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Allan D, Tooby J, Starling L, Tucker R, Falvey É, Salmon D, Brown J, Hudson S, Stokes K, Jones B, Kemp S, O'Halloran P, Cross M, Tierney G. The Incidence and Propensity of Head Acceleration Events in a Season of Men's and Women's English Elite-Level Club Rugby Union Matches. Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02064-7. [PMID: 38922555 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02064-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe and compare the incidence and propensity of head acceleration events (HAEs) using instrumented mouthguards (iMG) by playing position in a season of English elite-level men's and women's rugby union matches. METHODS iMG data were collected for 255 men and 133 women from 1,865 and 807 player-matches, respectively, and synchronised to video-coded match footage. Head peak resultant linear acceleration (PLA) and peak resultant angular acceleration (PAA) were extracted from each HAE. Mean incidence and propensity values were calculated across different recording thresholds for forwards and backs in addition to positional groups (front row, second row, back row, half backs, centres, back three) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated. Significance was determined based on 95% CI not overlapping across recording thresholds. RESULTS For both men and women, HAE incidence was twice as high for forwards than backs across the majority of recording thresholds. HAE incidence and propensity were significantly lower in the women's game compared to the men's game. Back-row and front-row players had the highest incidence across all HAE thresholds for men's forwards, while women's forward positional groups and men's and women's back positional groups were similar. Tackles and carries exhibited a greater propensity to result in HAE for forward positional groups and the back three in the men's game, and back row in the women's game. CONCLUSION These data offer valuable benchmark and comparative data for future research, HAE mitigation strategies, and management of HAE exposure in elite rugby players. Positional-specific differences in HAE incidence and propensity should be considered in future mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Allan
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC), School of Engineering, Ulster University, Belfast, UK.
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK.
| | - James Tooby
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Lindsay Starling
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
- UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (UKCCIIS), University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Ross Tucker
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Éanna Falvey
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - James Brown
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Sam Hudson
- UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (UKCCIIS), University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Keith Stokes
- UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (UKCCIIS), University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Division of Physiological Sciences and Health Through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Simon Kemp
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Patrick O'Halloran
- Sport and Exercise Medicine Service, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Marker Diagnostics UK Ltd, Birmingham, UK
| | - Matt Cross
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
| | - Gregory Tierney
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC), School of Engineering, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
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Abrams MZ, Venkatraman J, Sherman D, Ortiz-Paparoni M, Bercaw JR, MacDonald RE, Kait J, Dimbath ED, Pang DY, Gray A, Luck JF, Bir CA, Bass CR. Biofidelity and Limitations of Instrumented Mouthguard Systems for Assessment of Rigid Body Head Kinematics. Ann Biomed Eng 2024:10.1007/s10439-024-03563-4. [PMID: 38910203 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03563-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Instrumented mouthguard systems (iMGs) are commonly used to study rigid body head kinematics across a variety of athletic environments. Previous work has found good fidelity for iMGs rigidly fixed to anthropomorphic test device (ATD) headforms when compared to reference systems, but few validation studies have focused on iMG performance in human cadaver heads. Here, we examine the performance of two boil-and-bite style iMGs in helmeted cadaver heads. Three unembalmed human cadaver heads were fitted with two instrumented boil-and-bite mouthguards [Prevent Biometrics and Diversified Technical Systems (DTS)] per manufacturer instructions. Reference sensors were rigidly fixed to each specimen. Specimens were fitted with a Riddell SpeedFlex American football helmet and impacted with a rigid impactor at three velocities and locations. All impact kinematics were compared at the head center of gravity. The Prevent iMG performed comparably to the reference system up to ~ 60 g in linear acceleration, but overall had poor correlation (CCC = 0.39). Prevent iMG angular velocity and BrIC generally well correlated with the reference, while underestimating HIC and overestimating HIC duration. The DTS iMG consistently overestimated the reference across all measures, with linear acceleration error ranging from 10 to 66%, and angular acceleration errors greater than 300%. Neither iMG demonstrated consistent agreement with the reference system. While iMG validation efforts have utilized ATD testing, this study highlights the need for cadaver testing and validation of devices intended for use in-vivo, particularly when considering realistic (non-idealized) sensor-skull coupling, when accounting for interactions with the mandible and when subject-specific anatomy may affect device performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Z Abrams
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.
| | - Jay Venkatraman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Donald Sherman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Maria Ortiz-Paparoni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Jefferson R Bercaw
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Robert E MacDonald
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jason Kait
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Dimbath
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Derek Y Pang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Alexandra Gray
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Jason F Luck
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Cynthia A Bir
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Cameron R Bass
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Dr, 1427 FCIEMAS Bldg - Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Tooby J, Woodward J, Tucker R, Jones B, Falvey É, Salmon D, Bussey MD, Starling L, Tierney G. Instrumented Mouthguards in Elite-Level Men's and Women's Rugby Union: The Incidence and Propensity of Head Acceleration Events in Matches. Sports Med 2024; 54:1327-1338. [PMID: 37906425 PMCID: PMC11127838 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01953-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine head acceleration event (HAE) propensity and incidence during elite-level men's and women's rugby union matches. METHODS Instrumented mouthguards (iMGs) were fitted in 92 male and 72 female players from nine elite-level clubs and three international teams. Data were collected during 406 player matches (239 male, 167 female) using iMGs and video analysis. Incidence was calculated as the number of HAEs per player hour and propensity as the proportion of contact events resulting in an HAE at a range of linear and angular thresholds. RESULTS HAE incidence above 10 g was 22.7 and 13.2 per hour in men's forwards and backs and 11.8 and 7.2 per hour in women's forwards and backs, respectively. Propensity varied by contact event, with 35.6% and 35.4% of men's tackles and carries and 23.1% and 19.6% of women's tackles and carries producing HAEs above 1.0 krad/s2. Tackles produced significantly more HAEs than carries, and incidence was greater in forwards compared with backs for both sexes and in men compared with women. Women's forwards were 1.6 times more likely to experience a medium-magnitude HAE from a carry than women's backs. Propensity was similar from tackles and carries, and between positional groups, while significantly higher in men than women. The initial collision stage of the tackle had a higher propensity than other stages. CONCLUSION This study quantifies HAE exposures in elite rugby union players using iMGs. Most contact events in rugby union resulted in lower-magnitude HAEs, while higher-magnitude HAEs were comparatively rare. An HAE above 40 g occurred once every 60-100 min in men and 200-300 min in women. Future research on mechanisms for HAEs may inform strategies aimed at reducing HAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Tooby
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - James Woodward
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Ross Tucker
- Department of Sport Science, Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Division of Physiological Sciences and Health Through Physical Activity, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Éanna Falvey
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine & Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Danielle Salmon
- World Rugby, 8-10 Pembroke St., Dublin, Ireland
- New Zealand Rugby, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Dawn Bussey
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Gregory Tierney
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK.
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Gellner R, Begonia M, Rowson S. Choosing Optimal Cutoff Frequencies for Filtering Linear Acceleration and Angular Velocity Signals Associated with Head Impacts Measured by Instrumented Mouthguards. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:1415-1424. [PMID: 38403749 PMCID: PMC10995032 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03466-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Head impact sensors worn in the mouth are popular because they couple directly to the teeth and provide six-degree-of-freedom head measurements. Mouthpiece signal filters have conventionally used cutoff frequencies lower than recommended practices (Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE J211-1) to eliminate extraneous noise when measuring with live subjects. However, there is little information about the effects of filter choice on the accuracy of signals measured by instrumented mouthpieces. Lack of standardization in head impact measurement device post-processing techniques can result in data that are not comparable across studies or device brands. This study sought optimal filter cutoff frequencies for six-degree-of-freedom measurements made at the teeth using instrumented mouthguards. We collected linear acceleration and angular velocity signals at the head center of gravity (CG) using laboratory-grade instrumentation. We also collected and filtered similar six-degree-of-freedom measurements from an instrumented mouthguard using 24 cutoff frequencies, from 25 to 600 Hz. We transformed the measurements to linear acceleration at the center of gravity of the head (CG) using all kinematic variables at the teeth, optimizing linear and angular mouthguard cutoff frequencies with one equation. We calculated the percent error in transformed peak resultant linear acceleration and minimized the mean and standard deviation in error. The optimal cutoff frequencies were 175 Hz for linear acceleration and 250 Hz for angular velocity. Rigid impacts (3-5 ms duration) had higher optimal cutoff frequencies (175 Hz linear acceleration, 275 Hz angular velocity) than padded impacts (10-12 ms duration; 100 Hz linear acceleration, 175 Hz angular velocity), and all impacts together (3-12 ms duration; 175 Hz linear acceleration, 250 Hz angular velocity). Instrumented mouthpiece manufacturers and researchers using these devices should consider these optimal filter cutoff frequencies to minimize measurement error. Sport-specific filter criteria for teeth-based sensors may be warranted to account for the difference in optimal cutoff frequency combination by impact duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Gellner
- Virginia Tech (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics), Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Mark Begonia
- Virginia Tech (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics), Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Steve Rowson
- Virginia Tech (Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics), Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Patton DA, Huber CM, Jain D, Kleiven S, Zhou Z, Master CL, Arbogast KB. Head Impact Kinematics and Brain Tissue Strains in High School Lacrosse. Ann Biomed Eng 2024:10.1007/s10439-024-03513-0. [PMID: 38649514 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03513-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Male lacrosse and female lacrosse have differences in history, rules, and equipment. There is current debate regarding the need for enhanced protective headwear in female lacrosse like that worn by male lacrosse players. To inform this discussion, 17 high school lacrosse players (6 female and 11 male) wore the Stanford Instrumented Mouthguard during 26 competitive games over the 2021 season. Time-windowing and video review were used to remove false-positive recordings and verify head acceleration events (HAEs). The HAE rate in high school female lacrosse (0.21 per athlete exposure and 0.24 per player hour) was approximately 35% lower than the HAE rate in high school male lacrosse (0.33 per athlete exposure and 0.36 per player hour). Previously collected kinematics data from the 2019 high school male and female lacrosse season were combined with the newly collected 2021 kinematics data, which were used to drive a finite element head model and simulate 42 HAEs. Peak linear acceleration (PLA), peak angular velocity (PAV), and 95th percentile maximum principal strain (MPS95) of brain tissue were compared between HAEs in high school female and male lacrosse. Median values for peak kinematics and MPS95 of HAEs in high school female lacrosse (PLA, 22.3 g; PAV, 10.4 rad/s; MPS95, 0.05) were lower than for high school male lacrosse (PLA, 24.2 g; PAV, 15.4 rad/s; MPS95, 0.07), but the differences were not statistically significant. Quantifying a lower HAE rate in high school female lacrosse compared to high school male lacrosse, but similar HAE magnitudes, provides insight into the debate regarding helmets in female lacrosse. However, due to the small sample size, additional video-verified data from instrumented mouthguards are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Declan A Patton
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Pediatric Research Building, 2716 South Street, 13th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19146, USA.
| | - Colin M Huber
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Pediatric Research Building, 2716 South Street, 13th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19146, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Divya Jain
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Pediatric Research Building, 2716 South Street, 13th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19146, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Svein Kleiven
- Division of Neuronic Engineering, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Division of Neuronic Engineering, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina L Master
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Pediatric Research Building, 2716 South Street, 13th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19146, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sports Medicine and Performance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristy B Arbogast
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Pediatric Research Building, 2716 South Street, 13th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19146, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Zuleger TM, Slutsky-Ganesh AB, Grooms DR, Yuan W, Barber Foss KD, Howell DR, Myer GD, Diekfuss JA. High magnitude exposure to repetitive head impacts alters female adolescent brain activity for lower extremity motor control. Brain Res 2024; 1828:148785. [PMID: 38272157 PMCID: PMC11110884 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Contact and collision sport participation among adolescent athletes has raised concerns about the potential negative effects of cumulative repetitive head impacts (RHIs) on brain function. Impairments from RHIs and sports-related concussions (SRC) may propagate into lingering neuromuscular control. However, the neural mechanisms that link RHIs to altered motor control processes remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to isolate changes in neural activity for a lower extremity motor control task associated with the frequency and magnitude of RHI exposure. A cohort of fifteen high school female soccer players participated in a prospective longitudinal study and underwent pre- and post-season functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). During fMRI, athletes completed simultaneous bilateral ankle, knee, and hip flexion/extension movements against resistance (bilateral leg press) to characterize neural activity associated with lower extremity motor control. RHI data were binned into continuous categories between 20 g - 120 g (defined by progressively greater intervals), with the number of impacts independently modeled within the fMRI analyses. Results revealed that differential exposure to high magnitude RHIs (≥90 g - < 110 g and ≥ 110 g) was associated with acute changes in neural activity for the bilateral leg press (broadly inclusive of motor, visual, and cognitive regions; all p < 0.05 & z > 3.1). Greater exposure to high magnitude RHIs may impair lower extremity motor control through maladaptive neural mechanisms. Future work is warranted to extend these mechanistic findings and examine the linkages between RHI exposure and neural activity as it relates to subsequent neuromuscular control deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Zuleger
- Emory Sports Performance And Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Emory Sports Medicine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; University of Cincinnati, Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Alexis B Slutsky-Ganesh
- Emory Sports Performance And Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Emory Sports Medicine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Dustin R Grooms
- Ohio Musculoskeletal & Neurological Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA; Division of Athletic Training, School of Applied Health Sciences and Wellness, College of Health Sciences and Professions, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA; Division of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation and Communication Sciences, College of Health Science and Professions, Ohio University, Grover Center, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Weihong Yuan
- Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kim D Barber Foss
- Emory Sports Performance And Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Emory Sports Medicine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gregory D Myer
- Emory Sports Performance And Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Emory Sports Medicine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Wales, UK; The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Jed A Diekfuss
- Emory Sports Performance And Research Center (SPARC), Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Emory Sports Medicine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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7
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Tooby J, Till K, Gardner A, Stokes K, Tierney G, Weaving D, Rowson S, Ghajari M, Emery C, Bussey MD, Jones B. When to Pull the Trigger: Conceptual Considerations for Approximating Head Acceleration Events Using Instrumented Mouthguards. Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02012-5. [PMID: 38460080 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02012-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Head acceleration events (HAEs) are acceleration responses of the head following external short-duration collisions. The potential risk of brain injury from a single high-magnitude HAE or repeated occurrences makes them a significant concern in sport. Instrumented mouthguards (iMGs) can approximate HAEs. The distinction between sensor acceleration events, the iMG datum for approximating HAEs and HAEs themselves, which have been defined as the in vivo event, is made to highlight limitations of approximating HAEs using iMGs. This article explores the technical limitations of iMGs that constrain the approximation of HAEs and discusses important conceptual considerations for stakeholders interpreting iMG data. The approximation of HAEs by sensor acceleration events is constrained by false positives and false negatives. False positives occur when a sensor acceleration event is recorded despite no (in vivo) HAE occurring, while false negatives occur when a sensor acceleration event is not recorded after an (in vivo) HAE has occurred. Various mechanisms contribute to false positives and false negatives. Video verification and post-processing algorithms offer effective means for eradicating most false positives, but mitigation for false negatives is less comprehensive. Consequently, current iMG research is likely to underestimate HAE exposures, especially at lower magnitudes. Future research should aim to mitigate false negatives, while current iMG datasets should be interpreted with consideration for false negatives when inferring athlete HAE exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Tooby
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Andrew Gardner
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Keith Stokes
- Centre for Health and Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
| | - Gregory Tierney
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, School of Sport, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Daniel Weaving
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Steve Rowson
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Mazdak Ghajari
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Carolyn Emery
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Departments of Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Melanie Dawn Bussey
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town and Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Rugby Football League, England Performance Unit, Red Hall, Leeds, UK
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
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8
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Chandrasekaran S, Santibanez F, Long T, Nichols T, Kait J, Bruegge RV, 'Dale' Bass CR, Pinton G. Shear shock wave injury in vivo: High frame-rate ultrasound observation and histological assessment. J Biomech 2024; 166:112021. [PMID: 38479150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Using high frame-rate ultrasound and ¡1μm sensitive motion tracking we previously showed that shear waves at the surface of ex vivo and in situ brains develop into shear shock waves deep inside the brain, with destructive local accelerations. However post-mortem tissue cannot develop injuries and has different viscoelastodynamic behavior from in vivo tissue. Here we present the ultrasonic measurement of the high-rate shear shock biomechanics in the in vivo porcine brain, and histological assessment of the resulting axonal pathology. A new biomechanical model of brain injury was developed consisting of a perforated mylar surface attached to the brain and vibrated using an electromechanical shaker. Using a custom sequence with 8 interleaved wide beam emissions, brain imaging and motion tracking were performed at 2900 images/s. Shear shock waves were observed for the first time in vivo wherein the shock acceleration was measured to be 2.6 times larger than the surface acceleration ( 95g vs. 36g). Histopathology showed axonal damage in the impacted side of the brain from the brain surface, accompanied by a local shock-front acceleration of >70g. This shows that axonal injury occurs deep in the brain even though the shear excitation was at the brain surface, and the acceleration measurements support the hypothesis that shear shock waves are responsible for deep traumatic brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francisco Santibanez
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, NC, USA
| | - Tyler Long
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Tim Nichols
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Jason Kait
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, USA
| | - Ruth Vorder Bruegge
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, NC, USA
| | | | - Gianmarco Pinton
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, NC, USA.
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Seeburrun T, Bustamante MC, Hartlen DC, Azar A, Ouellet S, Cronin DS. Assessment of brain response in operators subject to recoil force from firing long-range rifles. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1352387. [PMID: 38419729 PMCID: PMC10899685 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1352387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) may be caused by occupational hazards military personnel encounter, such as falls, shocks, exposure to blast overpressure events, and recoil from weapon firing. While it is important to protect against injurious head impacts, the repeated exposure of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) service members to sub-concussive events during the course of their service may lead to a significant reduction in quality of life. Symptoms may include headaches, difficulty concentrating, and noise sensitivity, impacting how personnel complete their duties and causing chronic health issues. This study investigates how the exposure to the recoil force of long-range rifles results in head motion and brain deformation. Direct measurements of head kinematics of a controlled population of military personnel during firing events were obtained using instrumented mouthguards. The experimentally measured head kinematics were then used as inputs to a finite element (FE) head model to quantify the brain strains observed during each firing event. The efficacy of a concept recoil mitigation system (RMS), designed to mitigate loads applied to the operators was quantified, and the RMS resulted in lower loading to the operators. The outcomes of this study provide valuable insights into the magnitudes of head kinematics observed when firing long-range rifles, and a methodology to quantify effects, which in turn will help craft exposure guidelines, guide training to mitigate the risk of injury, and improve the quality of lives of current and future CAF service members and veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Seeburrun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Michael C Bustamante
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Devon C Hartlen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Austin Azar
- Valcartier Research Centre, Defence Research and Development Canada, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Ouellet
- Valcartier Research Centre, Defence Research and Development Canada, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Duane S Cronin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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10
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Le Flao E, Lenetsky S, Siegmund GP, Borotkanics R. Capturing Head Impacts in Boxing: A Video-Based Comparison of Three Wearable Sensors. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:270-281. [PMID: 37728812 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03369-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Wearable sensors are used to quantify head impacts in athletes, but recent work has shown that the number of events recorded may not be accurate. This study aimed to compare the number of head acceleration events recorded by three wearable sensors during boxing and assess how impact type and location affect the triggering of acceleration events. Seven boxers were equipped with an instrumented mouthguard, a skin patch, and a headgear patch. Contacts to participants' heads were identified via three video cameras over 115 sparring rounds. The resulting 5168 video-identified events were used as reference to quantify the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) of the sensors. The mouthguard, skin patch, and headgear patch recorded 695, 1579, and 1690 events, respectively, yielding sensitivities of 35%, 86%, and 78%, respectively, and specificities of 90%, 76%, and 75%, respectively. The mouthguard, skin patch, and headgear patch yielded 693, 1571, and 1681 true-positive events, respectively, leading to PPVs for head impacts over 96%. All three sensors were more likely to be triggered by punches landing near the sensor and cleanly on the head, although the mouthguard's sensitivity to impact location varied less than the patches. While the use of head impact sensors for assessing injury risks remains uncertain, this study provides valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of these sensors in capturing video-verified head impact events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enora Le Flao
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Seth Lenetsky
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Gunter P Siegmund
- MEA Forensic Engineers & Scientists, Laguna Hills, CA, USA
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert Borotkanics
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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11
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Bussey MD, Salmon D, Romanchuk J, Nanai B, Davidson P, Tucker R, Falvey E. Head Acceleration Events in Male Community Rugby Players: An Observational Cohort Study across Four Playing Grades, from Under-13 to Senior Men. Sports Med 2024; 54:517-530. [PMID: 37676621 PMCID: PMC10933157 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01923-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine the cumulative head acceleration event (HAE) exposure in male rugby players from the Under-13 (U13) to senior club level over 4 weeks of matches and training during the 2021 community rugby season. METHODS This prospective, observational cohort study involved 328 male rugby players. Players were representative of four playing grades: U13 (N = 60, age 12.5 ± 0.6 years), U15 (N = 100, age 14.8 ± 0.9 years), U19 (N = 78, age 16.9 ± 0.7 years) and Premier senior men (N = 97, age 22.5 ± 3.1 years). HAE exposure was tracked across 48 matches and 113 training sessions. HAEs were recorded using boil-and-bite instrumented mouthguards (iMGs). The study assessed the incidence and prevalence of HAEs by ages, playing positions, and session types (match or training). RESULTS For all age grades, weekly match HAE incidence was highest at lower magnitudes (10-29 g). Proportionally, younger players experienced higher weekly incidence rates during training. The U19 players had 1.36 times the risk of high-magnitude (> 30 g) events during matches, while the U13 players had the lowest risk compared with all other grades. Tackles and rucks accounted for the largest HAE burden during matches, with forwards having 1.67 times the risk of > 30 g HAEs in rucks compared with backs. CONCLUSIONS This study provides novel data on head accelerations during rugby matches and training. The findings have important implications for identifying populations at greatest risk of high cumulative and acute head acceleration. Findings may guide training load management and teaching of skill execution in high-risk activities, particularly for younger players who may be exposed to proportionally more contact during training and for older players during matches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D Bussey
- School of Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | | | - Janelle Romanchuk
- School of Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bridie Nanai
- School of Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Peter Davidson
- School of Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ross Tucker
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- World Rugby, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eanna Falvey
- World Rugby, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine & Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Tierney G, Rowson S, Gellner R, Allan D, Iqbal S, Biglarbeigi P, Tooby J, Woodward J, Payam AF. Head Exposure to Acceleration Database in Sport (HEADSport): a kinematic signal processing method to enable instrumented mouthguard (iMG) field-based inter-study comparisons. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001758. [PMID: 38304714 PMCID: PMC10831454 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Instrumented mouthguard (iMG) systems use different signal processing approaches limiting field-based inter-study comparisons, especially when artefacts are present in the signal. The objective of this study was to assess the frequency content and characteristics of head kinematic signals from head impact reconstruction laboratory and field-based environments to develop an artefact attenuation filtering method (HEADSport filter method). Methods Laboratory impacts (n=72) on a test-dummy headform ranging from 25 to 150 g were conducted and 126 rugby union players were equipped with iMGs for 209 player-matches. Power spectral density (PSD) characteristics of the laboratory impacts and on-field head acceleration events (HAEs) (n=5694) such as the 95th percentile cumulative sum PSD frequency were used to develop the HEADSport method. The HEADSport filter method was compared with two other common filtering approaches (Butterworth-200Hz and CFC180 filter) through signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and mixed linear effects models for laboratory and on-field events, respectively. Results The HEADSport filter method produced marginally higher SNR than the Butterworth-200Hz and CFC180 filter and on-field peak linear acceleration (PLA) and peak angular acceleration (PAA) values within the magnitude range tested in the laboratory. Median PLA and PAA (and outlier values) were higher for the CFC180 filter than the Butterworth-200Hz and HEADSport filter method (p<0.01). Conclusion The HEADSport filter method could enable iMG field-based inter-study comparisons and is openly available at https://github.com/GTBiomech/HEADSport-Filter-Method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Tierney
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC), Ulster University, Belfast, UK
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Steven Rowson
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Ryan Gellner
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - David Allan
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC), Ulster University, Belfast, UK
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Sadaf Iqbal
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | | | - James Tooby
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - James Woodward
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Amir Farokh Payam
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC), Ulster University, Belfast, UK
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13
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Foulger LH, Charlton JM, Blouin JS. Real-world characterization of vestibular contributions during locomotion. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 17:1329097. [PMID: 38259335 PMCID: PMC10800732 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1329097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The vestibular system, which encodes our head movement in space, plays an important role in maintaining our balance as we navigate the environment. While in-laboratory research demonstrates that the vestibular system exerts a context-dependent influence on the control of balance during locomotion, differences in whole-body and head kinematics between indoor treadmill and real-world locomotion challenge the generalizability of these findings. Thus, the goal of this study was to characterize vestibular-evoked balance responses in the real world using a fully portable system. Methods While experiencing stochastic electrical vestibular stimulation (0-20 Hz, amplitude peak ± 4.5 mA, root mean square 1.25 mA) and wearing inertial measurement units (IMUs) on the head, low back, and ankles, 10 participants walked outside at 52 steps/minute (∼0.4 m/s) and 78 steps/minute (∼0.8 m/s). We calculated time-dependent coherence (a measure of correlation in the frequency domain) between the applied stimulus and the mediolateral back, right ankle, and left ankle linear accelerations to infer the vestibular control of balance during locomotion. Results In all participants, we observed vestibular-evoked balance responses. These responses exhibited phasic modulation across the stride cycle, peaking during the middle of the single-leg stance in the back and during the stance phase for the ankles. Coherence decreased with increasing locomotor cadence and speed, as observed in both bootstrapped coherence differences (p < 0.01) and peak coherence (low back: 0.23 ± 0.07 vs. 0.16 ± 0.14, p = 0.021; right ankle: 0.38 ± 0.12 vs. 0.25 ± 0.10, p < 0.001; left ankle: 0.33 ± 0.09 vs. 0.21 ± 0.09, p < 0.001). Discussion These results replicate previous in-laboratory studies, thus providing further insight into the vestibular control of balance during naturalistic movements and validating the use of this portable system as a method to characterize real-world vestibular responses. This study will help support future work that seeks to better understand how the vestibular system contributes to balance in variable real-world environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam H. Foulger
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jesse M. Charlton
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Blouin
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Institute for Computing, Information and Cognitive Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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14
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Luke D, Kenny R, Bondi D, Clansey AC, Wu LC. On-field instrumented mouthguard coupling. J Biomech 2024; 162:111889. [PMID: 38071791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Instrumented mouthguard (iMG) sensors have been developed to measure sports head acceleration events (HAE) in brain injury research. Laboratory validation studies show that effective coupling of iMGs with the human skull is crucial for accurate head kinematics measurements. However, iMG-skull coupling has not been investigated in on-field sports settings. The objective of this study was to assess on-field iMG coupling using infrared proximity sensing and to investigate coupling effects on kinematics signal characteristics. Forty-two university-level men's ice hockey (n = 21) and women's rugby (n = 21) athletes participated in the study, wearing iMGs during 6-7 month in-season periods. Proximity data classified video-verified HAE recordings into four main iMG coupling categories: coupled (on-teeth), decoupling (on-teeth to off-teeth), recoupling (off-teeth to on-teeth) and decoupled (off-teeth). Poorly-coupled HAEs showed significantly higher peak angular acceleration amplitudes and greater signal power in medium-high frequency bands compared with well-coupled HAEs, indicating potential iMG movements independent of the skull. Further, even video-verified true positives included poorly-coupled HAEs, and iMG coupling patterns varied between the men's hockey and women's rugby teams. Our findings show the potential of using proximity sensing in iMGs to identify poorly-coupled HAEs. Utilizing this data screening process in conjunction with video review may mitigate a key source of sensor noise and enhance the overall quality of on-field sports HAE datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Luke
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B9, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Ln Room 2054, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Rebecca Kenny
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Ln Room 2054, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Daniel Bondi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Ln Room 2054, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Adam C Clansey
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Ln Room 2054, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Lyndia C Wu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B9, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6250 Applied Science Ln Room 2054, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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15
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Starling LT, Tucker R, Quarrie K, Schmidt J, Hassanein O, Smith C, Flahive S, Morris C, Lancaster S, Mellalieu S, Curran O, Gill N, Clarke W, Davies P, Harrington M, Falvey E. The World Rugby and International Rugby Players Contact Load Guidelines: From conception to implementation and the future. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2023; 35:v35i1a16376. [PMID: 38249755 PMCID: PMC10798596 DOI: 10.17159/2078-516x/2023/v35i1a16376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Managing training load in rugby union is crucial for optimising performance and injury prevention. Contact training warrants attention because of higher overall injury and head impact risk, yet players must develop physical, technical, and mental skills to withstand the demands of the game. To help coaches manage contact loads in professional rugby, World Rugby and International Rugby Players convened an expert working group. They conducted a global survey with players to develop contact load guidelines. This commentary aims to describe the contact load guidelines and their implementation, and identify areas where future work is needed to support their evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- LT Starling
- World Rugby House, Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin,
Ireland
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath,
UK
| | - R Tucker
- World Rugby House, Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin,
Ireland
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine (ISEM), Department of Exercise, University of Stellenbosch,
South Africa
| | - K Quarrie
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington,
New Zealand
| | - J Schmidt
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington,
New Zealand
| | - O Hassanein
- International Rugby Players, Clonskeagh, Dublin,
Ireland
| | - C Smith
- International Rugby Players, Clonskeagh, Dublin,
Ireland
| | - S Flahive
- International Rugby Players, Clonskeagh, Dublin,
Ireland
| | - C Morris
- C J Morris Consulting Ltd, Cheshire,
UK
| | | | - S Mellalieu
- Centre for Health, Activity and Wellbeing Research (CAWR), Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff,
UK
| | - O Curran
- Irish Rugby Football Union, High Performance Centre, National Sports Campus, Dublin 15,
Ireland
| | - N Gill
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington,
New Zealand
- University of Waikato, Tauranga,
New Zealand
| | - W Clarke
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington,
New Zealand
| | - P Davies
- World Rugby House, Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin,
Ireland
| | - M Harrington
- World Rugby House, Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin,
Ireland
| | - E Falvey
- World Rugby House, Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin,
Ireland
- College of Medicine & Health, University College Cork, Cork,
Ireland
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16
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Grijalva C, Mullins VA, Michael BR, Hale D, Wu L, Toosizadeh N, Chilton FH, Laksari K. Neuroimaging, wearable sensors, and blood-based biomarkers reveal hyperacute changes in the brain after sub-concussive impacts. BRAIN MULTIPHYSICS 2023; 5:100086. [PMID: 38292249 PMCID: PMC10827333 DOI: 10.1016/j.brain.2023.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Impacts in mixed martial arts (MMA) have been studied mainly in regard to the long-term effects of concussions. However, repetitive sub-concussive head impacts at the hyperacute phase (minutes after impact), are not understood. The head experiences rapid acceleration similar to a concussion, but without clinical symptoms. We utilize portable neuroimaging technology - transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound and functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) - to estimate the extent of pre- and post-differences following contact and non-contact sparring sessions in nine MMA athletes. In addition, the extent of changes in neurofilament light (NfL) protein biomarker concentrations, and neurocognitive/balance parameters were determined following impacts. Athletes were instrumented with sensor-based mouth guards to record head kinematics. TCD and fNIRS results demonstrated significantly increased blood flow velocity (p = 0.01) as well as prefrontal (p = 0.01) and motor cortex (p = 0.04) oxygenation, only following the contact sparring sessions. This increase after contact was correlated with the cumulative angular acceleration experienced during impacts (p = 0.01). In addition, the NfL biomarker demonstrated positive correlations with angular acceleration (p = 0.03), and maximum principal and fiber strain (p = 0.01). On average athletes experienced 23.9 ± 2.9 g peak linear acceleration, 10.29 ± 1.1 rad/s peak angular velocity, and 1,502.3 ± 532.3 rad/s2 angular acceleration. Balance parameters were significantly increased following contact sparring for medial-lateral (ML) center of mass (COM) sway, and ML ankle angle (p = 0.01), illustrating worsened balance. These combined results reveal significant changes in brain hemodynamics and neurophysiological parameters that occur immediately after sub-concussive impacts and suggest that the physical impact to the head plays an important role in these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carissa Grijalva
- University of Arizona, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Veronica A. Mullins
- University of Arizona, School of Nutritional Sciences and Wellness, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Bryce R. Michael
- University of Arizona, School of Nutritional Sciences and Wellness, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Dallin Hale
- University of Arizona, Department of Physiology, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Lyndia Wu
- Univerisity of British Columbia, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nima Toosizadeh
- University of Arizona, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tucson, AZ, United States
- University of Arizona, Department of Medicine, Arizona Center for Aging, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Floyd H. Chilton
- University of Arizona, School of Nutritional Sciences and Wellness, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Kaveh Laksari
- University of Arizona, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tucson, AZ, United States
- University of Arizona, Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Tucson, AZ, United States
- University of California Riverside, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Riverside, CA, United States
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Field B, Waddington G, McKune A, Goecke R, Gardner AJ. Validation of an instrumented mouthguard in rugby union-a pilot study comparing impact sensor technology to video analysis. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1230202. [PMID: 38053522 PMCID: PMC10694248 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1230202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To better understand the biomechanical profile of direct head impacts and the game scenarios in which they occur in Rugby Union, there is a need for an on-field validation of a new instrumented mouthguard (IMG) against the reference standard. This study considers the potential of a combined biomechanical (IMG) and video analysis approach to direct head impact recognition, both of which in isolation have limitations. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between an instrumented mouthguard and video analysis in detection of direct head impacts in rugby union. Design Pilot Study - Observational Cohort design. Methods The instrumented mouthguard was worn by ten (3 backs, 7 forwards) professional Rugby Union players during the 2020-21 Gallagher Premiership (UK) season. Game-day video was synchronized with timestamped head acceleration events captured from the instrumented mouthguard. Direct Head Impacts were recorded in a 2 × 2 contingency table to determine sensitivity. Impact characteristics were also collected for all verified head impacts to further the understanding of head biomechanics during the game. Results There were 2018 contact events that were reviewed using video analysis. Of those 655 were categorized as direct head impacts which also correlated with a head acceleration event captured by the IMG. Sensitivity analysis showed an overall sensitivity of 93.6% and a positive predictive value (PPV of 92.4%). When false positives were excluded due to ball out of play, mouthguard removal or handling after a scoring situation or stoppage, PPV was improved (98.3%). Most verified head impacts occurred in and around the ruck contest (31.2%) followed by impacts to the primary tackler (28.4%). Conclusion This pilot validation study demonstrates that this IMG provides a highly accurate measurement device that could be used to complement video verification in the recognition of on-field direct head impacts. The frequency and magnitude of direct head impacts derived from specific game scenarios has been described and allows for greater recognition of high-risk situations. Further studies with larger sample sizes and in different populations of Rugby Union players are required to develop our understanding of head impact and enable strategies for injury mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron Field
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Gordon Waddington
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Andrew McKune
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise, and Leisure Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Roland Goecke
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Andrew J. Gardner
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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18
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Bartsch A, Rooks TF. Head Impacts in the Top 1% by Peak Linear Acceleration and/or Work Cause Immediate Concussion Signs and 'Check Engine' Responses in Military Service Members and Civilian Athletes. Ann Biomed Eng 2023:10.1007/s10439-023-03393-w. [PMID: 37926788 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03393-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Historically, head impact monitoring sensors have suffered from single impact measurement errors, leading to their data described by clinical experts as 'clinically irrelevant.' The purpose of this study was to use an accurate impact monitoring mouthguard system and (1) define head impact distributions for military service members and civilians and (2) determine if there was a dose-response relationship between accurately measured head impact magnitudes versus observations of concussion signs. METHODS A laboratory-calibrated commercial impact monitoring mouthguard system, along with video and hardware to confirm the sensor was on the teeth during impacts, was used to acquire 54,602 head acceleration events (HAE) in 973 military and civilian subjects over 3,449 subject days. RESULTS There were 17,551 head impacts (32% of HAE) measured with peak linear acceleration (PLA) > 10 g and 37,051 low-g events (68% of HAE) in the range of activities of daily living < 10 g PLA. The median of all HAE and of all head impacts was 8 g/15 g PLA and 1 J/4 J Work, respectively. The top 1% of head impacts were above 47 g and 32 J, respectively. There were fifty-six (56) head impacts where at least one clinical indicator of a concussion sign was observed. All the clinical indicator impacts were in the top 1% by magnitude of PLA, Work, or both. The median magnitude of these 'check engine' impacts was 58 g and 48 J. This median magnitude was substantially larger than the median of all HAE as well as the median of all head impacts. CONCLUSION This study shows a correlation between single head impacts in the top 1% by peak linear acceleration and/or Work and clinical indicators of concussion signs in civilians and military service members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Bartsch
- Prevent Biometrics, 4600 West 77th, Minneapolis, MN, 55435, USA.
| | - Tyler F Rooks
- US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Fort Rucker, AL, USA
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19
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Aguiar OMG, Chow TR, Chong H, Vakili O, Robinovitch SN. Associations between the circumstances and severity of head impacts in men's university ice hockey. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17402. [PMID: 37833303 PMCID: PMC10575878 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43785-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Improved evidence on the most common and severe types of head impacts in ice hockey can guide efforts to preserve brain health through improvements in protective gear, rink design, player training, and rules of play. In this observational cohort study of men's university hockey, we compared video evidence on the circumstances of 234 head impacts to measures of head impact severity (peak linear accelerations and rotational velocities) from helmet-mounted sensors (GForceTracker). Videos were analyzed with a validated questionnaire, and paired with helmet sensor data. Shoulder-to-head impacts were more common than hand- or elbow-, but there were no differences in head impact severity between upper limb contact sites (p ≥ 0.2). Head-to-glass impacts were nearly four times more common, and just as severe as head-to-board impacts (p ≥ 0.4). Head impacts resulting in major penalties (versus no penalty), or visible signs of concussion (versus no signs), involved greater head rotational velocities (p = 0.038 and 0.049, respectively). Head impacts occurred most often to the side of the head, along the boards to players in their offensive zone without puck possession. Head impact severity did not differ between cases where the head was (versus was not) the primary site of contact (p ≥ 0.6). Furthermore, penalties were called in only 4% of cases where the head was the initial point of contact. Accordingly, rules that focus on primary targeting of the head, while important and in need of improved enforcement, offer a limited solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia M G Aguiar
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
| | - Tim R Chow
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Helen Chong
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Omid Vakili
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Stephen N Robinovitch
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Mayer AR, Dodd AB, Dodd RJ, Stephenson DD, Ling JM, Mehos CJ, Patton DA, Robertson-Benta CR, Gigliotti AP, Vermillion MS, Noghero A. Head Kinematics, Blood Biomarkers, and Histology in Large Animal Models of Traumatic Brain Injury and Hemorrhagic Shock. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:2205-2216. [PMID: 37341029 PMCID: PMC10701512 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and severe blood loss resulting in hemorrhagic shock (HS) are each leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide, and present additional treatment considerations when they are comorbid (TBI+HS) as a result of competing pathophysiological responses. The current study rigorously quantified injury biomechanics with high precision sensors and examined whether blood-based surrogate markers were altered in general trauma as well as post-neurotrauma. Eighty-nine sexually mature male and female Yucatan swine were subjected to a closed-head TBI+HS (40% of circulating blood volume; n = 68), HS only (n = 9), or sham trauma (n = 12). Markers of systemic (e.g., glucose, lactate) and neural functioning were obtained at baseline, and at 35 and 295 min post-trauma. Opposite and approximately twofold differences existed for both magnitude (device > head) and duration (head > device) of quantified injury biomechanics. Circulating levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) demonstrated differential sensitivity for both general trauma (HS) and neurotrauma (TBI+HS) relative to shams in a temporally dynamic fashion. GFAP and NfL were both strongly associated with changes in systemic markers during general trauma and exhibited consistent time-dependent changes in individual sham animals. Finally, circulating GFAP was associated with histopathological markers of diffuse axonal injury and blood-brain barrier breach, as well as variations in device kinematics following TBI+HS. Current findings therefore highlight the need to directly quantify injury biomechanics with head mounted sensors and suggest that GFAP, NfL, and UCH-L1 are sensitive to multiple forms of trauma rather than having a single pathological indication (e.g., GFAP = astrogliosis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Mayer
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Psychology, and University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Andrew B. Dodd
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Rebecca J. Dodd
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - David D. Stephenson
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Josef M. Ling
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Carissa J. Mehos
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Declan A. Patton
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cidney R. Robertson-Benta
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Andrew P. Gigliotti
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Meghan S. Vermillion
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Alessio Noghero
- The Mind Research Network/Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Pete & Nancy Domenici Hall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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21
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Grijalva C, Hale D, Wu L, Toosizadeh N, Laksari K. Hyper-acute effects of sub-concussive soccer headers on brain function and hemodynamics. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1191284. [PMID: 37780960 PMCID: PMC10538631 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1191284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sub-concussive head impacts in soccer are drawing increasing research attention regarding their acute and long-term effects as players may experience thousands of headers in a single season. During these impacts, the head experiences rapid acceleration similar to what occurs during a concussion, but without the clinical implications. The physical mechanism and response to repetitive impacts are not completely understood. The objective of this work was to examine the immediate functional outcomes of sub-concussive level impacts from soccer heading in a natural, non-laboratory environment. Methods Twenty university level soccer athletes were instrumented with sensor-mounted bite bars to record impacts from 10 consecutive soccer headers. Pre- and post-header measurements were collected to determine hyper-acute changes, i.e., within minutes after exposure. This included measuring blood flow velocity using transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound, oxyhemoglobin concentration using functional near infrared spectroscopy imaging (fNIRS), and upper extremity dual-task (UEF) neurocognitive testing. Results On average, the athletes experienced 30.7 ± 8.9 g peak linear acceleration and 7.2 ± 3.1 rad/s peak angular velocity, respectively. Results from fNIRS measurements showed an increase in the brain oxygenation for the left prefrontal cortex (PC) (p = 0.002), and the left motor cortex (MC) (p = 0.007) following the soccer headers. Additional analysis of the fNIRS time series demonstrates increased sample entropy of the signal after the headers in the right PC (p = 0.02), right MC (p = 0.004), and left MC (p = 0.04). Discussion These combined results reveal some variations in brain oxygenation immediately detected after repetitive headers. Significant changes in balance and neurocognitive function were not observed in this study, indicating a mild level of head impacts. This is the first study to observe hemodynamic changes immediately after sub-concussive impacts using non-invasive portable imaging technology. In combination with head kinematic measurements, this information can give new insights and a framework for immediate monitoring of sub-concussive impacts on the head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carissa Grijalva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Dallin Hale
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Lyndia Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nima Toosizadeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Arizona Center for Aging, Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Kaveh Laksari
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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22
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Huber CM, Patton DA, Rownd KR, Patterson Gentile C, Master CL, Arbogast KB. Neurophysiological Effects of Repeated Soccer Heading in Youth. J Biomech Eng 2023; 145:091005. [PMID: 37216312 PMCID: PMC10259471 DOI: 10.1115/1.4062423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Repeated head loading in sports is associated with negative long-term brain health, and there is growing evidence of short-term neurophysiological changes after repeated soccer heading. The objective of this study was to quantify the head kinematics and effects of repetitive soccer headers in adolescents using an instrumented mouthguard. Adolescent soccer players aged 13-18 years were randomly assigned to a kicking control, frontal heading, or oblique heading group. Participants completed neurophysiological assessments at three-time points: immediately prior to, immediately after, and approximately 24 h after completing 10 headers or kicks. The suite of assessments included the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory, visio-vestibular exam, King-Devick test, modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction and Balance with force plate sway measurement, pupillary light reflex, and visual evoked potential. Data were collected for 19 participants (17 male). Frontal headers resulted in significantly higher peak resultant linear acceleration (17.4 ± 0.5 g) compared to oblique headers (12.1 ± 0.4 g, p < 0.001), and oblique headers resulted in significantly higher peak resultant angular acceleration (frontal: 1147 ± 45 rad/s2, oblique: 1410 ± 65 rad/s2, p < 0.001). There were no neurophysiological deficits for either heading group or significant differences from controls at either post-heading timepoint, and therefore, a bout of repeated headers did not result in changes in the neurophysiological measures evaluated in this study. The current study provided data regarding the direction of headers with the goal to reduce the risk of repetitive head loading for adolescent athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin M. Huber
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104; Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146
| | - Declan A. Patton
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146
| | - Kathryn R. Rownd
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146
| | - Carlyn Patterson Gentile
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146; Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Christina L. Master
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146; Sports Medicine and Performance Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Kristy B. Arbogast
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19146; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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23
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Patton DA, Huber CM, Fedonni D, Margulies SS, Master CL, Arbogast KB. Quantifying head impact exposure, mechanisms and kinematics using instrumented mouthguards in female high school lacrosse. Res Sports Med 2023; 31:772-786. [PMID: 35195503 PMCID: PMC9921769 DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2022.2042294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Current debate exists regarding the need for protective headwear in female lacrosse. To inform this issue, the current study quantified head impact exposure, mechanisms and kinematics in female lacrosse using instrumented mouthguards. A female high school varsity lacrosse team of 17 players wore the Stanford Instrumented Mouthguard (MiG) during 14 competitive games. Video footage was reviewed to remove false-positive recordings and verify head impacts, which resulted in a rate of 0.32 head impacts per athlete-exposure. Of the 31 video-confirmed head impacts, 54.8% were identified as stick contacts, 38.7% were player contacts and 6.5% were falls. Stick contacts had the greatest peak head kinematics. The most common impact site was the side of the head (35.5%), followed by the face/jaw (25.8%), forehead (6.5%), and crown (6.5%). Impacts to the face/jaw region of the head had significantly (p < 0.05) greater peak kinematics compared to other regions of the head, which may have resulted from the interaction of the impacting surface, or the lower jaw, and the sensor. The current study provides initial data regarding the frequency, magnitude and site of impacts sustained in female high school lacrosse. A larger sample size of high quality head impact data in female lacrosse is required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Declan A Patton
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Colin M Huber
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniele Fedonni
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan S Margulies
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christina L Master
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Sports Medicine and Performance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristy B Arbogast
- Center for Injury Research and Prevention, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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24
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Huibregtse ME, Sweeney SH, Stephens MR, Cheng H, Chen Z, Block HJ, Newman SD, Kawata K. Association Between Serum Neurofilament Light and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Levels and Head Impact Burden in Women's Collegiate Water Polo. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:1130-1143. [PMID: 36259456 PMCID: PMC10266555 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent investigations have identified water polo athletes as at risk for concussions and repetitive subconcussive head impacts. Head impact exposure in collegiate varsity women's water polo, however, has not yet been longitudinally quantified. We aimed to determine the relationship between cumulative and acute head impact exposure across pre-season training and changes in serum biomarkers of brain injury. Twenty-two Division I collegiate women's water polo players were included in this prospective observational study. They wore sensor-installed mouthguards during all practices and scrimmages during eight weeks of pre-season training. Serum samples were collected at six time points (at baseline, before and after scrimmages during weeks 4 and 7, and after the eight-week pre-season training period) and assayed for neurofilament light (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) using Simoa® Human Neurology 2-Plex B assay kits. Serum GFAP increased over time (e.g., an increase of 0.6559 pg/mL per week; p = 0.0087). Neither longitudinal nor acute pre-post scrimmage changes in GFAP, however, were associated with head impact exposure. Contrarily, an increase in serum NfL across the study period was associated with cumulative head impact magnitude (sum of peak linear acceleration: B = 0.015, SE = 0.006, p = 0.016; sum of peak rotational acceleration: B = 0.148, SE = 0.048, p = 0.006). Acute changes in serum NfL were not associated with head impacts recorded during the two selected scrimmages. Hormonal contraceptive use was associated with lower serum NfL and GFAP levels over time, and elevated salivary levels of progesterone were also associated with lower serum NfL levels. These results suggest that detecting increases in serum NfL may be a useful way to monitor cumulative head impact burden in women's contact sports and that female-specific factors, such as hormonal contraceptive use and circulating progesterone levels, may be neuroprotective, warranting further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Huibregtse
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Kinesiology and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Sage H. Sweeney
- Department of Kinesiology and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Mikayla R. Stephens
- Department of Kinesiology and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Hu Cheng
- Department of Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Zhongxue Chen
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts, Sciences and Education, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Hannah J. Block
- Department of Kinesiology and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Program in Neuroscience, College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Sharlene D. Newman
- Alabama Life Research Institute, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, and College of Arts and Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Keisuke Kawata
- Department of Kinesiology and College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Program in Neuroscience, College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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25
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de Almeida E Bueno L, Walls VC, Bergmann JHM. Evaluating the Potential of an Oral-Based Bioguard to Estimate Heart Rate Using Photoplethysmography. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13050533. [PMID: 37232894 DOI: 10.3390/bios13050533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The reliable monitoring of heart rate during intense exercise is imperative to effectively manage training loads while providing insights from a healthcare perspective. However, current technologies perform poorly in contact sports settings. This study aims to evaluate the best approach for heart rate tracking using photoplethysmography sensors embedded into an instrumented mouthguard (iMG). Seven adults wore iMGs and a reference heart rate monitor. Several sensor placements, light sources and signal intensities were explored for the iMG. A novel metric related to the positioning of the sensor in the gum was introduced. The error between the iMG heart rate and the reference data was assessed to obtain insights into the effect of specific iMG configurations on measurement errors. Signal intensity was found to be the most important variable for error prediction, followed by the sensor light source, sensor placement and positioning. A generalized linear model combining an infrared light source, at an intensity of 5.08 mA, and a frontal placement high in the gum area resulted in a heart rate minimum error of 16.33%. This research shows promising preliminary results for the use of oral-based heart rate monitoring, but highlights the need for the careful consideration of sensor configurations within these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victoria C Walls
- TCC-CASEMIX, Kestrel Lodge Upper Hexgreave, Farnsfield, Newark NG22 8LS, UK
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26
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Schmidt JD, Johnson RS, Lempke LB, Anderson M, Le RK, Lynall RC. Youth Tackle Football Head-Impact Estimation by Players and Parents: Is the Perception the Reality? J Athl Train 2023; 58:285-292. [PMID: 35475900 PMCID: PMC11215644 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0560.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT With growing concerns surrounding exposure to head impacts in youth tackle football, players and parents must understand the exposure level when assenting and consenting to participate. OBJECTIVE To determine whether youth football players and parents could estimate on-field head-impact frequency, severity, and location. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Football field. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS We administered a 10-question head-impact estimation tool to parents (n = 23; mean age = 36.5 years [95% CI = 31.7, 37.3 years]) and players (n = 16 boys; mean age = 11.1 years [95% CI = 10.3, 11.8 years]). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Player on-field head-impact exposure was captured using the Triax SIM-G system. We determined the accuracy between player and parent estimates relative to on-field head-impact exposures using κ and weighted κ values. RESULTS Youth tackle football players and parents did not accurately estimate on-field head-impact frequency (κ range = -0.09 to 0.40), severity (κ range = -0.05 to 0.34), or location (κ range = -0.30 to 0.13). Players and parents overestimated head-impact frequency in practices but underestimated the frequency in games. Both groups overestimated head-impact severity, particularly in games. Most players and parents underestimated the number of head impacts to the top of the head, particularly during practices. CONCLUSIONS Underestimations of head-impact frequency in games and to the top of the head suggest that informed consent processes aimed at educating players and parents should be improved. Overestimations of head-impact frequency in practices and severity may explain declining rates of youth tackle football participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianne D. Schmidt
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
| | - Rachel S. Johnson
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
| | - Landon B. Lempke
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
| | - Melissa Anderson
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
| | - Rachel Khinh Le
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
| | - Robert C. Lynall
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens
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27
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Henley S, Andrews K, Kabaliuk N, Draper N. Soft-shell headgear in rugby union: a systematic review of published studies. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-023-01058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
To review the rate of soft-shell headgear use in rugby union, consumer knowledge of the protection potential of soft-shell headgear, incidence of concussion reported in rugby headgear studies, and the capacity of soft-shell headgear to reduce acceleration impact forces.
Design
A systematic search was conducted in July and August 2021 using the databases SPORT Discus, PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, and Science Direct. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The protocol for this systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42021239595).
Outcome measures
Rates of headgear use, reports of estimated protection of headgear against head injury, incidence of concussion and magnitude of impact collisions with vs. without headgear, impact attenuation of headgear in lab studies.
Results
Eighteen studies were identified as eligible: qualitative (N = 4), field (N = 7), and lab (N = 7). Qualitative studies showed low rates of headgear use and varying understanding of the protection afforded by headgear. Field studies showed negligible association of headgear use with reduced impact magnitude in headgear vs. non-headgear cohorts. Lab studies showed increased energy attenuation for thicker headgear material, poorer performance of headgear after repetitive impacts and increased drop heights, and promising recent results with headgear composed of viscoelastic polymers.
Conclusions
Rates of adoption of soft-shell headgear remain low in rugby and any association between its use and reduction in acceleration impact forces remains unclear. Lab results indicating improved impact attenuation need to be validated in the field. Further headgear-related research is needed with youth and female rugby players.
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28
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Miller LE, Patalak JP, Harper MG, Urban JE, Stitzel JD. Pilot Collection and Evaluation of Head Kinematics in Stock Car Racing. J Biomech Eng 2023; 145:1152062. [PMID: 36421028 DOI: 10.1115/1.4056322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this work was to collect on-track driver head kinematics using instrumented mouthpieces and characterize environmental exposure to accelerations and vibrations. Six NASCAR drivers were instrumented with custom-fit mouthpieces to collect head kinematic data. Devices were deployed at four tracks during practice and testing environments and configured to collect approximately 11 min of linear acceleration and rotational velocity data at 200 Hz. This continuous data collection, combined with film review, allowed extraction of complete laps of data. In addition to typical data processing methods, a moving-point average was calculated and subtracted from the overall signal for both linear acceleration and rotational velocity to determine the environmental component of head motion. The current analysis focuses on 42 full laps of data collected at four data collection events. The number of laps per track ranged from 2 to 23. Linear acceleration magnitudes for all 42 laps ranged from 2.46 to 7.48 g and rotational velocity ranged from 1.25 to 3.35 rad/s. After subtracting the moving average, linear acceleration ranged from 0.92 to 5.45 g and rotational velocity ranged from 0.57 to 2.05 rad/s. This study has established the feasibility of using an instrumented mouthpiece to measure head kinematics in NASCAR and presented a technique for isolating head motion due to cornering acceleration from those due to short-term perturbations experienced by the driver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan E Miller
- Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157; Center for Injury Biomechanics, Wake Forest University, 575 N Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - John P Patalak
- National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Incorporated, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
| | - Matthew G Harper
- National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Incorporated, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
| | - Jillian E Urban
- Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157; Center for Injury Biomechanics, Wake Forest University, 575 N Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - Joel D Stitzel
- Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157; Center for Injury Biomechanics, Wake Forest University, 575 N Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
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29
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de Almeida e Bueno L, Kwong MT, Bergmann JHM. Performance of Oral Cavity Sensors: A Systematic Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23020588. [PMID: 36679385 PMCID: PMC9862524 DOI: 10.3390/s23020588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Technological advancements are enabling new applications within biomedical engineering. As a connection point between the outer environment and the human system, the oral cavity offers unique opportunities for sensing technologies. This paper systematically reviews the performance of measurement systems tested in the human oral cavity. Performance was defined by metrics related to accuracy and agreement estimation. A comprehensive search identifying human studies that reported on the accuracy or agreement of intraoral sensors found 85 research papers. Most of the literature (62%) was in dentistry, followed by neurology (21%), and physical medicine and rehabilitation (12%). The remaining papers were on internal medicine, obstetrics, and aerospace medicine. Most of the studies applied force or pressure sensors (32%), while optical and image sensors were applied most widely across fields. The main challenges for future adoption include the lack of large human trials, the maturity of emerging technologies (e.g., biochemical sensors), and the absence of standardization of evaluation in specific fields. New research should aim to employ robust performance metrics to evaluate their systems and incorporate real-world evidence as part of the evaluation process. Oral cavity sensors offer the potential for applications in healthcare and wellbeing, but for many technologies, more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Man Ting Kwong
- Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Rd., London SE1 7EH, UK
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The Effects of Preparedness and Activity on Head Impacts in Lacrosse Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ATHLETIC THERAPY AND TRAINING 2023. [DOI: 10.1123/ijatt.2022-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Considering the frequency and magnitude of head impacts occurring during sport participation is important to guide prevention initiatives. Our purpose was to compare magnitude and frequency of lacrosse players’ head impacts based on anticipation level and impact activity. Lacrosse athletes (16 men, 15 women) wore xPatch sensors during games and practices that measured impact magnitude (linear and rotational accelerations) and frequency of video verified head impacts. The interaction between impact activity and preparedness was not significant, multivariate: F(8, 1,730) = ;1.03, p = ;.41, η2 = ;.01. Having a detailed understanding of the characteristics of head impacts could allow for focused interventions to reduce injury risk.
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Concussive Biomechanics in a Women’s Soccer Player: A Validation Clinical Case Report. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ATHLETIC THERAPY AND TRAINING 2023. [DOI: 10.1123/ijatt.2021-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
A concussed 19-year-old female midfielder on an National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III soccer team reported to the athletic training clinic complaining of a headache that began 4 days previously during a game where she headed several long punts. Despite delayed reporting, the patient returned to full participation without complication 13 days after her injury. The biomechanical data for the impacts she received on the day of injury were much lower than those presented in the literature as causing concussion for male athletes. Therefore, impact magnitude should not be used as an indicator for injury, as smaller, seemingly insignificant impacts can cause concussion.
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Willmott C, Reyes J, K Nguyen JV, McIntosh A, Makovec-Knight J, Makdissi M, Clifton P, Harcourt P, Mitra B. A pilot case crossover study of the use of padded headgear in junior Australian football. Concussion 2022; 7:CNC99. [PMID: 36694693 PMCID: PMC9855304 DOI: 10.2217/cnc-2022-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To explore soft-shell padded headgear (HG) use, player behavior and injuries associated with HG in junior Australian football. Methods Prospective case-crossover with head impact measurement, injury surveillance and video review. Results 40 players (mean age: 12.43 years, standard deviation: 1.36) across 15 matches were observed. Frequency of head/neck (p = 0.916) or body (p = 0.883) contact events, and match incidents were similar between HG and no HG conditions. Without HG, females had higher frequency of body contacts compared with males (p = 0.015). Males sustained more body contacts with HG than without HG (p = 0.013). Conclusion Use of HG in junior football was not associated with injury or head contact rate. Associations between HG use and body contact may differ across sexes. (ID: ACTRN12619001165178).
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Willmott
- Turner Institute for Brain & Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia,Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia,Author for correspondence: Tel.: +61 431 545 495;
| | - Jonathan Reyes
- Turner Institute for Brain & Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia,Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jack V K Nguyen
- Turner Institute for Brain & Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew McIntosh
- McIntosh Consultancy and Research, Sydney, Australia,Monash University Accident Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia,School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
| | - Jennifer Makovec-Knight
- Turner Institute for Brain & Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Makdissi
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience & Mental Health, Austin Campus, Melbourne Brain Centre, Melbourne, Australia,Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Biswadev Mitra
- National Trauma Research Institute, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia,Emergency & Trauma Centre, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia,Department of Epidemiology & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Chen A, Kuo C, Blouin JS. A portable and low-cost solution for real-time manipulation of the vestibular sense. J Neurosci Methods 2022; 382:109709. [PMID: 36116537 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2022.109709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vestibular system encodes head motion in space which is naturally accompanied by other sensory cues. Electrical stimuli, applied across the mastoid processes, selectively activate primary vestibular afferents which has spurred clinical and biomedical applications of electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS). When properly matched to head motion, EVS may also manipulate the closed-loop relationship between actions and vestibular feedback to reveal the mechanisms of sensorimotor recalibration and learning. NEW METHOD We designed a portable, low-cost real-time EVS system using an Arduino microcontroller programmed through Simulink that provides electrical currents based on head angular motion. We used well-characterized vestibular afferent physiological responses to head angular velocity and electrical current to compute head-motion equivalent of real-time modulatory EVS currents. We also examined if our system induced recalibration of the vestibular system during human balance control. RESULTS Our system operated at 199.997 Hz ( ± 0.005 Hz) and delivered head-motion-equivalent electrical currents with ∼10 ms delay. The output driving the current stimulator matched the implemented linear model for physiological vestibular afferent dynamics with minimal background noise (<0.2% of ± 10 V range). Participants recalibrated to the modulated closed-loop vestibular feedback using visual cues during standing balance, replicating earlier findings. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS EVS is typically used to impose external perturbations that are independent of one's own movement. We provided a solution using open-source hardware to implement a real-time, physiology based, and task-relevant vestibular modulations using EVS. CONCLUSIONS Our portable, low-cost vestibular modulation system will make physiological closed-loop vestibular manipulations more accessible thus encouraging novel investigations and biomedical applications of EVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Chen
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Calvin Kuo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Jean-Sébastien Blouin
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Institute for Computing, Information and Cognitive Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
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Smirl JD, Peacock D, Burma JS, Wright AD, Bouliane KJ, Dierijck J, van Donkelaar P. Repetitive bout of controlled soccer heading does not alter heart rate variability metrics: A preliminary investigation. Front Neurol 2022; 13:980938. [PMID: 36504654 PMCID: PMC9732532 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.980938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives There is elevated unease regarding how repetitive head impacts, such as those associated with soccer heading, contribute to alterations in brain function. This study examined the extent heart rate variability (HRV) and cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS) metrics are altered immediately following an acute bout of soccer heading. Methods Seven male elite soccer players (24.1 ± 1.5 years) completed 40 successful soccer headers in 20-min. The headers were performed under controlled circumstances using a soccer ball launcher located 25 meters away and using an initial ball velocity of 77.5 ± 3.7 km/h (heading condition). An accelerometer (xPatch) on the right mastoid process quantified linear/rotational head accelerations. Participants also completed sham (body contact) and control (non-contact) sessions. A three-lead ECG and finger photoplethysmography characterized short-term spontaneous HRV/cardiac BRS, before and after each condition. The SCAT3 indexed symptom scores pre-post exposures to all three conditions. Results During the heading condition, cumulative linear and rotational accelerations experienced were 1,574 ± 97.9 g and 313,761 ± 23,966 rad/s2, respectively. Heart rate trended toward an increase from pre- to post-heading (p = 0.063), however HRV metrics in the time-domain (ps > 0.260) and frequency-domain (ps > 0.327) as well as cardiac BRS (ps > 0.144) were not significantly changed following all three conditions. Following the heading condition, SCAT3 symptom severity increased (p = 0.030) with a trend for symptom score augmentation (p = 0.078) compared to control and sham. Conclusion Whereas, symptoms as measured by the SCAT3 were induced following an acute bout of controlled soccer heading, these preliminary findings indicate they were not accompanied by alterations to autonomic function. Ultimately, this demonstrates further research is needed to understand the physiological underpinnings of alterations in brain function occurring immediately after a bout of soccer heading and how these may, over time, contribute to long-term neurological impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan David Smirl
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Faculty of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,*Correspondence: Jonathan David Smirl
| | - Dakota Peacock
- Southern Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joel Stephen Burma
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Faculty of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alexander D. Wright
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,Southern Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kevin J. Bouliane
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Jill Dierijck
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada,School of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Paul van Donkelaar
- Concussion Research Lab, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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Rowson B, Duma SM. A Review of Head Injury Metrics Used in Automotive Safety and Sports Protective Equipment. J Biomech Eng 2022; 144:1140295. [PMID: 35445266 DOI: 10.1115/1.4054379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in the understanding of human tolerances to brain injury, injury metrics used in automotive safety and protective equipment standards have changed little since they were first implemented nearly a half-century ago. Although numerous metrics have been proposed as improvements over the ones currently used, evaluating the predictive capability of these metrics is challenging. The purpose of this review is to summarize existing head injury metrics that have been proposed for both severe head injuries, such as skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) including concussions. Metrics have been developed based on head kinematics or intracranial parameters such as brain tissue stress and strain. Kinematic metrics are either based on translational motion, rotational motion, or a combination of the two. Tissue-based metrics are based on finite element model simulations or in vitro experiments. This review concludes with a discussion of the limitations of current metrics and how improvements can be made in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Rowson
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science (ICTAS), Virginia Tech, 437 Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Stefan M Duma
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science (ICTAS), Virginia Tech, 410H Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061
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Marks ME, Holcomb TD, Pritchard NS, Miller LE, Espeland MA, Miles CM, Moore JB, Foley KL, Stitzel JD, Urban JE. Characterizing Exposure to Head Acceleration Events in Youth Football Using an Instrumented Mouthpiece. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1620-1632. [PMID: 36274103 PMCID: PMC9815159 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03097-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Understanding characteristics of head acceleration events (HAEs) in youth football is vital in developing strategies to improve athlete safety. This study aimed to characterize HAEs in youth football using an instrumented mouthpiece. Youth football athletes (ages 11-13) participating on two teams were enrolled in this study for one season. Each athlete was instrumented with a mouthpiece-based sensor throughout the season. HAEs were verified on film to ensure that mouthpiece-based sensors triggered during contact. The number of HAEs, peak resultant linear and rotational accelerations, and peak resultant rotational velocity were quantified. Mixed effects models were used to evaluate differences in mean kinematic metrics among all HAEs for session type, athlete position, and contact surface. A total of 5,292 HAEs were collected and evaluated from 30 athletes. The median (95th percentile) peak resultant linear acceleration, rotational acceleration, and rotational velocity was 9.5 g (27.0 g), 666.4 rad s-2 (1863.3 rad s-2), and 8.5 rad s-1 (17.4 rad s-1), respectively. Athletes experienced six (22) HAEs per athlete per session (i.e., practice, game). Competition had a significantly higher mean number of HAEs per athlete per session and mean peak rotational acceleration. Peak resultant rotational kinematics varied significantly among athlete positions. Direct head impacts had higher mean kinematics compared to indirect HAEs, from body collisions. The results of this study demonstrate that session type, athlete position, and contact surface (i.e., direct, indirect) may influence HAE exposure in youth football.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison E Marks
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Ty D Holcomb
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - N Stewart Pritchard
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Logan E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Mark A Espeland
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Christopher M Miles
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Justin B Moore
- Department of Implementation Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Prevention, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Kristie L Foley
- Department of Implementation Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Joel D Stitzel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Jillian E Urban
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Avenue, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA.
- Virginia Tech - Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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Consensus Head Acceleration Measurement Practices (CHAMP): Study Design and Statistical Analysis. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1346-1355. [PMID: 36253602 PMCID: PMC9652215 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03101-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Head impact measurement devices enable opportunities to collect impact data directly from humans to study topics like concussion biomechanics, head impact exposure and its effects, and concussion risk reduction techniques in sports when paired with other relevant data. With recent advances in head impact measurement devices and cost-effective price points, more and more investigators are using them to study brain health questions. However, as the field's literature grows, the variance in study quality is apparent. This brief paper aims to provide a high-level set of key considerations for the design and analysis of head impact measurement studies that can help avoid flaws introduced by sampling biases, false data, missing data, and confounding factors. We discuss key points through four overarching themes: study design, operational management, data quality, and data analysis.
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Bussey MD, Davidson P, Salmon D, Romanchuk J, Tong D, Sole G. Influence of the frame of reference on head acceleration events recorded by instrumented mouthguards in community rugby players. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2022; 8:e001365. [PMID: 36249488 PMCID: PMC9557771 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2022-001365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To highlight the need for standardisation in the communication of head impact telemetry from instrumented mouthguards (iMG). The purpose of this study is to examine how the frame of reference for reporting head acceleration events (HAE) may affect the interpretation of head impacts recorded from iMGs in community rugby players. Methods An analytical investigation of 825 video verified HAEs recorded from male community players during 5 rugby match exposures. HAEs were captured with an iMG, known to be reliable and valid for this purpose. The linear and angular head acceleration at the centre of mass (head_CG) was calculated from filtered iMG accelerometer and gyroscope data, and the location of impact was estimated. The iMG and head_CG data were examined for systematic bias, geometric differences and the degree of concordance. Finally, mixed model analyses were fitted to assess the differences in peak resultant acceleration (PLA) by impact locations and directions of head motion while controlling for intra-athlete correlations. Results The degree of concordance between the iMG versus head_CG measures varied by impact location. The mixed model confirmed differences in the PLA by location (F(8,819) = 16.55, p<0.001) and by direction of head motion (F(5,417) = 7.78, p<0.001). Conclusion The head acceleration reported at the iMG is not proportional to measurements that have been transformed to the head_CG. Depending on the impact location and direction of head motion, the acceleration measured at the iMG may overestimate, underestimate or miss entirely the PLA with respect to the head_CG. We recommend standardising the reporting of iMG data within the head_CG frame of reference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Dawn Bussey
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Peter Davidson
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Janelle Romanchuk
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand,New Zealand Rugby, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Darryl Tong
- Department of Oral Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Gisela Sole
- School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Waring KM, Smith ER, Austin GP, Bowman TG. Exploring the Effects of a Neck Strengthening Program on Purposeful Soccer Heading Biomechanics and Neurocognition. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2022; 17:1043-1052. [PMID: 36237655 PMCID: PMC9528716 DOI: 10.26603/001c.38327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical (neck) strengthening has been proposed as an important factor in concussion prevention. The purpose of the study was to determine if a six-week cervical strengthening program affected neurocognition and purposeful soccer heading biomechanics. The hypothesis was that the neck strengthening program would improve strength, maintain neurocognition, and alter purposeful soccer heading biomechanics. Study Design Randomized controlled trial. Methods Twenty collegiate soccer athletes (8 males, 12 females, age=20.15±1.35 years, height=171.67±9.01 cm, mass=70.56±11.03 kg) volunteered to participate. Time (pre, post) and group (experimental, control) served as the independent variables. Four composite scores from the CNS Vital Signs computer based neurocognitive test (CNSVS; verbal memory, visual memory, executive function, reaction time) and aspects of heading biomechanics from inertial measurement units (xPatch; peak linear acceleration, peak rotational acceleration, duration, Gadd Severity Index [GSI]) served as the dependent variables. Each athlete completed a baseline measure of neck strength (anterior neck flexors, bilateral anterolateral neck flexors, bilateral cervical rotators) and CNSVS after heading 10 soccer balls at two speeds (11.18 and 17.88 m/s) while wearing the xPatch. The experimental group completed specific cervical neck strengthening exercises twice a week for six weeks using a Shingo Imara™ cervical neck resistance apparatus while the control group did not. After six weeks, the participants completed the same heading protocol followed by measurement of the same outcome variables. The alpha value was set to p<0.05 a priori. Results The interaction between time and group was significant for visual memory (F1,17=5.16, p=0.04, η2=0.23). Interestingly, post hoc results revealed visual memory decreased for the control group from pretest (46.90±4.46) compared to posttest (43.00±4.03; mean difference=3.90, 95% CI=0.77-7.03, p=0.02). Interactions for all other dependent variables were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions The cervical neck strengthening protocol allowed maintenance of visual memory scores but did not alter other neurocognitive measures or heading biomechanics. The link between cervical neck strengthening and concussion predisposition should continue to be explored. Level of Evidence Level 1b.
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Consensus Head Acceleration Measurement Practices (CHAMP): Laboratory Validation of Wearable Head Kinematic Devices. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1356-1371. [PMID: 36104642 PMCID: PMC9652295 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03066-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Wearable devices are increasingly used to measure real-world head impacts and study brain injury mechanisms. These devices must undergo validation testing to ensure they provide reliable and accurate information for head impact sensing, and controlled laboratory testing should be the first step of validation. Past validation studies have applied varying methodologies, and some devices have been deployed for on-field use without validation. This paper presents best practices recommendations for validating wearable head kinematic devices in the laboratory, with the goal of standardizing validation test methods and data reporting. Key considerations, recommended approaches, and specific considerations were developed for four main aspects of laboratory validation, including surrogate selection, test conditions, data collection, and data analysis. Recommendations were generated by a group with expertise in head kinematic sensing and laboratory validation methods and reviewed by a larger group to achieve consensus on best practices. We recommend that these best practices are followed by manufacturers, users, and reviewers to conduct and/or review laboratory validation of wearable devices, which is a minimum initial step prior to on-field validation and deployment. We anticipate that the best practices recommendations will lead to more rigorous validation of wearable head kinematic devices and higher accuracy in head impact data, which can subsequently advance brain injury research and management.
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Blythman R, Saxena M, Tierney GJ, Richter C, Smolic A, Simms C. Assessment of deep learning pose estimates for sports collision tracking. J Sports Sci 2022; 40:1885-1900. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2022.2117474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Blythman
- V-SENSE, School of Computer Science and Statistics(SCSS), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Manan Saxena
- School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Aljosa Smolic
- V-SENSE, School of Computer Science and Statistics(SCSS), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Simms
- School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Kuo C, Patton D, Rooks T, Tierney G, McIntosh A, Lynall R, Esquivel A, Daniel R, Kaminski T, Mihalik J, Dau N, Urban J. On-Field Deployment and Validation for Wearable Devices. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1372-1388. [PMID: 35960418 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03001-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Wearable sensors are an important tool in the study of head acceleration events and head impact injuries in sporting and military activities. Recent advances in sensor technology have improved our understanding of head kinematics during on-field activities; however, proper utilization and interpretation of data from wearable devices requires careful implementation of best practices. The objective of this paper is to summarize minimum requirements and best practices for on-field deployment of wearable devices for the measurement of head acceleration events in vivo to ensure data evaluated are representative of real events and limitations are accurately defined. Best practices covered in this document include the definition of a verified head acceleration event, data windowing, video verification, advanced post-processing techniques, and on-field logistics, as determined through review of the literature and expert opinion. Careful use of best practices, with accurate acknowledgement of limitations, will allow research teams to ensure data evaluated is representative of real events, will improve the robustness of head acceleration event exposure studies, and generally improve the quality and validity of research into head impact injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin Kuo
- The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Declan Patton
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Tyler Rooks
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Fort Rucker, USA
| | | | - Andrew McIntosh
- McIntosh Consultancy and Research, Sydney, Australia.,Monash University Accident Research Centre Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Engineering Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | | | | | - Ray Daniel
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Fort Rucker, USA
| | | | - Jason Mihalik
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Nate Dau
- Biocore, LLC, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Jillian Urban
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 575 Patterson Ave, Suite 530, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA.
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43
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Seifert J, Shah AS, Harezlak J, Rowson S, Mihalik JP, Riggen L, Duma S, Brooks A, Cameron KL, Giza CC, Goldman J, Guskiewicz KM, Houston MN, Jackson JC, McGinty G, Pasquina P, Broglio SP, McAllister TW, McCrea MA, Stemper BD. Time Delta Head Impact Frequency: An Analysis on Head Impact Exposure in the Lead Up to a Concussion: Findings from the NCAA-DOD Care Consortium. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1473-1487. [PMID: 35933459 PMCID: PMC9652163 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03032-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Sport-related concussions can result from a single high magnitude impact that generates concussive symptoms, repeated subconcussive head impacts aggregating to generate concussive symptoms, or a combined effect from the two mechanisms. The array of symptoms produced by these mechanisms may be clinically interpreted as a sport-related concussion. It was hypothesized that head impact exposure resulting in concussion is influenced by severity, total number, and frequency of subconcussive head impacts. The influence of total number and magnitude of impacts was previously explored, but frequency was investigated to a lesser degree. In this analysis, head impact frequency was investigated over a new metric called ‘time delta’, the time difference from the first recorded head impact of the day until the concussive impact. Four exposure metrics were analyzed over the time delta to determine whether frequency of head impact exposure was greater for athletes on their concussion date relative to other dates of contact participation. Those metrics included head impact frequency, head impact accrual rate, risk weighted exposure (RWE), and RWE accrual rate. Athletes experienced an elevated median number of impacts, RWE, and RWE accrual rate over the time delta on their concussion date compared to non-injury sessions. This finding suggests elevated frequency of head impact exposure on the concussion date compared to other dates that may precipitate the onset of concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Seifert
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Neuroscience Research Labs, Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research 151, 5000 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53295, USA
| | - Alok S Shah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Neuroscience Research Labs, Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research 151, 5000 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53295, USA
| | - Jaroslaw Harezlak
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Steven Rowson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Jason P Mihalik
- Matthew Gfeller Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Larry Riggen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Stefan Duma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Alison Brooks
- Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kenneth L Cameron
- John A. Feagin Jr. Sports Medicine Fellowship, Keller Army Hospital, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, USA
| | - Christopher C Giza
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, UCLA Steve Tisch BrainSPORT Program, David Geffem School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joshua Goldman
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, UCLA Steve Tisch BrainSPORT Program, David Geffem School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kevin M Guskiewicz
- Matthew Gfeller Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Megan N Houston
- John A. Feagin Jr. Sports Medicine Fellowship, Keller Army Hospital, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan C Jackson
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Gerald McGinty
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Paul Pasquina
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Steven P Broglio
- Michigan Concussion Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Michael A McCrea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Neuroscience Research Labs, Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research 151, 5000 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53295, USA
| | - Brian D Stemper
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA. .,Neuroscience Research Labs, Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research 151, 5000 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53295, USA.
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Rezaei A, Wu LC. Automated soccer head impact exposure tracking using video and deep learning. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9282. [PMID: 35661123 PMCID: PMC9166706 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Head impacts are highly prevalent in sports and there is a pressing need to investigate the potential link between head impact exposure and brain injury risk. Wearable impact sensors and manual video analysis have been utilized to collect impact exposure data. However, wearable sensors suffer from high deployment cost and limited accuracy, while manual video analysis is a long and resource-intensive task. Here we develop and apply DeepImpact, a computer vision algorithm to automatically detect soccer headers using soccer game videos. Our data-driven pipeline uses two deep learning networks including an object detection algorithm and temporal shift module to extract visual and temporal features of video segments and classify the segments as header or nonheader events. The networks were trained and validated using a large-scale professional-level soccer video dataset, with labeled ground truth header events. The algorithm achieved 95.3% sensitivity and 96.0% precision in cross-validation, and 92.9% sensitivity and 21.1% precision in an independent test that included videos of five professional soccer games. Video segments identified as headers in the test data set correspond to 3.5 min of total film time, which can be reviewed through additional manual video verification to eliminate false positives. DeepImpact streamlines the process of manual video analysis and can help to collect large-scale soccer head impact exposure datasets for brain injury research. The fully video-based solution is a low-cost alternative for head impact exposure monitoring and may also be expanded to other sports in future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Rezaei
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Lyndia C Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Basinas I, McElvenny DM, Pearce N, Gallo V, Cherrie JW. A Systematic Review of Head Impacts and Acceleration Associated with Soccer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095488. [PMID: 35564889 PMCID: PMC9100160 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies of the neurological health of former professional soccer players are being undertaken to identify whether heading the ball is a risk factor for disease or premature death. A quantitative estimate of exposure to repeated sub-concussive head impacts would provide an opportunity to investigate possible exposure-response relationships. However, it is unclear how to formulate an appropriate exposure metric within the context of epidemiological studies. We have carried out a systematic review of the scientific literature to identify the factors that determine the magnitude of head impact acceleration during experiments and from observations during playing or training for soccer, up to the end of November 2021. Data were extracted from 33 experimental and 27 observational studies from male and female amateur players including both adults and children. There was a high correlation between peak linear and angular accelerations in the observational studies (p < 0.001) although the correlation was lower for the experimental data. We chose to rely on an analysis of maximum or peak linear acceleration for this review. Differences in measurement methodology were identified as important determinants of measured acceleration, and we concluded that only data from accelerometers fixed to the head provided reliable information about the magnitude of head acceleration from soccer-related impacts. Exposures differed between men and women and between children and adults, with women on average experiencing higher acceleration but less frequent impacts. Playing position appears to have some influence on the number of heading impacts but less so on the magnitude of the head acceleration. Head-to-head collisions result in high levels of exposure and thus probably risk causing a concussion. We concluded, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that estimates of the cumulative number of heading impacts over a playing career should be used as the main exposure metric in epidemiological studies of professional players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK; (I.B.); (D.M.M.)
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Damien M. McElvenny
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK; (I.B.); (D.M.M.)
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Neil Pearce
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Valentina Gallo
- Campus Fryslân, University of Groningen, 8911 CE Leeuwarden, The Netherlands;
| | - John W. Cherrie
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK; (I.B.); (D.M.M.)
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK
- Correspondence:
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46
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Head Impact Kinematics and Brain Deformation in Paired Opposing Youth Football Players. J Appl Biomech 2022; 38:136-147. [PMID: 35483702 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2021-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Head impact exposure is often quantified using peak resultant kinematics. While kinematics describes the inertial response of the brain to impact, they do not fully capture the dynamic brain response. Strain, a measure of the tissue-level response of the brain, may be a better predictor of injury. In this study, kinematic and strain metrics were compared to contact characteristics in youth football. Players on 2 opposing teams were instrumented with head impact sensors to record impact kinematics. Video was collected to identify contact scenarios involving opposing instrumented players (ie, paired contact scenarios) and code contact characteristics (eg, player role, impact location). A previously validated, high-resolution brain finite element model, the atlas-based brain model, was used to simulate head impacts and calculate strain metrics. Fifty-two paired contact scenarios (n = 105 impacts) were evaluated. Lighter players tended to have greater biomechanical metrics compared to heavier players. Impacts to the top of the helmet were associated with lower strain metrics. Overall, strain was better correlated with rotational kinematics, suggesting these metrics may be better predictors of the tissue-level brain response than linear kinematics. Understanding the effect of contact characteristics on brain strain will inform future efforts to improve sport safety.
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Raymond SJ, Cecchi NJ, Alizadeh HV, Callan AA, Rice E, Liu Y, Zhou Z, Zeineh M, Camarillo DB. Physics-Informed Machine Learning Improves Detection of Head Impacts. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1534-1545. [PMID: 35303171 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-02911-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In this work we present a new physics-informed machine learning model that can be used to analyze kinematic data from an instrumented mouthguard and detect impacts to the head. Monitoring player impacts is vitally important to understanding and protecting from injuries like concussion. Typically, to analyze this data, a combination of video analysis and sensor data is used to ascertain the recorded events are true impacts and not false positives. In fact, due to the nature of using wearable devices in sports, false positives vastly outnumber the true positives. Yet, manual video analysis is time-consuming. This imbalance leads traditional machine learning approaches to exhibit poor performance in both detecting true positives and preventing false negatives. Here, we show that by simulating head impacts numerically using a standard Finite Element head-neck model, a large dataset of synthetic impacts can be created to augment the gathered, verified, impact data from mouthguards. This combined physics-informed machine learning impact detector reported improved performance on test datasets compared to traditional impact detectors with negative predictive value and positive predictive values of 88 and 87% respectively. Consequently, this model reported the best results to date for an impact detection algorithm for American football, achieving an F1 score of 0.95. In addition, this physics-informed machine learning impact detector was able to accurately detect true and false impacts from a test dataset at a rate of 90% and 100% relative to a purely manual video analysis workflow. Saving over 12 h of manual video analysis for a modest dataset, at an overall accuracy of 92%, these results indicate that this model could be used in place of, or alongside, traditional video analysis to allow for larger scale and more efficient impact detection in sports such as American Football.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Raymond
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Nicholas J Cecchi
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Ashlyn A Callan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Eli Rice
- Stanford Center for Clinical Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Yuzhe Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Michael Zeineh
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - David B Camarillo
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Hodges PW, van den Hoorn W. A vision for the future of wearable sensors in spine care and its challenges: narrative review. JOURNAL OF SPINE SURGERY (HONG KONG) 2022; 8:103-116. [PMID: 35441093 PMCID: PMC8990399 DOI: 10.21037/jss-21-112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aimed to: (I) provide a brief overview of some topical areas of current literature regarding applications of wearable sensors in the management of low back pain (LBP); (II) present a vision for a future comprehensive system that integrates wearable sensors to measure multiple parameters in the real world that contributes data to guide treatment selection (aided by artificial intelligence), uses wearables to aid treatment support, adherence and outcome monitoring, and interrogates the response of the individual patient to the prescribed treatment to guide future decision support for other individuals who present with LBP; and (III) consider the challenges that will need to be overcome to make such a system a reality. BACKGROUND Advances in wearable sensor technologies are opening new opportunities for the assessment and management of spinal conditions. Although evidence of improvements in outcomes for individuals with LBP from the use of sensors is limited, there is enormous future potential. METHODS Narrative review and literature synthesis. CONCLUSIONS Substantial research is underway by groups internationally to develop and test elements of this system, to design innovative new sensors that enable recording of new data in new ways, and to fuse data from multiple sources to provide rich information about an individual's experience of LBP. Together this system, incorporating data from wearable sensors has potential to personalise care in ways that were hitherto thought impossible. The potential is high but will require concerted effort to develop and ultimately will need to be feasible and more effective than existing management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul W Hodges
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Wolbert van den Hoorn
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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An acute bout of controlled subconcussive impacts can alter dynamic cerebral autoregulation indices: a preliminary investigation. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:1059-1070. [PMID: 35171333 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04908-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is growing concern repetitive head contacts sustained by soccer players may lead to long-term health ramifications. Therefore, this preliminary investigation examined the impact an acute soccer heading bout has on dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) metrics. METHODS In this preliminary investigation, 40 successful soccer headers were performed in 20 min by 7 male elite soccer players (24.1 ± 1.5 years). Soccer balls were launched at 77.5 ± 3.7 km/h from JUGS soccer machine, located 35 m away from participants. Linear and rotational head accelerations impacts were measured using an accelerometer (xPatch). The SCAT3 indexed concussion symptom score and severity before and after: soccer headers, sham (body contact only), and control conditions. Squat-stand maneuvers were performed at 0.05 Hz and 0.10 Hz to quantity dCA through measures of coherence, phase, and gain. RESULTS Cumulative linear and rotational accelerations during soccer headers were 1574 ± 97.9 g and 313,761 ± 23,966 rads/s2, respectively. SCAT3 symptom severity was elevated after the soccer heading bout (pre 3.7 ± 3.6, post 9.4 ± 7.6: p = 0.030) and five of the seven participants reported an increase in concussion-like symptoms (pre: 2.6 ± 3.0, post: 6.7 ± 6.2; p = 0.078). Phase at 0.10 Hz was elevated following soccer heading (p = 0.008). No other dCA metric differed following the three conditions. CONCLUSION These preliminary results indicate an acute bout of soccer heading resulted in alterations to dCA metrics. Therefore, future research with larger sample sizes is warranted to fully comprehend short- and long-term physiological changes related to soccer heading.
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Peek K, McKay M, Fu A, Meyer T, Oxenham V, Esopenko C, Caccese J, Andersen J. The effect of ball characteristics on head acceleration during purposeful heading in male and female youth football players. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2022; 5:195-203. [PMID: 35077287 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2021.1897657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to explore the effects of different ball types and characteristics on head acceleration during purposeful heading in youth football players. Methods: Experienced male and female players (n = 61) aged between 12-17 years completed heading trials with 4 different balls (Ball 1 mass 192 grams (g), pressure 5.0 pounds per square inch (psi); Ball 2 432 g, 5.0 psi; Ball 3 255 g, 5.0 psi; Ball 4 430 g, 10.5 psi) whilst wearing a head-mounted accelerometer and gyroscope. Balls 1, 2 and 4 were size 5 balls; Ball 3 was a size 4 ball.Results: Multivariate analysis of variance and post-hoc univariate analyses revealed a statistically significant difference between ball type and head acceleration during heading for both linear acceleration (adjusted R2 = 0.68; F = 140.90; p = <0.001) and angular velocity (adjusted R2 = 0.28; F = 26.52; p = <0.001). Ball 1 (lightest size 5 ball) and Ball 3 (size 4 ball) demonstrated linear head accelerations up to 59% lower (p = <0.01) when compared with Ball 4 (size 5 regulated match ball).Discussion: Head acceleration during purposeful heading is influenced by changes to ball pressure, ball size and/or ball mass. Changing ball characteristics, particularly in youth football training when heading is being taught, should be an easy strategy to implement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Peek
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marnee McKay
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Allan Fu
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Vincent Oxenham
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carrie Esopenko
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences, Newark, USA
| | - Jaclyn Caccese
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Jordan Andersen
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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