bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Agreement between 2D Visual- and 3D Motion Capture-based Assessment of Foot Strike Pattern
Authors: Goto Haruhiko , Kamikubo Toshinao , Yamamoto Ryota , Tsutsui Toshiharu , Torii Suguru 
Published: November 2024

Background Foot strike patterns during running are typically categorized into two types: non-rearfoot strike (NRFS) and rearfoot strike (RFS), or as three distinct types: forefoot strike (FFS), midfoot strike (MFS), and RFS, based on which part of the foot lands first. Various methods, including two-dimensional (2D) visual-based methods and three-dimensional (3D) motion capture-based methods utilizing parameters such as the strike index (SI) or strike angle (SA), have been employed to assess these patterns. However, the consistency between the results obtained from each method remains debatable. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the agreement for assessing foot strike patterns into two (NRFS and RFS) or three types (FFS, MFS, and RFS) between 2D visual- and 3D motion capture-based methods. The authors hypothesized that using two description types (NRFS and RFS) would have high inter-method reliability; however, using three description types (FFS, MFS and RFS) would have lower inter-method reliability because of the difficulty in distinguishing between FFS and MFS. Study design Controlled Laboratory Study Methods Overall, 162 foot strikes from four healthy runners with various foot strike patterns were analyzed. Running kinematics and kinetics were recorded using a 3D motion capture system with a force platform. Each foot strike was filmed at 240 fps from the sagittal perspective. The visual, SI, and SA methods were used, and the kappa values for each method were calculated. Results An assessment of the two types of foot strike: NRFS and RFS, revealed almost perfect kappa values (κ = 0.89–0.95) among the visual, SI, and SA methods. In contrast, an assessment of the three types: FFS, MFS, and RFS, revealed relatively low kappa values (κ = 0.58–0.71). Kappa values within the NRFS category, which includes MFS and FFS, ranged from fair to slight (κ = 0.08–0.33). Conclusion Previous laboratory findings that categorized foot strike patterns into two distinct types may be applied in observational studies, clinical practice, and training situations. Level of evidence Level 2
The Impact of Visual Perturbation Neuromuscular Training on Landing Mechanics and Neural Activity: A Pilot Study
Authors: Wohl Timothy R , Criss Cody R , Haggerty Adam L , Rush Justin L , Simon Janet E , Grooms Dustin R 
Published: November 2024

Background Athletes at risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury have concurrent deficits in visuocognitive function and sensorimotor brain functional connectivity. Purpose This study aimed to determine whether visual perturbation neuromuscular training (VPNT, using stroboscopic glasses and external visual focus feedback) increases physical and cognitive training demand, improves landing mechanics, and reduces neural activity for knee motor control. Design Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Eight right leg dominant healthy female athletes (20.4±1.1yrs; 1.6±0.1m; 64.4±7.0kg) participated in four VPNT sessions. Before and after VPNT, real-time landing mechanics were assessed with the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) and neural activity was assessed with functional magnetic resonance imaging during a unilateral right knee flexion/extension task. Physical and cognitive demand after each VPNT session was assessed with Borg’s Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) for both physical and cognitive perceived exertion and the NASA Task Load Index. Descriptives and effect sizes were calculated. Results Following VPNT, LESS scores decreased by 1.5 ± 1.69 errors with a large effect size (0.78), indicating improved mechanics, and reductions in BOLD signal were observed in two clusters: 1) left supramarginal gyrus, inferior parietal lobule, secondary somatosensory cortex (p=.012, z=4.5); 2) right superior frontal gyrus, supplementary motor cortex (p<.01, z=5.3). There was a moderate magnitude increase of cognitive RPE between the first and last VPNT sessions. Conclusion VPNT provides a clinically feasible means to perturbate visual processing during training that improves athletes’ real-time landing mechanics and promotes neural efficiency for lower extremity movement, providing the exploratory groundwork for future randomized controlled trials. Level of evidence Level 3
Position- and Sex-Related Differences in Sagittal and Frontal Plane Concentric Isokinetic Hip Muscle Peak Torques and Agonist-Antagonist Ratios
Authors: Hoglund Lisa T. , Schiffino Matthew C. , Freels James E. , Romano Isabella G. 
Published: November 2024

Background Hip muscle weakness is associated with many musculoskeletal conditions and athletic injuries. Isokinetic testing is often performed to measure a patient’s strength or to assess treatment response. Patient sex and positioning during isokinetic strength testing may influence peak torque production and the agonist-antagonist peak torque ratios. However, different test positions are used clinically and in research to measure hip muscle strength. It is unknown how patient test position or sex impacts test results. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether concentric isokinetic peak torques of sagittal and frontal plane hip muscles differ when tested in recumbent versus standing positions and if results were impacted by patient sex. Study Design Cross-sectional observational Methods Forty healthy adults (20 male, 20 female) participated. Concentric isokinetic hip torques of the hip flexors, extensors, abductors, and adductors were measured with participants in two positions (recumbent versus standing; 60°/second angular velocity). Peak torque values were normalized by body mass and height. Data were analyzed with mixed-model ANOVAs (sex x position). Effect sizes were examined using partial eta squared. Results No significant interactions or main effects for sex were found. Significant main effects for position were found for hip extensor and abductor peak torques and for hip flexor-extensor ratio. Hip extensor peak torque was greater when tested supine versus standing with a large effect size (p=.02, effect size =.14). Hip abductor peak torque was greater when tested sidelying versus standing with a medium effect size (p=.03, effect size =.12). Hip flexor-extensor agonist-antagonist ratio was greater when tested standing versus supine with a large effect size (p<.001, effect size =.27). Conclusion Hip extensor and abductor concentric isokinetic peak torques were greater when tested in recumbent versus standing positions. In contrast, hip flexor-extensor ratio was greater when tested in standing versus supine. Level of Evidence 3
Hip Stability Isometric Test (HipSIT): Concurrent Validity and Reference Values for CrossFit® Participants
Authors: Santos Thiago R T , Rodrigues Ana Luiza R , Faria Henrique M P , Teixeira Stéphane M , Pogetti Livia S , Silva Andressa , Resende Renan A , Ocarino Juliana M 
Published: November 2024

Background The Hip Stability Isometric Test (HipSIT) is a practical clinical assessment of posterolateral hip muscle performance. There is no information regarding the validity of the HipSIT in participants exposed to high-intensity training, such as CrossFit®. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the Hip Stability Isometric Test (HipSIT) concurrent validity with the isokinetic assessment in CrossFit® participants. A secondary purpose was to characterize posterolateral hip muscular performance with HipSIT according to sex and lower limb dominance in athletes who participate in CrossFit®. Study Design Cross-sectional. Methods One-hundred and eleven CrossFit® participants were evaluated. The posterolateral hip muscles were evaluated using the HipSIT with a hand-held dynamometer. The hip extensors and abductors’ peak torque and maximum work were assessed with the Biodex System® 4 Pro isokinetic dynamometer at 60º/s. Concurrent validity between measurements was assessed with the Spearman correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analyses. The comparison of results between sexes and between limbs was also performed. Results Spearman analyses indicated a significant positive correlation with medium effect size between HipSIT and isokinetic variables ( ρ = 0.36 to 0.49). Bland-Altman analyses showed that most measures were within the 95% limits of agreement. The HipSIT was greater in males than females (p < 0.001) and greater in the dominant than non-dominant limb (p = 0.03). Conclusion The findings support using HipSIT in the clinical assessment of CrossFit® participants. Clinicians can use the data as reference values for athletes who participate in CrossFit® and should consider the difference between sexes and lower limbs. Level of evidence 3
Proprioceptive Reweighting and Postural Control are Impaired Among Elite Athletes Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Attalin Benoit , Sagnard Telma , Laboute Eric , Forestier Nicolas , Rémy-Néris Olivier , Picot Brice 
Published: November 2024

Background After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), the risk of recurrence can reach 20%, partially due to poor postural control and impaired sensory processing. Lack of flexibility in proprioceptive postural strategy has recently been shown to be a potential risk factor for ACL injury. Hypothesis/Purpose This study aimed to compare proprioceptive reweighting and postural control between ACLR and controls elite athletes. It has been hypothesized that athletes with ACLR exhibit impaired proprioceptive reweighting and poor postural control. Study design Cross-sectional study Methods Fifty-two ACLR and 23 control elite athletes (50 males and 25 females, mean age 24.7 years) were included. Proprioceptive reweighting was determined using the evolution of proprioceptive weighting (eRPW), calculated from the center of pressure (CoP) displacements generated by tendon vibration during bilateral standing tasks on firm and foam surfaces. An eRPW <95% classified individuals as flexible (i.e., able to reweight proprioceptive signals from the ankle to the lumbar region), whereas an eRPW >105% classified individuals as rigid (i.e., maintaining an ankle dominant strategy). CoP velocity (vCoP) and CoP ellipse area (EA) were used to characterize postural control. Independent sample t-test and a Chi-squared test were used to compare eRPW, vCoP, EA, and the proportion of flexible and rigid athletes between groups. Results The eRPW was higher in the ACLR group (100.9±58.8 vs. 68.6±26.6%; p=0.031; Rank biserial correlation=0.314; medium), with a greater proportion of rigid athletes than in the control group (38.5 vs. 4.4%; p=0.010), reflecting lower proprioceptive reweighting. The ACLR group had greater EA on foam surface (8.0±4.6 vs. 6.3±4.4cm²; p=0.019), revealing poorer postural control. Conclusion Elite athletes with ACLR showed impaired proprioceptive reweighting and poor postural control on an unstable surface. This reflects an inability to adapt proprioceptive weighting when balance conditions are changing and suboptimal postural strategies. Level of Evidence 3b
Increased Visual Attentional Demands Alter Lower Extremity Sidestep Cutting Kinematics in Male Basketball Players
Authors: Rikken Koen T.H. , Panneman Tom , Vercauteren Fabian , Gokeler Alli , Benjaminse Anne 
Published: November 2024

Background In basketball, changing direction is one of the primary mechanisms of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, often occurring within complex game situations with high cognitive demands. It is unknown how visual attention affects sidestep cutting kinematics during the entire energy absorption phase of the cut in an ecologically valid environment. Purpose The purpose of this research was to study the effect of added cognitive load, in the form of increased visual attentional demands, on sidestep cutting kinematics during the energy absorption phase of the cut in an ecologically valid environment. Study Design Crossover Study Methods Fifteen male basketball players (aged 22.1 ± 2.3) performed ten sidestep cutting movements without (BASE) and with (VIS) a visual attention dual task. 3D kinematics of the hip, knee and ankle were recorded utilizing Xsens IMU motion capture. Temporal kinematics were analyzed using Statistical Parametric Mapping. Discrete time point kinematics were additionally analyzed at initial contact (IC) and at peak knee flexion utilizing paired t-tests. Effect sizes were calculated. Results Hip flexion was significantly reduced in the VIS condition compared to the BASE condition (p<0.01), including at IC (VIS 35.0° ± 7.2°, BASE 40.7° ± 4.9°, p=0.02, d=0.92) and peak (VIS 37.8° ± 9.7°, BASE 45.5° ± 6.9°, p=0.001, d=0.90). Knee flexion was significantly reduced in the VIS condition, in comparison to the BASE condition (p<0.01), at peak (VIS 59.9° ± 7.5°, BASE 64.1° ± 7.4°, p=0.001, d=0.55). Conclusion The addition of visual attention during sidestep cutting altered lower limb kinematics, which may increase ACL injury risk. It is suggested that ACL injury risk screening and prevention should include sidestep cutting with visual attentional demands, in order to mimic the cognitive demands of the sports environment. Level of Evidence 3
Advanced Neuromuscular Training Differentially Changes Performance on Visuomotor Reaction Tests and Single-leg Hop Tests in Patients with ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Chmielewski Terese , Obermeier Michael , Meierbachtol Adam , Jenkins Asher , Stuart Michael , Sikka Robby , Tompkins Marc 
Published: November 2024

Background Advanced neuromuscular training prepares patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) for sport participation. Return-to-sport testing often includes single-leg hop tests, yet combining motor and cognitive tasks (i.e., dual-task) might reveal neurocognitive reliance. Purpose/Hypothesis This study examined changes in performance on visuomotor reactions tests and single-leg hop tests following advanced neuromuscular training in patients with ACLR. The hypothesis was that performance would improve less on reaction tests than on single-leg hop tests. Study Design Quasi experimental, Pretest-Posttest Methods Twenty-five patients with ACLR (11 males) completed 10 sessions of advanced neuromuscular training and pre-and post-training testing. Reaction tests outcomes were from a platform and visual display. The double-leg reaction test involved touching target dots with either leg for 20 seconds; correct touches and errors were recorded. The single-leg reaction test involved hopping on the test leg to 10 target dots; hop time and errors were recorded. Single-leg hop tests included forward, triple, crossover triple, and timed hop; limb symmetry index was recorded. Effect sizes were calculated for corrected touches on the double-leg reaction test, surgical side hop time on the single-leg reaction test, and surgical side hop distance or time on single-leg hop tests. Results Correct touches on the double-leg reaction test significantly increased from pre- to post-training (20.4 +/- 4.3 vs. 23.9 +/- 2.8, p<0.001). Hop time on the single-leg reaction test significantly decreased from pre- to post-training (Surgical leg 13.2 vs. 12.3 seconds, non-surgical leg 13.0 vs. 12.1 seconds, p=0.003). Mean errors did not significantly change on either reaction test (p> 0.05). Cohens d effect sizes in descending order was single-leg hop tests (d=0.9 to 1.3), double-leg reaction test (d=0.9), and single-leg reaction test (d=0.5). Conclusion Motor performance improved after advanced neuromuscular training, but the effect size was less on visuomotor reaction tests than single-leg hop tests. The results suggest persistence of neurocognitive reliance after ACLR and a need for more dual-task challenges in training. Level of Evidence 3
Task-Driven Neurophysiological qEEG Baseline Performance Capabilities in Healthy, Uninjured Division-I College Athletes.
Authors: Mangine Robert E. , Palmer Thomas G. , Tersak James A. , Mark Michael , Clark Joseph F , Eifert-Mangine Marsha , Hill-Lindsay Audrey , Grawe Brian M 
Published: November 2024

Background Athletic performance can be measured with a variety of clinical and functional assessment techniques. There is a need to better understand the relationship between the brain’s electrical activity and the body’s physiological performance capabilities in real-time while performing physical tasks related to sport. Orthopedic functional assessments used to monitor the neuroplastic properties of the central nervous system lack objectivity and/or pertinent functionality specific to sport. The ability to assess brain wave activity with physiological metrics during functional exercises associated with sport has proven to be difficult and impractical in real-time sport settings. Quantitative electroencephalography or qEEG brain mapping is a unique, real-time comprehensive assessment of brain electrical activity performed in combination with physiometrics which offers insight to neurophysiological brain-to-body function. Brain neuroplasticity has been associated with differences in musculoskeletal performance among athletes, however comparative real-time normal data to benchmark performance capabilities is limited. Purpose/Design This prospective, descriptive case series evaluated performance of task-driven activities using an innovative neurophysiological assessment technique of qEEG monitored neurophysiological responses to establish a comparative benchmark of performance capabilities in healthy, uninjured Division-I athletes. Methods Twenty-eight healthy uninjured females (n=11) and males (n=17) NCAA Division-I athletes participated in real-time neurophysiological assessment using a Bluetooth, wireless 21-channel dry EEG headset while performing functional activities. Results Uninjured athletes experienced standard and regulated fluctuations of brain wave activity in key performance indicators of attention, workload capacity and sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) asymmetries. Conclusion qEEG neurophysiological real-time assessment concurrent with functional activities in uninjured, Division-I athletes may provide a performance capability benchmark. Real-time neurophysiological data can be used to monitor athletes’ preparedness to participate in sport, rehabilitation progressions, assist in development of injury prevention programs, and return to play decisions. While this paper focuses on healthy, uninjured participants, results underscore the need to discen pre-injury benchmarks. Level of Evidence 4
THE IMPACT OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING ON ACADEMIC STAFF WELFARE IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH WEST, NIGERIA
Authors: Taiwo Ezekiel , Akinbode James , Akinrinlola Moronmubo , Olu-ogunleye Itunu 
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of collective bargaining on the welfare of academic staff in federal universities located in South West Nigeria, focusing on six selected institutions.

Theoretical Framework: The research is framed within the context of labour relations theory, exploring how collective bargaining as a mechanism influences various welfare dimensions of academic staff.

Method: A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilizing a descriptive research design. The study's population comprised academic staff from the six universities, with a sample size of 377 participants determined through the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using statistical techniques to assess the relationship between collective bargaining and staff welfare.

Results and Discussion: The results indicate a significant negative impact of collective bargaining on academic staff welfare (β=-0.494, p<0.05). Contrary to its purpose, collective bargaining has not adequately addressed welfare issues, potentially worsening existing challenges faced by academic staff in the studied universities. The discussion emphasizes the need for improved bargaining strategies to promote staff well-being.

Research Implications: The study's findings highlight the importance of developing more effective and collaborative collective bargaining processes. These are critical for enhancing welfare outcomes and addressing systemic challenges within federal universities.

Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature on collective bargaining by providing empirical evidence from the Nigerian higher education sector, revealing its counterproductive effects on academic staff welfare. It offers practical insights for policymakers and unions in designing more strategic negotiation frameworks.
GUIDELINES FOR THE COMPETENCY DEVELOPMENT OF TRAINERS IN THE PLASTICS MOLDING INJECTION FACTORIES IN THAILAND
Authors: Dokchan Weerakarj , Roopsing Taweesak 
Published: November 2024

Objective: The aim of this research is to develop guidelines for the competency development of trainers in plastics molding injection factories (PMIF) in Thailand.

Theoretical Framework: A mixed-methods framework is adopted, integrating quantitative data through statistical analyses like means, standard deviations, and regression, alongside qualitative insights from interviews. The framework explores relationships by combining numerical trends with thematic patterns for a comprehensive understanding.

Method: The study population comprises 284 operators and 14 trainers. Data is collected through quantitative and qualitative approaches, including questionnaires and interviews, with statistical analysis applied using percentages, means, standard deviations, relationship analysis, and stepwise multiple linear regression.

Results and Discussion: Guidelines for trainer competency development in PMIF in Thailand focus on three key areas—knowledge, skills, and attitude. Four sub-competencies in the knowledge domain influence training success: knowledge in 1) Teaching Psychology, 2) Trainers' Attitudes, 3) Behavior and Work Analysis, 4) Training and Counseling. In the skills domain, significant sub-competencies include: 1) Teaching Skills, 2) Listening Skills, 3) Computer Proficiency, 4) Behavior and Work Analysis Skills. The significant sub-competencies of the attitude domain include: attitudes toward 1) Modern Research, 2) Trainees' Intentions, 3) Teaching Psychology, 4) Trainers' Attitudes.

Research Implications: Guidelines to enhance trainer competency in Thailand's plastics molding injection industry are provided. Findings influence training programs, workforce development, and industry productivity.

Originality/Value: Key sub-competencies that predict training success are identified in the areas of knowledge, skills, and attitude. Structured approaches to enhance training success are provided, impacting professional practice and training outcomes in industrial settings.