bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational Socialization and the Design of Teacher Education Programs
Authors: Lawson Hal A.
Published: August 2016

The following analysis is one-sided and selective. It is an attempt to derive guidelines for the design of teacher education programs from recent work on the occupational socialization of physical educationists. The work cited is limited almost exclusively to that completed by the author and his former students. This can be justified insofar as this analysis doubles as a benchmark for an additive and integrative research program, indicating which questions need to be asked next and signalling the practical significance of past work. The discussion begins with a definitional treatment of occupational socialization prior to identifying guidelines for teacher education programs.
Concerns of Inservice Physical Education Teachers as Compared with Fuller’s Concern Model
Authors: McBride Ronald E. , Boggess Theresa E. , Griffey David C.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify and assess the kinds of concerns expressed by experienced physical education teachers and to compare them to Fuller’s postulated developmental theory of teaching concerns. The study also sought to assess the applicability of the Teacher Concerns Questionnaire (TCQ) instrument in a physical education environment. Data were subjected to factor analysis, where it was found that, overall, the experienced teachers did follow Fuller’s three stages of development. Two distinct constellations were identified, as was a third, weaker constellation. This third factor corresponded to Fuller’s task scale and additional study is recommended to identify items more appropriate to an inservice physical education environment. The authors make recommendations for follow-up experiences in an inservice setting.
Physical Education Student Teachers’ Beliefs in Their Control Over Student Learning
Authors: Schempp Paul G.
Published: August 2016

This study determined changes in physical education student teachers’ beliefs (perceptions) of control over student learning. A pre-post student teaching design was used to detect changes in beliefs of 44 volunteer physical education student teachers. Beliefs in control over learning outcomes were measured by the Teacher Locus of Control scale. Pretesting was completed 5 weeks prior to teaching, and posttesting was administered at the completion of the 10-week student teaching experience. Data were gathered over a 2-year period. Data analyzed via a paired t-test indicated the student teachers’ belief of responsibility for student learning was decreased. Specifically, total responsibility for student outcomes and responsibility for student failure showed significant p < .05) decreases. No change in beliefs regarding control over student success was detected. A multiple regression analysis revealed significant p < .05) gender differences on the postteaching composite score. It appeared that males showed a significantly greater overall decrease in perceptions of beliefs of control over student learning.
Validating the Collective Wisdom of Teacher Educators
Authors: Landin Dennis K. , Hawkins Andrew , Wiegand Robert L.
Published: August 2016

This investigation sought to validate a taxonomy of strategies used in formulating the feedback supplied to teacher trainees involved in the peer teaching segment of a secondary methods class. Lesson deficiencies were diagnosed through analysis of student and teacher process behavior data. Certain student and teacher response classes were selected for each trainee as dependent variables (DVs) and targeted for improvement. Goals were set for each DV and strategies for improvement were suggested by teacher educators (TEs). These strategies, selected from a taxonomy developed in previous work (Hawkins, Wiegand, & Landin, 1985), served as independent variables (IVs). A modified changing criterion design was employed to evaluate the data. Strategy effectiveness was determined by analyzing the degree to which trainees met data-based goals for the targeted response classes. Results indicated that several strategies seemed useful for a wide variety of activities. Also indicated by the results is the need for teacher trainers to be better prepared to handle large classes.
Effects of Audiocueing on Teacher Verbal Praise of Students’ Managerial and Transitional Task Performance
Authors: van der Mars Hans
Published: August 2016

Audiocueing by way of a microcassette recorder was used to change a female student teacher’s (S1) use of verbal praise of students’ overall class behavior. A second student teacher’s (S2) behavior teaching in the same setting was used as concurrent baseline measure. Both subjects taught K-3 classes at a rural elementary school. An ABAB reversal design was used to determine the relationship between the intervention and dependent variables. Results showed that when audiocues were introduced, verbal praise rate increased significantly. Upon removal of the audiocues, the rate of verbal praise decreased gradually. Percentage of specific verbal praise also increased upon presentation of audiocues. Experimental significance found through visual inspection of graphic data was supported statistically by f-test results. Findings of the exit interview with S1 are included. Suggestions for further research are provided.
Humanizing the Undergraduate Physical Education Curriculum
Authors: Ross Saul
Published: August 2016

Institutions have an impact on the value systems of their inhabitants. A university, as an institution, exerts its influence on the undergraduates’ values, in large measure through the curriculum, which has as one of its functions teaching specific ways of looking at the world. Based on these insights, certain philosophical issues are raised regarding the impact the undergraduate curriculum is likely to have on our students with regard to their understanding and appreciation of persons. Once acquired, this understanding has considerable import for their professional practice. A survey of the undergraduate curricula in Canadian universities was conducted, and the results showed the sparse offerings in the humanities when compared to the biophysical and social sciences. The branch of learning that is most concerned with a humanistic orientation is the humanities and, at times, psychology and sociology. Recommendations are made to reorder the curriculum to provide better balance.
The Development of a Computerized Coaching Analysis System for Recording Behavior in Sporting Environments
Authors: Franks Ian M. , Johnson Robert B. , Sinclair Gary D.
Published: August 2016

A computerized coaching analysis system (CCAS) is described, consisting of a series of systematic observation instruments that allow the collection of behavioral data on both the coach and the athlete. This system is composed of three interactive computer programs that structure the acquisition, immediate analysis, and storage of pertinent observable behaviors displayed by coaches and athletes during a typical coaching practice. Three separate observation instruments are outlined in detail and the discussion of their use centers on the general application of this technology in the sporting milieu.
Paradigmatic Confusions and the Evasion of Critical Issues in Naturalistic Research
Authors: Sparkes Andrew C.
Published: August 2016

This paper considers the implications of claiming allegiance to the naturalistic research paradigm. It suggests that the two paradigms that presently dominate research into physical education are separate and distinct, with attempts to bring them together in a “marriage of convenience” being misguided. Claims for compatibility are focused upon in order to highlight the prevailing confusion between philosophical and technical issues in the research process which often leads to calls for methodological pluralism. These two issues are seen to be intimately linked in the production of a resonant research process that raises questions as to the appropriateness, and ability, of certain methodologies to properly reflect the epistemological framework in which they are embedded. The implications of such a linkage is explored, and naturalistic researchers are implored to reduce their parasitic reliance upon positivism by confronting the central dilemmas of engagement with their own antifoundational paradigm.
Effects of Specific Verbal Praise on Off-Task Behavior of Second-Grade Students in Physical Education
Authors: van der Mars Hans
Published: August 2016

The effects of specific verbal praise by an experienced male physical education specialist on off-task behavior of three second-grade students were studied. A multiple baseline research design across subjects was used to assess the intervention, consisting of teacher praise aimed at the subjects’ class conduct and motor skill performance. To ensure that (a) the intervention would be implemented, and (b) that the praise would be contingent upon appropriate student conduct and skill performance, audio-cues were provided by way of prerecorded cues on microcassettes. Two boys and one girl in a second-grade class served as subjects. Off-task behavior and teacher praise data were collected from videotapes of 15 regular physical education classes. Results showed that the baseline levels of off-task levels were reduced significantly after introduction of the intervention for each subject. Specific verbal praise was effective in reducing off-task behavior of second-grade students in physical education.
The Effect of the Inner Game Method versus the Progressive Method on Learning Motor Skills
Authors: Madden Geraldine , McGown Carl
Published: August 2016

This study compared the effect of the Gallwey inner game method with the progressive method, as presented in the U.S. Volleyball Association Level 1 Technical Manual, on the learning of volleyball skills. The interaction of the methods with hemispheric dominance was also investigated. Hemisphericity was assessed using the Herrmann Participant Survey Form (HPSF). Volleyball skill was evaluated with a modification of the Barbarich (1980) Forearm Pass Test (BFPT) and a team game called cooperation. Undergraduate volunteers were divided into four groups. Two groups were taught by the inner game method and the other two groups were taught by the progressive method. Analysis of variance on the gain scores of the BFPT revealed no significant differences between the methods for forearm pass. There were also no differences on the team scores for cooperation, nor was there any significant interaction between brain dominance and either method. Thus, the prediction that right hemisphere dominant students would profit more if taught by the inner game method and that left hemisphere dominant students would profit more through the progressive method was not realized.
Teaching and Coaching: A Comparison of Instructional Behaviors
Authors: Rupert Terry , Buschner Craig
Published: August 2016

Researchers have studied teaching and coaching separately, despite the fact that these roles overlap. The purpose of this study was to compare the instructional behaviors of educators who were engaged in the dual role of teaching high school physical education and coaching baseball. Nine teacher/coaches were observed using the ASU Observation Instrument. Of the 13 behavioral categories observed, significant differences were found in 5 categories. Coaching behaviors were greater for preinstruction, praise, and silence. Teaching behaviors were greater for the categories of management and the category “other.” The results demonstrate that instructional behaviors can vary depending upon context. This study supplements a beginning data base for comparisons of pedagogical behaviors of teacher/coaches.
The Ivory Tower: Myth or Reality?
Authors: Williamson Kay M.
Published: August 2016

Teacher educators often are criticized because it is felt that they live in an ivory tower and are out of touch with the current realities of public schools. This paper describes how physical education teacher educators perceive their relationship with public school professionals. Fifteen participants were interviewed from both university and college settings, eight women and seven men. They were interviewed on three occasions, each interview lasting from 60 to 90 minutes. A common thread connecting the experiences of the participants was their awareness of an implicit hierarchy between the status of individuals employed in schools and those in universities. This creates a social barrier that teachers and professors alike must confront if they are to achieve functional parity or any degree of mutual comfort in collaborative relationships.
An Observational Study of a Successful Pop Warner Football Coach
Authors: Segrave Jeffrey O. , Ciancio Claude A.
Published: August 2016

In recent years, coaching behavior has been subjected to detailed scrutiny through the development and application of systematic observation techniques. This study extended this line of research into the area of youth sports by analyzing the coaching behavior of a successful Pop Warner football coach, Beau Kilmer. The study also sought to compare Kilmer’s coaching profile with the profiles of two successful college coaches, namely UCLA basketball coach John Wooden and Arizona State University football coach Frank Kush. The specific research tool used was the Coaching Behavior Recording Form. Twenty practices were sampled for observation. Data were compiled using event recording techniques. The results indicated that although instruction ranked first for all three coaches, Kilmer differed from Wooden and Kush in most other respects. The data suggest a differential use of coaching behaviors commensurate with the age and background of the athletes involved.
Children’s Attitudes Toward Physical Activity in Classes Taught by Specialist versus Nonspecialist P.E. Teachers
Authors: Patterson Patricia , Faucette Nell
Published: August 2016

The purpose of the study was to determine if there were differences in attitudes toward physical activity for children in classes taught by specialists versus those taught by nonspecialists. Fourth- and fifth-grade children (N = 414) from four schools participated in the study. Two schools had P.E. specialists teaching the P.E. classes while the other two schools had classroom teachers teaching the classes. Attitudes were assessed by employing the Children’s Attitude Toward Physical Activity (CATPA) inventory (Simon & Smoll, 1974). Although discriminant function analysis resulted in a significant difference between the attitudes of both groups of children, only 57.48% of the cases were correctly classified. These results suggest that teachers play a minimal role in children’s attitudes toward physical activity. It was recommended that additional studies be conducted that examine and control for multiple factors influencing attitude formation.
Educational Needs of Elite U.S. National Team, Pan American, and Olympic Coaches
Authors: Gould Daniel , Giannini John , Krane Vikki , Hodge Ken
Published: August 2016

The present investigation was designed to develop a profile of the coaching education background and self-perceived coaching education needs of elite U.S. amateur sport coaches. In all, 130 national team, Pan American, and/or Olympic coaches representing more than 30 U.S. Olympic structure sports were surveyed. Results revealed that the coaches were extremely interested in coaching education workshops and seminars, initiating mentor coach programs for potential elite coaches, and participating in a variety of coaching science courses. Few consistent differences were found between the various categories of coaches (individual vs. team sport, open vs. closed sport, experienced vs. inexperienced, male vs. female, and physical education degree vs. non physical education degree) in terms of their coaching education background and needs. Implications for university based coaching education efforts are discussed.
Responding to the Call: Incorporating Physical Activity and Health Outcomes in Regional Transportation Planning
Authors: Skipper Michael , Meehan Leslie A.
Published: August 2016

Active transportation refers to modes of travel that incorporate physical activity as part of the trip. Examples include walking and bicycling, as well as transit, since walking or bicycling is typically required for transit station access and egress. The Nashville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has recently restructured its regional transportation policies and programming priorities as part of the development of the 2035 Regional Transportation Plan to enable more active transportation by encouraging the implementation of infrastructure such as sidewalks, bikeways, and transit. The result is a significant increase in the number of federally-funded transportation projects in the greater Nashville region that provide opportunities for active transportation trips.
Increased Interest in Physical Activity Within the Federal Government: Opportunities for Kinesiologists
Authors: Troiano Richard P.
Published: August 2016

The following article was the Rainer and Julie Martens Invited Lecture given at the National Academy of Kinesiology, September 2011. The federal government has a demonstrated interest in the health benefits of physical activity. A major milestone in federal interest was the publication of the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Other federal efforts, such as the National Prevention Strategy and the Lets Move! initiative, seek to translate the science in the Guidelines into action at multiple levels of society. Federal interest is also demonstrated through the range of physical activity research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This paper describes research resources and examples of research funded by several NIH institutes with the intent to enhance the ability of members of the National Academy of Kinesiology to have a positive impact on society by advancing the science, as well as promoting and facilitating the many and diverse benefits of human movement.
The Death of Play in U.S. Culture
Authors: Anderson Douglas R.
Published: August 2016

I argue here that we, as a culture, are allowing physical play and playful movement to die. Following Friedrich Schiller, I argue for the importance of physical play for a liberated life. I call on those in the field of kinesiology to consider revising our cultural habits through the teaching of play not by way of abstract concepts but by way of playful experiences.
Citation of Evidence for Research and Application in Kinesiology
Authors: Knudson Duane , Elliott Bruce , Ackland Tim
Published: August 2016

Applied research in kinesiology that can truly inform professional practice places high demands on researchers. Clear citation of research evidence is required to design meaningful research and is particularly important in the interpretation of evidence in proposing how the new results may be applied in sport, exercise, or physical activity. This paper summarizes principles for accurate citation of research evidence in justifying and designing applied research in kinesiology; it also proposes an evidence-based practice approach for interpreting the strength of evidence for the application potential of research results. Improved application of kinesiology research is important to advance recognition of the field and support for kinesiology professions.
The Content and Context of Performance: An Autobiographical Account of Scientific Development
Authors: Hancock P.A.
Published: August 2016

What I seek to achieve in this article is an exploration of how some of the distilled and assembled principles of behavior can be applied to human goals, aspirations, and performance writ large. I look to do this through an analysis of various areas of application, although the primary framework upon which I erect this discourse is my own autobiographical progress in science. My grounding in formal research was derived from motor learning and control and it then developed into an examination of all human interaction with technical systems under the general title human factors/ergonomics. In showing an indissoluble link between the foundations of motor control and the technological mediation of human factors and ergonomics, I hope to inform and inspire their consideration of the greater aspirations for all of kinesiological science. In terms of specifics, I discuss the work my laboratory has produced over a number of decades on issues such as driving, fight, and other human-augmenting technologies, with a special focus on performance under stress and high workload conditions. To conclude, I discuss, dispute, and finally dispense with the proposition that science and purpose (proximal understanding and ultimate meaning) can be dissociated. I hope to demonstrate why the foregoing principles and their ubiquitous application mean that science in general bears a heavy, if unacknowledged burden with respect to the current failings, especially of Western society.
Clark W. Hetherington: A Perspective and Some Questions
Authors: Tipton Charles M.
Published: August 2016

Within the archives of Springfield College are the unofficial minutes of the Gulick Academy of Physical Education from 1906–1909. Surprisingly, the attendance, participation, and presentations of Clark W. Hetherington were not very impressive, which raised the question, what had he accomplished to warrant the Academy designating him as its first member and president—or for making the Hetherington Award its highest honor? The answer is complex, but insights can be obtained from the results of an early association with Thomas D. Woods and from the implementation of his philosophy of play by select schools and states. By 1926, many universities had adopted his objectives and curricula for physical education, while his philosophy for physical education began to be promoted by the physical education profession. However, since 2010 the term physical education has been removed from our title and bylaws. Consequently, should we continue to have our highest honor be identified with the Hetherington Award? I sincerely hope so, but the issue should be addressed by our membership.
Spinal Cord Injury, Physical Activity, and Quality of Life: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tomasone Jennifer R. , Wesch Natascha N. , Ginis Kathleen A. Martin , Noreau Luc
Published: August 2016

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) tend to report poorer quality of life (QOL) than people without a physical disability. Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has been shown to improve the QOL of people with and without disabilities and chronic conditions. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the LTPA-QOL relationship among people with SCI by focusing on both objective and subjective QOL for both global QOL and domain-specifc (physical, psychological, social) QOL. Results suggest that LTPA is significantly associated with increases in both objective and subjective QOL in global QOL and all three QOL domains, with relatively few studies demonstrating a negative or nonsignificant relationship. Recommendations for future QOL research and interventions are discussed.
Creating a Climate of Organizational Diversity: Models of Best Practice
Authors: Keith NiCole R. , Russell Jared A.
Published: August 2016

This article describes the characteristics of diversity within academia and professional organizations in general and specifically within Kinesiology departments and Kinesiology-related organizations. While other types of diversity exist, this article refers to diversity in terms of race/ethnicity, gender, age, physical capability, socioeconomic background, and/or sexual orientation. Two Kinesiology departments, within the context of their universities, in two different regions of the United States are presented as models of best practice to improve institutional diversity. Also presented are one detailed example and several general examples of methods by which Kinesiology-related professional organizations have developed intentional strategies to improve diversity in membership and leadership. Presented models could, at least in part, be used by administrators and leaders to improve diversity within academic institutions and professional organizations.
Reaching and Grasping Strategies in Hemiparetic Patients
Authors: Roby-Brami Agnès , Fuchs Sylvie , Mokhtari Mounir , Bussel Bernard
Published: August 2016

The present study quantified reaching movements in 17 patients with vascular hemiplegia at various stages of recovery and 6 control subjects. The task involved grasping a light cone placed at one of seven positions on a baseboard. 3D analysis of movement was performed. Quantification of the reaching movement in hemiparetic patients showed abnormal features that could be related either directly to the motor impairment or to two kinds of adaptation to the impairment: acquisition of a new motor coordination or acquisition of a new strategy. Two movement strategies were identified in hemiparetic patients. Patients with a predominantly proximal impairment slid their hands toward the target, thus making maximal use of the properties of the environment. Patients with a predominantly distal impairment made a downward grasping movement, which probably used the passive properties of the hand-object contact to ensure grasping. These features contribute to fulfillment of the goal and are thus consistent with the acquisition of adaptive behavior by the hemiparetic patients.
Toddlers' Postural Adaptations to Different Support Surfaces
Authors: Stoffregen Thomas A. , Adolph Karen , Thelen Esther , Gorday Kathleen M. , Sheng Yang-Yi
Published: August 2016

This study was undertaken to determine whether young children, after only a few weeks standing experience, could respond adaptively to the dynamical constraints imposed by different support surfaces. The spontaneous postural motions of young children (13-14 months old) were observed as they stood on surfaces that differed in length, friction, and rigidity. There were no externally imposed perturbations to stance. Children's postural control was remarkably adaptive: There were few falls on any of the surfaces. Moreover, the children showed surface-specific utilization of manual postural control (holding onto wooden poles), suggesting that manual control is an adaptive strategy for postural control. Finally, kinematic analysis suggested that, in some instances, children were able to employ independent control of the hips, contrary to previous models which had suggested that hip motions could not be controlled before the age of 3 years. Small, slow hip movements useful in controlling spontaneous sway (unperturbed stance) may serve as a basis for the development of larger, faster hip movements that are associated with imposed perturbations.
Effects of Temporal Scaling and Attention on the Asymmetrical Dynamics of Bimanual Coordination
Authors: Riley Michael A. , Amazeen Eric L. , Amazeen Polemnia G. , Treffner Paul J. , Turvey Michael T.
Published: August 2016

Handedness and attentional asymmetries in bimanual rhythmic coordination were examined as a function of movement speed. In an in-phase 1:1 frequency locking task, left-handed and right-handed subjects controlled the oscillations of either the right or the left hand so as to contact spatial targets. The task was performed at three frequencies of coupled movement. Coordination dynamics incorporating the body's functional asymmetry predicted that left-handers and right-handers would deviate from zero relative phase in opposite directions, that the deviation would be greater for preferred-hand targeting, and that this deviation would be greater at higher movement frequencies. The results confirmed the major predictions and suggested that asymmetry due to handedness is magnified by attention.
Aging Effects on Visual Reaction Time in a Single Task Condition and When Treadmill Walking
Authors: Sparrow William A. , Begg Rezaul K. , Parker Suzanne
Published: August 2016

Visual reaction time (RT) was measured in 10 older men (mean age, 71.1 years) and gender-matched controls (mean age, 26.3 years) when standing (single task) and when walking on a motor-driven treadmill (dual task). There were 90 quasirandomly presented trials over 15 min in each condition. Longer mean and median RTs were observed in the dual task compared to the single task. Older males had significantly slower mean and median RTs (315 and 304 ms, respectively) than the younger group (273 and 266 ms, respectively) in both task conditions. There were no age or condition effects on within-subject variability. Both groups showed a trend of increasing RT over the 90 single task trials but when walking only the younger group slowed. These novel findings demonstrate high but sustained attention by older adults when walking. It is proposed that the motor task’s attentional demands might contribute to their slower preferred walking speed.
Functional Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Li Zong-Ming
Published: August 2016

Mechanical degrees of freedom (DOF) are defined as the minimum number of independent coordinates needed to describe a system’s position. The human musculoskeletal system has many mechanical DOF through which countless movements are accomplished. In the motor control field, one of the aspirations is to understand how the many DOF are organized for movement execution—the so-called DOF problem. Natural movements are characterized by the coordination of the DOF such that few vary independently. The concept of functional degrees of freedom (fDOF) is introduced to describe the very limited DOF of purposeful, coordinated movements. Deterministic (i.e., constraint satisfaction) and statistical (i.e., principal component analysis) approaches are used to determine fDOF. In contrast to DOF as a mechanical descriptor, fDOF emphasizes the mechanisms of human movements and corroborates our search for the solution to the DOF problem.
The Role of External Action-Effects in the Execution of a Soccer Kick: A Comparison across Skill Level
Authors: Ford Paul , Hodges Nicola J. , Huys Raoul , Williams A. Mark
Published: August 2016

The importance of action-effects for the performance of a soccer kick was examined. Novice, intermediate, and skilled players performed a soccer chip task with the intention of getting the ball over a height barrier to a near or far ground-level target under three conditions: full vision, no vision following ball contact with and without knowledge of results (KR). The removal of vision of the ball trajectory resulted in increased radial error, irrespective of the presence or absence of KR but in a skill-level and target dependent manner. At the near target, novice participants relied on ball trajectory information. Intermediate performers were affected by its removal across both target conditions, whereas skilled participants were not affected by the removal of ball vision. Variability in knee-ankle coordination significantly decreased when vision of the ball trajectory was removed, irrespective of KR and skill level. Although across skill level there was evidence that action-effects information is used to execute the action when it is available, only at the lower levels of skill did this information aid outcome attainment. There was no evidence to suggest that with increasing skill the dependence on this information increases.
Pumping a Playground Swing
Authors: Post Auke A. , de Groot Gert , Daffertshofer Andreas , Beek Peter J.
Published: August 2016

In mechanical studies of pumping a playground swing, two methods of energy insertion have been identified: parametric pumping and driven oscillation. While parametric pumping involves the systematic raising and lowering of the swinger’s center of mass (CM) along the swing’s radial axis (rope), driven oscillation may be conceived as rotation of the CM around a pivot point at a fixed distance to the point of suspension. We examined the relative contributions of those two methods of energy insertion by inviting 18 participants to pump a swing from standstill and by measuring and analyzing the swing-swinger system (defined by eight markers) in the sagittal plane. Overall, driven oscillation was found to play a major role and parametric pumping a subordinate role, although the relative contribution of driven oscillation decreased as swinging amplitude increased, whereas that of parametric pumping increased slightly. Principal component analysis revealed that the coordination pattern of the swing-swinger system was largely determined (up to 95%) by the swing’s motion, while correlation analysis revealed that (within the remaining 5% of variance) trunk and leg rotations were strongly coupled.
Cognitive Models of Apraxia and Motor Control: Linking Theories and Methods across Two Complementary Research Domains
Authors: Gravenhorst Robynne M. , Walter Charles B.
Published: August 2016

Apraxia is a complex movement disorder that frequently occurs following left hemisphere stroke. Studies on patients with apraxia constitute an especially interesting body of literature for motor control researchers who seek to understand the cognitive mechanisms involved in the voluntary control of movement. Reciprocally, among apraxia researchers, great interest exists concerning the ways in which methods and theory from the field of motor control can be brought to bear in the clinical and empirical evaluation of this disorder. Here we will review representative evidence on the etiology, frequency, and assessment of apraxia, and suggest how research methods and theories from the field of motor control can be applied to, and also benefit from, a deeper understanding of apraxia. Parallels are proposed between the major cognitive models of apraxia and motor control to facilitate translation of terminology and concepts, and to enrich the emerging dialogue between these two complementary research domains.
Effects of Force Production and Trial Duration on Bimanual Performance and Attentional Demands in a Rhythmic Coordination Task
Authors: Murian Alexandre , Deschamps Thibault , Temprado Jean Jacques
Published: August 2016

The current study investigated the influence of resistance to motion and trial duration on the stability of bimanual coordination patterns and attentional demands. Seven participants performed in-phase and antiphase coordination patterns at a frequency of 1.5 Hz for 300 s. Resistance opposed to pronation–supination movements was manipulated. Attentional demands associated with the bimanual coordination patterns performance were measured using a probe reaction-time task. Results showed that variations in the level of resistance to motion, which induced corresponding variations in the amount of muscle activation during both the in-phase and the antiphase pattern, were associated with longer reaction time. Relative phase variability and attentional demands were higher for the antiphase pattern than for the in-phase pattern. Moreover, the attentional demands did not covary with the increase in the antiphase pattern over the trial duration. The in-phase pattern remained unaffected by resistance opposed to pronation–supination movement. The present findings and the time effect are discussed according to potential alterations localized in different sites at the cortical level.
Pointing beyond Reach: The Slope of Fitts’s Law Increases with the Introduction of New Effectors Independently of Kinetic Constraints
Authors: Bonnetblanc François
Published: August 2016

Fitts’s law states that movement time (MT) is related to precision (index of difficulty, ID). The introduction of a new effector in a Fitts’s task induces an increase of the MT/ID slopes (Langolf et al., 1976). It is unclear, however, whether kinetics or pure coordinative constraints based on the introduction of new degrees of freedom (at the joint or muscular level) are responsible for this effect. To determine the influence of body kinetics on the MT/ID slope when pointing beyond reach, we compared pointing movements executed within (control) or beyond reach, and in this latter case with (loaded) and without (distant) an additional mass applied to the trunk. Eight subjects were required to point as fast and as accurately as possible to a target (width: 0.5, 1.0, or 2.5 cm; amplitude: 30 cm). The MT/ID slope increased when pointing beyond reach (control versus distant or loaded). This slope did not increase with an additional load applied to the trunk (distant versus loaded). Therefore, we conclude that the MT/ID slope is more likely a function of the number of degrees of freedom introduced in the task rather than a function of the kinetics constraints.
Attentional Processes of High-Skilled Soccer Players with Congenital Hemiparesis: Differences Related to the Side of the Hemispheric Lesion
Authors: Steenbergen Bert , van der Kamp John
Published: August 2016

We investigated attentional processes that support the performance of high-skilled soccer players with hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Participants (N = 10) dribbled a slalom course as quickly and accurately as possible under two attentional-focus manipulation conditions. In the task-relevant focus condition, they attended to the foot that was in contact with the ball, whereas in the task-irrelevant focus condition, they monitored a series of words played on a tape. The time taken to complete the slalom course was registered. Performances of individuals with left and right hemiparesis were compared to explore differential effects of hemispheric lesion. The high-skilled players with congenital hemiparesis showed similar attentional-focus effects as those previously reported in the literature for high-skilled players without neurological disorders (Beilock et al., 2002; Ford et al., 2005). Task-relevant focus increased dribbling time, whereas a task-irrelevant focus did not result in a significant change in dribbling time. These findings generalized to each of the five participants with left hemiparesis (i.e., damage to the right hemisphere). By contrast, the effects of a task-relevant focus were less consistent for participants with right hemiparesis (i.e., left-hemisphere damage). This corroborates suggestions that the reinvestment of procedural knowledge is a left-lateralized function. The implications for the training of individuals with congenital brain damage are discussed.
Influence of Imposed Optic Flow Characteristics and Intention on Postural Responses
Authors: Barela Ana M. F. , Barela José A. , Rinaldi Natália M. , de Toledo Diana R.
Published: August 2016

This study examined the influence of both optic flow characteristics and intention on postural control responses. Two groups of 10 adults each were exposed to the room’s movement either at 0.6 cm/s (low velocity group) or 1.0 cm/s (high velocity group). All the participants stood in the upright stance inside of a moving room and were informed about the room movement only after the fourth trial as they were asked to resist to its influence. Results revealed that participants from both groups were influenced by the imposed visual stimulus in the first trials, but the coupling strength was weaker for the high velocity group. The request to resist the visual influences decreased visual influences on body sway, but only for the low velocity group. These results indicate that intention might play a role in stimulus influences on body sway but it is stimulus dependent.
Neural Correlates of Motor Conversion Disorder
Authors: Scott Rebekah L. , Anson J. Gregory
Published: August 2016

Conversion Disorder affects voluntary motor and sensory function and involves unexplained neurological symptoms without an organic cause. Many researchers have attempted to explain how these symptoms arise but the neural correlates associated with Conversion Disorder remain largely unknown to clinicians and neuroscientists alike. This review focuses on investigations of Conversion Disorder (with motor symptoms) when deficits in voluntary movement occur. No single consistent hypothesis has emerged regarding the underlying cortical mechanisms associated with motor Conversion Disorder. However, findings from electrophysiology, neuroimaging, and behavioral research implicate the involvement of prefrontal networks. With further research using measurement techniques precise in spatial as well as temporal resolution, the conflict associated with two views of the neural correlates of motor Conversion Disorder may be resolved. This will provide a better understanding of the impairment associated with the preparation, generation, and execution of intentional movement in Conversion Disorder.
Kinematic Analysis of Early Online Control of Goal-Directed Reaches: A Novel Movement Perturbation Study
Authors: Grierson Lawrence E. M. , Gonzalez Claudia , Elliott Digby
Published: August 2016

This study was designed to examine the importance of vision to corrective processes associated with a mechanical perturbation to the limb during goal-directed aiming. With a hand held stylus, under vision and no vision conditions, performers reached to a target represented by the intersection of perpendicular lines. The stylus was connected to an air compressor and engineered such that 80 ms following movement initiation reaches were perturbed by a short air burst either in the direction of, or opposite to, the movement. Spatial position analysis of the limb at early kinematic landmarks revealed that the single direction bursts were successful in advancing and hindering the movement progress. Furthermore, within subject trial-to-trial variability analysis indicated that performers adopted different control strategies for dealing with the perturbations depending on the availability of vision. The present findings suggest that a continuous form of online control is exercised during the early portions of the aiming trajectories. This form of control may be mediated by visual or proprioceptive information.
Oscillating in Synchrony with a Metronome: Serial Dependence, Limit Cycle Dynamics, and Modeling
Authors: Torre Kjerstin , Balasubramaniam Ramesh , Delignières Didier
Published: August 2016

We analyzed serial dependencies in periods and asynchronies collected during oscillations performed in synchrony with a metronome. Results showed that asynchronies contain 1/f fluctuations, and the series of periods contain antipersistent dependence. The analysis of the phase portrait revealed a specific asymmetry induced by synchronization. We propose a hybrid limit cycle model including a cycle-dependent stiffness parameter provided with fractal properties, and a parametric driving function based on velocity. This model accounts for most experimentally evidenced statistical features, including serial dependence and limit cycle dynamics. We discuss the results and modeling choices within the framework of event-based and emergent timing.
Visual Feedforward Control in Human Locomotion During Avoidance of Obstacles that Change Size
Authors: Santos Luiz C. , Moraes Renato , Patla Aftab E.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of the current study was to understand how visual information about an ongoing change in obstacle size is used during obstacle avoidance for both lead and trail limbs. Participants were required to walk in a dark room and to step over an obstacle edged with a special tape visible in the dark. The obstacle’s dimensions were manipulated one step before obstacle clearance by increasing or decreasing its size. Two increasing and two decreasing obstacle conditions were combined with seven control static conditions. Results showed that information about the obstacle’s size was acquired and used to modulate trail limb trajectory, but had no effect on lead limb trajectory. The adaptive step was influenced by the time available to acquire and process visual information. In conclusion, visual information about obstacle size acquired during lead limb crossing was used in a feedforward manner to modulate trail limb trajectory.
Differentiating Impairment Levels in Temporal Versus Spatial Aspects of Linguopalatal Contacts in Friedreich’s Ataxia
Authors: Folker Joanne E. , Murdoch Bruce E. , Cahill Louise M. , Rosen Kristin M. , Delatycki Martin B. , Corben Louise A. , Vogel Adam P.
Published: August 2016

Electropalatography (EPG) was used to describe the pattern of linguopalatal contact and the consonant phase durations exhibited by a group of seven individuals with dysarthria associated with Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA). A group of 14 non-neurologically impaired individuals served as controls. The Reading Electropalatograph (EPG3) system was used to record linguopalatal contact during production of the target consonants (/t/, /l/, /s/, /k/) elicited in five words of CV and CVC construction, with the target consonants in word initial position. These words were embedded into short sentences and repeated five times by each participant. The FRDA group exhibited significantly increased consonant durations compared with the controls while maintaining normal linguopalatal contact patterns. These findings suggest that the articulatory impairment in FRDA manifests as a temporal rather than spatial disturbance.
Adaptive Locomotion for Crossing a Moving Obstacle
Authors: da Silva Jean Jose , Barbieri Fabio Augusto , Gobbi Lilian Teresa Bucken
Published: August 2016

Crossing moving obstacles requires different space-time adjustments compared with stationary obstacles. Our aim was to investigate gait spatial and temporal parameters in the approach and crossing phases of a moving obstacle. We hypothesized that obstacle speed affects gait parameters, which allow us to distinguish locomotor strategies. Ten young adults walked and stepped over an obstacle that crossed their way perpendicularly, under three obstacle conditions: control—stationary obstacle, slow (1.07m/s) and fast speed (1.71m/s) moving obstacles. Gait parameters were different between obstacle conditions, especially on the slow speed. In the fast condition, the participants adopted predictive strategies during the approach and crossing phases. In the slow condition, they used an anticipatory strategy in both phases. We conclude that obstacle speed affects the locomotor behavior and strategies were distinct in the obstacle avoidance phases.
Short-Term Effects of the Use of Non-Rigid Tools for Postural Control by Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Mauerberg-deCastro Eliane , Moraes Renato , Campbell Debra Frances
Published: August 2016

We tested the short-term effects of a nonrigid tool, identified as an “anchor system” (e.g., ropes attached to varying weights resting on the floor), on the postural stabilization of blindfolded adults with and without intellectual disabilities (ID). Participants held a pair of anchors–one in each hand, under three weight conditions (250 g, 500 g and 1,000 g), while they performed a restricted balance task (standing for 30 s on a balance beam placed on top of a force platform). These conditions were called anchor practice trials. Before and after the practice trials, a condition without anchors was tested. Control practice groups, who practiced blocks of trials without anchors, included individuals with and without ID. The anchor system improved subjects’ balance during the standing task, for both groups. For the control groups, the performance of successive trials in the condition without the anchor system showed no improvement in postural stability. The individuals with intellectual disability, as well as their peers without ID, used the haptic cues of nonrigid tools (i.e., the anchor system) to stabilize their posture, and the short-term stabilizing effects appeared to result from their previous use of the anchor system.