18 research outputs found
Author Correction: Innovative boxing training program outperforms the traditional scapular stabilization training program in post-stroke patients
No full textProbabilistic Distance Clustering
No full textWe present a new iterative method for probabilistic clustering of data. Given clusters, their centers, and the distances of data points from these centers, the probability of cluster membership at any point is assumed inversely proportional to the distance from (the center of) the cluster in question. There are several ways of modeling this assumption, and each such model (working principle) gives a different algorithm. The method is a generalization, to several centers, of the Weiszfeld method for solving the Fermat–Weber location problem. At each iteration, the distances (Eu-clidean, Mahalanobis, etc.) from the cluster centers are computed for all data points, and the centers are updated as convex combinations of these points, with weights de-termined by the working principle. Computations stop when the centers stop moving. Progress is monitored by the joint distance function (JDF), a measure of dis-tance from all cluster centers, that evolves during the iterations, and captures the data in its low contours. An important issue in clustering is the “right” number of clusters that best fits a data set. The JDF is used successfully to settle this issue, using only information freel
Innovative boxing training program outperforms the traditional scapular stabilization training program in post-stroke patients
No full textAbstract Facilitating the restoration of upper limb functionality is a key objective of stroke rehabilitation. This study aimed to compare the effects of boxing and scapular stabilization training on scapular mobility, balance angle, muscle strength, motor function, and satisfaction in hemiparetic patients. A total of sixty patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: the boxing group (BG; n = 20), the scapular stabilization group (SSG; n = 20), or the control group (CG; n = 20) which received no treatment at all. Each treatment group participated in three sessions per week for a total of eight weeks. The scapular mobility, balance angle (SBA), muscle strength, upper extremity motor functions (Manual Function Test-MFT), and treatment satisfaction were evaluated. The BG group showed greater improvements in the SBA (F = 59,951; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.682), mobility-frontal plane (F = 7998; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.222), mobility-sagittal plane (F = 91,632; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.766), and mobility-transverse plane (F = 48,713; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.635) than did the CG group. BG strengthened the serratus anterior (F = 42,227; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.601), while SSG strengthened the infraspinatus (F = 31,772; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.532) more than did CG. Compared with those in the SSG, supraspinatus (F = 52,589; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.653), upper trapezius (F = 42,890; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.605), anterior deltoideus (F = 30,844; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.524), latissimus dorsi (F = 84,345; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.751), MFTs (F = 52,363; p = 0.000; η2 = 0.652) and satisfaction (p = 0.008) were greater in the BG. Both approaches had a beneficial impact on the recovery process. However, boxing training was more effective than scapular stabilization training for several parameters. Clinical Trial Number: NCT05568173 date 5/10/2022
Dry Needling and Neurodevelopmental Therapy versus Neurodevelopmental Therapy Alone on Spasticity and Functions in Patients with Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
No full textThree-dimensional exergaming conjunction with vestibular rehabilitation in individuals with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A feasibility randomized controlled study
No full textBackground: To examine the effectiveness of 3D (dimensional)-vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) on gait, balance problems, processing time speed and subjective complaints in patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) compared to a control group (CG). This study aimed to test the feasibility of virtual reality-based 3D exergaming conjunction with vestibular rehabilitation. Methods: Twenty-two patients with BPPV (negative DixHallpike/Roll test results, existing dizziness/balance complaints) were randomly allocated to the study group (SG, n:11 3D-VRT) or Control group (CG n:11, no exercise-rehabilitation) for 8 week. The SG performed 3D-VRT for 45 to 50 min/d, 3 times/wk, and the CG did receive only Canalith Repositioning Maneuver (CRM). CRM was applied in both groups before the study. Outcome measures included 10-Meter-Walk-Test (10-MWT) (with/without head turns), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Choice-Stepping-Reaction-Time-ped (CSRT-MAT), Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale (FAB), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: The SG showed significantly improvement in 10-MWT without (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.49), with horizontal (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.57), vertical (p5 = 0.01, η2 = 0.48) head turns, DGI (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.74), CSRT-MAT, FAB (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.78) and VAS-dizziness (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.65), VAS-balance problem (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.43), VAS-fear of falling (p5 = 0.00, η2 = 0.42) compared to the CG. Conclusion: The 3D-VRT were effective in improving gait, balance, processing speed and resolving the subjective complaints in BPPV. The 3D-VRT method is feasible for patients who suffer from residual dizziness or balance complaints after CRM. Furthermore, the 3D-VRT is more accessible and less expensive than other virtual reality applications, which may facilitate further research or clinical use
Effects of Immersive Virtual Reality on Physical Function, Fall-Related Outcomes, Fatigue, and Quality of Life in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
No full textBackground/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of an immersive virtual reality (IVR) program on balance, physical fitness, risk of falling, fear of falling, fatigue, and quality of life in older adults compared with an active control group (ACG). Methods: A total of 44 older adults were randomly assigned to either the IVR group (n = 22) or the ACG (n = 22) for an 8-week period. The IVR group participated in 35-min immersive virtual reality sessions three times a week, whereas the ACG followed a home-based traditional exercise program. Evaluations were conducted both before and after the intervention period. Results: Compared with the ACG, the participants in the IVR group demonstrated significant improvements in balance, upper and lower extremity strength, lower extremity flexibility, fatigue levels, and specific aspects of quality of life such as autonomy and social participation. Treatment satisfaction was also higher in the IVR group. Conclusions: An 8-week immersive virtual reality intervention was effective in improving physical function, reducing fatigue, and enhancing specific domains of quality of life among older adults
Wii Fit Balance Training Or Progressive Balance Training In Patients With Chronic Stroke: A Randomised Controlled Trial
No full text[Purpose] The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Wii Fit balance training (WBT) and progressive balance training (PBT) approaches on balance functions, balance confidence, and activities of daily living in chronic stroke patients. [Subjects] A total of 30 patients were randomized into the WBT (n=15) and PBT (n=15) groups. [Methods] All of the subjects received exercise training based on a neurodevelopemental approach in addition to either Wii Fit or progressive balance training for total of 1 hour a day, 3 days per week for 4 weeks. Primary measurements were static balance function measured with a Wii Balance Board and dynamic balance function assessed with the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go test, Dynamic Gait Index, and Functional Reach Test. Secondary measures were balance confidence assessed with the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale and activities of daily living evaluated with the Frenchay Activity Index. [Results] There was not remarkable difference between the two treatments in dynamic balance functions, balance confidence, and activities of daily living. [Conclusion] Although both of the approaches were found to be effective in improving the balance functions, balance confidence, and activities of daily living, neither of them were more preferable than the other for the treatment of balance in patients with chronic stroke.PubMedWoSScopu
Perception of health related quality of life in patients with hereditary and acquired neurological diseases: a retrospective clinical study
No full textPurpose: To compare perceived health related quality of life (HRQoL) of two different patient groups of neurological diseases. Materials and methods: In this study 54 (28/26 male/female) ambulatory patients who had participated in an outpatient treatment program in a neurological rehabilitation unit and having similar demographic, physical and functional characteristics were evaluated. The patients were divided into two groups depending on their congenital (N=27) and acquired (N=27) neurological diseases. Information related to backgrounds, their pain complaints, functional levels ( Functional Independence Measurement), mobility (Rivermead Mobility Index) and perceived HRQoL ( Nottingham Health Profile) levels were recorded from their files retrospectively. Results: There was no significant difference between the RMI and FIM scores (p>0.05). The energy level, emotional reactions, physical activity parameters and the total scores of the NHP in the group with congenital neurological disease were significantly higher than the other group (p0.05). Discussion: Perceived HRQoL of the patients with the congenital neurological disorders were lower than the the other patients with acquired neurological diseases. Due to the nature of the neurological disease, HRQoL which can be affected in various dimensions, should be observed closely with regard to the objectives of the neurological rehabilitation programs
Mexican Maquiladoras: Evidence from Plant-level Panel Data
No full textThe first chapter presents a detailed description of the Mexican maquiladora industry plant level information. The main objective of the first chapter is to present a detailed description of the maquiladora plant level information that will be used in succeeding dissertation research. In addition, the first chapter is intended to serve as a guide to the sorts of information available from INEGI. In the second chapter I analyze with my co-author Hale Utar the impact of intensified competition from China on Mexican export assembly plants (maquiladoras) using plant-level panel data covering the period from 1990 to 2006. By using the WTO accession of China as a quasi-natural experiment, our difference in difference approach reveals a significant effect of Chinese competition on within plant productivity improvement of maquiladoras. We also find a positive and significant impact of the heightened competition on productivity through entry but not through exit. Although competition from China also has negative and significant impact on plants' growth, we do not find a major effect on plant exits. In the third and final chapter, I investigate the trends toward and away from feminization in the maquiladora industry. It presents analysis of women's work and earnings in Mexican export assembly plants between 1990 and 2005. This is done for eleven manufacturing industries and a service industry. The association between feminization on earnings disparities of male and female workers is also investigated. A descriptive analysis of the information shows that overall the participation of women workers in all 12 industries has dropped, while during the same period, plant skill intensity has increased. In addition, estimates indicate that female workers receive lower wages than male workers. Were the descriptive analysis of the information also shows that the earning wage gap between men and women works has increased from 1997 to 2005. This trend is observed in all 12 of the maquiladora industries
Mexican Maquiladoras: Evidence from Plant-level Panel Data
No full textThe first chapter presents a detailed description of the Mexican maquiladora industry plant level information. The main objective of the first chapter is to present a detailed description of the maquiladora plant level information that will be used in succeeding dissertation research. In addition, the first chapter is intended to serve as a guide to the sorts of information available from INEGI. In the second chapter I analyze with my co-author Hale Utar the impact of intensified competition from China on Mexican export assembly plants (maquiladoras) using plant-level panel data covering the period from 1990 to 2006. By using the WTO accession of China as a quasi-natural experiment, our difference in difference approach reveals a significant effect of Chinese competition on within plant productivity improvement of maquiladoras. We also find a positive and significant impact of the heightened competition on productivity through entry but not through exit. Although competition from China also has negative and significant impact on plants' growth, we do not find a major effect on plant exits. In the third and final chapter, I investigate the trends toward and away from feminization in the maquiladora industry. It presents analysis of women's work and earnings in Mexican export assembly plants between 1990 and 2005. This is done for eleven manufacturing industries and a service industry. The association between feminization on earnings disparities of male and female workers is also investigated. A descriptive analysis of the information shows that overall the participation of women workers in all 12 industries has dropped, while during the same period, plant skill intensity has increased. In addition, estimates indicate that female workers receive lower wages than male workers. Were the descriptive analysis of the information also shows that the earning wage gap between men and women works has increased from 1997 to 2005. This trend is observed in all 12 of the maquiladora industries
