone, skin, and fat relative to total body mass), and of muscle distribution and proportions. Results demonstrate that gorilla forelimb anatomy accommodates shoulder joint mobility for vertical climbing and reaching while maintaining joint stability during quadrupedal locomotion. The heavily muscled hind limbs are equipped for propulsion and weight-bearing over relatively stable substrates on the forest floor. In contrast, orangutan forelimb length, muscle mass, and joint construction are modified for strength and mobility in climbing, bridging, and traveling over flexible supports through the forest canopy. Muscles of hip, knee, and ankle joints provide rotational and prehensile strength essential for moving on unstable and discontinuous branches. We conclude that anatomical similarities are due to common ancestry and that differences in postcranial anatomy reflect powerful selection for divergent locomotor adaptations. These data further support the evolutionary conclusion that gorillas fall with chimpanzees and humans as part of the African hominoid radiation; orangutans are a specialized outlier. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A reevaluation of the anatomy of the jaw-closing system in the extant coelacanth Latimeria chalumnae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutel, Hugo; Herrel, Anthony; Clément, Gaël; Herbin, Marc

2013-11-01

The coelacanth Latimeria is the only extant representative of the Actinistia, a group of sarcopterygian fishes that originated in the Devonian. Moreover, it is the only extant vertebrate in which the neurocranium is divided into an anterior and a posterior portion that articulate by means of an intracranial joint. This joint is thought to be highly mobile, allowing an elevation of the anterior portion of the skull during prey capture. Here we provide a new description of the skull and jaw-closing system in Latimeria chalumnae in order to better understand its skull mechanics during prey capture. Based on a dissection and the CT scanning of an adult coelacanth, we provide a detailed description of the musculature and ligaments of the jaw system. We show that the m. adductor mandibulae is more complex than previously reported. We demonstrate that the basicranial muscle inserts more anteriorly than has been described previously, which has implications for its function. Moreover, the anterior insertion of the basicranial muscle does not correspond to the posterior tip of the tooth plate covering the parasphenoid, questioning previous inferences made on fossil coelacanths and other sarcopterygian fishes. Strong ligaments connect the anterior and the posterior portions of the skull at the level of the intracranial joint, as well as the notochord and the catazygals. These observations suggest that the intracranial joint is likely to be less mobile than previously thought and that its role during feeding merits to be reexamined.

Mobile usage and sleep patterns among medical students.

PubMed

Yogesh, Saxena; Abha, Shrivastava; Priyanka, Singh

2014-01-01

Exposure of humans to radio frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) both during receiving and transmitting the signals has amplified public and scientific debate about possible adverse effects on human health. The study was designed with the objective of assessing the extent of mobile phone use amongst medical students and finding correlation if any between the hours of usage of mobile to sleep pattern and quality. hundred medical students grouped as cases (n = 57) (> 2 hours/day of mobile usage) and control (n = 43) (≤ 2 hours/day of mobile usage) were examined for their sleep quality & pattern by Pittsburg sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Differences between groups were examined with the Mann Whitney "U" test for proportions (Quantitative values) and with Student't' test for continuous variables. The association of variables was analyzed by Spearman Rank's correlation. Probability was set at < 0.05 as significant. Sleep disturbance, latency and day dysfunction was more in cases especially females. A significant association of hours of usage and sleep indices were observed in both genders (males r = 0.25; p = 0.04, females r = 0.31; p = 0.009). Evening usage of mobile phone in cases showed a statistically significant negative association (-0.606; p = 0.042) with Sleep quality (higher PSQI means sleep deprivation). Students using mobile for > 2 hours/day may cause sleep deprivation and day sleepiness affecting cognitive and learning abilities of medical students.

Perceptions and attitudes of hospital staff toward paging system and the use of mobile phones.

PubMed

Haroon, Muhammad; Yasin, Faiza; Eckel, Rachael; Walker, Frank

2010-10-01

Our objective was to document the pattern of mobile phone usage by medical staff in a hospital setting, and to explore any perceived benefits (such as improved communications) associated with mobile phones. This cross-sectional survey was conducted in Waterford Regional Hospital, Ireland, where bleep is the official system of communication. All non-consultant hospital doctors, of medical disciplines only, were asked to participate. The questionnaire was designed to explore the pattern and different aspects of mobile phone usage. At the time of study, there were sixty medical junior doctors, and the response rate was 100 percent. All participants used mobile phones while at work, and also for hospital-related work. For 98.3 percent the mobile phone was their main mode of communication while in the hospital. Sixty-two percent (n = 37) made 6-10 calls daily purely for work-related business, and this comprised of ≥ 80 percent of their daily usage of mobile phones. For 98 percent of participants, most phone calls were work-related. Regarding reasons for using mobile phones, all reported that using mobile phone is quicker for communication. Mobile phone usage is very common among the medical personnel, and this is regarded as a more efficient means of communication for mobile staff than the hospital paging system.

Mobility Patterns of Children of Migrant Agricultural Workers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cox, J. Lamarr; And Others

Narrative text, tables, and maps summarize information derived from a random sample of 20% of the Migrant Student Record Transfer System (MSRTS) data base as it existed in June 1976 related to the mobility patterns of migrant children in the contiguous United States and Puerto Rico from January 1975 to April 1976. The data base is a tabulation of…

College Departure: Exploring Student Aid Effects on Multiple Mobility Patterns from Four-Year Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Dongbin; Saatcioglu, Argun; Neufeld, Amy

2012-01-01

College departure involves multiple mobility patterns that include lateral transfer (from a four-year to another four-year institution), reverse transfer (from a four-year to a two-year institution), and stop out (taking time out of higher education altogether). This study addresses how financial aid influences the likelihood of such mobility…

Custom-Molded Foot-Orthosis Intervention and Multisegment Medial Foot Kinematics During Walking

PubMed Central

Cobb, Stephen C.; Tis, Laurie L.; Johnson, Jeffrey T.; Wang, Yong “Tai”; Geil, Mark D.

2011-01-01

Context: Foot-orthosis (FO) intervention to prevent and treat numerous lower extremity injuries is widely accepted clinically. However, the results of quantitative gait analyses have been equivocal. The foot models used, participants receiving intervention, and orthoses used might contribute to the variability. Objective: To investigate the effect of a custom-molded FO intervention on multisegment medial foot kinematics during walking in participants with low-mobile foot posture. Design: Crossover study. Setting: University biomechanics and ergonomics laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Sixteen participants with low-mobile foot posture (7 men, 9 women) were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 FO groups. Interventions : After a 2-week period to break in the FOs, individuals participated in a gait analysis that consisted of 5 successful walking trials (1.3 to 1.4 m/s) during no-FO and FO conditions. Main Outcome Measure(s): Three-dimensional displacements during 4 subphases of stance (loading response, mid-stance, terminal stance, preswing) were computed for each multisegment foot model articulation. Results: Repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) revealed that rearfoot complex dorsiflexion displacement during midstance was greater in the FO than the no-FO condition (F1,14 = 5.24, P = .04, partial η2 = 0.27). Terminal stance repeated-measures ANOVA results revealed insert-by-insert condition interactions for the first metatarsophalangeal joint complex (F1,14 = 7.87, P = .01, partial η2 = 0.36). However, additional follow-up analysis did not reveal differences between the no-FO and FO conditions for the balanced traditional orthosis (F1,14 = 4.32, P = .08, partial η2 = 0.38) or full-contact orthosis (F1,14 = 4.10, P = .08, partial η2 = 0.37). Conclusions: Greater rearfoot complex dorsiflexion during midstance associated with FO intervention may represent improved foot kinematics in people with low-mobile foot postures. Furthermore, FO intervention might partially correct dys-functional kinematic patterns associated with low-mobile foot postures. PMID:21944067

SOAR 89: Space Station. Space suit test program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kosmo, Joseph J.; West, Philip; Rouen, Michael

1990-01-01

The elements of the test program for the space suit to be used on Space Station Freedom are noted in viewgraph form. Information is given on evaluation objectives, zero gravity evaluation, mobility evaluation, extravehicular activity task evaluation, and shoulder joint evaluation.

Manual treatment effects to the upper cervical apophysial joints before, during, and after endotracheal anesthesia: a placebo-controlled comparison.

PubMed

Buchmann, Johannes; Wende, Klaus; Kundt, Guenther; Haessler, Frank

2005-04-01

In this preliminary, placebo-controlled clinical trial, two different manual treatments were compared, spinal manipulation and postisometric relaxation, for dysfunctional motion segments of the upper cervical spinal column. The influence of the muscular portion on the joint-play restriction of a motion segment can be ignored in anesthesia, and the manual evaluation of this joint-play restriction must be focused on nonmuscular structures. By retesting in anesthesia, it is possible to examine whether mobilization and manipulation affect exclusively the muscular structures or also affect the other parts of the motion segment. Conclusions can be drawn about the superiority of one or both treatments and about the structural basis of the restricted joint play and its palpation. A total of 26 inpatients at the surgical or orthopedic department of the University of Rostock were examined manually at four testing times: before and after manual treatment, in anesthesia, and within 24 hrs of completing anesthesia. They were randomized into three groups: postisometric relaxation (mobilization), spinal manipulation (thrust technique), and placebo. A highly significant effect for both treatments was found posttherapeutically (P < 0.01) but not for placebo. In anesthesia, the treatment effect of spinal manipulation was further significant (P < 0.01) when compared with placebo. For postisometric relaxation, however, it was not (P = 0.160). A significant difference between spinal manipulation and postisometric relaxation was not found in anesthesia (P = 0.137). The treatment effect postnarcotically was further significant when compared with placebo only for spinal manipulation (P = 0.011). Both treatments are superior to placebo. Postisometric relaxation seems to affect mainly the muscular parts of the treated segments and less so the other parts, such as the joint capsule or the segmental affiliated ligaments and fascia. Spinal manipulation seems to influence all other segmental parts more effectively, and the treatment effect persists longer. A joint-play restriction cannot be an exclusively muscular tension phenomenon. Segmental motion dysfunctions show a high variability in their spontaneous course.

Orofacial pain of cervical origin: A case report.

PubMed

Ganesh, G Shankar; Sahu, Mamata Manjari; Tigga, Pramod

2018-04-01

The etiopathogenesis of orofacial pain remains complex and a number of pain referral patterns for this region have been reported in the literature. The purpose of this report is to describe the assessment and successful clinical management of orofacial pain possibly attributable to cervical origin. A 55-year-old male teacher with a 3-year history of pain in the right lower jaw, radiating to the ear, consulted our institute for assessment and management. The patient was unsuccessfully treated for dental pain and trigeminal neuralgia. The patient's functioning was grossly limited and the patient was unable to sleep because of severe pain. Current and previous medical and physical examinations revealed no infection, malignancies, or sinusitis. Palpation revealed no temporomandibular disorder, tenderness or myofascial trigger points. Examination of the cervical range of motion showed a reduction in rotation to the right side. The patient was treated for upper cervical joint dysfunction involving mobilization of the first three cervical vertebrae and motor control exercises. The patient had an almost complete resolution of symptoms and reported significant improvement in the Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) and the Global Rating of Change (GRC) scale. This case study demonstrates the importance of considering, assessing and treating the cervical spine as a possible source of orofacial pain, and the positive role of cervical mobilization on these disorders. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Does joint line elevation after revision knee arthroplasty affect tibio-femoral kinematics, contact pressure or collateral ligament lengths? An in vitro analysis

PubMed Central

Kowalczewski, Jacek B.; Chevalier, Yan; Okon, Tomasz; Innocenti, Bernardo; Bellemans, Johan

2015-01-01

Introduction Correct restoration of the joint line is generally considered as crucial when performing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). During revision knee arthroplasty however, elevation of the joint line occurs frequently. The general belief is that this negatively affects the clinical outcome, but the reasons are still not well understood. Material and methods In this cadaveric in vitro study the biomechanical consequences of joint line elevation were investigated using a previously validated cadaver model simulating active deep knee squats and passive flexion-extension cycles. Knee specimens were sequentially tested after total knee arthroplasty with joint line restoration and after 4 mm joint line elevation. Results The tibia rotated internally with increasing knee flexion during both passive and squatting motion (range: 17° and 7° respectively). Joint line elevation of 4 mm did not make a statistically significant difference. During passive motion, the tibia tended to become slightly more adducted with increasing knee flexion (range: 2°), while it went into slighlty less adduction during squatting (range: –2°). Neither of both trends was influenced by joint line elevation. Also anteroposterior translation of the femoral condyle centres was not affected by joint line elevation, although there was a tendency for a small posterior shift (of about 3 mm) during squatting after joint line elevation. In terms of kinetics, ligaments lengths and length changes, tibiofemoral contact pressures and quadriceps forces all showed the same patterns before and joint line elevation. No statistically significant changes could be detected. Conclusions Our study suggests that joint line elevation by 4 mm in revision total knee arthroplasty does not cause significant kinematic and kinetic differences during passive flexion/extension movement and squatting in the tibio-femoral joint, nor does it affect the elongation patterns of collateral ligaments. Therefore, clinical problems after joint line elevation are probably situated in the patello-femoral joint or caused by joint line elevation of more than 4 mm. PMID:25995746

Biomechanical compensations of the trunk and lower extremities during stepping tasks after unilateral transtibial amputation.

PubMed

Murray, Amanda M; Gaffney, Brecca M; Davidson, Bradley S; Christiansen, Cory L

2017-11-01

Lower extremity movement compensations following transtibial amputation are well-documented and are likely influenced by trunk posture and movement. However, the biomechanical compensations of the trunk and lower extremities, especially during high-demand tasks such as step ascent and descent, remain unclear. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected during step ascent and descent tasks for three groups of individuals: diabetic/transtibial amputation, diabetic, and healthy. An ANCOVA was used to compare peak trunk, hip and knee joint angles and moments in the sagittal and frontal planes between groups. Paired t-tests were used to compare peak joint angles and moments between amputated and intact limbs of the diabetic/transtibial amputation group. During step ascent and descent, the transtibial amputation group exhibited greater trunk forward flexion and lateral flexion compared to the other two groups (P<0.016), which resulted in greater low back moments and asymmetric loading patterns in the lower extremity joints. The diabetic group exhibited similar knee joint loading patterns compared to the amputation group (P<0.016), during step descent. This study highlights the biomechanical compensations of the trunk and lower extremities in individuals with dysvascular transtibial amputation, by identifying low back, hip, and knee joint moment patterns unique to transtibial amputation during stepping tasks. In addition, the results suggest that some movement compensations may be confounded by the presence of diabetes and precede limb amputation. The increased and asymmetrical loading patterns identified may predispose individuals with transtibial amputation to the development of secondary pain conditions, such as low back pain or osteoarthritis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Person-Fit Statistics for Joint Models for Accuracy and Speed

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Jean-Paul; Marianti, Sukaesi

2017-01-01

Response accuracy and response time data can be analyzed with a joint model to measure ability and speed of working, while accounting for relationships between item and person characteristics. In this study, person-fit statistics are proposed for joint models to detect aberrant response accuracy and/or response time patterns. The person-fit tests…

Dietary patterns as compared with physical activity in relation to metabolic syndrome among Chinese adults.

PubMed

He, Y; Li, Y; Lai, J; Wang, D; Zhang, J; Fu, P; Yang, X; Qi, L

2013-10-01

To examine the nationally-representative dietary patterns and their joint effects with physical activity on the likelihood of metabolic syndrome (MS) among 20,827 Chinese adults. CNNHS was a nationally representative cross-sectional observational study. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement definition. The "Green Water" dietary pattern, characterized by high intakes of rice and vegetables and moderate intakes in animal foods was related to the lowest prevalence of MS (15.9%). Compared to the "Green Water" dietary pattern, the "Yellow Earth" dietary pattern, characterized by high intakes of refined cereal products, tubers, cooking salt and salted vegetable was associated with a significantly elevated odds of MS (odds ratio 1.66, 95%CI: 1.40-1.96), after adjustment of age, sex, socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors. The "Western/new affluence" dietary pattern characterized by higher consumption of beef/lamb, fruit, eggs, poultry and seafood also significantly associated with MS (odds ratio: 1.37, 95%CI: 1.13-1.67). Physical activity showed significant interactions with the dietary patterns in relation to MS risk (P for interaction = 0.008). In the joint analysis, participants with the combination of sedentary activity with the "Yellow Earth" dietary pattern or the "Western/new affluence" dietary pattern both had more than three times (95%CI: 2.8-6.1) higher odds of MS than those with active activity and the "Green Water" dietary pattern. Our findings from the large Chinese national representative data indicate that dietary patterns affect the likelihood of MS. Combining healthy dietary pattern with active lifestyle may benefit more in prevention of MS. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bilateral coxofemoral degenerative joint disease in a juvenile male yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes).

PubMed

Buckle, Kelly N; Alley, Maurice R

2011-08-01

A juvenile, male, yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) with abnormal stance and decreased mobility was captured, held in captivity for approximately 6 weeks, and euthanized due to continued clinical signs. Radiographically, there was bilateral degenerative joint disease with coxofemoral periarticular osteophyte formation. Grossly, the bird had bilaterally distended, thickened coxofemoral joints with increased laxity, and small, roughened and angular femoral heads. Histologically, the left femoral articular cartilage and subchondral bone were absent, and the remaining femoral head consisted of trabecular bone overlain by fibrin and granulation tissue. There was no gross or histological evidence of infection. The historic, gross, radiographic, and histopathologic findings were most consistent with bilateral aseptic femoral head degeneration resulting in degenerative joint disease. Although the chronicity of the lesions masked the initiating cause, the probable underlying causes of aseptic bilateral femoral head degeneration in a young animal are osteonecrosis and osteochondrosis of the femoral head. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of bilateral coxofemoral degenerative joint disease in a penguin.

Prevalence and pattern of glenohumeral injuries among acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint instabilities.

PubMed

Pauly, Stephan; Kraus, Natascha; Greiner, Stefan; Scheibel, Markus

2013-06-01

With increasing numbers of arthroscopically assisted acromioclavicular (AC) joint stabilization procedures has come an increase in reports of concomitant glenohumeral injuries among AC joint separations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence, pattern, and cause of glenohumeral pathologies among a large patient population with acute high-grade AC joint instability. A total of 125 patients (13 women, 112 men) with high-grade AC joint dislocation (6 Rockwood II; 119 Rockwood V) underwent diagnostic glenohumeral arthroscopy before AC joint repair. Pathologic lesions were evaluated for acute or degenerative origin and, if considered relevant, treated all-arthroscopically. Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies were found in 38 of 125 patients (30.4%). Analysis of pathogenesis distinguished different patterns of accompanying injuries: acute intra-articular lesions, related to the recent shoulder trauma, were found in 9 patients (7.2%), degenerative lesions, considered to be unrelated to the recent trauma, were found in 18 (14.4%), and 11 (8.8%) had an unclear traumatic correlation (intermediate group). Within the acute and the degenerative group, affected structures were predominantly partial, articular-sided tears of the anterosuperior rotator cuff, including instabilities of the pulley complex, followed by pathologies of the long head of the biceps and superior labrum anteroposterior lesions. The intermediate group presented mainly with articular-sided partial tears of the subscapularis tendon. This prospective study showed a high prevalence (30%) of concomitant glenohumeral pathologies, of which some indicate additional surgical therapy and could be missed by an isolated open AC repair. Hence, the arthroscopic approach for AC joint stabilization allows for the diagnosis and treatment of associated intra-articular pathologies. Copyright © 2013 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Phalangeal joints kinematics during ostrich (Struthio camelus) locomotion

PubMed Central

Ji, Qiaoli; Luo, Gang; Xue, Shuliang; Ma, Songsong; Li, Jianqiao

2017-01-01

The ostrich is a highly cursorial bipedal land animal with a permanently elevated metatarsophalangeal joint supported by only two toes. Although locomotor kinematics in walking and running ostriches have been examined, these studies have been largely limited to above the metatarsophalangeal joint. In this study, kinematic data of all major toe joints were collected from gaits with double support (slow walking) to running during stance period in a semi-natural setup with two selected cooperative ostriches. Statistical analyses were conducted to investigate the effect of locomotor gait on toe joint kinematics. The MTP3 and MTP4 joints exhibit the largest range of motion whereas the first phalangeal joint of the 4th toe shows the largest motion variability. The interphalangeal joints of the 3rd and 4th toes present very similar motion patterns over stance phases of slow walking and running. However, the motion patterns of the MTP3 and MTP4 joints and the vertical displacement of the metatarsophalangeal joint are significantly different during running and slow walking. Because of the biomechanical requirements, osctriches are likely to select the inverted pendulum gait at low speeds and the bouncing gait at high speeds to improve movement performance and energy economy. Interestingly, the motions of the MTP3 and MTP4 joints are highly synchronized from slow to fast locomotion. This strongly suggests that the 3rd and 4th toes really work as an “integrated system” with the 3rd toe as the main load bearing element whilst the 4th toe as the complementary load sharing element with a primary role to ensure the lateral stability of the permanently elevated metatarsophalangeal joint. PMID:28097064

Self-aligning exoskeleton hip joint: Kinematic design with five revolute, three prismatic and one ball joint.

PubMed

Beil, Jonas; Marquardt, Charlotte; Asfour, Tamim

2017-07-01

Kinematic compatibility is of paramount importance in wearable robotic and exoskeleton design. Misalignments between exoskeletons and anatomical joints of the human body result in interaction forces which make wearing the exoskeleton uncomfortable and even dangerous for the human. In this paper we present a kinematically compatible design of an exoskeleton hip to reduce kinematic incompatibilities, so called macro- and micro-misalignments, between the human's and exoskeleton's joint axes, which are caused by inter-subject variability and articulation. The resulting design consists of five revolute, three prismatic and one ball joint. Design parameters such as range of motion and joint velocities are calculated based on the analysis of human motion data acquired by motion capture systems. We show that the resulting design is capable of self-aligning to the human hip joint in all three anatomical planes during operation and can be adapted along the dorsoventral and mediolateral axis prior to operation. Calculation of the forward kinematics and FEM-simulation considering kinematic and musculoskeletal constraints proved sufficient mobility and stiffness of the system regarding the range of motion, angular velocity and torque admissibility needed to provide 50 % assistance for an 80 kg person.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Huang, Yingying; Triscari, Joseph M.; Tseng, George C.

Data mining was performed on 28 330 unique peptide tandem mass spectra for which sequences were assigned with high confidence. By dividing the spectra into different sets based on structural features and charge states of the corresponding peptides, chemical interactions involved in promoting specific cleavage patterns in gas-phase peptides were characterized. Pairwise fragmentation maps describing cleavages at all Xxx-Zzz residue combinations for b and y ions reveal that the difference in basicity between Arg and Lys results in different dissociation patterns for singly charged Arg- and Lys-ending tryptic peptides. While one dominant protonation form (proton localized) exists for Arg-ending peptides,more » a heterogeneous population of different protonated forms or more facile interconversion of protonated forms (proton partially mobile) exists for Lys-ending peptides. Cleavage C-terminal to acidic residues dominates spectra from peptides that have a localized proton and cleavage N-terminal to Pro dominates those that have a mobile or partially mobile proton. When Pro is absent from peptides that have a mobile or partially mobile proton, cleavage at each peptide bond becomes much more prominent. Whether the above patterns can be found in b ions, y ions, or both depends on the location of the proton holder(s). Enhanced cleavages C-terminal to branched aliphatic residues (Ile, Val, Leu) are observed in both b and y ions from peptides that have a mobile proton, as well as in y ions from peptides that have a partially mobile proton; enhanced cleavages N-terminal to these residues are observed in b ions from peptides that have a partially mobile proton. Statistical tools have been designed to visualize the fragmentation maps and measure the similarity between them. The pairwise cleavage patterns observed expand our knowledge of peptide gas-phase fragmentation behaviors and should be useful in algorithm development that employs improved models to predict fragment ion intensities.« less

Rehabilitation of syndesmotic (high) ankle sprains.

PubMed

Williams, Glenn N; Allen, Eric J

2010-11-01

High ankle sprains are common in athletes who play contact sports. Most high ankle sprains are treated nonsurgically with a rehabilitation program. All years of PUBMED, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL PLUS, SPORTDiscuss, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched to August 2010, cross-referencing existing publications. Keywords included syndesmosis ankle sprain or high ankle sprain and the following terms: rehabilitation, treatment, cryotherapy, braces, orthosis, therapeutic modalities, joint mobilization, massage, pain, pain medications, TENS (ie, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation), acupuncture, aquatic therapy, strength, neuromuscular training, perturbation training, and outcomes. Level of evidence, 5. A 3-phase rehabilitation program is described. The acute phase is directed at protecting the joint while minimizing pain, inflammation, muscle weakness, and loss of motion. Most patients are treated with some form of immobilization and have weightbearing restrictions. A range of therapeutic modalities are used to minimize pain and inflammation. Gentle mobilization and resistance exercises are used to gain mobility and maintain muscle size and strength. The subacute phase is directed at normalizing range of motion, strength, and function in activities of daily living. Progressive mobilization and strengthening are hallmarks of this phase. Neuromuscular training is begun and becomes the central component of rehabilitation. The advanced training phase focuses on preparing the patient for return to sports participation. Perturbation of support surfaces, agility drills, plyometrics, and sport-specific training are central components of this phase. The rehabilitation guidelines discussed may assist clinicians in managing syndesmotic ankle sprains.

Towards the description of livestock mobility in Sahelian Africa: Some results from a survey in Mauritania

PubMed Central

Gueya, Mohamed Baba; Baba, Doumbia; Gilbert, Marius; Lancelot, Renaud

2018-01-01

Understanding spatio-temporal patterns of host mobility is a key factor to prevent and control animal and human diseases. This is utterly important in low-income countries, where animal disease epidemics have strong socio-economic impacts. In this article we analyzed a livestock mobility database, whose data have been collected by the Centre National d’Elevage et de Recherches Vétérinaires (CNERV) Mauritania, to describe its patterns and temporal evolution. Data were collected through phone and face-to-face interviews in almost all the regions in Mauritania over a period of roughly two weeks during June 2015. The analysis has shown the existence of two mobility patterns throughout the year: the first related to routine movements from January to August; the second strictly connected to the religious festivity of Tabaski that in 2014 occurred at the beginning of October. These mobility patterns are different in terms of animals involved (fewer cattle and dromedaries are traded around Tabaski), the means of transportation (the volume of animals moved by truck raises around Tabaski) and destinations (most of the animals are traded nationally around Tabaski). Due to the differences between these two periods, public health officers, researchers and other stakeholders should take account of the time of the year when implementing vaccination campaigns or creating surveillance networks. PMID:29364989

Ankle proprioceptive acuity is associated with objective as well as self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function.

PubMed

Deshpande, Nandini; Simonsick, Eleanor; Metter, E Jeffrey; Ko, Seunguk; Ferrucci, Luigi; Studenski, Stephanie

2016-06-01

Ankle proprioceptive information is integrated by the central nervous system to generate and modulate muscle contractions for maintaining standing balance. This study evaluated the association of ankle joint proprioception with objective and self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function across the adult life span. Seven hundred and ninety participants (age range 24-97 years, 362 women) who completed ankle proprioception assessment between 2010 and 2014 were included in the present study from the population-based cohort of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA), USA. Outcome measures included ankle joint proprioception measured as threshold for perception of passive movement (TPPM); single leg stance time; perceived difficulty for standing balance; usual, fastest, and narrow-path gait speed; walking index; short physical performance battery score; and self-reported activity restriction due to fear of falling. Descriptive variables included age, sex, body mass index, education, strength, and cognition. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) in general linear model (GLM) or multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed, as appropriate, to test the hypothesis that balance, mobility, and physical function were significantly different according to TPPM quintiles even after adjusting for relevant covariates. Those with TPPM >2.2° consistently demonstrated poor balance, mobility, and physical function. However, with increase in challenge (single leg stance, fastest walking speed, and SPPB), TPPM >1.4° was associated with significantly worse performance. In conclusion, ankle proprioceptive acuity has an overall graded relationship with objective and self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function. However, the cutoff proprioceptive acuity associated with substantial decline or inability to perform could depend on the challenge induced.

Increasing Perioperative Communication With Automated Mobile Phone Messaging in Total Joint Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Day, Molly A; Anthony, Christopher A; Bedard, Nicholas A; Glass, Natalie A; Clark, Charles R; Callaghan, John J; Noiseux, Nicolas O

2018-01-01

Automated mobile phone messaging has not been reported in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Our purpose was to compare Press Ganey (PG) and Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores between TJA patients who did and did not receive perioperative automated mobile phone messages. Patients were prospectively enrolled and received messages for 1 week prior until 2 weeks after TJA. Message content included reminders, activity, and pain control. Patients answered select PG/HCAHPS and questions regarding their experience with the automated communication platform. Average PG/HCAHPS scores were compared to historical TJA patients in the 3-year window prior (control group) with significance P < .05. Thirty-seven consecutive patients were approached and 92% (n = 34) were enrolled. The experimental group was 47% male, with 80% patients between 51 and 75 years. The experimental (n = 30) and control groups (n = 26) were similar. Patients receiving messages were more likely to have a good understanding of health responsibilities (P = .024) and feel that the care team demonstrated shared decision-making (P = .024). Of patients enrolled, 87% felt messages helped them be more prepared for surgery, 100% felt messages kept them better informed, and 97% would participate again. TJA patients who received perioperative communication via automated mobile phone messaging had improved patient satisfaction scores postoperatively. Patients perceived this form of communication was useful and kept them better informed. Automated mobile phone messaging can be an easily integrated, helpful adjunct to surgeons, healthcare systems, and case managers to more effectively communicate with patients undergoing TJA in this era of value-based care. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Joint mobilization forces and therapist reliability in subjects with knee osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Tragord, Bradley S; Gill, Norman W; Silvernail, Jason L; Teyhen, Deydre S; Allison, Stephen C

2013-01-01

Objectives: This study determined biomechanical force parameters and reliability among clinicians performing knee joint mobilizations. Methods: Sixteen subjects with knee osteoarthritis and six therapists participated in the study. Forces were recorded using a capacitive-based pressure mat for three techniques at two grades of mobilization, each with two trials of 15 seconds. Dosage (force–time integral), amplitude, and frequency were also calculated. Analysis of variance was used to analyze grade differences, intraclass correlation coefficients determined reliability, and correlations assessed force associations with subject and rater variables. Results: Grade IV mobilizations produced higher mean forces (P<0.001) and higher dosage (P<0.001), while grade III produced higher maximum forces (P = 0.001). Grade III forces (Newtons) by technique (mean, maximum) were: extension 48, 81; flexion 41, 68; and medial glide 21, 34. Grade IV forces (Newtons) by technique (mean, maximum) were: extension 58, 78; flexion 44, 60; and medial glide 22, 30. Frequency (Hertz) ranged between 0.9–1.1 (grade III) and 1.4–1.6 (grade IV). Intra-clinician reliability was excellent (>0.90). Inter-clinician reliability was moderate for force and dosage, and poor for amplitude and frequency. Discussion: Force measurements were consistent with previously reported ranges and clinical constructs. Grade III and grade IV mobilizations can be distinguished from each other with differences for force and frequency being small, and dosage and amplitude being large. Intra-clinician reliability was excellent for all biomechanical parameters and inter-clinician reliability for dosage, the main variable of clinical interest, was moderate. This study quantified the applied forces among multiple clinicians, which may help determine optimal dosage and standardize care. PMID:24421632

Lateral ligament repair and reconstruction restore neither contact mechanics of the ankle joint nor motion patterns of the hindfoot.

PubMed

Prisk, Victor R; Imhauser, Carl W; O'Loughlin, Padhraig F; Kennedy, John G

2010-10-20

Ankle sprains may damage both the lateral ligaments of the hindfoot and the osteochondral tissue of the ankle joint. When nonoperative treatment fails, operative approaches are indicated to restore both native motion patterns at the hindfoot and ankle joint contact mechanics. The goal of the present study was to determine the effect of lateral ligament injury, repair, and reconstruction on ankle joint contact mechanics and hindfoot motion patterns. Eight cadaveric specimens were tested with use of robotic technology to apply combined compressive (200-N) and inversion (4.5-Nm) loads to the hindfoot at 0° and 20° of plantar flexion. Contact mechanics at the ankle joint were simultaneously measured. A repeated-measures experiment was designed with use of the intact condition as control, with the other conditions including sectioned anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments, the Broström and Broström-Gould repairs, and graft reconstruction. Ligament sectioning decreased contact area and caused a medial and anterior shift in the center of pressure with inversion loads relative to those with the intact condition. There were no significant differences in inversion or coupled axial rotation with inversion between the Broström repair and the intact condition; however, medial translation of the center of pressure remained elevated after the Broström repair relative to the intact condition. The Gould modification of the Broström procedure provided additional support to the hindfoot relative to the Broström repair, reducing inversion and axial rotation with inversion beyond that of intact ligaments. There were no significant differences in center-of-pressure excursion patterns between the Broström-Gould repair and the intact ligament condition, but this repair increased contact area beyond that with the ligaments intact. Graft reconstruction more closely restored inversion motion than did the Broström-Gould repair at 20° of plantar flexion but limited coupled axial rotation. Graft reconstruction also increased contact areas beyond the lateral ligament-deficient conditions but altered center-of-pressure excursion patterns relative to the intact condition. No lateral ankle ligament reconstruction completely restored native contact mechanics of the ankle joint and hindfoot motion patterns.

Midtarsal locking, the windlass mechanism, and running strike pattern: A kinematic and kinetic assessment.

PubMed

Bruening, Dustin A; Pohl, Michael B; Takahashi, Kota Z; Barrios, Joaquin A

2018-05-17

Changes in running strike pattern affect ankle and knee mechanics, but little is known about the influence of strike pattern on the joints distal to the ankle. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of forefoot strike (FFS) and rearfoot strike (RFS) running patterns on foot kinematics and kinetics, from the perspectives of the midtarsal locking theory and the windlass mechanism. Per the midtarsal locking theory, we hypothesized that the ankle would be more inverted in early stance when using a FFS, resulting in decreased midtarsal joint excursions and increased dynamic stiffness. Associated with a more engaged windlass mechanism, we hypothesized that a FFS would elicit increased metatarsophalangeal joint excursions and negative work in late stance. Eighteen healthy female runners ran overground with both FFS and RFS patterns. Instrumented motion capture and a validated multi-segment foot model were used to analyze midtarsal and metatarsophalangeal joint kinematics and kinetics. During early stance in FFS the ankle was more inverted, with concurrently decreased midtarsal eversion (p < 0.001) and abduction excursions (p = 0.003) but increased dorsiflexion excursion (p = 0.005). Dynamic midtarsal stiffness did not differ (p = 0.761). During late stance in FFS, metatarsophalangeal extension was increased (p = 0.009), with concurrently increased negative work (p < 0.001). In addition, there was simultaneously increased midtarsal positive work (p < 0.001), suggesting enhanced power transfer in FFS. Clear evidence for the presence of midtarsal locking was not observed in either strike pattern during running. However, the windlass mechanism appeared to be engaged to a greater extent during FFS. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The joint impact of cognitive performance in adolescence and familial cognitive aptitude on risk for major psychiatric disorders: a delineation of four potential pathways to illness.

PubMed

Kendler, K S; Ohlsson, H; Keefe, R S E; Sundquist, K; Sundquist, J

2018-04-01

How do joint measures of premorbid cognitive ability and familial cognitive aptitude (FCA) reflect risk for a diversity of psychiatric and substance use disorders? To address this question, we examined, using Cox models, the predictive effects of school achievement (SA) measured at age 16 and FCA-assessed from SA in siblings and cousins, and educational attainment in parents-on risk for 12 major psychiatric syndromes in 1 140 608 Swedes born 1972-1990. Four developmental patterns emerged. In the first, risk was predicted jointly by low levels of SA and high levels of FCA-that is a level of SA lower than would be predicted from the FCA. This pattern was strongest in autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia, and weakest in bipolar illness. In these disorders, a pathologic process seems to have caused cognitive functioning to fall substantially short of familial potential. In the second pattern, seen in the internalizing conditions of major depression and anxiety disorders, risk was associated with low SA but was unrelated to FCA. Externalizing disorders-drug abuse and alcohol use disorders-demonstrated the third pattern, in which risk was predicted jointly by low SA and low FCA. The fourth pattern, seen in eating disorders, was directly opposite of that observed in externalizing disorders with risk associated with high SA and high FCA. When measured together, adolescent cognitive ability and FCA identified four developmental patterns leading to diverse psychiatric disorders. The value of cognitive assessments in psychiatric research can be substantially increased by also evaluating familial cognitive potential.

Authoring and Enactment of Mobile Pyramid-Based Collaborative Learning Activities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manathunga, Kalpani; Hernández-Leo, Davinia

2018-01-01

Collaborative learning flow patterns (CLFPs) formulate best practices for the orchestration of activity sequences and collaboration mechanisms that can elicit fruitful social interactions. Mobile technology features offer opportunities to support interaction mediation and content accessibility. However, existing mobile collaborative learning…

Master/slave manipulator system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vykukal, H. C.; King, R. F.; Vallotton, W. C.

1973-01-01

System capabilities are equivalent to mobility, dexterity, and strength of human arm. Arrangement of torque motor, harmonic drive, and potentiometer combination allows all power and control leads to pass through center of slave with position-transducer arrangement of master, and "stovepipe joint" is incorporated for manipulator applications.

30 CFR 36.6 - Application procedures and requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... diesel engine, including joints and gaskets; the turbulence or precombustion chamber, if applicable; injector assembly and nozzle details; and any surfaces that form the combustion chamber or part thereof..., EVALUATION, AND APPROVAL OF MINING PRODUCTS APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PERMISSIBLE MOBILE DIESEL-POWERED...

Cardiovascular Aspects of Aging (Part 1 of 2).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Camp, Steven P.; Boyer, John L.

1989-01-01

Reviews cardiovascular changes occurring during the aging process and the trainability of older persons. Although cardiovascular changes are part of life, activity levels need not decrease. Beneficial aspects of exercise include improvements in muscle strength, joint mobility, flexibility, coordination, and weight control. (SM)

Systems and Methods of Coordination Control for Robot Manipulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Chu-Yin (Inventor); English, James (Inventor); Tardella, Neil (Inventor); Bacon, James (Inventor)

2013-01-01

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for controlling robotic apparatus having several movable elements or segments coupled by joints. At least one of the movable elements can include one or more mobile bases, while the others can form one or more manipulators. One of the movable elements can be treated as an end effector for which a certain motion is desired. The end effector may include a tool, for example, or represent a robotic hand (or a point thereon), or one or more of the one or more mobile bases. In accordance with the systems and methods disclosed herein, movement of the manipulator and the mobile base can be controlled and coordinated to effect a desired motion for the end effector. In many cases, the motion can include simultaneously moving the manipulator and the mobile base.

The Movement- and Load-Dependent Differences in the EMG Patterns of the Human Arm Muscles during Two-Joint Movements (A Preliminary Study)

PubMed Central

Tomiak, Tomasz; Abramovych, Tetiana I.; Gorkovenko, Andriy V.; Vereshchaka, Inna V.; Mishchenko, Viktor S.; Dornowski, Marcin; Kostyukov, Alexander I.

2016-01-01

Slow circular movements of the hand with a fixed wrist joint that were produced in a horizontal plane under visual guidance during conditions of action of the elastic load directed tangentially to the movement trajectory were studied. The positional dependencies of the averaged surface EMGs in the muscles of the elbow and shoulder joints were compared for four possible combinations in the directions of load and movements. The EMG intensities were largely correlated with the waves of the force moment computed for a corresponding joint in the framework of a simple geometrical model of the system: arm - experimental setup. At the same time, in some cases the averaged EMGs exit from the segments of the trajectory restricted by the force moment singular points (FMSPs), in which the moments exhibited altered signs. The EMG activities display clear differences for the eccentric and concentric zones of contraction that are separated by the joint angle singular points (JASPs), which present extreme at the joint angle traces. We assumed that the modeled patterns of FMSPs and JASPs may be applied for an analysis of the synergic interaction between the motor commands arriving at different muscles in arbitrary two-joint movements. PMID:27375496

Does Talocrural Joint-Thrust Manipulation Improve Outcomes After Inversion Ankle Sprain?

PubMed

Krueger, Brett; Becker, Laura; Leemkuil, Greta; Durall, Christopher

2015-08-01

Clinical Scenario: Ankle sprains account for roughly 10% of sport-related injuries in the active population. The majority of these injuries occur from excessive ankle inversion, leading to lateral ligamentous injury. In addition to pain and swelling, limitations in ankle range of motion (ROM) and self-reported function are common findings. These limitations are thought to be due in part to loss of mobility in the talocrural joint. Accordingly, some investigators have reported using high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust-manipulation techniques directed at the talocrural joint to address deficits in dorsiflexion (DF) ROM and function. This review was conducted to ascertain the impact of talocrural joint-thrust manipulation (TJM) on DF ROM, self-reported function, and pain in patients with a history of ankle sprain. Focused Clinical Question: In patients with a history of inversion ankle sprain, does TJM improve outcomes in DF ROM, self-reported function, and/or pain?

[Hand osteoarthritis].

PubMed

Šenolt, Ladislav

Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic disorder causing pain and limitation of mobility of affected joints. The prevalence of hand OA increases with age and more often affects females. Clinical signs obviously do not correlate with radiographic findings - symptomatic hand OA affects approximately 26 % of adult subjects, but radiographic changes can be found in up to two thirds of females and half of males older than 55 years.Disease course differ among individual patients. Hand OA is a heterogeneous disease. Nodal hand OA is the most common subtype affecting interphalangeal joints, thumb base OA affects first carpometacarpal joint. Erosive OA represents a specific subtype of hand OA, which is associated with joint inflammation, more pain, functional limitation and erosive findings on radiographs.Treatment of OA is limited. Analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the only agents reducing symptoms. New insights into the pathogenesis of disease should contribute to the development of novel effective treatment of hand OA.

Surrogate: A Body-Dexterous Mobile Manipulation Robot with a Tracked Base

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hebert, Paul (Inventor); Borders, James W. (Inventor); Hudson, Nicolas H. (Inventor); Kennedy, Brett A. (Inventor); Ma, Jeremy C. (Inventor); Bergh, Charles F. (Inventor)

2018-01-01

Robotics platforms in accordance with various embodiments of the invention can be utilized to implement highly dexterous robots capable of whole body motion. Robotics platforms in accordance with one embodiment of the invention include: a memory containing a whole body motion application; a spine, where the spine has seven degrees of freedom and comprises a spine actuator and three spine elbow joints that each include two spine joint actuators; at least one limb, where the at least one limb comprises a limb actuator and three limb elbow joints that each include two limb joint actuators; a tracked base; a connecting structure that connects the at least one limb to the spine; a second connecting structure that connects the spine to the tracked base; wherein the processor is configured by the whole body motion application to move the at least one limb and the spine to perform whole body motion.

Mobile Phone-Based Joint Angle Measurement for Functional Assessment and Rehabilitation of Proprioception

PubMed Central

Mourcou, Quentin; Fleury, Anthony; Diot, Bruno; Franco, Céline; Vuillerme, Nicolas

2015-01-01

Assessment of joint functional and proprioceptive abilities is essential for balance, posture, and motor control rehabilitation. Joint functional ability refers to the capacity of movement of the joint. It may be evaluated thereby measuring the joint range of motion (ROM). Proprioception can be defined as the perception of the position and of the movement of various body parts in space. Its role is essential in sensorimotor control for movement acuity, joint stability, coordination, and balance. Its clinical evaluation is commonly based on the assessment of the joint position sense (JPS). Both ROM and JPS measurements require estimating angles through goniometer, scoliometer, laser-pointer, and bubble or digital inclinometer. With the arrival of Smartphones, these costly clinical tools tend to be replaced. Beyond evaluation, maintaining and/or improving joint functional and proprioceptive abilities by training with physical therapy is important for long-term management. This review aims to report Smartphone applications used for measuring and improving functional and proprioceptive abilities. It identifies that Smartphone applications are reliable for clinical measurements and are mainly used to assess ROM and JPS. However, there is lack of studies on Smartphone applications which can be used in an autonomous way to provide physical therapy exercises at home. PMID:26583101

Variant and invariant patterns embedded in human locomotion through whole body kinematic coordination.

PubMed

Funato, Tetsuro; Aoi, Shinya; Oshima, Hiroko; Tsuchiya, Kazuo

2010-09-01

Step length, cadence and joint flexion all increase in response to increases in gradient and walking speed. However, the tuning strategy leading to these changes has not been elucidated. One characteristic of joint variation that occurs during walking is the close relationship among the joints. This property reduces the number of degrees of freedom and seems to be a key issue in discussing the tuning strategy. This correlation has been analyzed for the lower limbs, but the relation between the trunk and lower body is generally ignored. Two questions about posture during walking are discussed in this paper: (1) whether there is a low-dimensional restriction that determines walking posture, which depends not just on the lower limbs but on the whole body, including the trunk and (2) whether some simple rules appear in different walking conditions. To investigate the correlation, singular value decomposition was applied to a measured walking pattern. This showed that the whole movement can be described by a closed loop on a two-dimensional plane in joint space. Furthermore, by investigating the effect of the walking condition on the decomposed patterns, the position and the tilt of the constraint plane was found to change significantly, while the loop pattern on the constraint plane was shown to be robust. This result indicates that humans select only certain kinematic characteristics for adapting to various walking conditions.

Cartilage Dysfunction in ALS Patients as Side Effect of Motion Loss: 3D Mechano-Electrochemical Computational Model

PubMed Central

Gaffney, Eamonn A.; Doblaré, Manuel

2014-01-01

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a debilitating motor neuron disease characterized by progressive weakness, muscle atrophy, and fasciculation. This fact results in a continuous degeneration and dysfunction of articular soft tissues. Specifically, cartilage is an avascular and nonneural connective tissue that allows smooth motion in diarthrodial joints. Due to the avascular nature of cartilage tissue, cells nutrition and by-product exchange are intermittently occurring during joint motions. Reduced mobility results in a change of proteoglycan density, osmotic pressure, and permeability of the tissue. This work aims to demonstrate the abnormal cartilage deformation in progressive immobilized articular cartilage for ALS patients. For this aim a novel 3D mechano-electrochemical model based on the triphasic theory for charged hydrated soft tissues is developed. ALS patient parameters such as tissue porosity, osmotic coefficient, and fixed anions were incorporated. Considering different mobility reduction of each phase of the disease, results predicted the degree of tissue degeneration and the reduction of its capacity for deformation. The present model can be a useful tool to predict the evolution of joints in ALS patients and the necessity of including specific cartilage protectors, drugs, or maintenance physical activities as part of the symptomatic treatment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PMID:24991537

Tuberculosis of hip: A current concept review

PubMed Central

Saraf, Shyam Kumar; Tuli, Surendra Mohan

2015-01-01

Tuberculosis (TB) of the hip is second to spine only hence a good number of cases are visiting the medical facilities every year. Many present in the advanced stage of the disease due to delayed diagnosis. In early stages of TB of hip, there is a diagnostic dilemma when plain X-rays are negative. In the present time, diagnostic modalities have improved from the days when diagnosis was based essentially on clinicoradiological presentation alone. By the time definite radiological changes appear on plain X-ray, the disease has moderately advanced. The modern diagnostic facilities like ultrasonography (USG) or magnetic resonance imaging of the hip joint, USG guided aspiration of synovial fluid and obtaining the material for polymerase chain reaction and tissue diagnosis must be utilized. In the treatment, current emphasis is more on mobility with stability at hip. Joint debridement, skeletal traction, and mobilization exercises may give more satisfying results as compared to the immobilization by hip spica. Adults with advanced arthritis and healed infection should be informed and discussed the various treatment modalities including the joint replacement. More and more surgeons are taking up the challenge of putting the total hip replacement in the active stage of the disease. Until the long term results in active disease are well established, we recommend it for the healed disease only in selected cases. PMID:25593352

Tuberculosis of hip: A current concept review.

PubMed

Saraf, Shyam Kumar; Tuli, Surendra Mohan

2015-01-01

Tuberculosis (TB) of the hip is second to spine only hence a good number of cases are visiting the medical facilities every year. Many present in the advanced stage of the disease due to delayed diagnosis. In early stages of TB of hip, there is a diagnostic dilemma when plain X-rays are negative. In the present time, diagnostic modalities have improved from the days when diagnosis was based essentially on clinicoradiological presentation alone. By the time definite radiological changes appear on plain X-ray, the disease has moderately advanced. The modern diagnostic facilities like ultrasonography (USG) or magnetic resonance imaging of the hip joint, USG guided aspiration of synovial fluid and obtaining the material for polymerase chain reaction and tissue diagnosis must be utilized. In the treatment, current emphasis is more on mobility with stability at hip. Joint debridement, skeletal traction, and mobilization exercises may give more satisfying results as compared to the immobilization by hip spica. Adults with advanced arthritis and healed infection should be informed and discussed the various treatment modalities including the joint replacement. More and more surgeons are taking up the challenge of putting the total hip replacement in the active stage of the disease. Until the long term results in active disease are well established, we recommend it for the healed disease only in selected cases.

Exploring Eucladoceros ecomorphology using geometric morphometrics.

PubMed

Curran, Sabrina C

2015-01-01

An increasingly common method for reconstructing paleoenvironmental parameters of hominin sites is ecological functional morphology (ecomorphology). This study provides a geometric morphometric study of cervid rearlimb morphology as it relates to phylogeny, size, and ecomorphology. These methods are then applied to an extinct Pleistocene cervid, Eucladoceros, which is found in some of the earliest hominin-occupied sites in Eurasia. Variation in cervid postcranial functional morphology associated with different habitats can be summarized as trade-offs between joint stability versus mobility and rapid movement versus power-generation. Cervids in open habitats emphasize limb stability to avoid joint dislocation during rapid flight from predators. Closed-adapted cervids require more joint mobility to rapidly switch directions in complex habitats. Two skeletal features (of the tibia and calcaneus) have significant phylogenetic signals, while two (the femur and third phalanx) do not. Additionally, morphology of two of these features (tibia and third phalanx) were correlated with body size. For the tibial analysis (but not the third phalanx) this correlation was ameliorated when phylogeny was taken into account. Eucladoceros specimens from France and Romania fall on the more open side of the habitat continuum, a result that is at odds with reconstructions of their diet as browsers, suggesting that they may have had a behavioral regime unlike any extant cervid. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Joint Airlock Module is moved to the payload canister

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2001-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, the Joint Airlock Module is moved closer to the payload canister. The airlock will be installed in the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-104 to the International Space Station. The airlock is a pressurized flight element consisting of two cylindrical chambers attached end-to-end by a connecting bulkhead and hatch. Once installed and activated, the Airlock becomes the primary path for spacewalk entry to and departure from the Space Station for U.S. spacesuits, which are known as Extravehicular Mobility Units, or EMUs. In addition, the Joint Airlock is designed to support the Russian Orlan spacesuit for EVA activity. STS-104 is scheduled for launch June 14 from Launch Pad 39B.

A comparison of Kneipp hydrotherapy with conventional physiotherapy in the treatment of osteoarthritis: a pilot trial.

PubMed

Schencking, Martin; Wilm, Stefan; Redaelli, Marcus

2013-01-01

An increasingly aging population implies an increasing prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) of hip or knee. It has been ascertained that unspecific hydrotherapy of OA according to Sebastian Kneipp not only improves the range of mobility but also reduces pain significantly and increases the quality of life of the patients affected. The main aim of this pilot study was to determine the effects of hydrotherapy in comparison to conventional physiotherapy, and to analyze the feasibility of the study design under clinical circumstances. The study design is a prospective randomized controlled three-arm clinical pilot trial, carried out at a specialist clinic for integrative medicine. Thirty patients diagnosed with symptomatic OA of hip or knee and radiologic findings were randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups and a control group: hydrotherapy (group 1), physiotherapy (group 2), and both physiotherapy and hydrotherapy (group 3, control group) of the affected joint. pain intensity of the affected joint in the course of inpatient treatment; secondary outcome: health-related quality of life, joint-specific pain and mobility in the course of the study. Concerning the main outcome, intervention group 1 showed most beneficial effects in the course of inpatient treatment, followed by groups 3 and 2, and also the indirect flexion ability of hip or knee together with the general patient mobility through the "timed up and go" test were mainly improved within group 1 followed by groups 3 and 2. The results of this pilot study demonstrate beneficial effects of hydrotherapy. The study design is feasible. For statistically significant evidence and a robust conclusion of efficacy of Kneipp's hydrotherapy, a larger sample size is necessary. NCT 00950326.

Acute mobilization and migration of bone marrow-derived stem cells following anterior cruciate ligament rupture.

PubMed

Maerz, T; Fleischer, M; Newton, M D; Davidson, A; Salisbury, M; Altman, P; Kurdziel, M D; Anderson, K; Bedi, A; Baker, K C

2017-08-01

Little is known regarding acute local and systemic processes following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. No study has elucidated whether bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are mobilized into circulation and recruited to the injured joint. In Part 1, Lewis rats were randomized to noninvasive ACL rupture (Rupture) or non-injured (Control) (n = 6/group). After 72 h, whole blood MSC concentration was assessed using flow cytometry. Synovial fluid and serum were assayed for stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1α and cartilage degeneration biomarkers, respectively. In Part 2, 12 additional rats were randomized and intravenously-injected with fluorescently-labeled allogenic MSCs. Cell tracking was performed using longitudinal, in vivo and ex vivo near-infrared (NIR) imaging and histology. Synovium SDF-1α and interleukin (IL)-17A immunostaining was performed. Serum was assayed for SDF-1α and 29 other cytokines. In Part 1, there was a significant increase in MSC concentration and synovial fluid SDF-1α in Rupture. No differences in cartilage biomarkers were observed. In Part 2, Rupture had significantly higher NIR signal at 24, 48, and 72 h, indicating active recruitment of MSCs to the injured joint. Ex vivo cell tracking demonstrated MSC localization in the synovium and myotendinous junction (MTJ) of the quadriceps. Injured synovia exhibited increased synovitis grade and higher degree of IL-17A and SDF-1α immunostaining. ACL rupture induced peripheral blood mobilization of MSCs and migration of intravenously-injected allogenic MSCs to the injured joint, where they localized in the synovium and quadriceps MTJ. Copyright © 2017 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The relationships between instrumented measurements of ankle and knee ligamentous laxity and generalized joint laxity.

PubMed

Pearsall, A W; Kovaleski, J E; Heitman, R J; Gurchiek, L R; Hollis, J M

2006-03-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether lower extremity joint laxity is a function of a particular joint and/or a generalizable characteristic (trait) of the person. Validated instrumented measurements of ankle and knee joint-specific laxity in the same individual were correlated to determine whether a relationship exists. In addition, ankle and knee joint-specific laxity were correlated with generalized joint laxity using the modified Beighton mobility index. Fifty-seven male and female athletes were studied. We examined dominant ankle laxity using an ankle arthrometer and dominate knee anterior laxity using the KT 2000. The dominant ankle was loaded in anteroposterior (AP) drawer and inversion-eversion (I-E) rotation. Laxity was measured as total AP displacement (millimeters) after +/-125 N of applied force and total I-E rotation (degrees) was measured after +/-4 N x m of applied torque. The dominant knee was loaded with an anterior drawer and laxity (millimeters) was measured after manual maximum displacement. Non-significant correlations were observed among the test variables for generalized joint laxity (0.21 to 0.37; P>0.05) and instrumented ankle and knee joint laxity (0.19 to 0.21; P>0.05). When examined by gender, no statistically significant correlations (0.05 to 0.40; P>0.05) were found for either generalized laxity or instrumented ankle and knee joint laxity. These results imply that ankle and knee joint laxity are joint-specific and not generalizable.

Learning to play the violin: motor control by freezing, not freeing degrees of freedom.

PubMed

Konczak, Jürgen; Vander Velden, Heidi; Jaeger, Lukas

2009-05-01

Playing a violin requires precise patterns of limb coordination that are acquired over years of practice. In the present study, the authors investigated how motion at proximal arm joints influenced the precision of bow movements in novice learners and experts. The authors evaluated the performances of 11 children (4-12 years old), 3 beginning-to-advanced level adult players, and 2 adult concert violinists, using a musical work that all had mastered as their first violin piece. The authors found that learning to play the violin was not associated with a release or freeing of joint degrees of freedom. Instead, learning was characterized by an experience-dependent suppression of sagittal shoulder motion, as documented by an observed reduction in joint angular amplitude. This reduction in the amplitude of shoulder flexion-extension correlated highly with a decrease of bow-movement variability. The remaining mechanical degrees of freedom at the elbow and shoulder showed patterns of neither suppression nor freeing. Only violinists with more than 700 practice hr achieved sagittal shoulder range of motion comparable to experts. The findings imply that restricting joint amplitude at selected joint degrees of freedom, while leaving other degrees of freedom unconstrained, constitutes an appropriate strategy for learning complex, high-precision motor patterns in children and adults. The findings also highlight that mastering even seemingly simple bowing movements constitutes a prolonged learning process.

Skin strain patterns provide kinaesthetic information to the human central nervous system.

PubMed Central

Edin, B B; Johansson, N

1995-01-01

1. We investigated the contribution of skin strain-related sensory inputs to movement perception and execution in five normal volunteers. The dorsal and palmar skin of the middle phalanx and the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint were manipulated to generate specific strain patterns in the proximal part of the index finger. To mask sensations directly related to this manipulation, skin and deeper tissues were blocked distal to the mid-portion of the proximal phalanx of the index finger by local anaesthesia. 2. Subjects were asked to move their normal right index finger either to mimic any perceived movements of the anaesthetized finger or to touch the tip of the insentient finger. 3. All subjects readily reproduced actual movements induced by the experimenter at the anaesthetized PIP joint. However, all subjects also generated flexion movements when the experimenter did not induce actual movement but produced deformations in the sentient proximal skin that were similar to those observed during actual PIP joint flexion. Likewise, the subjects indicated extension movement at the PIP joint when strain patterns corresponding to extension movements were induced. 4. In contrast, when the skin strain in the proximal part of the index finger was damped by a ring applied just proximal to the PIP joint within the anaesthetized skin area, both tested subjects failed to perceive PIP movements that actually took place.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Images Figure 2 Figure 3 PMID:7473253

Ultrasonography and detection of subclinical joints and tendons involvements in Systemic Lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients: A cross-sectional multicenter study.

PubMed

Salliot, Carine; Denis, Amélie; Dernis, Emmanuelle; Andre, Vincent; Perdriger, Aleth; Albert, Jean-David; Mammou Mraghni, Saloua; Griffoul-Espitalier, Isabelle; Hamidou, Mohamed; Le Goff, Benoit; Joulin, Sandrine Jousse; Marhadour, Thierry; Richez, Christophe; Poursac, Nicolas; Lazaro, Estebaliz; Rist, Stéphanie; Corondan, Anca; Quinten, Clara; Martaillé, Virginie; Valéry, Antoine; Ducourau, Emilie

2018-02-15

The aims of this study in SLE population were (1) to describe ultrasonography (US) joint abnormalities, (2) to estimate the reliability of clinical swollen joint count (C-SJC) and SLEDAI (C-SLEDAI) versus US-SJC and US-SLEDAI scores, (3) to highlight specific patterns of lupus patients with Power Doppler (PD) abnormalities. For this cross-sectional multicenter study, 151 consecutive adult SLE patients were recruited. Evaluation included a clinical standardized joint assessment, B-mode and PD US of 40 joints and 26 tendons blinded for clinical examination. Reliability and agreement between clinical and B-mode US were calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC [95% Confidence Interval]). We found a very high frequency of subclinical US abnormalities in asymptomatic patients: 85% of patients without joint symptoms had at least 1 US abnormality. Among them 46 patients (87%) had a history of joint involvement. The most frequent abnormalities were joint effusmaions (108 patients), synovial hypertrophy (SH, 109 patients) and synovitis (61 patients). Joint or tendon PD signal (grade>1) was found in 44% of patients (67/151). Synovitis were mainly located especially on MCPs and wrists. Even if reliability between clinical and grey-scale US SJC assessments was poor, reliability between clinical and US SLEDAI was good. Comparison between SLE patients with and without PD signal did not show any specific SLE pattern. US may be useful to assess joint involvement in SLE patients but did not significantly change SLEDAI score. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier SAS.

Exploration of spatio-temporal patterns of students' movement in field trip by visualizing the log data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Nahye; Kang, Youngok

2018-05-01

A numerous log data in addition to user input data are being generated as mobile and web users continue to increase recently, and the studies in order to explore the patterns and meanings of various movement activities by making use of these log data are also rising rapidly. On the other hand, in the field of education, people have recognized the importance of field trip as the creative education is highlighted. Also, the examples which utilize the mobile devices in the field trip in accordance to the development of information technology are growing. In this study, we try to explore the patterns of student's activity by visualizing the log data generated from high school students' field trip with mobile device.

Natural progression of blood-induced joint damage in patients with haemophilia: clinical relevance and reproducibility of three-dimensional gait analysis.

PubMed

Lobet, S; Detrembleur, C; Francq, B; Hermans, C

2010-09-01

A major complication in haemophilia is the destruction of joint cartilage because of recurrent intraarticular and intramuscular bleeds. Therefore, joint assessment is critical to quantify the extent of joint damage, which has traditionally been evaluated using both radiological and clinical joint scores. Our study aimed to evaluate the natural progression of haemophilic arthopathy using three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) and to assess the reproducibility of this technique. We hypothesized that the musculoskeletal function was relatively stable in patients with haemophilia. Eighteen adults with established haemophilic arthropathies were evaluated twice by 3DGA (mean follow-up: 18 +/- 5 weeks). Unexpectedly, our findings revealed infraclinical deterioration of gait pattern, characterized by a 3.2% decrease in the recovery index, which is indicative of the subject's ability to save energy while walking. A tendency towards modification of segmental joint function was also observed. Gait analysis was sufficiently reproducible with regards to spatiotemporal parameters as well as kinetic, mechanical and energetic gait variables. The kinematic variables were reproducible in both the sagittal and frontal planes. In conclusion, 3DGA is a reproducible tool to assess abnormal gait patterns and monitor natural disease progression in haemophilic patients.

Influence of sociodemographics on human mobility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lenormand, Maxime; Louail, Thomas; Cantú-Ros, Oliva G.; Picornell, Miguel; Herranz, Ricardo; Arias, Juan Murillo; Barthelemy, Marc; Miguel, Maxi San; Ramasco, José J.

2015-05-01

Human mobility has been traditionally studied using surveys that deliver snapshots of population displacement patterns. The growing accessibility to ICT information from portable digital media has recently opened the possibility of exploring human behavior at high spatio-temporal resolutions. Mobile phone records, geolocated tweets, check-ins from Foursquare or geotagged photos, have contributed to this purpose at different scales, from cities to countries, in different world areas. Many previous works lacked, however, details on the individuals’ attributes such as age or gender. In this work, we analyze credit-card records from Barcelona and Madrid and by examining the geolocated credit-card transactions of individuals living in the two provinces, we find that the mobility patterns vary according to gender, age and occupation. Differences in distance traveled and travel purpose are observed between younger and older people, but, curiously, either between males and females of similar age. While mobility displays some generic features, here we show that sociodemographic characteristics play a relevant role and must be taken into account for mobility and epidemiological modelization.

Spatiotemporal Patterns of Urban Human Mobility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasan, Samiul; Schneider, Christian M.; Ukkusuri, Satish V.; González, Marta C.

2013-04-01

The modeling of human mobility is adopting new directions due to the increasing availability of big data sources from human activity. These sources enclose digital information about daily visited locations of a large number of individuals. Examples of these data include: mobile phone calls, credit card transactions, bank notes dispersal, check-ins in internet applications, among several others. In this study, we consider the data obtained from smart subway fare card transactions to characterize and model urban mobility patterns. We present a simple mobility model for predicting peoples' visited locations using the popularity of places in the city as an interaction parameter between different individuals. This ingredient is sufficient to reproduce several characteristics of the observed travel behavior such as: the number of trips between different locations in the city, the exploration of new places and the frequency of individual visits of a particular location. Moreover, we indicate the limitations of the proposed model and discuss open questions in the current state of the art statistical models of human mobility.