Diurnal gait fluctuations in single- and dual- task conditions.

International audienceBackground: During gait, the braking index represents postural control, and consequently, the risk of falls. Previous studies based their determination of the braking index during the first step on kinetic methods using force platforms, which are highly variable. This study aimed to investigate whether determining the braking index with a kinematic method, through 3D motion capture, provides more precise results. Methods: Fifty participants (20 to 40 years) performed ten trials in natural and fast gait conditions. Their braking index was estimated from their first step simultaneously using a force platform and VICON motion capture system. The reliability of each braking index acquisition method was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients, standard error measurements, and the minimal detectable change. Results: Both kinetic and kinematic methods allowed good to excellent reliability and similar minimum detectable changes (10%). Conclusion: Estimating the braking index through a kinetic or a kinematic method was highly reliable

[Occupational asthma caused by a coloring reagent]

A ease of occupational asthma associated with rhinitis and conjunctivitis occurred in a patient,working in a textile factory and exposed to different coloring reagents is reported Symptoms appeared in phases correlated with changes in the use of the coloring reagents. Prick tests,were carried out with the different coloring reagents and,were positive for the yellow color. The test was followed by a clear increase in bronchial hyperreactivity to methacholine. Some individual preventive measures, such as wearing a face mask, led to reduction then disappearence of the symptoms

Towards a new approach to detect sleepiness: Validation of the objective sleepiness scale under simulated driving conditions

International audienc