A Novel Push-pull Central-lever Mechanism Reduces Peak Forces and Energy-cost Compared to Hand-rim Wheelchair Propulsion During a Controlled Lab-based Experiment

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas A le Rütte ◽  
Fransisca Trigo ◽  
Luca Bessems ◽  
Lucas HV van der Woude ◽  
Riemer JK Vegter
Keyword(s):  
Energy Expenditure ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Perceived Exertion ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Mechanical Efficiency ◽  
Wheelchair Propulsion ◽  
Physiological Strain ◽  
Wheelchair Users ◽  
Propulsion Mechanism ◽  
Push And Pull

Abstract Background: Hand-rim wheelchair propulsion is straining and mechanically inefficient, often leading to upper limb complaints. Previous push-pull lever propulsion mechanisms have shown to perform better or equal in efficiency and physiological strain. Propulsion biomechanics have not been evaluated thus far. A novel push-pull central-lever propulsion mechanism is compared to conventional hand-rim wheelchair propulsion, using both physiological and biomechanical outcomes under low-intensity steady-state conditions on a motor driven treadmill. Methods: In this 5-day (distributed over a maximum of 21 days) between-group experiment, 30 able-bodied novices performed 60 minutes (5x3x4 min) of practice in either the push-pull central lever wheelchair (n=15) or the hand-rim wheelchair (n=15). At the first and final sessions cardiopulmonary strain, propulsion kinematics and force production were determined in both instrumented propulsion mechanisms. Repeated measures ANOVA evaluated between (propulsion mechanism type), within (over practice) and interaction effects. Results: Over practice, both groups significantly improved on all outcome measures. After practice the peak forces during the push and pull phase of lever propulsion were considerably lower compared to those in the handrim push phase (42±10 & 46±10 vs 63±21 N). Concomitantly, energy expenditure was found to be lower as well (263±45 vs 298±59 W), on the other hand gross mechanical efficiency (6.4±1.5 vs 5.9±1.3 %), heart-rate (97±10 vs 98±10 bpm) and perceived exertion (9±2 vs 10±1) were not significantly different between modes.Conclusion: The current study shows the potential benefits of the newly designed push-pull central-lever propulsion mechanism over regular hand rim wheelchair propulsion. The much lower forces and energy expenditure might help to reduce the strain on the upper extremities and thus prevent the development of overuse injury. This proof of concept in a controlled laboratory experiment warrants continued experimental research in wheelchair-users during daily life.

scholarly journals Energy expenditure and perceived exertion during active video games in relation to player mode and gender

Kinesiology ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 50 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giuseppe Francesco Giancotti ◽  
Cristina Cortis
Keyword(s):  
Video Games ◽  
Energy Expenditure ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Perceived Exertion ◽  
Body Height ◽  
Rating Of Perceived Exertion ◽  
Alternative Form ◽  
Moderate Physical Activity ◽  
Active Video Games ◽  
Active Video

Active video games (AVG) increase energy expenditure (EE) with respect to sedentary video games. Although several AVG consoles allow playing in single-player (SP) or multiplayer (MP) mode, few studies investigated differences in relation to game modality in men and women. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate gender-related psycho-physiological responses during Zumba Fitness Rush (ZFR) played in SP vs. MP mode. Twenty-four college students (women: 14, men: 10; age: 24.6±2.0 years; body weight: 60.2±12.5 kg; body height: 167.8±11.5 cm; BMI: 21.2±2.1 kg·m-2) participated in two experimental sessions: SP (a subject playing ZFR alone) and MP (two subjects playing ZFR simultaneously). Heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption (VO2) and EE (MET and kcal∙min-1) were continuously measured and averaged every 10 seconds, while Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was recorded 30 minutes after the end of each session. A two (gender: women vs. men) by two (modality: SP vs. MP) ANOVA for repeated measures was applied. No differences emerged in relation to gender and game mode for %HRmax, VO2, MET, and RPE. Conversely, a main effect (p=.0007) for gender was found in EE, with significantly (p<.004) higher values in men in SP (women: 5.5±0.6 kcal·min-1; men: 8.3±1.4 kcal·min-1) and MP (women: 5.3±0.7 kcal·min-1; men: 7.6±1.9 kcal·min-1). Present findings suggest that ZFR could be classified as a moderate physical activity, proving to be an alternative form to traditional exercise. Although an effect of number of players could be expected, different player modes did not affect EE, probably because the rhythm of the music imposes a time constraint, independently of the presence of other players.

scholarly journals Cardiac mechanical efficiency is preserved in primary cardiac hypertrophy despite impaired mechanical function

2021 ◽  
Vol 153 (8) ◽  
Author(s):  
June-Chiew Han ◽  
Kenneth Tran ◽  
David J. Crossman ◽  
Claire L. Curl ◽  
Parisa Koutsifeli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Energy Efficiency ◽  
Energy Expenditure ◽  
Cardiac Hypertrophy ◽  
Mechanical Performance ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Premature Mortality ◽  
Mechanical Efficiency ◽  
Left Ventricular ◽  
Heat Output ◽  
Cross Bridge

Increased heart size is a major risk factor for heart failure and premature mortality. Although abnormal heart growth subsequent to hypertension often accompanies disturbances in mechano-energetics and cardiac efficiency, it remains uncertain whether hypertrophy is their primary driver. In this study, we aimed to investigate the direct association between cardiac hypertrophy and cardiac mechano-energetics using isolated left-ventricular trabeculae from a rat model of primary cardiac hypertrophy and its control. We evaluated energy expenditure (heat output) and mechanical performance (force length work production) simultaneously at a range of preloads and afterloads in a microcalorimeter, we determined energy expenditure related to cross-bridge cycling and Ca2+ cycling (activation heat), and we quantified energy efficiency. Rats with cardiac hypertrophy exhibited increased cardiomyocyte length and width. Their trabeculae showed mechanical impairment, evidenced by lower force production, extent and kinetics of shortening, and work output. Lower force was associated with lower energy expenditure related to Ca2+ cycling and to cross-bridge cycling. However, despite these changes, both mechanical and cross-bridge energy efficiency were unchanged. Our results show that cardiac hypertrophy is associated with impaired contractile performance and with preservation of energy efficiency. These findings provide direction for future investigations targeting metabolic and Ca2+ disturbances underlying cardiac mechanical and energetic impairment in primary cardiac hypertrophy.

Validity of Physical Activity Monitors for Estimating Energy Expenditure During Wheelchair Propulsion

2015 ◽  
Vol 12 (11) ◽  
pp. 1520-1526 ◽  
Author(s):  
Scott A. Conger ◽  
Stacy N. Scott ◽  
Eugene C. Fitzhugh ◽  
Dixie L. Thompson ◽  
David R. Bassett
Keyword(s):  
Energy Expenditure ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Prediction Equation ◽  
Level Surface ◽  
Wheelchair Propulsion ◽  
Activity Monitors ◽  
Repeated Measures Anova ◽  
Main Effect ◽  
Physical Activity Monitors ◽  
Criterion Method

Background:It is unknown if activity monitors can detect the increased energy expenditure (EE) of wheelchair propulsion at different speeds or on different surfaces.Methods:Individuals who used manual wheelchairs (n = 14) performed 5 wheeling activities: on a level surface at 3 speeds, on a rubberized track at 1 fixed speed and on a sidewalk course at a self-selected speed. EE was measured using a portable indirect calorimetry system and estimated by an Actical (AC) worn on the wrist and a SenseWear (SW) activity monitor worn on the upper arm. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare measured EE to the estimates from the standard AC prediction equation and SW using 2 different equations.Results:Repeated-measures ANOVA demonstrated a significant main effect between measured EE and estimated EE. There were no differences between the criterion method and the AC across the 5 activities. The SW overestimated EE when wheeling at 3 speeds on a level surface, and during sidewalk wheeling. The wheelchair-specific SW equation improved the EE prediction during low intensity activities, but error progressively increased during higher intensity activities.Conclusions:During manual wheelchair propulsion, the wrist-mounted AC provided valid estimates of EE, whereas the SW tended to overestimate EE.

scholarly journals Assessment of Wheelchair Propulsion Performance in an Immersive Virtual Reality Simulator

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (15) ◽  
pp. 8016
Author(s):  
Yu-Sheng Yang ◽  
Alicia M. Koontz ◽  
Yu-Hsuan Hsiao ◽  
Cheng-Tang Pan ◽  
Jyh-Jong Chang
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Spinal Cord Injuries ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Wheelchair Propulsion ◽  
Subjective Data ◽  
Wheelchair Users ◽  
Head Mounted Display ◽  
Propulsion Performance

Maneuvering a wheelchair is an important necessity for the everyday life and social activities of people with a range of physical disabilities. However, in real life, wheelchair users face several common challenges: articulate steering, spatial relationships, and negotiating obstacles. Therefore, our research group has developed a head-mounted display (HMD)-based intuitive virtual reality (VR) stimulator for wheelchair propulsion. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of this VR stimulator for wheelchair propulsion performance. Twenty manual wheelchair users (16 men and 4 women) with spinal cord injuries ranging from T8 to L2 participated in this study. The differences in wheelchair propulsion kinematics between immersive and non-immersive VR environments were assessed using a 3D motion analysis system. Subjective data of the HMD-based intuitive VR stimulator were collected with a Presence Questionnaire and individual semi-structured interview at the end of the trial. Results indicated that propulsion performance was very similar in terms of start angle (p = 0.34), end angle (p = 0.46), stroke angle (p = 0.76), and shoulder movement (p = 0.66) between immersive and non-immersive VR environments. In the VR episode featuring an uphill journey, an increase in propulsion speed (p < 0.01) and cadence (p < 0.01) were found, as well as a greater trunk forward inclination (p = 0.01). Qualitative interviews showed that this VR simulator made an attractive, novel impression and therefore demonstrated the potential as a tool for stimulating training motivation. This HMD-based intuitive VR stimulator can be an effective resource to enhance wheelchair maneuverability experiences.

A Systematic Review of Submaximal Cycle Tests to Predict, Monitor, and Optimize Cycling Performance

2016 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 707-714 ◽  
Author(s):  
Benoit Capostagno ◽  
Michael I. Lambert ◽  
Robert P. Lamberts
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Power Output ◽  
Perceived Exertion ◽  
Heart Rate Recovery ◽  
Mechanical Efficiency ◽  
Cycling Performance ◽  
Rating Of Perceived Exertion ◽  
Time To Exhaustion ◽  
Gross Mechanical Efficiency ◽  
Multiple Variables

Finding the optimal balance between high training loads and recovery is a constant challenge for cyclists and their coaches. Monitoring improvements in performance and levels of fatigue is recommended to correctly adjust training to ensure optimal adaptation. However, many performance tests require a maximal or exhaustive effort, which reduces their real-world application. The purpose of this review was to investigate the development and use of submaximal cycling tests that can be used to predict and monitor cycling performance and training status. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, and 3 separate submaximal cycling tests were identified from within those 12. Submaximal variables including gross mechanical efficiency, oxygen uptake (VO2), heart rate, lactate, predicted time to exhaustion (pTE), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), power output, and heart-rate recovery (HRR) were the components of the 3 tests. pTE, submaximal power output, RPE, and HRR appear to have the most value for monitoring improvements in performance and indicate a state of fatigue. This literature review shows that several submaximal cycle tests have been developed over the last decade with the aim to predict, monitor, and optimize cycling performance. To be able to conduct a submaximal test on a regular basis, the test needs to be short in duration and as noninvasive as possible. In addition, a test should capture multiple variables and use multivariate analyses to interpret the submaximal outcomes correctly and alter training prescription if needed.

Roller Massage Prior to Running Does Not Affect Gait Mechanics in Well-Trained Runners

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-9
Author(s):  
Jessica G. Hunter ◽  
Gina L. Garcia ◽  
Sushant M. Ranadive ◽  
Jae Kun Shim ◽  
Ross H. Miller
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Reaction Force ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Endurance Athletes ◽  
Jump Height ◽  
Jump Performance ◽  
Average Load ◽  
Load Rate ◽  
Free Moment ◽  
Muscle Force Production

Context: Understanding if roller massage prior to a run can mitigate fatigue-related decrements in muscle force production during prolonged running is important because of the association between fatigue and running-related injury. Objective: The authors investigated whether a bout of roller massage prior to running would (1) mitigate fatigue-related increases in vertical average load rate and free moment of the ground reaction force of running and (2) mitigate decreases in maximal countermovement jump height. Design: Repeated-measures study. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: A total of 14 recreational endurance athletes (11 men and 3 women) volunteered for the study. Interventions: A 12.5-minute foam roller protocol for the lower extremities and a fatiguing 30-minute treadmill run. Main Outcome Measures: Vertical average load rate, free moment, and maximal jump height before (PRE) and after (POST) the fatiguing treadmill run on separate experimental days: once where participants sat quietly prior to the fatiguing run (REST) and another where the foam roller protocol was performed prior to the run (ROLL). Results: A 2-way multiple analysis of variance found no significant differences in vertical average load rate, free moment, and jump height between PRE/POST times in both REST/ROLL conditions. Conclusions: The authors concluded that recreational endurance athletes maintain running mechanics and jump performance after a fatiguing run regardless of prerun roller massage and may not rely on prerun roller massage as a form of injury prevention.

Mental Fatigue Reduces the Benefits of Self-Controlled Feedback on Learning a Force Production Task

2021 ◽  
pp. 003151252110373
Author(s):  
Milad Khojasteh Moghani ◽  
Rasool Zeidabadi ◽  
Mohammad Reza Shahabi Kaseb ◽  
Iman Bahreini Borujeni
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Transfer Test ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Mental Fatigue ◽  
The Self ◽  
Acquisition Phase ◽  
Production Task ◽  
Significant Group ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Force Production Task

This study investigated the impact of mental fatigue and self-controlled versus yoked feedback on learning a force production task. We randomly assigned 44 non-athlete male students (Mage = 21.4, SD = 1.4 years) to four groups; (a) MF&SCF = mental fatigue & self-controlled feedback, (b) MF&Y = mental fatigue & yoked, (c) NMF&SCF = no mental fatigue & self-controlled feedback, and (d) NMF&Y = no mental fatigue & yoked). SCF group participants were provided feedback whenever they requested it, while YK group participants received feedback according to a schedule created by their SCF counterparts. To induce mental fatigue, participants performed a Stroop color-word task for one hour. During the acquisition (practice) phase, participants were asked to produce a given percentage of their maximum force (20%) in 12 blocks of six trials. We recorded the participants’ absolute error at the end of the acquisition phase, the immediate retention test, the first transfer test, and the second transfer test (after 24 hours and without any further mental fatigue). The acquisition phase data were analyzed in a 2 (feedback) × 2 (mental fatigue) × 12 (block) ANOVA with repeated measures on the last factor, while the retention and transfer data were analyzed in 2 (feedback) × 2 (mental fatigue) ANOVAs. We found that all four groups made significant progress during practice ( p < .001), but there were no significant group differences during this phase ( p>.05). There was a significant interaction effect of self-controlled feedback and mental fatigue at retention ( p = .018) and transfer testing ( p < .001). In the mental fatigue condition, participants in the self-controlled group had poorer learning compared to participants in the yoked group; but when not mentally fatigued, participants in the self-controlled group had better learning than those in the yoked group. These findings suggest that mental fatigue reduces typical advantages of self-controlled feedback in motor learning.

Heart rate responses of two breeds of four-gaited horses to a standardised field gaited test

2012 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 41-46 ◽  
Author(s):  
H.C. Manso Filho ◽  
H.E.C.C.C. Manso ◽  
K.H. McKeever ◽  
S.R.R. Duarte ◽  
J.M.G. Abreu
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Energy Expenditure ◽  
Negative Correlation ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Recovery Period ◽  
T Test ◽  
Heart Rate Monitor ◽  
Positive Correlation ◽  
Gaited Horses ◽  
Athletic Horse

In order to understand how gaited horses use their energy during exercise, a standardised field gaited test (SFGT) was developed to assess energy expenditure of four beat gaited horses independently of size, sex or breed. This work aimed at developing such an SFGT, using as main measurement parameter the heart rate (HR) of horses during the SFGT performance. Thirty-one four beat gaited horses were evaluated and divided into two groups: FIT (conditioned) and UNFIT (not conditioned). Horses were submitted to the SFGT and their heart rates were measured with a heart rate monitor as follows: right after being mounted, at the beginning of pre-test (HRSADDLE); at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes of four beat gait dislocation; and at 15 minutes after the recovery period (T+15). Maximum HR (HRMAX); HR percentage over 150 beats per minute (HR%≯150), HR percentage over 170 beats per minute (HR%≯170), and average HR during the four beat gait stage (HRM@M) of SFGT were calculated. Results were analysed by ANOVA for repeated measures. Where significant differences were observed, ‘T’ test was performed and significance was set at 5%. The FIT group presented HRMAX, HR+15, HRM@M, HR%≯150 and HR%≯170 rates lower (P<0.05) than the UNFIT group. It was noted that there was a negative correlation between fitness and HRMAX (R=−0.67; P<0.001) and a positive correlation between HRMAX and HR+15 (R=0.60; P<0.001) when comparing the FIT to the UNFIT horses. In conclusion, during the SFGT, the FIT group was more efficient in energy expenditure than the UNFIT group, based on the results observed for the significantly lower HRs during the SFGT. It is relevant to note that the SFGT developed and used in this research, which was easily reproduced and accurate, was able to detect and confirm important adaptations related to fitness in the athletic horse.

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