Optimizing electric vehicle powertrains peak performance with robust predictive direct torque control of induction motors: a practical approach and experimental validation.

Enhancing the efficiency of the electric vehicle's powertrain becomes a crucial focus, wherein the control system for the traction motor plays a significant role. This paper presents a novel electric vehicle traction motor control system based on a robust predictive direct torque control approach, an improved version of the conventional DTC, where the traditional switching table and the hysteresis regulators are substituted with a predictive block based on an optimization algorithm. Additionally, a robust predictive speed loop regulator is employed instead of the proportional-integral regulator, which integrates a new cost function with a finite horizon, incorporating integral action into the control law based on a Taylor series expansion. This technique's primary benefit is its independence from the necessity to measure and observe external disturbances, as well as uncertainties related to parameters. The effectiveness of the suggested system was confirmed through simulation and experimental results under the OPAL-RT platform. The findings indicate that the proposed approach outperforms the conventional method in terms of rejecting disturbances, exhibiting robustness to variations in parameters, and minimizing torque ripple.

Reliability of lower limb strength assessment in female team sport athletes.

BACKGROUND: Lower limb injury rates have increased dramatically in line with increased female sport participation levels. Muscle strength is a modifiable lower limb injury risk factor, guiding performance monitoring and rehabilitation. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the test-retest reliability of isokinetic and isometric lower limb peak torque to body mass of muscles acting on the hip, knee, and ankle in female team sport athletes. It was hypothesised the test-retest reliability would be good (intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) ≥ 0.75). METHODS: Thirty-eight female athletes (Australian Rules Football = 18, netball = 12, soccer = 8) aged 16-35 years participated in this study. Participants performed isokinetic (60°/s and 120°/s) and isometric testing on a Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer on three separate days. RESULTS: Poor to good reliability was demonstrated for all joint movements (ICC = 0.38-0.88) with small to moderate effect sizes (0.00-0.43) and typical errors (5.65-24.49). CONCLUSION: Differences in peak torque to body mass were observed between sessions one and two and/or one and three, demonstrating a learning effect. Therefore, three testing sessions, and/or the inclusion of a familiarisation session, is recommended for future assessments in populations unfamiliar with dynamometry.

Asymmetric Manipulation of Perpendicular Exchange Bias and Programmable Spin Logical Cells by Spin-Orbit Torque in a Ferromagnet/Antiferromagnet System.

Antiferromagnets are competitive candidates for the next generation of spintronic devices owing to their superiority in small-scale and low-power-consumption devices. The electrical manipulation of the magnetization and exchange bias (EB) driven by spin-orbit torque (SOT) in ferromagnetic (FM)/antiferromagnetic (AFM) systems has become focused in spintronics. Here, the realization of a large perpendicular EB field in Co/IrMn and the effective manipulation of the magnetic moments of the magnetic Co layer and EB field by SOT in Pt/Co/IrMn system is reported. During the SOT-driven switching process, an asymmetrically manipulated state is observed. Current pulses with the same amplitude but opposite directions induce different magnetization states. Magneto-optical Kerr measurements reveal that this is due to the coexistence of stable and metastable antiferromagnetic domains in the AFM. Exploiting the asymmetric properties of these FM/AFM structures, five spin logic gates, namely AND, OR, NOR, NAND, and NOT, are realized in a single cell via SOT. This study provides an insight into the special ability of SOT on AFMs and also paves an avenue to construct the logic-in-memory and neuromorphic computing cells based on the AFM spintronic system.

Comparative evaluation of the effects of different torque settings on dentinal crack formation using single- and multi-file system: An in vitro study.

Context: To improve efficiency, biomechanical preparation in root canal treatment is shifting from manual SS to nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary devices. While multi-file NiTi systems entail crack and fracture issues, modern single-file systems address these concerns. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of different torque settings on dentinal crack formation using single-file systems (SFS) (One Curve [OC]) and multi-file systems (ProTaper Next [PTN]) at different levels of the tooth. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted on 45 freshly extracted human mandibular premolars divided into groups: OC at minimal and maximal torque, PTN at minimal and maximal torque, and a control group. After canal preparation, teeth were horizontally sectioned at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex, and then examined for cracks using a stereomicroscope. Statistical Analysis Used: This was analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: PTN group: Highest crack rates at the middle (55.6%) and apical (77.8%) thirds with maximum torque; OC group: Highest rates at the middle (22.2%) with minimal torque and apical (11.1%) with maximum torque. Conclusions: Maximal torque settings had more incidence of cracks compared to minimal torque settings. It can be stated that SFS (OC) produced less cracks compared to multi-file system (PTN) at both minimal and maximal torque settings.

An NMPC-Based Integrated Longitudinal and Lateral Vehicle Stability Control Based on the Double-Layer Torque Distribution.

With the ongoing promotion and adoption of electric vehicles, intelligent and connected technologies have been continuously advancing. Electrical control systems implemented in electric vehicles have emerged as a critical research direction. Various drive-by-wire chassis systems, including drive-by-wire driving and braking systems and steer-by-wire systems, are extensively employed in vehicles. Concurrently, unavoidable issues such as conflicting control system objectives and execution system interference emerge, positioning integrated chassis control as an effective solution to these challenges. This paper proposes a model predictive control-based longitudinal dynamics integrated chassis control system for pure electric commercial vehicles equipped with electro-mechanical brake (EMB) systems, centralized drive, and distributed braking. This system integrates acceleration slip regulation (ASR), a braking force distribution system, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a direct yaw moment control system (DYC). This paper first analyzes and models the key components of the vehicle. Then, based on model predictive control (MPC), it develops a controller model for integrated stability with double-layer torque distribution. The required driving and braking torque for each wheel are calculated according to the actual and desired motion states of the vehicle and applied to the corresponding actuators. Finally, the effectiveness of this strategy is verified through simulation results from Matlab/Simulink. The simulation shows that the braking deceleration of the braking condition is increased by 32% on average, and the braking distance is reduced by 15%. The driving condition can enter the smooth driving faster, and the time is reduced by 1.5 s~5 s. The lateral stability parameters are also very much improved compared with the uncontrolled vehicles.

Effect of Sampling Rate, Filtering, and Torque Onset Detection on Quadriceps Rate of Torque Development and Torque Steadiness.

Quadriceps rate of torque development (RTD) and torque steadiness are valuable metrics for assessing explosive strength and the ability to control force over a sustained period of time, which can inform clinical assessments of knee function. Despite their widespread use, there is a significant gap in standardized methodology for measuring these metrics, which limits their utility in comparing outcomes across different studies and populations. To address these gaps, we evaluated the influence of sampling rates, signal filtering, and torque onset detection on RTD and torque steadiness. Twenty-seven participants with a history of a primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (N = 27 (11 male/16 female), age = 23 ± 8 years, body mass index = 26 ± 4 kg/m2) and thirty-two control participants (N = 32 (13 male/19 female), age = 23 ± 7 years, body mass index = 23 ± 3 kg/m2) underwent isometric quadriceps strength testing, with data collected at 2222 Hz on an isokinetic dynamometer. The torque-time signal was downsampled to approximately 100 and 1000 Hz and processed using a low-pass, zero-lag Butterworth filter with a range of cutoff frequencies spanning 10-200 Hz. The thresholds used to detect torque onset were defined as 0.1 Nm, 1 Nm, and 5 Nm. RTD between 0 and 100 ms, 0 and 200 ms, and 40-160 ms was computed, as well as absolute and relative torque steadiness. Relative differences were computed by comparing all outcomes to the "gold standard" values computed, with a sampling rate of 2222 Hz, a cutoff frequency in the low-pass filter of 150 Hz, and torque onset of 1 Nm, and compared utilizing linear mixed models. While all combinations of signal collection and processing parameters reached statistical significance (p < 0.05), these differences were consistent between injured and control limbs. Additionally, clinically relevant differences (+/-10%) were primarily observed through torque onset detection methods and primarily affected RTD between 0 and 100 ms. Although measurements of RTD and torque steadiness were generally robust against diverse signal collection and processing parameters, the selection of torque onset should be carefully considered, especially in early RTD assessments that have shorter time epochs.

Relationship between the elasticity of the forearm flexor-pronator muscles and elbow valgus torque in young baseball pitchers: a descriptive laboratory study.

BACKGROUND: The forearm flexor-pronator muscles act as a dynamic elbow stabilizer against elbow valgus load during baseball pitching. The elasticity of these muscles increases with pitching. However, it is unclear whether increased muscle elasticity is associated with greater elbow valgus torque during pitching. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the elasticity of the forearm flexor-pronator muscles and elbow valgus torque during pitching in young baseball pitchers. METHODS: We recruited 124 young baseball pitchers aged 9 to 12 years. The exclusion criteria included current pain with pitching, history of surgery on the tested extremity, or injuries on the tested extremity within the past 12 months. Before the examination, participants completed a questionnaire about their age, height, weight, dominant arm and practice time per week. The strain ratios of flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS), and pronator teres as the index of muscle elasticity were measured using ultrasound strain elastography. Participants pitched three fastballs at a distance of 52 ft 6 in (16 m) with maximum effort while wearing a sensor sleeve that recorded the elbow valgus torque. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between muscle elasticity and elbow valgus torque, adjusting for age, height, weight, and practice time. RESULTS: The final analysis included 107 pitchers. After adjusting for covariates, increased strain ratio of the FCU was significantly associated with greater elbow valgus torque (coefficients = 0.038, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.016-0.059, P<.001). Similarly, increased strain ratio of the FDS was significantly associated with greater elbow valgus torque (coefficients = 0.027, 95% CI, 0.013-0.042, P<.001). CONCLUSION: The high elasticities of the FCU and FDS were associated with greater elbow valgus torque during pitching in young baseball pitchers. The high elasticity of these muscles is a protective response and may be necessary for young baseball pitchers with greater elbow valgus torque during pitching. Among young baseball pitchers with greater elbow valgus torque, those who are unable to produce the higher elasticities of these muscles could have greater elbow valgus load during pitching and be at a higher risk for elbow injuries. The measurement of the elasticities of the FCU and FDS may be useful for identifying young baseball pitchers at risk of sustaining elbow injuries.

Abnormal open states patterns in the ATXN2 DNA sequence depends on the CAG repeats length.

Hereditary ataxias are one of the «anticipation diseases¼ types. Spinocerebral ataxia type 2 occurs when the number of CAG repeats in the coding region of the ATXN2 gene exceeds 34 or more. In healthy people, the CAG repeat region in the ATXN2 gene usually consists of 22-23 CAG trinucleotides. Mutations that increase the length of CAG repeats can cause severe neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders known as trinucleotide repeat expansion diseases. The mechanisms causing such diseases are associated with non-canonical configurations that can be formed in the CAG repeat region during replication, transcription or repair. This makes it relevant to study the zones of open states that arise in the region of CAG repeats under torque. The purpose of this work is to study, using mathematical modeling, zones of open states in the region of CAG repeats of the ATXN2 gene, caused by torque. It has been established that the torque effect on the 1st exon of the ATXN2 gene, in addition to the formation of open states in the promoter region, can lead to the formation of additional various sizes open states zones in the CAG repeats region. Moreover, the frequency of additional large zones genesis increases with increasing number of CAG repeats. The inverse of this frequency correlates with the dependence of the disease onset average age on the CAG repeats length. The obtained results will allow us to get closer to understanding the genetic mechanisms that cause trinucleotide repeat diseases.

Colossal Orbital Current Induced by Gradient Oxidation for High-Efficiency Magnetization Switching.

Orbital angular momentum flow can be used to develop a low-dissipation electronic information device by manipulating the orbital current. However, efficiently generating and fully harnessing orbital currents is a formidable challenge. In this study, an approach is presented that induces a colossal orbital current by gradient oxidation in Pt/Ta to enhance spin-orbit torque (SOT) and achieve high-efficiency magnetization switching. The maximum efficiency of the SOT before and after the gradient oxidation of Ta is improved relative to that of Pt by ≈600 and 1200%, respectively. The large SOT originates from the colossal orbital current because of the orbital Rashba-Edelstein effect induced by the gradient oxidation of Ta. In addition, a large spin-to-charge conversion efficiency is observed in yttrium iron garnet/Pt/TaOx because of the inverse orbital Rashba-Edelstein effect. Harnessing the orbital current can help effectively minimize the critical current density of the current-induced magnetization switching to 2.26-1.08 × 106 A cm-2, marking a 12-fold reduction compared to that using Pt. This findings provide a new path for research on low-dissipation spin-orbit devices and improve the tunability of orbital current generation.

Motor Control in Parkinson's Disease During the Performance of Multi-Joint Reversal Movements.

We tested if the movement slowness of individuals with Parkinson's disease is related to their decreased ability to generate adequate net torques and linearly coordinate them between joints. This cross-sectional study included ten individuals with Parkinson's disease and ten healthy individuals. They performed planar movements with a reversal over three target distances. We calculated joint kinematics of the elbow and shoulder using spatial orientation. The muscle, interaction, and net torques were integrated into the acceleration/deceleration phases of the fingertip speed. We calculated the linear correlations of those torques between joints. Both groups modulated the elbow and shoulder net torques with target distances. They linearly coupled the production of torques. Both groups did not modulate the interaction torques. The movement slowness in Parkinson's disease was related to the difficulty in generating the appropriate muscle and net torques in the task. The interaction torques do not seem to play any role in movement control.

TTV and CMV viral load dynamics: Which emerges first during immunosuppression?

Novel biomarkers reflecting the degree of immunosuppression in transplant patients are required to ensure eventual personalized equilibrium between rejection and infection risks. With the above aim, Torque Teno Virus (TTV) viremia was precisely examined in a large cohort of transplanted immunocompromised patients (192 hematological and 60 solid organ transplant recipients) being monitored for Cytomegalovirus reactivation. TTV load was measured in 2612 plasma samples from 448 patients. The results revealed a significant increase in TTV viral load approximately 14 days following CMV reactivation/infection in solid organ transplant (SOT) patients. No recognizable difference in TTV load was noted among hematological patients during the entire timeframe analyzed. Furthermore, a temporal gap of approximately 30 days was noted between the viral load peaks reached by the two viruses, with Cytomegalovirus (CMV) preceding TTV. It was not possible to establish a correlation between CMV reactivation/infection and TTV viremia in hematological patients. On the other hand, the SOT patient cohort allowed us to analyze viral kinetics and draw intriguing conclusions. Taken together, the data suggest, to our knowledge for the first time, that CMV infection itself could potentially cause an increase in TTV load in the peripheral blood of patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.

Experimental analysis of enhanced finite set model predictive control and direct torque control in SRM drives for torque ripple reduction.

The magnet-less switched reluctance motor (SRM) speed-torque characteristics are ideally suited for traction motor drive characteristics and its advantage to minimize the overall cost of on-road EVs. The main drawbacks are torque and flux ripple, which have produced high in low-speed operation. However, the emerging direct torque control (DTC) operated magnitude flux and torque estimation with voltage vectors (VVs) gives high torque ripples due to the selection of effective switching states and sector partition accuracy. On the other hand, the existing model predictive control (MPC) with multiple objective and optimization weighting factors produces high torque ripples due to the system dynamics and constraints. Therefore, existing DTC and MPC can result in high torque ripples. This paper proposed a finite set (FS)-MPC with a single cost function objective without weighting factor: the predicted torque considered to evaluate VVs to minimize the ripples further. The selected optimal VV minimizes the SRM drive torque and flux ripples in steady and dynamic state behaviour. The classical DTC and proposed model were developed, and simulation results were verified using MATLAB/Simulink. The proposed model operated in SRM drives experimental results to prove the effective minimization of torque and flux ripples compared to the existing DTC.

Clinical study on freehand of bicortical sacral screw fixation with the assistance of torque measurement device.

BACKGROUND: Sacral screw loosening is a typical complication after internal fixation surgery through the vertebral arch system. Bicortical fixation can successfully prevent screw loosening, and how improving the rate of bicortical fixation is a challenging clinical investigation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of improving the double corticality of sacral screws and the optimal fixation depth to achieve double cortical fixation by combining the torque measurement method with bare hands. METHODS: Ninety-seven cases of posterior lumbar internal fixation with pedicle root system were included in this study. Based on the tactile feedback of the surgeon indicating the expected penetration of the screw into the contralateral cortex of the sacrum, the screws were further rotated by 180°, 360°, or 720°, categorized into the bicortical 180° group, bicortical 360° group, and bicortical 720° group, respectively. Intraoperatively, the torque during screw insertion was recorded. Postoperatively, the rate of double-cortex engagement was evaluated at 7 days, and screw loosening was assessed at 1 year follow-up. RESULTS: The bicortical rates of the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 66.13%, 91.18% and 93.75%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the 360° group and the 720° group (P > 0.05).The rates of loosening of sacral screws in the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 20.97%, 7.35% and 7.81%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the 360° group and the 720° group (P > 0.05). The bicortical 360° group achieved a relatively satisfactory rate of dual cortical purchase while maintaining a lower rate of screw loosening. CONCLUSION: Manual insertion of sacral screws with the assistance of a torque measurement device can achieve a relatively satisfactory dual cortical purchase rate while reducing patient hospitalization costs.

Sparse reservoir computing with vertically coupled vortex spin-torque oscillators for time series prediction.

Spin torque nano-oscillators possessing fast nonlinear dynamics and short-term memory functions are potentially able to achieve energy-efficient neuromorphic computing. In this study, we introduce an activation-state controllable spin neuron unit composed of vertically coupled vortex spin torque oscillators and aV-Isource circuit is proposed and used to build an energy-efficient sparse reservoir computing (RC) system to solve nonlinear dynamic system prediction task. Based on micromagnetic and electronic circuit simulation, the Mackey-Glass chaotic time series and the real motor vibration signal series can be predicted by the RC system with merely 20 and 100 spin neuron units, respectively. Further study shows that the proposed sparse reservoir system could reduce energy consumption without significantly compromising performance, and a minimal response from inactivated neurons is crucial for maintaining the system's performance. The accuracy and signal processing speed show the potential of the proposed sparse RC system for high-performance and low-energy neuromorphic computing.

Spatially Confined Assembly and Immobilization of Hierarchical Nanoparticle Architectures inside Microdroplets in Magnetic Fields.

Magnetic field-directed colloidal interactions offer facile tools for assembly of structures that range from linear chains to multidimensional hierarchical architectures. While the field-driven assembly of colloidal particles has commonly been investigated in unbounded media, a knowledge gap remains concerning such assembly in confined microenvironments. Here, we investigate how confinement of ferromagnetic nanoparticles in microspheres directs their magnetic assembly into hierarchical architectures. Microdroplets from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) liquid precursor containing dispersed iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were placed in a static magnetic field leading to the formation of organized assemblies inside the host droplets. By changing the MNP concentrations, we revealed a sequence of microstructures inside the droplets, ranging from linear chains at a low MNP loading, transitioning to a combination of chains and networked bundles, to solely 3D bundles at high MNP loading. These experimental results were analyzed with the aid of COMSOL simulations where we calculated the potential energy to identify the preferred assembly conformations. The chains at high MNP loading minimized their energy by aggregating laterally to form bundles with their MNP dipoles being out-of-registry. We cured these PDMS droplets to immobilize the assemblies by forming soft microbeads. These microbeads constitute an "interaction toolbox" with different magnetic macroscale responses, which are governed by the structuring of the MNPs and their magnetic polarizability. We show that thanks to their ability to rotate by field-induced torque under a rotating field, these microbeads can be employed in applications such as optical modulators and microrollers.

Room-Temperature Highly Efficient Nonvolatile Magnetization Switching by Current in van der Waals Fe3GaTe2 Devices.

The ability to manipulate magnetic states by a low electric current represents a fundamental desire in spintronics. In recent years, two-dimensional van der Waals (vdW) magnetic materials have attracted an extensive amount of attention due to their appreciable spin-orbit torque effect. However, for most known vdW ferromagnets, their relatively low Curie temperatures (TC) limit their applications. Consequently, low-power vdW spintronic devices that can operate at room temperature are in great demand. In this research, we fabricate nanodevices based on a solitary thin flake of vdW ferromagnet Fe3GaTe2, in which we successfully achieve nonvolatile and highly efficient magnetization switching by small currents at room temperature. Notably, the switching current density and the switching power dissipation are as low as 1.7 × 105 A/cm2 and 1.6 × 1013 W/m3, respectively, with an external magnetic field of 80 Oe; both are much reduced compared to those of conventional magnet/heavy metal heterostructure devices and other vdW devices.

Assessment of Torque Teno Virus (TTV) Frequency in Healthy Blood Donors in the Central Region of Iran, Yazd.

Background: Torque teno virus (TTV) is a globally prevalent virus in humans, yet comprehensive knowledge about its prevalence, predominant transmission routes, and pathogenesis remains limited. This study aimed to assess the frequency of TTV infection among healthy blood donors in Yazd, Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 236 healthy blood donors, devoid of HIV/HBV/HCV infection markers, participated in the study from 2015 to 2016. Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) utilizing a set of oligo primers for the 5΄- UTR region was employed to detect TTV DNA in serum samples. Results: The TTV genome was identified in 161 out of 236 (61.2%) healthy blood donors. The mean age for men and women was 43 and 57 years, respectively. Of the participants, 156 were male, and 107 were female. Donor age exhibited a significant association with virus presence (P=0.007); however, gender did not show a statistically significant association with the frequency of TTV infection in healthy blood donors (P=0.3). Conclusion: The study revealed a notably high frequency of the Torque teno virus in Yazd province, aligning with similar findings globally. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the clinical implications of the virus in the healthy population.

No-load resistance training as a promising alternative to stop detraining period due to covid-19 lockdown in older adults - Case report.

Restrictions to control the COVID-19 pandemic have caused older adults to stop their usual activities, including physical exercises. The novel approach of isometric no-load resistance training (NLRT) can be an interesting alternative to conventional training to oppose the harmful effects of detraining. We described the design and preliminary evaluation of an eight-week, twice-weekly NLRT program for older adults returning to strength training programs after COVID-19 lockdown. An older woman (66 years, 61.9kg, 158.5cm) and an older man (66 years, 84.1kg, 166.5cm) who were engaged in conventional strength training programs before the first COVID-19 lockdown participated in this case study. We collected muscle thickness measures using a B-mode ultrasound imaging and maximum isometric torque using an isokinetic dynamometer. Our results revealed that NLRT seems to be a good alternative to increase muscle thickness of knee and elbow flexors and extensors muscles in older adults. However, NLRT effects were inconsistent for maximum torque.

Lower limb muscles' thicknesses are weakly associated with dynamic knee valgus during single-leg squat in women with patellofemoral pain.

INTRODUCTION: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) patients often show an altered lower limb alignment during the single-leg squat (SLS). There is evidence that proximal and distal-to-the-knee muscle alterations can modify the lower limb alignment in PFP patients. However, we observed a lack of studies investigating the possible association between the thickness and strength of proximal and distal-to-the-knee muscles and lower limb alignment during SLS in women with PFP. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the thickness and strength of lower limb muscles and dynamic knee valgus (DKV) during SLS in women with PFP. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, where fifty-five women with PFP were submitted to the following evaluations: (1) muscle thickness (MT) of Gluteus Medius (GMed), Gluteus Maximus (GMax), Vastus Lateralis (VL), and Tibialis Anterior (TA); (2) isometric peak torque of hip abductors, hip external rotators, knee extensors, and foot inversors; and (3) DKV during SLS. RESULTS: There was a significant negative association between GMax's MT and DKV (r = -0.32; p = 0.01), and between TA's MT and DKV (r = -0.28; p = 0.03). No significant correlations were observed between isometric torques and DKV. Regression analysis found that GMax's MT explained 10% of the DKV's variance during SLS. DISCUSSION: Poor lower limb alignment during SLS is weakly associated with proximal and distal-to-the-knee muscle thicknesses, with no association with isometric torque in PFP women. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that other factors besides strength and muscle thicknesses may explain and improve lower limb alignment in women with PFP.

Immediate effects of kinesiology tape on quadriceps muscle peak torque and knee joint repositioning error in healthy males: Effects of different tensions and directions.

BACKGROUND: Knee joint injuries may result from compromised quadriceps muscle strength or diminished knee joint proprioception. The application of Kinesio tape (KT) on the quadriceps muscle from origin to insertion (OTI-KT) or insertion to origin (ITO-KT) could impact knee joint proprioception and quadriceps muscle strength. This study aims to assess the effects of different tensions and directions of KT application on active and passive knee joint repositioning errors (AJRE and PJRE) and peak concentric and eccentric peak torque (CPT and EPT) of the quadriceps muscles in healthy males. METHOD: Twenty-one healthy males participated in this repeated-measures study design. CPT, EPT, AJRE, and PJRE of the dominant limb were measured by a Biodex dynamometer before and after applying OTI-KT with 0%, 15%, and 40% extra tensions and ITO-KT with 0% tension. RESULTS: ITO-KT demonstrated a significant reduction in AJRE (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, for OTI-KT, a statistically significant difference was observed in both AJRE and PJRE concerning time (F1,126 = 19.74, p < 0.05 for AJRE; F1,126 = 9.96, p < 0.05 for PJRE) and tension (F2,126 = 22.14, p < 0.05 for AJRE; F2,126 = 20.67, p < 0.05 for PJRE). CONCLUSION: Applying KT, especially OTI KT with 40% and 15% extra tension, shows potential in enhancing knee proprioception without immediate impacts on quadriceps muscle torque. This suggests applications in sports performance and knee injury rehabilitation.