Criterion validity of ActiGraph monitoring devices for step counting and distance measurement in adults and older adults: a systematic review

Background: Wearable activity monitors such as ActiGraph monitoring devices are widely used, especially in research settings. Various research studies have assessed the criterion validity of ActiGraph devices for step counting and distance estimation in adults and older adults. Although several studies have used the ActiGraph devices as a reference system for activity monitoring, there is no summarized evidence of the psychometric properties. The main objective of this systematic review was to summarize evidence related to the criterion validity of ActiGraph monitor‑ ing devices for step counting and distance estimation in adults and/or older adults. Methods: Literature searches were conducted in six databases (Medline (OVID), Embase, IEEExplore, CINAHL, Engi‑ neering Village and Web of Science). Two reviewers independently conducted selection, a quality analysis of articles (using COSMIN and MacDermid’s grids) and data extraction. Results: This review included 21 studies involving 637 participants (age 30.3±7.5 years (for adults) and 82.7±3.3 years (for older adults)). Five ActiGraph devices (7164, GT1M, wGTX+, GT3X+/wGT3X+and wGT3X − BT) were used to collect data at the hip, wrist and ankle to assess various walking and running speeds (ranging from 0.2 m/s to 4.44 m/s) over durations of 2 min to 3 days (13 h 30 mins per day) for step counting and distance esti‑ mation. The ActiGraph GT3X+/wGT3X+and wGT3X − BT had better criterion validity than the ActiGraph 7164, wGTX+and GT1M according to walking and running speeds for step counting. Validity of ActiGraph wGT3X+was good for distance estimation. Conclusion: The ActiGraph wGT3X − BT and GT3X+/wGT3X+have good criterion validity for step counting, under certain conditions related to walking speeds, positioning and data processing

Upright stance on a single vs double seesaw: are automatic and voluntary components similarly involved in balance control?

International audienc

Standing on a Double-Seesaw Device is an Easy Way to Modify the Coordination Between the Two Feet for Controlling Upright Stance: Assessment Through Weight-Bearing Asymmetry

International audienc

Standing on a Double-Seesaw Device is an Easy Way to Modify the Coordination Between the Two Feet for Controlling Upright Stance: Assessment Through Weight-Bearing Asymmetry

Healthy young subjects were instructed to modify their weight-bearing asymmetry when standing on a double-seesaw device. The results indicated decreased and unchanged amplitudes in the center-of-pressure movements under the unloaded and loaded legs, respectively. In addition, a concomitant increased contribution of the more loaded leg and a decreased contribution of the pressure distribution mechanism along the mediolateral axis were observed in the production of the resultant center of pressure, its amplitude remaining constant. Thus, contrary to what was previously reported for stance control on solid ground, one of the main characteristics of a double-seesaw device, by preventing increased amplitudes on the loaded side during weight-bearing asymmetry, would be to facilitate a greater independency of the feet in the stance control process.</jats:p

A Mapping Review of Existing Tools to Assess Physical Qualities of Manual Wheelchair Users

Background: Assessment of physical competencies is one way to enhance uptake and maintain participation in a leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) for manual wheelchair (MWC) users. Weineck&rsquo;s model explains physical competencies through eight physical qualities. The use of this model may influence MWC users&rsquo; motivation for participation in LTPA. The aim of this study was to identify and categorize existing assessment tools designed for MWC users of physical qualities (strength, speed, power, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, balance, and flexibility). Methods: A mapping review was conducted following the &ldquo;Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA)&rdquo; guidelines. Two reviewers selected articles that documented assessment tools for the physical qualities of MWC users. Tools were extracted from each article to categorize them in a list. Results: A total of 149 articles that contained assessments of physical qualities were included in the review. A total of 97 assessment tools were extracted and categorized according to the eight physical qualities. Conclusions: These assessments are categorized into physical qualities that would facilitate the creation of test batteries aimed at assessing physical qualities in MWC users. This study is the first step in the construction of a test battery to assess the physical qualities of MWC users

Undisturbed stance on a double seesaw: Interaction between asymmetries of the center-of-pressure patterns under each foot and weight-bearing

International audienc

Housing, Transportation and Quality of Life among People with Mobility Limitations: A Critical Review of Relationships and Issues Related to Access to Home- and Community-Based Services

Anecdotal reports suggest that adequate housing and transportation could be fundamental elements required to ensure quality of life (QOL) for people with mobility limitations. Certain home- and community-based services (HCBS) are also necessary to ensure that housing and transportation needs are met. Understanding QOL as it relates to housing and transportation is critical for people with mobility limitations but requires appropriate assessment of these constructs. The aims of this research were to explore the relationships between housing and transportation on QOL for people with mobility limitations, to describe the current conceptual measurement issues and to propose dimensions of access that could facilitate assessment of QOL as it relates to housing, transportation and HCBS. A critical review of the literature was conducted by experts in disability, QOL and access theory. While evidence indicated a potential influence of housing and transportation on QOL for people with mobility limitations, the relationships between these concepts were weak and inconclusive. Moreover, the measurement tools used lacked appropriateness to specifically measure these constructs. Approaching these measurement issues within an access theory may better position future research to address the housing, transportation and HSBS needs of people with mobility limitations. Future research may consider elements of availability, accessibility, accommodation, affordability, acceptability and awareness to ensure access for people with mobility limitations. A better understanding of QOL as it relates to housing, transportation and HCBS will improve the quality of research, which may in turn improve access of adequate services for people with mobility limitations.</jats:p