Development of a Novel Technique for the Measurement of Neuromuscular Junction Functionality in Isotonic Conditions

Comparing the effect of rhythmic stabilization and combination of isotonic technique on grip strength, pinch strength and dexterity of hand among middle aged healthy individuals - a randomized clinical trial

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effects of Rhythmic Stabilization and a combination of isotonic technique on grip  strength, pinch strength, and dexterity of hand among middle aged healthy individuals. Methods Forty middle aged healthy individuals were selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups, with 20 in group A (Rhythmic Stabilization) and 20 in group B (Combination of Isotonic Technique). Treatment was given for 4 weeks, thrice a week. Outcome measures: grip strength, pinch strength, and dexterity were assessed by the Jamar hand dynamometer, the Pinch gauge, and the Perdue peg board, respectively. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment. Results Notably, Group A participants showed a significant improvement in all outcome measures compared to Group B (p<0.05) when compared. Both the interventions were effective for dexterity outcome in both groups (p<0.05).  Conclusion: This study provides evidence that application of Rhythmic Stabilization improves grip strength and pinch strength.  This suggests that static Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) exercises performed on the fingers can improve dexterity, grip strength, and pinch strength in the middle-aged population. Highlights As age increases, there is decrease in grip strength and dexterity of a person. The grip strength, finger strength and dexterity are inter-related. The Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation increases strength of muscles. The static PNF exercises are more effective than the dynamic PNF exercises to improve strength of grip strength, finger strength and dexterity.

The Development of an Innovative Embedded Sensor for the Optical Measurement of Ex-Vivo Engineered Muscle Tissue Contractility

Tissue engineering is a multidisciplinary approach focused on the development of innovative bioartificial substitutes for damaged organs and tissues. For skeletal muscle, the measurement of contractile capability represents a crucial aspect for tissue replacement, drug screening and personalized medicine. To date, the measurement of engineered muscle tissues is rather invasive and not continuous. In this context, we proposed an innovative sensor for the continuous monitoring of engineered-muscle-tissue contractility through an embedded technique. The sensor is based on the calibrated deflection of one of the engineered tissue's supporting pins, whose movements are measured using a noninvasive optical method. The sensor was calibrated to return force values through the use of a step linear motor and a micro-force transducer. Experimental results showed that the embedded sensor did not alter the correct maturation of the engineered muscle tissue. Finally, as proof of concept, we demonstrated the ability of the sensor to capture alterations in the force contractility of the engineered muscle tissues subjected to serum deprivation.