Torque motor produced stretch of upper limb muscles results in two distinct reflex peaks in the electromyographic activity. Whereas the short-latency reflex (SLR) response is mediated largely by the spinal monosynaptic reflex pathway, the longer-latency reflex (LLR) is suggested to involve a transcortical loop. For the SLRs, patterns of heteronymous monosynaptic Ia connections have been well-st...

BACKGROUND In this study, we investigated the effects of resistance training protocols with different loads on muscle hypertrophy and strength. METHODS Twenty-one participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 (n = 7 for each) resistance training (RT) protocols to failure: High load 80 % 1RM (8-12 repetitions) (H group), low load 30 % 1RM (30-40 repetitions) (L group) and a mixed RT protocol (...

OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of two physical therapy exercise in-hospital programs in pulmonary function and functional capacity of patients in the postoperative period of heart transplantation. METHODS Twenty-two heart transplanted patients were randomized to the control group (CG, n=11) and training group (TG, n=11). The control group conducted the exercise program adopted as routine in...

A two-channel, portable, battery operated, functional electrical stimulation (FES) system with surface electrodes to enhance grasping in tetraplegics was developed and tested. This system is meant for tetraplegics capable of grasping by tenodesis. Candidates for this system must retain some wrist extension, and have paralyzed but innervated finger flexors, and nearly normal shoulder and elbow c...

The present study addressed the effect of loudness and tempo on kinematics and muscular activities of the upper extremity during repetitive piano keystrokes. Eighteen pianists with professional music education struck two keys simultaneously and repetitively with a combination of four loudness levels and four tempi. The results demonstrated a significant interaction effect of loudness and tempo ...