This page has only limited features, please log in for full access.
Although absolute jump heights should be considered an important factor in judging the performance requirements of volleyball players, limited data is available on age-appropriate categories. The purpose of this study is to determine the differences in specific anthropometric characteristics and jumping performance variables in under−19 female volleyball players in relation to playing position and performance level. The sample of subjects consisted of 354 players who prepared for the U19 Women’s Volleyball European Championship 2020 (17.4 ± 0.8 years, 1.81 ± 0.07 m, 67.5 ± 7.1 kg). Playing positions analyzed were setters (n = 55), opposites (n = 37), middle blockers (n = 82), outside hitters (n = 137), and liberos (n = 43). The results showed player position differences in every performance level group in variables of body height, spike, and block jump. Observed differences are a consequence of highly specific tasks of different positions in the composition of the team. Players of different performance levels are significantly different, with athletes of higher-ranked teams achieving better results. The acquired data could be useful for the selection and profiling of young volleyball players.
Suncica Pocek; Zoran Milosevic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Kristina Pantelic-Babic; Milka Imbronjev; Ewan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 8377 .
AMA StyleSuncica Pocek, Zoran Milosevic, Nemanja Lakicevic, Kristina Pantelic-Babic, Milka Imbronjev, Ewan Thomas, Antonino Bianco, Patrik Drid. Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (16):8377.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSuncica Pocek; Zoran Milosevic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Kristina Pantelic-Babic; Milka Imbronjev; Ewan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 16: 8377.
Background: Groin pain is a frequent condition among athletes. One of the causes of groin pain is tendinopathy, a frequently diagnosed medical condition, which can also occur in the adductor muscles. Despite the high prevalence of this medical condition among athletes, it is infrequent to observe tendinopathic groin pain in steeplechase runners. The aim of this case study is to describe the case of an international-level 3,000-m steeplechase runner with groin pain, who was subsequently diagnosed with adductor insertional tendinopathy. Case Presentation: We present the case of an Italian 3,000-m steeplechase and long distance runner, Ala Zoghlami (180 cm, 57 kg), with groin pain, diagnosed as insertional adductor tendinopathy. The runner, after manifesting the painful symptomatology, underwent medical screening (ultrasound and MRI). The radiological investigations highlighted adductor tendinopathy. After refraining from training, the runner underwent medical and physical therapy which, in the first phase, did not improve the painful symptomatology. Further evaluation, after 6 months from the initial training cessation, highlighted a case of malocclusion. Such was treated from a dentistry perspective with the creation of a personalized dental bite. Results: A multidisciplinary approach which included medical and physical therapy, osteopathy, and dentistry, in adjunct with refraining from training, was able to reduce the symptomatology and allowed a correct return to run (after 9 months from the first painful manifestation) of the steeplechase runner. To date, Ala Zoghlami has fully recovered and was able to win the 3,000-m steeplechase race during the 2021 national Italian competition.
Ewan Thomas; Marcello Giaccone; Angelo Iovane; Gaspare Polizzi; Marco Petrucci; Giuseppe Messina; Antonio Palma. The Case of Insertional Adductor Tendinopathy of an International-Level 3,000-m Steeplechase Runner. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living 2021, 3, 1 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Marcello Giaccone, Angelo Iovane, Gaspare Polizzi, Marco Petrucci, Giuseppe Messina, Antonio Palma. The Case of Insertional Adductor Tendinopathy of an International-Level 3,000-m Steeplechase Runner. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living. 2021; 3 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Marcello Giaccone; Angelo Iovane; Gaspare Polizzi; Marco Petrucci; Giuseppe Messina; Antonio Palma. 2021. "The Case of Insertional Adductor Tendinopathy of an International-Level 3,000-m Steeplechase Runner." Frontiers in Sports and Active Living 3, no. : 1.
Background The aim of this study was to investigate if the supplementation with Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) juice may affect plasma redox balance and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters following a maximal effort test, in young physically active women. Methods A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled and crossover study comprising eight women (23.25 ± 2.95 years, 54.13 ± 9.05 kg, 157.75 ± 0.66 cm and BMI of 21.69 ± 0.66 kg/m2) was carried out. A juice containing OFI diluted in water and a Placebo solution were supplied (170 ml; OFI = 50 ml of OFI juice + 120 ml of water; Placebo = 170 ml beverage without Vitamin C and indicaxanthin). Participants consumed the OFI juice or Placebo beverage every day for 3 days, before performing a maximal cycle ergometer test, and for 2 consecutive days after the test. Plasma hydroperoxides and total antioxidant capacity (PAT), Skin Carotenoid Score (SCS) and HRV variables (LF, HF, LF/HF and rMSSD) were recorded at different time points. Results The OFI group showed significantly lower levels of hydroperoxides compared to the Placebo group in pre-test, post-test and 48-h post-test. PAT values of the OFI group significantly increased compared to those of the Placebo group in pre-test and 48-h post-test. SCS did not differ between groups. LF was significantly lower in the OFI group 24-h after the end of the test, whereas rMSSD was significantly higher in the OFI group 48-h post-test. Conclusion OFI supplementation decreased the oxidative stress induced by intense exercise and improved autonomic balance in physically active women.
Marianna Bellafiore; Anna Maria Pintaudi; Ewan Thomas; Luisa Tesoriere; Antonino Bianco; Angelo Cataldo; Dario Cerasola; Marcello Traina; Maria Antonia Livrea; Antonio Palma. Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2021, 18, 1 -10.
AMA StyleMarianna Bellafiore, Anna Maria Pintaudi, Ewan Thomas, Luisa Tesoriere, Antonino Bianco, Angelo Cataldo, Dario Cerasola, Marcello Traina, Maria Antonia Livrea, Antonio Palma. Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2021; 18 (1):1-10.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarianna Bellafiore; Anna Maria Pintaudi; Ewan Thomas; Luisa Tesoriere; Antonino Bianco; Angelo Cataldo; Dario Cerasola; Marcello Traina; Maria Antonia Livrea; Antonio Palma. 2021. "Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 18, no. 1: 1-10.
Background The Grooved Pegboard Test (GPT) is widely adopted to evaluate manual dexterity, it presents normative data but the test is influenced by different factors. The influence of time spent on smartphones has not been considered before, for this reason, the objective of this study was to evaluate if smartphone use influences the time to complete the GPT. A total of 38 (21 women; 17 men) young adults 20.7 (1.5) years participated in the study. The time spent on the smartphones during the last seven days was recorded through the device itself and the GPT performance was measured. A correlation analysis between the time spent on the smartphone and GPT was performed while the t-test was adopted to evaluate gender differences. Results No statistically significant differences were detected between men and women in the time to complete the GPT (p = 0.20) and in the time spent on the smartphone (p = 0.87). The GPT and the time spent using the smartphone were not correlated (r = 0.044, p = 0.78). Conclusion The time spent on the smartphone by young adults does not influence the time to complete the GPT, indicating that smartphone use does not influence measures of manual dexterity.
Luca Petrigna; Milda Treigienė; Ewan Thomas; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Patrik Drid; Gioacchino Lavanco; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults. BMC Neuroscience 2021, 22, 1 -5.
AMA StyleLuca Petrigna, Milda Treigienė, Ewan Thomas, Diba Mani, Simona Pajaujiene, Patrik Drid, Gioacchino Lavanco, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults. BMC Neuroscience. 2021; 22 (1):1-5.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuca Petrigna; Milda Treigienė; Ewan Thomas; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Patrik Drid; Gioacchino Lavanco; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults." BMC Neuroscience 22, no. 1: 1-5.
Aging and menopause are associated with morphological and functional changes which may lead to loss of muscle mass and therefore quality of life. Resistance training (RT) is an effective training mode to increase muscle mass. We reviewed the existing literature to identify studies implementing RT protocols and evaluating muscle hypertrophy exclusively in healthy, postmenopausal and elderly women. Participants’ age range was comprised between 50 and 80 years. The primary outcome observed was muscle hypertrophy. Fat mass was also evaluated, if available. PubMed and Web of Science were the screened database, and original articles written in English and published from 2000 up to 2020 were included. 26 articles were considered eligible and included. Quality assessment revealed a “moderate quality” of the included studies, however the majority of studies was able to reach level 4 of evidence and on overall grade of recommendation C. In total, data from 745 female participants subjected to different forms of resistance training were considered. Heterogeneity across studies was present regarding study design, intervention length (mean 16 weeks), training frequency (3 d/w), no. of exercises (n = 7.4) and participants’ age (65.8 ± 4.9 years). Small-to-moderate significant increases (k = 43; SMD = 0.44; 95% CI 0.28; 0.60; p < 0.0001) of lean body mass were observed in post-menopausal and elderly women, regardless of age, intervention period, weekly training frequency and no. of exercises. No effects were noted for fat mass (k = 17; SMD = 0.27; 95% CI − 0.02; 0.55; p = 0.07). Studies need to concentrate on providing information regarding training parameters to more effectively counteract the effects of aging and menopause on skeletal muscle mass.
Ewan Thomas; Ambra Gentile; Nemanja Lakicevic; Tatiana Moro; Marianna Bellafiore; Antonio Paoli; Patrik Drid; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research 2021, 1 -12.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Ambra Gentile, Nemanja Lakicevic, Tatiana Moro, Marianna Bellafiore, Antonio Paoli, Patrik Drid, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research. 2021; ():1-12.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Ambra Gentile; Nemanja Lakicevic; Tatiana Moro; Marianna Bellafiore; Antonio Paoli; Patrik Drid; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies." Aging Clinical and Experimental Research , no. : 1-12.
Ewan Thomas; Vincenzo Gennaro; Giuseppe Battaglia; Marianna Bellafiore; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests. Isokinetics and Exercise Science 2021, 29, 185 -191.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Vincenzo Gennaro, Giuseppe Battaglia, Marianna Bellafiore, Angelo Iovane, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests. Isokinetics and Exercise Science. 2021; 29 (2):185-191.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Vincenzo Gennaro; Giuseppe Battaglia; Marianna Bellafiore; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests." Isokinetics and Exercise Science 29, no. 2: 185-191.
Background: Like other combat sports, sambo has competition rules that divide athletes into categories based on gender, age and weight. Athletes in combat sports often resort to rapid weight loss (RWL) methods to be more competitive in lower weight categories and gain an advantage against lighter, smaller and weaker competitors. The aim of this study was to examine the methodology implemented by two different sambo age categories, junior and senior athletes, in order to attain RWL. Methods: The sample consisted of 103 male sambo elite athletes (seniors/juniors: age 28.5 ± 4.3/18.9 ± 0.8; height (m): 1.7 ± 0.1/1.8 ± 0.1; weight (kg): 76.3 ± 17.8/74.4 ± 16.3; BMI (kg/m2): 25.0 ± 3.8/23.7 ± 3.9) who completed a survey on RWL. Results: Athletes reported losing a mean of 5 kg starting approximately 12 days before a competition. The most common methodology reported by senior and junior sambo athletes was gradually increasing dieting, followed by sauna and plastic suit training. Less common methods adopted were laxatives, diuretics, the use of diet pills and vomiting. There were significant group differences for sauna and diet pill ingestion. Coaches and parents are influential people in the lives of athletes concerning the weight loss strategy to be adopted. Conclusions: This study’s results unequivocally confirm the prevalent practice of RWL in both senior and junior sambo athletes. Although athletes prevalently chose “less harmful” methods, there is a need to inform parents and coaches of the risks and benefits of RWL.
Flavia Figlioli; Antonino Bianco; Ewan Thomas; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Tatjana Trivic; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes. Nutrients 2021, 13, 1063 .
AMA StyleFlavia Figlioli, Antonino Bianco, Ewan Thomas, Valdemar Stajer, Darinka Korovljev, Tatjana Trivic, Nebojsa Maksimovic, Patrik Drid. Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes. Nutrients. 2021; 13 (4):1063.
Chicago/Turabian StyleFlavia Figlioli; Antonino Bianco; Ewan Thomas; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Tatjana Trivic; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes." Nutrients 13, no. 4: 1063.
Stretching is commonly used to increase range of motion and flexibility. Therefore, investigations are usually oriented towards the muscle-tendon unit. Limited evidence exists regarding potential effects of stretching on peripheral nerves which lie within muscles. The objective of this investigation will be to elucidate the responses of peripheral nerves to stretching. A literature search was performed using the following databases: Scopus, NLM Pubmed and ScienceDirect. Studies regarding the effects of stretching protocols on responses of peripheral nerves were retrieved for investigation. The NHLBI tool was used for quality assessment. Outcomes included nerve stiffness, nerve displacement, pain pressure thresholds and resistive torque. A total of 10 studies were considered eligible and were included in this investigation. The quality assessment of the studies revealed an overall “fair to good” methodological quality across the included studies. All studies except for one involved healthy participants. High heterogeneity of stretching protocols was retrieved. As a consequence of stretching, nerve stiffness (-15.6%) and pain pressure thresholds (-1.9kg) decreased. Nerve displacements on each movement plane for all the considered nerves and nerve deformation were also frequently observed. Peripheral nerve responses to muscle stretching include decreased nerve stiffness and decreased pain pressure thresholds. Nerve displacement also frequently occurs. It is still unclear if reduced nerve displacement may lead to clinical outcomes. There is a lack of longitudinal studies regarding peripheral nerve adaptations to stretching.
Ewan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Luca Petrigna; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 2021, 20, 258 -267.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Marianna Bellafiore, Luca Petrigna, Antonio Paoli, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. 2021; 20 (2):258-267.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Luca Petrigna; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review." Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 20, no. 2: 258-267.
Dual-task (DT) consists of the performance of two tasks simultaneously. An index of DT difficulty has been linked to decreased postural control. Because a wide range of DT is employed, this study aimed to evaluate its effects in static balance in older adults. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were screened, and the secondary tasks were grouped as manual, reaction time, discrimination and decision making, mental tracking, verbal fluency, working memory, or “other” tasks. A total of 66 studies have been included. The meta-analysis was conducted on 28 effects and showed a significant mean effect size of d = 0.24 (p = .02, SE = 0.10; confidence interval [0.04, 0.44]), indicating a worsening in stability during DT. In conclusion, postural control was worsened by the Stroop test and the arithmetic tasks improved it. The results do not underpin any conclusive statement on the impact of DT, and a standard operating procedure was created.
Luca Petrigna; Ambra Gentile; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Tobia Zanotto; Ewan Thomas; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Dual-Task Conditions on Static Postural Control in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 2021, 29, 162 -177.
AMA StyleLuca Petrigna, Ambra Gentile, Diba Mani, Simona Pajaujiene, Tobia Zanotto, Ewan Thomas, Antonio Paoli, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Dual-Task Conditions on Static Postural Control in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity. 2021; 29 (1):162-177.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuca Petrigna; Ambra Gentile; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Tobia Zanotto; Ewan Thomas; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Dual-Task Conditions on Static Postural Control in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 29, no. 1: 162-177.
The aim of this investigation was to identify possible related factors associated to the performance of the crunning test in European children and adolescents. A total number of 559 children and adolescents (age range 6–14 years) of which 308 boys (55.1%) and 251 girls (44.9%), from seven European countries, were screened. A questionnaire concerning demographic and personal life-related factors and a cognitive assessment were performed. A regression analysis was conducted with the performance measures of the crunning movement. T-tests and ANCOVA were used to analyze sub-group differences. Boys have greater crunning performance values compared to girls (5.55 s vs. 7.06 s, p < 0.001) and older children perform better than younger ones (R2 −0.23; p < 0.001). Children with healthy and active habits (exercising or spending time with family members vs. reading or surfing the internet) performed better in the test. Children engaged in team sports had better crunning performances compared to those engaged in individual sports (6.01 s vs. 6.66 s, p = 0.0166). No significant association was found regarding cognitive-related aspects in either children engaged in team or individual sports and the crunning performance. Older and male children performed better in the crunning test than younger and female children. Physical activity-related aspects of children’s life are associated with crunning movement performance. No association was found between higher cognitive performance and the crunning test results.
Ewan Thomas; Marianna Alesi; Garden Tabacchi; Carlos Silva; David Sturm; Fatma Şahin; Özkan Güler; Manuel Gómez-López; Simona Pajaujiene; Michele Basile; Ante Rada; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Cognitive and Physical Activity-Related Aspects of Children Associated to the Performance of the Crunning Movement. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 2021, 6, 9 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Marianna Alesi, Garden Tabacchi, Carlos Silva, David Sturm, Fatma Şahin, Özkan Güler, Manuel Gómez-López, Simona Pajaujiene, Michele Basile, Ante Rada, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Cognitive and Physical Activity-Related Aspects of Children Associated to the Performance of the Crunning Movement. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. 2021; 6 (1):9.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Marianna Alesi; Garden Tabacchi; Carlos Silva; David Sturm; Fatma Şahin; Özkan Güler; Manuel Gómez-López; Simona Pajaujiene; Michele Basile; Ante Rada; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Cognitive and Physical Activity-Related Aspects of Children Associated to the Performance of the Crunning Movement." Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 6, no. 1: 9.
The aim of this study will be to review the current body of literature to understand the effects of stretching on the responses of the cardiovascular system. A literature search was performed using the following databases: Scopus, NLM Pubmed and ScienceDirect. Studies regarding the effects of stretching on responses of the cardiovascular system were investigated. Outcomes regarded heart rate(HR), blood pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV of which baPWV for brachial-ankle and cfPWV for carotid-femoral waveforms), heart rate variability and endothelial vascular function. Subsequently, the effects of each outcome were quantitatively synthetized using meta-analytic synthesis with random-effect models. A total of 16 studies were considered eligible and included in the quantitative synthesis. Groups were also stratified according to cross-sectional or longitudinal stretching interventions. Quality assessment through the NHLBI tools observed a “fair-to-good” quality of the studies. The meta-analytic synthesis showed a significant effect of d=0.38 concerning HR, d=2.04 regarding baPWV and d=0.46 for cfPWV. Stretching significantly reduces arterial stiffness and HR. The qualitative description of the studies was also supported by the meta-analytic synthesis. No adverse effects were reported, after stretching, in patients affected by cardiovascular disease on blood pressure. There is a lack of studies regarding vascular adaptations to stretching.
Ewan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Ambra Gentile; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Cardiovascular Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie 2021, 1 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Marianna Bellafiore, Ambra Gentile, Antonio Paoli, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Cardiovascular Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie. 2021; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Ambra Gentile; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Cardiovascular Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis." Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie , no. : 1.
Background Manual dexterity is an important aspect in everyday life, which is widely studied through the Grooved Pegboard Test (GPT). Since Dual-Tasks (DT) activities are widely investigated and important to simulate everyday life situations, the objectives of the present pilot study were the evaluation of the effect of a cognitive task and a motor task during the performance of the GPT and the feasibility of the GPT in a DT contest. A secondary objective was to evaluate the training effect of the GPT. Methods A total of 31 young adults (20 man and 11 woman, age (SD): 27.7 (2.5)) performed the GPT eight times to understand the presence of a training effect before performing the GPT in DT. The additional tasks were a secondary cognitive task and a secondary motor task. Results All participants were able to complete the required conditions. The GPT performed in motor DT were significantly slower than those performed singularly (p < 0.01). The GPT performed with the cognitive task was slower than the secondary motor task (p < 0.05). A training effect was present up to the 4th consecutive trial. Conclusions The GPT can be executed with a cognitive or motor task to increase the difficulty of the trial to better evaluate manual dexterity and cognitive capacities.
Luca Petrigna; Simona Pajaujiene; Gaetano Marco Iacona; Ewan Thomas; Antonio Paoli; Antonino Bianco; Antonio Palma. The execution of the Grooved Pegboard test in a Dual-Task situation: A pilot study. Heliyon 2020, 6, e04678 .
AMA StyleLuca Petrigna, Simona Pajaujiene, Gaetano Marco Iacona, Ewan Thomas, Antonio Paoli, Antonino Bianco, Antonio Palma. The execution of the Grooved Pegboard test in a Dual-Task situation: A pilot study. Heliyon. 2020; 6 (8):e04678.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuca Petrigna; Simona Pajaujiene; Gaetano Marco Iacona; Ewan Thomas; Antonio Paoli; Antonino Bianco; Antonio Palma. 2020. "The execution of the Grooved Pegboard test in a Dual-Task situation: A pilot study." Heliyon 6, no. 8: e04678.
Background: Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is an endocrine disease with a precocious significant impairment of growth and neuromotor development. Thyroid hormones are essential for central nervous system development, maturation, and myelination. Furthermore, thyroid hormone deficiency affects the function of several systems, including the musculoskeletal system. The disease has a significant incidence in the general population (1:3000–1:2000 newborns in Italy). The aim of the present study was to evaluate any differences in upper and lower limb strength, body sway, and plantar loading distribution in children with CH compared to healthy children. Methods: In this study, the case group was composed of children with CH (CHG), while the control group included healthy children (CG). Both groups comprised 19 children (CHG: female = 12; CG: female = 9). The maximum isometric handgrip strength and explosive-elastic lower limb strength were assessed with the handgrip test and the Sargent test, respectively. The stabilometric and baropodometric analyses were used to measure the Center of Pressure displacements and the plantar loading distribution between feet, respectively. The differences between groups were analyzed by a univariate analysis of covariance using as covariates weight and height with the significant level set at < 0.05. Results: We found that CHG children were shorter and thinner than CG ones (p < 0.05). No significant difference in the upper and lower limb strength was found between groups. CHG exhibited a significant greater Sway Path Length (p < 0.01) and Ellipse Surface (p < 0.05) than CG. Moreover, CHG displayed an asymmetric plantar loading distribution with a significant lower percentage in the right than in the left foot (p < 0.05). Moreover, a significant lower plantar loading percentage in the right foot of CHG than in the right foot of CG was observed (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings seem to suggest that CH does not affect muscle strength in early treated children. However, these patients show poor postural control ability and asymmetric plantar loading distribution. Increasing the physical activity in these children could improve their body posture.
Jessica Brusa; Maria Cristina Maggio; Valerio Giustino; Ewan Thomas; Daniele Zangla; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Giovanni Corsello; Giuseppe Messina; Marianna Bellafiore. Upper and Lower Limb Strength and Body Posture in Children with Congenital Hypothyroidism: An Observational Case-Control Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 4830 .
AMA StyleJessica Brusa, Maria Cristina Maggio, Valerio Giustino, Ewan Thomas, Daniele Zangla, Angelo Iovane, Antonio Palma, Giovanni Corsello, Giuseppe Messina, Marianna Bellafiore. Upper and Lower Limb Strength and Body Posture in Children with Congenital Hypothyroidism: An Observational Case-Control Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (13):4830.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJessica Brusa; Maria Cristina Maggio; Valerio Giustino; Ewan Thomas; Daniele Zangla; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Giovanni Corsello; Giuseppe Messina; Marianna Bellafiore. 2020. "Upper and Lower Limb Strength and Body Posture in Children with Congenital Hypothyroidism: An Observational Case-Control Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 13: 4830.
A wide inter-individual variability in terms of size, orientation and insertion is observed regarding ankle ligaments. The aim of this study is to identify and describe the anatomical features of the posterior talocalcaneal ligament (PTCL) observed through the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ankle. The study was retrospectively carried out on 893 ankle MRI’s exams. The exams have all been performed using a 1.5-T (T) MRI. The same scanning protocols and scan planes were carried out in all the exams. The first evaluated parameter was the recognition of the PTCL. Subsequently, in all those cases where the ligament was present, its features such as insertion sites, length, and thickness were evaluated. The PTCL identification was possible in 77 exams (8.6% of the total number). Among these, we were able to identify some variants regarding insertion sites, length, and thickness. The PTCL could be further classified into four categories based on the most common characteristics observed. Our study has identified different characteristics of the PTCL that allow us to further understand the characteristics of the ligament itself. In conclusion, the need for further studies focused on the biomechanical role of the PTCL in the ankle joint appears mandatory.
Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Giuseppe Messina; Francesco Cappello; Ewan Thomas; Roberto Fiore. The posterior talocalcaneal ligament: an MRI evaluation. Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy 2020, 42, 1167 -1174.
AMA StyleAngelo Iovane, Antonio Palma, Giuseppe Messina, Francesco Cappello, Ewan Thomas, Roberto Fiore. The posterior talocalcaneal ligament: an MRI evaluation. Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy. 2020; 42 (10):1167-1174.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAngelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Giuseppe Messina; Francesco Cappello; Ewan Thomas; Roberto Fiore. 2020. "The posterior talocalcaneal ligament: an MRI evaluation." Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy 42, no. 10: 1167-1174.
The standing broad jump (SBJ) is a valid, reliable and feasible field-based test, which can evaluate explosive strength of the lower limbs and physical fitness. This study aimed to provide normative data for the SBJ for male and female children and adolescents and describe differences in performance between age groups and genders. A total number of 2140 children and adolescents, sampled in seven European nations have been included for analysis. The SBJ was performed to derive percentile values for gender and each age group. In general, males have greater jumping performance compared to females. Data demonstrate a linear increase in the jumping distance for both males and females until adolescence. However, such increase is evident in males up to 16-17 years old, whereas in females a plateau value is met at 12-13 years old, with a subsequent decrease in the jumping performance. No differences were present in jumping performance between male and female children, however differences between male and female adolescents were evinced. The study has provided percentile values useful to monitor the physical fitness status of children and adolescents.
Ewan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J. Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old. European Journal of Translational Myology 2020, 30, 240 -246.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Luca Petrigna, Garden Tabacchi, Eduardo Teixeira, Simona Pajaujiene, David J. Sturm, Fatma Nese Sahin, Manuel Gómez-López, Jelena Pausic, Antonio Paoli, Marianna Alesi, Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old. European Journal of Translational Myology. 2020; 30 (2):240-246.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J. Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. 2020. "Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old." European Journal of Translational Myology 30, no. 2: 240-246.
The standing broad jump (SBJ) is a valid, reliable and feasible field-based test, which can evaluate explosive strength of the lower limbs and physical fitness. This study aimed to provide normative data for the SBJ for male and female children and adolescents and describe differences in performance between age groups and genders. A total number of 2140 children and adolescents, sampled in seven European nations have been included for analysis. The SBJ was performed to derive percentile values for gender and each age group. In general, males have greater jumping performance compared to females. Data demonstrate a linear increase in the jumping distance for both males and females until adolescence. However, such increase is evident in males up to 16-17 years old, whereas in females a plateau value is met at 12-13 years old, with a subsequent decrease in the jumping performance. No differences were present in jumping performance between male and female children, however differences between male and female adolescents were evinced. The study has provided percentile values useful to monitor the physical fitness status of children and adolescents.
Ewan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old. European Journal of Translational Myology 2020, 1 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Luca Petrigna, Garden Tabacchi, Eduardo Teixeira, Simona Pajaujiene, David J Sturm, Fatma Nese Sahin, Manuel Gómez-López, Jelena Pausic, Antonio Paoli, Marianna Alesi, Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old. European Journal of Translational Myology. 2020; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. 2020. "Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescence aged 6-18 years old." European Journal of Translational Myology , no. : 1.
The standing broad jump (SBJ) is a valid, reliable and feasible field-based test, which can evaluate explosive strength of the lower limbs and physical fitness. This study aimed to provide normative data for the SBJ for male and female children and adolescents and describe differences in performance between age groups and genders. A total number of 2140 children and adolescents, sampled in seven European nations have been included for analysis. The SBJ was performed to derive percentile values for gender and each age group. In general, males have greater jumping performance compared to females. Data demonstrate a linear increase in the jumping distance for both males and females until adolescence. However, such increase is evident in males up to 16-17 years old, whereas in females a plateau value is met at 12-13 years old, with a subsequent decrease in the jumping performance. No differences were present in jumping performance between male and female children, however differences between male and female adolescents were evinced. The study has provided percentile values useful to monitor the physical fitness status of children and adolescents.
Ewan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J. Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescents aged 6-18 years old. 2020, 30, 9050 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Luca Petrigna, Garden Tabacchi, Eduardo Teixeira, Simona Pajaujiene, David J. Sturm, Fatma Nese Sahin, Manuel Gómez-López, Jelena Pausic, Antonio Paoli, Marianna Alesi, Antonino Bianco. Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescents aged 6-18 years old. . 2020; 30 (2):9050.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Luca Petrigna; Garden Tabacchi; Eduardo Teixeira; Simona Pajaujiene; David J. Sturm; Fatma Nese Sahin; Manuel Gómez-López; Jelena Pausic; Antonio Paoli; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. 2020. "Percentile values of the standing broad jump in children and adolescents aged 6-18 years old." 30, no. 2: 9050.
Previous research has reported that children with idiopathic short stature (ISS) showed functional and cognitive impairments. The purpose of this study was to compare muscle strength and body posture between children with ISS treated with growth hormone (GH) and healthy peers (healthy children, HC), and to analyze whether these parameters were affected by physical exercise. Eighteen children for the ISS group (mean age: 10.96 ± 1.68 years) and 26 children for the HC group (mean age: 10.19 ± 1.06 years) were recruited for the study. All participants performed the following assessments: handgrip and Sargent test for the muscle strength evaluation; baropodometric and stabilometric test for the posturographic measures. Data were analyzed with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) using height and weight as covariate. Groups were then stratified into active and inactive and independent t-tests were used to determine differences between variables. Significance level was set to p < 0.05. Our results showed a significantly lower performance for both hands (p < 0.01) and a greater difference of plantar loading distribution between feet in the ISS compared to the HC groups (p < 0.01). In relation to physical exercise, the HC active group showed the highest handgrip strength values for both hands among the analyzed groups and, moreover, handgrip strength of both ISS active and inactive groups was significantly lower than corresponding CH peers for both hands. Although ISS and HC inactive groups reported an unequal plantar loading distribution between feet (p < 0.05), this asymmetry was not present in both ISS and HC active groups. We assume that GH therapy integrated with physical exercise in young patients with ISS could be suggested to increase muscle strength and body posture improving their quality of life.
Jessica Brusa; Maria Cristina Maggio; Daniele Zangla; Valerio Giustino; Ewan Thomas; Romilda Palma; Giuseppe Messina; Antonio Palma; Giovanni Corsello; Marianna Bellafiore. Comparison of Postural Features and Muscle Strength between Children with Idiopathic Short Stature and Healthy Peers in Relation to Physical Exercise. Sustainability 2020, 12, 3639 .
AMA StyleJessica Brusa, Maria Cristina Maggio, Daniele Zangla, Valerio Giustino, Ewan Thomas, Romilda Palma, Giuseppe Messina, Antonio Palma, Giovanni Corsello, Marianna Bellafiore. Comparison of Postural Features and Muscle Strength between Children with Idiopathic Short Stature and Healthy Peers in Relation to Physical Exercise. Sustainability. 2020; 12 (9):3639.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJessica Brusa; Maria Cristina Maggio; Daniele Zangla; Valerio Giustino; Ewan Thomas; Romilda Palma; Giuseppe Messina; Antonio Palma; Giovanni Corsello; Marianna Bellafiore. 2020. "Comparison of Postural Features and Muscle Strength between Children with Idiopathic Short Stature and Healthy Peers in Relation to Physical Exercise." Sustainability 12, no. 9: 3639.
Background: Physical fitness in youth is a predictor of health in adulthood. The main objective of the present study was to understand if an enriched sport activity program could increase physical fitness in a population of schoolchildren. Methods: In a sample of 672 children aged 10.0 ± 1.90 years, different motor skills were tested by the 1 kg and 3 kg ball throw (BT), the standing broad jump (SBJ), the 30 m sprint (30mS), the leger shuttle run (LSR), the illinois agility test (IGT), and the quadruped test (QT). Within the controlled-trial, the intervention group (ESA) underwent an additional warm-up protocol, which included cognitive enhancing elements, for 14 weeks while the control group continued with ordinary exercise activity. Results: A significant increase was present regarding the 1 kg and 3 kg BT, the SBJ, the 30mS, and the IGT, while no significant difference was shown regarding the QT and the LSR in the ESA group between pre and post intervention. In the control group, no differences were present for any test except for the QT and the LSR post-test. Conclusion: A 14-week structured physical intervention had moderate effects regarding throwing, jumping, sprinting, and agility in a sample of schoolchildren.
Ewan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Garden Tabacchi; Carlos Marques Da Silva; Nuno Loureiro; Michele Basile; Marcello Giaccone; David J. Sturm; Fatma Neşe Şahin; Özkan Güler; Manuel Gómez-López; Guillermo F. López Sánchez; Simona Pajaujiene; Ilona Judita Zuoziene; Ante Rada; Marianna Alesi; Antonio Palma. Effects of a Physical Activity Intervention on Physical Fitness of schoolchildren: The Enriched Sport Activity Program. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 1723 .
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Antonino Bianco, Garden Tabacchi, Carlos Marques Da Silva, Nuno Loureiro, Michele Basile, Marcello Giaccone, David J. Sturm, Fatma Neşe Şahin, Özkan Güler, Manuel Gómez-López, Guillermo F. López Sánchez, Simona Pajaujiene, Ilona Judita Zuoziene, Ante Rada, Marianna Alesi, Antonio Palma. Effects of a Physical Activity Intervention on Physical Fitness of schoolchildren: The Enriched Sport Activity Program. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (5):1723.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Garden Tabacchi; Carlos Marques Da Silva; Nuno Loureiro; Michele Basile; Marcello Giaccone; David J. Sturm; Fatma Neşe Şahin; Özkan Güler; Manuel Gómez-López; Guillermo F. López Sánchez; Simona Pajaujiene; Ilona Judita Zuoziene; Ante Rada; Marianna Alesi; Antonio Palma. 2020. "Effects of a Physical Activity Intervention on Physical Fitness of schoolchildren: The Enriched Sport Activity Program." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 5: 1723.
Rationale: Calcific tendinopathy is one of the most frequent causes of nontraumatic shoulder pain. However, intra-articular calcifications appear to be an infrequent condition. We herein report a rare case study of an intra-articular calcification of the acromioclavicular joint. Patient concerns: A 46-year-old man presented with an acute pain in the anterior superior region of the left shoulder which also radiated to the left cervical region. The man during the physical evaluation also presented severe functional limitation of the shoulder movements in all planes of motion. Diagnoses: The diagnosis was carried out through a radiographic and an echotomographic examination, highlighting the intra-articular calcific formation associated to a reactive inflammatory reaction. Interventions: An ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment following the guidelines for calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder was carried out. Outcomes: The posttreatment was satisfactory with the disappearance of the pain and the recovery of the shoulder movements in all planes of motion. Lessons: We can affirm that the ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment in patients with calcification of the acromion-clavicular joint represents a valid and nonpainful therapeutic treatment.
Angelo Iovane; Marco Di Gesù; Francesco Mantia; Ewan Thomas; Giuseppe Messina. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment of a calcific acromioclavicular joint. Medicine 2020, 99, e18645 .
AMA StyleAngelo Iovane, Marco Di Gesù, Francesco Mantia, Ewan Thomas, Giuseppe Messina. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment of a calcific acromioclavicular joint. Medicine. 2020; 99 (1):e18645.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAngelo Iovane; Marco Di Gesù; Francesco Mantia; Ewan Thomas; Giuseppe Messina. 2020. "Ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment of a calcific acromioclavicular joint." Medicine 99, no. 1: e18645.