A Review of the Significance of Vision in the Remediation of Balance Control and Associated Falls Avoidance

2021 ◽  
pp. 201-214

Background: Loss of balance and falls are the primary cause of accidental death in persons over 65 years of age. This review examines the role of visual functions in the maintenance of a balanced posture and associated fall avoidance, including how visual functions interact with proprioceptive, tactile, vestibular and cognitive factors under a range of environmental circumstances and conditions. Methods: Reference to relevant articles from a wide range of sources were used to examine how vision functions are usually integrated with other senses in avoiding falls. Results: Under most conditions vision can make an important contribution to posture control and fall avoidance although such contributions have not always been recognized in the past. However, successful balance training has been shown to be associated with multi-component programs. Conclusions: Given the complexity of posture control and the multiple changes (physiological- and disease-related) which occur with age, as well as the capacity for different professional groups to contribute more or less dissimilar fall prevention strategies, it is not surprising that there appears to be great potential for improved interdisciplinary coordination of remedial interventions which reduce the risk of fall-related injuries and death. Similarly, overcoming age- or frailty-related difficulties in standing from a seated position can be best handled by interdisciplinary approaches.

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 20160151 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angela Logan ◽  
Michael P. Murphy

Our understanding of the role of mitochondria in biomedical sciences has expanded considerably over the past decade. In addition to their well-known metabolic roles, mitochondrial are also central to signalling for various processes through the generation of signals such as ROS and metabolites that affect cellular homeostasis, as well as other processes such as cell death and inflammation. Thus, mitochondrial function and dysfunction are central to the health and fate of the cell. Consequently, there is considerable interest in better understanding and assessing the many roles of mitochondria. Furthermore, there is also a growing realization that mitochondrial are a promising drug target in a wide range of pathologies. The application of interdisciplinary approaches at the interface between chemistry and biology are opening up new opportunities to understand mitochondrial function and in assessing the role of the organelle in biology. This work and the experience thus gained are leading to the development of new classes of therapies. Here, we overview the progress that has been made to date on exploring the chemical biology of the organelle and then focus on future challenges and opportunities that face this rapidly developing field.


1989 ◽  
Vol 33 (2) ◽  
pp. 124-128 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor Riley

The increasing role of automation in human-machine systems requires modelling approaches which are flexible enough to systematically express a large range of automation levels and assist the exploration of a large range of automation issues. A General Model of Mixed-Initiative Human-Machine Systems is described, along with a corresponding automation taxonomy, which: provides a framework for representing human-machine systems over a wide range of complexity; forms the basis of a dynamic, pseudo-mathematical simulation of complex interrelationships between situational and cognitive factors operating in dynamic function allocation decisions; and can guide methodical investigations into the implications of decisions regarding system automation levels.


Author(s):  
I. B. Ushakov ◽  
A. V. Bogomolov

Relevance. Physiologically adequate and up-to-date methods are needed for diagnosing functional states in humans during occupational activities.Intention – Analysis of priority studies of domestic physiological schools in the field of diagnostics of human functional states and identification of priority studies, which are associated with the expected progress in the subject area.Methodology. On the basis of a systematic approach, there were reviewed fundamental studies of Russian physiological schools defining key approaches to the diagnosis of human functional states: from the foundations of the natural science research of human states in the process of activity, laid down by I.M. Sechenov, to the achievements of the modern Russian physiological school, one of the leaders of which is Academician A.D. Nozdrachev.Results and Discussion. The features of physiological diagnostics of functional states are shown, an important role of complex interdisciplinary approaches for solving problems of diagnostics based on the results of physiological studies is emphasized. The emphasis is made on the fact that methods for diagnosing human conditions in the process of activity should be guided by the dominant corresponding to each functional state, and take into account that various functional systems of the body are mobilized to ensure this state, with individually specific degree of their involvement in the formation of a functional state. At the same time, when diagnosing functional states it is necessary to take into account complex impacts of occupational factors and use approaches specific for socio-professional groups with the fullest possible consideration of their occupational tasks.Conclusion. It has been shown that methods for diagnosing functional states require development and improvement based on the results of fundamental physiological research, which determine approaches to the diagnosis of human states in the process of activity.


Physiotherapy ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 21 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Izabela Drzewowska ◽  
Małgorzata Sobera ◽  
Aleksandra Sikora

AbstractAim of the study: The aim of this study was to verify whether the 5-month training exercises using specific balance exercises of the authorial program improves body balance control in children with Down syndrome (DS).Materials and methods: The purpose of this study was the verification if the 5-months posture control exercises training by original program relays to posture control in Down syndrome (DS) children and youth. The subjects were 8 DS persons: 4 males and 4 females, aged 13-24. Two 20-seconds consecutive trails of natural bipedal standing position on 2 force platforms AccuSway (AMTI), one under each foot, were performed during research. On the basis of COP (centre of pressure) time series the following indices were computed: range, variability, velocity and area of COP shifts. There were 2 sessions of the research: one just before and the second just after 5-month lasting specific posture control training based on the original exercise program.Results: The results revealed decreasing of the COP velocity of right lower limb and the COP range in anterior-posterior direction of both lower limbs after the training, comparing to the values from the first research session.Conclusions: It is concluded that the specific posture control training by the presenting of the original exercises program influenced the posture control improving it and the program can be used in therapy of DS children and youth.


2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 162-173 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sascha Zuber ◽  
Matthias Kliegel

Abstract. Prospective Memory (PM; i.e., the ability to remember to perform planned tasks) represents a key proxy of healthy aging, as it relates to older adults’ everyday functioning, autonomy, and personal well-being. The current review illustrates how PM performance develops across the lifespan and how multiple cognitive and non-cognitive factors influence this trajectory. Further, a new, integrative framework is presented, detailing how those processes interplay in retrieving and executing delayed intentions. Specifically, while most previous models have focused on memory processes, the present model focuses on the role of executive functioning in PM and its development across the lifespan. Finally, a practical outlook is presented, suggesting how the current knowledge can be applied in geriatrics and geropsychology to promote healthy aging by maintaining prospective abilities in the elderly.


2015 ◽  
Vol 24 (01) ◽  
pp. 7-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Pfeifer ◽  
M. Sinaki

SummaryThe objective of exercise in the treatment of osteoporosis is to improve axial stability through strengthening of back extensor muscles. Therefore, a back extension exercise program specific to one’s musculoskeletal competence and pain can be performed in a sitting position and later advanced to the prone position. When fragility is resolved, back extension is performed against resistance applied to the upper back. A significant reduction in back pain, kyphosis, and risk of falls and an improvement in the level of physical activity have been achieved through the SPEED (Spinal Proprioceptive Extension Exercise Dynamic) program. In addition, the application of a “Posture Training Support” (PTS) using a backpack may decrease kyphosis and pain related not only to compression fractures but also reduce iliocostal friction. Therapeutic exercise should address osteo - porosis-related deformities of axial posture, which can increase risk of fall and fracture. Thus, the role of a therapeutic exercise program is to increase muscle strength safely, decrease immobility-related complications, and prevent fall and fracture. As with pharmacotherapy, therapeutic exercises are individualized.


2008 ◽  
pp. 61-76
Author(s):  
A. Porshakov ◽  
A. Ponomarenko

The role of monetary factor in generating inflationary processes in Russia has stimulated various debates in social and scientific circles for a relatively long time. The authors show that identification of the specificity of relationship between money and inflation requires a complex approach based on statistical modeling and involving a wide range of indicators relevant for the price changes in the economy. As a result a model of inflation for Russia implying the decomposition of inflation dynamics into demand-side and supply-side factors is suggested. The main conclusion drawn is that during the recent years the volume of inflationary pressures in the Russian economy has been determined by the deviation of money supply from money demand, rather than by money supply alone. At the same time, monetary factor has a long-run spread over time impact on inflation.


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