Editorial

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3 pages, 158 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue on Biotechnology and Sports Engineering

by Joung-Hwan Mun

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(15), 7859; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12157859 - 04 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1039

Abstract

We are in the midst of the fourth industrial revolution, a time of change and innovation [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

Research

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14 pages, 1273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intramuscular Properties of Resting Lumbar Muscles in Patients with Unilateral Lower Limb Amputation

by Yunhee Chang, Jungsun Kang, Gyoosuk Kim, Hyunjun Shin and Sehoon Park

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(19), 9122; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11199122 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3106

Abstract

Lower limb amputees (LLAs) have a high incidence of low back pain (LBP), and identifying the potential risk factors in this group is key for LBP prevention. This study analyzed the intramuscular properties of the resting lumbar muscle in thirteen unilateral LLAs and [...] Read more.

Lower limb amputees (LLAs) have a high incidence of low back pain (LBP), and identifying the potential risk factors in this group is key for LBP prevention. This study analyzed the intramuscular properties of the resting lumbar muscle in thirteen unilateral LLAs and age-matched controls to predict the onset of LBP. To measure the lumbar intramuscular properties, resting erector spinae muscles located in the upper and lower lumbar regions were examined using a handheld myotonometer. The dynamic stiffness, oscillation frequency, and logarithmic decrement were measured. In our results, the stiffness and frequency of the upper lumbar region were greater in the amputee group than in the control, whereas the decrement did not differ between the two groups. Additionally, the measured values in the lower lumbar region showed no significant difference. Within each group, all three factors increased at the upper lumbar region. In the LLAs, the frequency and stiffness values of the upper lumbar on the non-amputated side were significantly higher than those on the amputated side. These results indicate that the upper lumbar muscles of the amputees were less flexible than that of the control. This study can help in providing therapeutic strategies treating LBP in amputees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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12 pages, 3823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Location of Strut Chordae Insertion on Computational Modeling and Biomechanical Evaluation of Mitral Valve Dynamics

by Woojae Hong, Soohwan Jeong, Minsung Ko, Hyun Hak Kim and Hyunggun Kim

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(13), 6205; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11136205 - 05 Jul 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2098

Abstract

The strut chordae (SC) have a unique structure and play an important role in reinforcing the tunnel-shaped configuration of the mitral valve (MV) at the inflow and outflow tracts. We investigated the effect of varying the SC insertion location on normal MV function [...] Read more.

The strut chordae (SC) have a unique structure and play an important role in reinforcing the tunnel-shaped configuration of the mitral valve (MV) at the inflow and outflow tracts. We investigated the effect of varying the SC insertion location on normal MV function and dynamics to better understand the complex MV structures. A virtual parametric MV model was designed to replicate a normal human MV, and a total of nine MV modes were created from combinations of apical and lateral displacements of the SC insertion location. MV function throughout the full cardiac cycle was simulated using dynamic finite element analysis for all MV models. While the leaflet stress distribution and coaptation showed similar patterns in all nine MV models, the maximum leaflet stress values increased in proportion to the width of the SC insertion locations. A narrower SC insertion location resulted in a longer coaptation length and a smaller anterior coaptation angle. The top-narrow MV model demonstrated the shortest anterior leaflet bulging distance, lower stresses across the anterior leaflet, and the lowest maximum stresses. This biomechanical evaluation strategy can help us better understand the effect of the SC insertion locations on mechanism, function, and pathophysiology of the MV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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13 pages, 4296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Patient-to-Image Surface Registration Technique for ENT- and Neuro-Navigation Systems: Proper Point Set in Patient Space

by Ahnryul Choi, Seungheon Chae, Tae-Hyong Kim, Hyunwoo Jung, Sang-Sik Lee, Ki-Young Lee and Joung-Hwan Mun

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(12), 5464; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11125464 - 12 Jun 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2527

Abstract

Patient-to-medical image registration is a crucial factor that affects the accuracy of image-guided ENT- and neurosurgery systems. In this study, a novel registration protocol that extracts the point cloud in the patient space using the contact approach was proposed. To extract the optimal [...] Read more.

Patient-to-medical image registration is a crucial factor that affects the accuracy of image-guided ENT- and neurosurgery systems. In this study, a novel registration protocol that extracts the point cloud in the patient space using the contact approach was proposed. To extract the optimal point cloud in patient space, we propose a multi-step registration protocol consisting of augmentation of the point cloud and creation of an optimal point cloud in patient space that satisfies the minimum distance from the point cloud in the medical image space. A hemisphere mathematical model and plastic facial phantom were used to validate the proposed registration protocol. An optical and electromagnetic tracking system, of the type that is commonly used in clinical practice, was used to acquire the point cloud in the patient space and evaluate the accuracy of the proposed registration protocol. The SRE and TRE of the proposed protocol were improved by about 30% and 50%, respectively, compared to those of a conventional registration protocol. In addition, TRE was reduced to about 28% and 21% in the optical and electromagnetic methods, respectively, thus showing improved accuracy. The new algorithm proposed in this study is expected to be applied to surgical navigation systems in the near future, which could increase the success rate of otolaryngological and neurological surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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14 pages, 445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relative Hand Grip and Back Muscle Strength, but Not Mean Muscle Strength, as Risk Factors for Incident Metabolic Syndrome and Its Metabolic Components: 16 Years of Follow-Up in a Population-Based Cohort Study

by Yoo Jeong Jeon, Seung Ku Lee and Chol Shin

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(11), 5198; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11115198 - 03 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2026

Abstract

Muscle strength is associated with health outcomes and can be considered an important disease predictor. There are several studies examining the relationship between hand grip strength (HGS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, no results have been reported for long term longitudinal studies. In [...] Read more.

Muscle strength is associated with health outcomes and can be considered an important disease predictor. There are several studies examining the relationship between hand grip strength (HGS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, no results have been reported for long term longitudinal studies. In this study, we investigated the relationship between mean HGS, back muscle strength (BMS), relative HGS and BMS, and MetS. A total of 2538 non-MetS subjects aged 40–69 years (1215 women and 1323 men) in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) Ansan cohort were followed for 16 years. The relationships between incident MetS (iMetS) and muscle strength were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression models after adjusting for the confounding factors. Increases in standard deviation (SD) and the lower quartile groups for relative HGS and BMS were significantly associated with iMetS in men and women. Moreover, increases in SD and high quintile groups (decreased HGS group) for the delta change in the mean and relative HGS were significantly associated with iMetS in men only. In addition, SD increases for the relative HGS and BMS were significantly associated with iMetS components in men and women. The present study suggests that lower relative HGS and BMS are associated with high risk for the future development of MetS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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19 pages, 4211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Endurance Time Prediction of Biceps Brachii Using Logarithmic Parameters of a Surface Electromyogram during Low-Moderate Level Isotonic Contractions

by Chang-ok Cho, Jin-Hyoung Jeong, Yun-jeong Kim, Jee Hun Jang, Sang-Sik Lee and Ki-young Lee

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(6), 2861; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11062861 - 23 Mar 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1835

Abstract

At relatively low effort level tasks, surface electromyogram (sEMG) spectral parameters have demonstrated an inconsistent ability to monitor localized muscle fatigue and predict endurance capacity. The main purpose of this study was to assess the potential of the endurance time (T_end) [...] Read more.

At relatively low effort level tasks, surface electromyogram (sEMG) spectral parameters have demonstrated an inconsistent ability to monitor localized muscle fatigue and predict endurance capacity. The main purpose of this study was to assess the potential of the endurance time (T_end) prediction using logarithmic parameters compared to raw data. Ten healthy subjects performed five sets of voluntary isotonic contractions until their exhaustion at 20% of their maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) level. We extracted five sEMG spectral parameters namely the power in the low frequency band (LFB), the mean power frequency (MPF), the high-to-low ratio between two frequency bands (H/L-FB), the Dimitrov spectral index (DSI), and the high-to-low ratio between two spectral moments (H/L-SM), and then converted them to logarithms. Changes in these ten parameters were monitored using area ratio and linear regressive slope as statistical predictors and estimating from onset at every 10% of T_end. Significant correlations (r > 0.5) were found between log(T_end) and the linear regressive slopes in the logarithmic H/L-SM at every 10% of T_end. In conclusion, logarithmic parameters can be used to describe changes in the fatigue content of sEMG and can be employed as a better predictor of T_end in comparison to the raw parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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13 pages, 1042 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cold-Water Immersion Promotes Antioxidant Enzyme Activation in Elite Taekwondo Athletes

by Eun-Hee Park, Seung-Wook Choi and Yoon-Kwon Yang

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(6), 2855; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11062855 - 23 Mar 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2194

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cold-water immersion (CWI) on lipid peroxides and antioxidant enzymes in adult Taekwondo athletes after a match. A cross-sectional study was performed. After a Taekwondo match, the control group remained seated passively, while [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cold-water immersion (CWI) on lipid peroxides and antioxidant enzymes in adult Taekwondo athletes after a match. A cross-sectional study was performed. After a Taekwondo match, the control group remained seated passively, while the treatment group immersed their legs below the knee joint in cold water at 10 °C. Blood samples were taken at pre-match, post-match, post-treatment, and post-rest, and changes in malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) concentrations were analyzed. The results showed that there was a significant difference in MDA between the two groups, and while the CWI group had 19% lower SOD concentration compared to the control group, and the difference was not significant. However, in case of interaction for GPx concentration (p < 0.001), a statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, CWI after a Taekwondo match elevates the concentration of antioxidant enzymes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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9 pages, 930 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Predictive Model on the Intention to Accept Taekwondo Electronic Protection Devices

by Sung-Un Park, Dong-Kyu Kim and Hyunkyun Ahn

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(4), 1845; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11041845 - 19 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1978

Abstract

This study’s purpose was to establish a predictive model of the intention to accept Taekwondo electronic protector devices through the application of the technology acceptance model. Two hundred and twenty collegiate Taekwondo practitioners affiliated with the Korea Taekwondo Association participated in a survey [...] Read more.

This study’s purpose was to establish a predictive model of the intention to accept Taekwondo electronic protector devices through the application of the technology acceptance model. Two hundred and twenty collegiate Taekwondo practitioners affiliated with the Korea Taekwondo Association participated in a survey that included 28 questions (4 relating to demographic characteristics, 12 to precursor variables, and 12 to the technology acceptance model). Correlation and structural equation modeling analyses were applied and a significance level of 0.05 was used. The results were as follows. Perceived quality had a significant influence on perceived ease of use (β = 0.380, t = 3.481, p < 0.001) and perceived usefulness (β = 0.544, t = 5.098, p < 0.001). Visual attractiveness had no significant influence on either perceived ease of use (β = 0.159, t = 1.798, p = 0.072) or perceived usefulness (β = −0.010, t = −0.131, p = 0.896). Wearability had a significant influence on perceived ease of use (β = 0.234, t = 2.867, p < 0.01), but a significantly negative influence on perceived usefulness (β = −0.218, t = −2.932, p < 0.01). Functionality had no significant influence on either perceived ease of use (β = 0.116, t = 1.031, p = 0.302) or perceived usefulness (β = 0.107, t = 1.093, p = 0.274). Perceived ease of use had a significant influence on perceived usefulness (β = 0.418, t = 4.361, p < 0.001) and acceptance intention (β = 0.361, t = 4.031, p < 0.001). Perceived usefulness had a significant influence on acceptance intention (β = 0.525, t = 5.758, p < 0.001). These results suggest that improving the perceived quality and wearability of the devices will enhance their acceptance. We believe that this study provides an appropriate verification model for the intention to accept Taekwondo electronic protection devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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14 pages, 13597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Movement Intention for Operating Methods of Serious Games

by Jung-Hyun Park, Ho-Sang Moon, Hyunggun Kim and Sung-Taek Chung

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11020883 - 19 Jan 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2523

Abstract

In many post-stroke cases, patients show dysfunctions in movement, cognition, sense, and language, depending on the damaged area of the brain. Active and repetitive physical rehabilitation centered on the stroke-affected side is essential for effective and rapid neurological recovery of upper extremity dysfunction [...] Read more.

In many post-stroke cases, patients show dysfunctions in movement, cognition, sense, and language, depending on the damaged area of the brain. Active and repetitive physical rehabilitation centered on the stroke-affected side is essential for effective and rapid neurological recovery of upper extremity dysfunction due to hemiplegia. A symmetric upper extremity trainer is utilized to assist the patient body, depending upon the degree of hemiplegia. In this study, we developed a novel balance handle as a symmetric upper extremity trainer capable of extension, flexion, pronation, and supination of the upper extremity. We collected the surface electromyogram (sEMG) signal data while the subjects were playing a serious game and recorded the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal data while the subjects were performing basic movements with the balance handle, to analyze the effectiveness of the device as an assistive tool for rehabilitation. The triceps brachii were activated during the extension movements, whereas the biceps brachii and deltoid muscles were activated during the flexion movements. With the balance handle, the peak event-related desynchronization (ERD) values were relatively lower while showing higher peak event-related synchronization (ERS) values compared to other types of operating methods, such as hand gripping and gamepad operation. Movement intention of tilting the balance handle for the α and β waves was clearly distinguished from the other tasks. These data demonstrated the potential of various applications using the developed proof-of-concept upper extremity trainer to bring out an excellent rehabilitative effect not only through muscle growth but also via identification of large movement intentions inducing brain activation exercise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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10 pages, 221 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relative Weights of Physical Strength Factors in Sports Events: Focused on Similarity Sports Events Group According to the Sports Physiological View

by Kyoung-Hyun Lee, Jin-Seok Lee, Byung-Chan Lee and Eun-Hyung Cho

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(24), 9131; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10249131 - 21 Dec 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1753

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relative weights of physical strength factors in sports events. We selected 16,645 people as a sample group who participated in physical fitness measurements through eight sports science centers across the country from 2016 until [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relative weights of physical strength factors in sports events. We selected 16,645 people as a sample group who participated in physical fitness measurements through eight sports science centers across the country from 2016 until August of 2018, and divided into four sports types depending on the sports physiological view: type A: short-term muscular power and short-term muscular endurance, type B: mid-term muscular power, type C: long-term cardiorespiratory endurance, type D: coordination capability (CC), agility, flexibility, and balance. Categorized the performance level into excellent athletes and non-excellent athletes, and standardized (T-score) the measured value after considering sex, age and sports type group. Used logistic regression analysis for the method of analysis, and calculated the relative weights of physical strength factor with different sports by using Wald value which was calculated from logistic regression analysis. As a result, the relative weights of physical factor in type A were power 30%, muscular power (MP) 18%, CC 16%, agility 11%, flexibility 10%, cardiorespiratory endurance (CE) 1%, and balance 0%. The relative weights of physical factor in type B were muscular endurance (ME) 43%, MP 25%, power 20%, balance 9%, CE 2%, flexibility 1%, agility 0%, and CC 0%. The relative weights of physical factor in type C were ME 41%, CE 37%, power 10%, agility 8%, flexibility 2%, CC 2%, ME 0%, and balance 0%. Need more specific classification standard for type D sports. Hope the results of this study were used to measure physical fitness level and used as baseline data for recruiting future talents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

13 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Mat Pilates on Body Fluid Composition, Pelvic Stabilization, and Muscle Damage during Pregnancy

by Ah-Hyun Hyun and Yoo-Jeong Jeon

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(24), 9111; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10249111 - 20 Dec 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4404

Abstract

In this study, according to the exercise intensity (50–60% of HRmax (Maximum Heart Rate), RPE (Rating of Perceived Exertion: 11–13) proposed by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for pregnant women, mat Pilates exercise is related to body composition, lipid parameters, [...] Read more.

In this study, according to the exercise intensity (50–60% of HRmax (Maximum Heart Rate), RPE (Rating of Perceived Exertion: 11–13) proposed by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for pregnant women, mat Pilates exercise is related to body composition, lipid parameters, and pelvic stabilization. The effects on muscle and muscle damage were investigated. The subjects of this study were 16 pregnant women registered at the Cultural Center of Gyeonggi-do C Women’s Hospital, and the gestation period was 16 to 24 weeks. The mat Pilates exercise program (twice a week, 60 min per day, total 12 weeks) changed the Pilates exercise program every 6 weeks according to the subject’s pain level and physical fitness. Body composition before and after exercise, hip flexion, abduction and dilated lipids, inflammation, muscle damage, and stress hormones were measured through blood biochemical analysis. First, the difference in total body water, intracellular water, and skeletal muscle changes (post-pre) increased significantly in the Pilates exercise (PE) group compared to the control (CON) group, while the extracellular/intracellular water ratio significantly decreased. The effect of Pilates on body composition and lipid profile confirmed that, after testing, total body water (TBW), intracellular water (ICW), and extracellular water (ECW) were significantly greater than pre-test values in both groups (TBW: z = −2.286, p = 0.022, r = 0.572; ICW: z = −2.818, p = 0.005, r = 0.705; ECW: z = −1.232, p = 0.218, r = 0.308), whereas the ECW/ICW ratio decreased significantly only in the PE group (z = −2.170, p = 0.030, r = 0.543); while the increases in TBW and ICW were greater in the PE group than in the CON group, the ECW/ICW ratio decreased significantly in the PE group. Blood tests showed significant increases in body weight (BW), body fat mass (BFM), and percentage of body fat (PBF) in both groups post-test as compared to pre-test (BW: z = −1.590, p = 0.112, r = 0.398; BFM: z = −0.106, p = 0.916; PBF: z = −1.643, p = 0.100, r = 0.411). There was a slight increase in creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which are indices of muscle damage, and in the difference between the periods within the group, the CK and LDH of the CON group showed a tendency to increase significantly after inspection compared to the previous values (CK: z = −1.700, p = 0.089, r = 0.425, LDH: z = −2.603, p = 0.009, r = 0.651). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) decreased significantly in the Pilates exercise group compared to that in the control group, and as a result of confirming the difference in the amount of change in C-reactive protein (CRP), there was no significant difference between the two groups, and the PE group showed a tendency to decrease after inspection compared to the previous period even in the difference between the periods in the group. The CON group showed an increasing trend, but no significant difference was found. Cortisol, a stress hormone, also increased significantly after inspection both groups compared to before (CON group: z = −2.201, p = 0.028; PE group: z = −2.547, p = 0.011). Therefore, the 12 week Pilates exercise program conducted in this study has a positive effect on body water balance and strengthens the muscles related to pelvic stabilization within the range of reducing muscle damage or causing muscle damage and stress in pregnant women. We think that it has an effective exercise intensity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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9 pages, 735 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Age-Based Bone Mineral Density in the Korean Adult Population Using Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry

by Jung Chul Lee, Chong Hoon Lee, Dong Wha Chung, Hee Joo Lee and Jae Yong Park

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(23), 8469; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10238469 - 27 Nov 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2113

Abstract

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) provides a reliable and accurate measurement of bone density and bone mineral composition. This research examined the composition and bone density (bone mineral composition and bone mineral density; BMD) of the whole body and selected body parts using DEXA. [...] Read more.

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) provides a reliable and accurate measurement of bone density and bone mineral composition. This research examined the composition and bone density (bone mineral composition and bone mineral density; BMD) of the whole body and selected body parts using DEXA. The participants were 240 healthy adult men and women who were divided into three groups based on age. The total BMD of women amounted to an average of 1.14 g/cm² for those aged 20–39 years, 1.14 g/cm² for those aged 40–59 years, and 0.98 g/cm² for those aged 60–73 years. For men, the average BMD was 1.25 g/cm² for those aged 20–39 years, 1.20 g/cm² for those aged 40–59 years, and 1.17 g g/cm² for those aged 60–73 years. The decrease in age-specific BMD was shown to have a correlation with both age and body mass index, and it is determined that exercising on a regular basis can prevent a reduction in BMD by maintaining appropriate muscle mass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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12 pages, 846 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Fatigue Recovery and Muscle Damage Enzymes after Deep-Sea Water Thalassotherapy

by Nam-Ik Kim, Sagn-Jin Kim, Jee-Hun Jang, Woon-seob Shin, Hyok-ju Eum, Buom Kim, Ahnryul Choi and Sang-Sik Lee

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(23), 8383; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10238383 - 25 Nov 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5003

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of deep-sea water thalassotherapy (DSWTT) on recovery from fatigue and muscle damage. The same exercise program is conducted in general underwater and deep-sea water to confirm the characteristics of deep-sea water through fatigue [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of deep-sea water thalassotherapy (DSWTT) on recovery from fatigue and muscle damage. The same exercise program is conducted in general underwater and deep-sea water to confirm the characteristics of deep-sea water through fatigue recovery and muscle damage enzymes. A total of 30 male college students were studied, including 10 belonging to the control group (CG), 10 in the water exercise group (WEG), and 10 in the deep-sea water exercise group (DSWEG). The DSWTT treatment consists of three components—preheating, treatment, and cooling—and the DSWTT program stretches and massages the entire upper body, lower body, back, and the entire body for a total of 25 min in a deep-sea tank. After the DSWTT program, blood tests were conducted to confirm the level of fatigue-related parameters and muscle damage enzymes. Fatigue-related parameters including glucose, lactate, ammonia, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and the levels of muscle damage enzymes such as creatinine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured. The results revealed that fatigue had a primary effect (p < 0.001) and exhibited strongly significant interaction (p < 0.001) with lactate, ammonia, and LDH levels, whereas the glucose level remained unchanged. The post hoc results showed a significant decrease in these parameters among DSWEG compared to CG and WEG (p < 0.01). Muscle damage enzymes showed a main effect (p < 0.001) and significant interaction (p < 0.001) with CK and AST (p < 0.001). The post hoc results showed a significant decrease in DSWEG compared with CG and WEG (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the DSWTT program applied to this study showed significant effects on muscle fatigue and muscle damage recovery. When the DSWTT program is applied in hot springs, it can have a positive effect on muscle fatigue and muscle damage recovery and can contribute to improving national health and quality of life. Further studies are needed to investigate DSWTT programs with various research subjects at different program temperatures, exercise times, and frequencies of treatment and exercise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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8 pages, 18111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silver Nanowire Micro-Ring Formation Using Immiscible Emulsion Droplets for Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

by Hyungdong Lee, Woojun Ye, Jaehyun Lee, Hyunggun Kim and Doyoung Byun

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(22), 8018; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10228018 - 12 Nov 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2110

Abstract

Precise and rapid detection of biomolecules is a fast-growing research theme in the field of biomedical engineering. Based on the surface-enhanced Raman scattering, micro/nano-scale structures composed of noble metals (e.g., gold and silver) play a critical role in plasmonics. However, it is still [...] Read more.

Precise and rapid detection of biomolecules is a fast-growing research theme in the field of biomedical engineering. Based on the surface-enhanced Raman scattering, micro/nano-scale structures composed of noble metals (e.g., gold and silver) play a critical role in plasmonics. However, it is still limited to structuring nanomaterials in a specific manner. Here, we investigated a novel surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) application using one-dimensional nanomaterials and micro-encapsulation methods. With the immiscible nature of fluids, the nanomaterials were properly captured inside a number of droplets for encapsulation, deforming to micro-ring nanostructures. To yield uniform sizes of the silver micro-ring structures, a microchannel system was designed to characterize particle sizes via microscopic approaches. We were able to obtain printable silver nanowire micro-ring ink, and investigated the SERS substrate effect of the silver micro-ring structure. This fabrication method can be used in many other SERS-based biomedical engineering applications in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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13 pages, 2017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Achieve Personalized Exercise Intensity through an Intelligent System and Cycling Equipment: A Machine Learning Approach

by Yichen Wu, Zuchang Ma, Huanhuan Zhao, Yibing Li and Yining Sun

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(21), 7688; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10217688 - 30 Oct 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1904

Abstract

Using absolute intensity methods (metabolic equivalent of energy (METs), etc.) to determine exercise intensity in exercise prescriptions is straightforward and convenient. Using relative intensity methods (heart rate reserve (%HRR), maximal heart rate (%HR_max), etc.) is more recommended because it is more [...] Read more.

Using absolute intensity methods (metabolic equivalent of energy (METs), etc.) to determine exercise intensity in exercise prescriptions is straightforward and convenient. Using relative intensity methods (heart rate reserve (%HRR), maximal heart rate (%HR_max), etc.) is more recommended because it is more personalized. Taking target heart rate (THR) given by the relative method as an example, compared with just presenting the THR value, intuitively providing the setting parameters for achieving the THR with specific sport equipment is more user-friendly. The objective of this study was to find a method which combines the advantages (convenient and personalized) of the absolute and relative methods and relatively avoids their disadvantages, helping individuals to meet the target intensity by simply setting equipment parameters. For this purpose, we recruited 32 males and 29 females to undergo incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing with cycling equipment. The linear regression model of heart rate and exercise wattage (the setting parameter of the equipment) was constructed for each one (R² = 0.933, p < 0.001), and the slopes of the graph of these models were obtained. Next, we used an iterative algorithm to obtain a multiple regression model (adjusted R² = 0.8336, p < 0.001) of selected static body data and the slopes of participants. The regression model can accurately predict the slope of the general population through their static body data. Moreover, other populations can guarantee comparable accuracy by using questionnaire data for calibration. Then, the predicted slope can be utilized to calculate the equipment’s settings for achieving a personalized THR through our equation. All of these steps can be assigned to the intelligent system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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14 pages, 3065 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Random Dynamics of Cell Segmented by a Modified Active Contour Method

by Ji Yeon Hyun, Seungeon Ha, Jongmin Baek, Junghun Han, Honggi An, Sung-Hun Woo, Yoon Suk Kim, Sang Woo Lee, Sejung Yang and Sei Young Lee

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(19), 6806; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10196806 - 28 Sep 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1985

Abstract

To understand the dynamics of a living system, the analysis of particular and/or cellular dynamics has been performed based on shape-based center point detection. After collecting sequential time-lapse images of cellular dynamics, the trajectory of a moving object is determined from the set [...] Read more.

To understand the dynamics of a living system, the analysis of particular and/or cellular dynamics has been performed based on shape-based center point detection. After collecting sequential time-lapse images of cellular dynamics, the trajectory of a moving object is determined from the set of center points of the cell analyzed from each image. The accuracy of trajectory is significant in understanding the stochastic nature of the dynamics of biological objects. In this study, to localize a cellular object in time-lapse images, three different localization methods, namely radial symmetry, circular Hough transform, and modified active contour, were considered. To analyze the accuracy of cellular dynamics, several statistical parameters such as mean square displacement and velocity autocorrelation function were employed, and localization error derived from these was reported for each localization method. In particular, through denoising using a Poisson noise filter, improved localization characteristics could be achieved. The modified active contour with denoising reduced localization error significantly, and thus allowed for accurate estimation of the statistical parameters of cellular dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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16 pages, 5659 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Introduction of Open-Source Engineering Tools for the Structural Modeling of a Multilayer Mountaineering Ski under Operation

by Lorenzo Fraccaroli and Franco Concli

Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(15), 5310; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10155310 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2121

Abstract

Winter sports have significantly developed in the last century. Among others, skiing is a winter-sport branch in which the equipment makes the difference in the performances. While in the beginning of the last century skis were simply made of wood, nowadays the increasing [...] Read more.

Winter sports have significantly developed in the last century. Among others, skiing is a winter-sport branch in which the equipment makes the difference in the performances. While in the beginning of the last century skis were simply made of wood, nowadays the increasing demand of performances and weight reduction has promoted the adoption of composite materials. However, no significant progress has been made in the engineering approach to design such equipment which are very often still designed on the basis of several physical prototypes and trials. This is particularly true in the niche sector of ski mountaineering, where the production batches are significantly smaller with respect to those of alpine skis and at the same time the weight reduction plays a determinant role. In this context, finite elements analysis (FEA) could represent an important tool to shorten the development times and costs leading to a more effective design process. The aim of this research is the development of an accurate virtual model of an existing mountaineering ski, capable of reproducing the behavior of the real component under operation. A preliminary characterization of all the materials used for the different layers of the ski was performed via tensile tests on flat dog-bone-shaped samples in combination with digital image correlation (DIC) techniques. Samples were laser cut from sheets. The tensile tests were performed in the two principal directions for each material. In combination with DIC, these tests allowed us to estimate the four in-plane (XY) elastic properties, namely, the two elastic modules, the shear module, and the Poisson ratio (Ex, Ey, Gxy, νxy). The DIC acquisitions were elaborated with the free software GOM-Correlate. The digital model of the ski was created and simulated in an open-source environment: Code_Aster/Salome-Meca. The reason for using an open-source software is the possibility to parallelize the calculation without restrictions due to licenses and to customize the code according to the specific problem of interest. These aspects underline the potential of open-source software to improve the design process. The results of the simulations were compared with the response of the real ski in a three-point bending and a torsion-bending tests. Differences of 2.5–10% with respect to the real ski were observed for the different modeling techniques. Moreover, the validated virtual model of the ski was used to study the behavior of the ski when interacting with the snow for different roll angles and loads. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Sports Engineering)

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