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Bogard AT, Hembree TG, Pollet AK, Smith AC, Ryder SC, Marzloff G, Tan AQ. Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Enhancements in Corticospinal Excitability Predict Gains in Motor Learning and Metabolic Efficiency. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4259378. [PMID: 38746438 PMCID: PMC11092812 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4259378/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) enhances human motor function after incomplete spinal cord injury. Although the underlying mechanisms in humans are unknown, emerging evidence indicates that AIH facilitates corticospinal excitability to the upper limb. However, the functional relevance of this plasticity remains unexplored, and it is unclear whether similar plasticity can be induced for lower limb motor areas. We recently demonstrated that AIH improves motor learning and metabolic efficiency during split-belt walking. Thus, we hypothesized that AIH increases lower limb excitability and that these enhancements would predict the magnitude of motor learning and the corresponding reductions in net metabolic power. We assessed tibialis anterior (TA) excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation and quantified changes in spatiotemporal asymmetries and net metabolic power in response to split-belt speed perturbations. We show that AIH enhances TA excitability, and that the magnitude of this facilitation positively correlates with greater spatiotemporal adaptation. Notably, we demonstrate a novel association between increased excitability and reduced net metabolic power during motor learning and savings. Together, our results suggest that AIH-induced gains in excitability predict both the magnitude of motor learning and the associated metabolic efficiency. Determining indices of AIH-induced improvements in motor performance is critical for optimizing its therapeutic reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha T. Bogard
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Thomas G. Hembree
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Aviva K. Pollet
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Andrew C. Smith
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | | | - George Marzloff
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew Q. Tan
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
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2
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Gigli A, Gijsberts A, Nowak M, Vujaklija I, Castellini C. Progressive unsupervised control of myoelectric upper limbs. J Neural Eng 2023; 20:066016. [PMID: 37883969 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ad0754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Objective.Unsupervised myocontrol methods aim to create control models for myoelectric prostheses while avoiding the complications of acquiring reliable, regular, and sufficient labeled training data. A limitation of current unsupervised methods is that they fix the number of controlled prosthetic functions a priori, thus requiring an initial assessment of the user's motor skills and neglecting the development of novel motor skills over time.Approach.We developed a progressive unsupervised myocontrol (PUM) paradigm in which the user and the control model coadaptively identify distinct muscle synergies, which are then used to control arbitrarily associated myocontrol functions, each corresponding to a hand or wrist movement. The interaction starts with learning a single function and the user may request additional functions after mastering the available ones, which aligns the evolution of their motor skills with an increment in system complexity. We conducted a multi-session user study to evaluate PUM and compare it against a state-of-the-art non-progressive unsupervised alternative. Two participants with congenital upper-limb differences tested PUM, while ten non-disabled control participants tested either PUM or the non-progressive baseline. All participants engaged in myoelectric control of a virtual hand and wrist.Main results.PUM enabled autonomous learning of three myocontrol functions for participants with limb differences, and of all four available functions for non-disabled subjects, using both existing or newly identified muscle synergies. Participants with limb differences achieved similar success rates to non-disabled ones on myocontrol tests, but faced greater difficulties in internalizing new motor skills and exhibited slightly inferior movement quality. The performance was comparable with either PUM or the non-progressive baseline for the group of non-disabled participants.Significance.The PUM paradigm enables users to autonomously learn to operate the myocontrol system, adapts to the users' varied preexisting motor skills, and supports the further development of those skills throughout practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gigli
- Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Wessling, Germany
- Assistive Intelligent Robotics Lab, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Markus Nowak
- Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Wessling, Germany
| | - Ivan Vujaklija
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Claudio Castellini
- Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Wessling, Germany
- Assistive Intelligent Robotics Lab, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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3
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Xie J, Feng R, Chen Y, Gao L. Morphological analysis of descending tracts in mouse spinal cord using tissue clearing, tissue expansion and tiling light sheet microscopy techniques. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16445. [PMID: 37777565 PMCID: PMC10542777 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Descending tracts carry motor signals from the brain to spinal cord. However, few previous studies show the full view of the long tracts from a 3D perspective. In this study, we have followed five less well-known tracts that project from midbrain, hindbrain, and cerebellum to the mouse spinal cord, using the tissue clearing method in combination with tiling light sheet microscopy. By tracing axons in spinal cord, we found several notable features: among the five tracts the collateral "sister" branches occurred only in the axons originating from the cerebellospinal tracts; the axons from the spinal trigeminal nucleus crossed the midline of spinal cord to the contralateral side; those arising in the medullary reticular formation ventral part gave many branches in both cervical and lumbar segments; the axons from superior colliculus terminated only at upper cervical but with abundant branches in the hindbrain. Furthermore, we investigated the monosynaptic connections between the tracts and motor neurons in the spinal cord through hydrogel-based tissue expansion, and found several monosynaptic connections between the medullary reticular formation ventral part axons and spinal motor neurons. We believe that this is the first study to show the full 3D scope of the projection patterns and axonal morphologies of these five descending tracts to the mouse spinal cord. In addition, we have developed a new method for future study of descending tracts by three-dimensional imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiongfang Xie
- Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Ruili Feng
- Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Yanlu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Liang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
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4
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Norup M, Nielsen AL, Bjørndal JR, Wiegel P, Spedden ME, Lundbye-Jensen J. Effects of dynamic and isometric motor practice on position control, force control and corticomuscular coherence in preadolescent children. Hum Mov Sci 2023; 90:103114. [PMID: 37354890 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2023.103114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the effects of motor practice with an emphasis on either position or force control on motor performance, motor accuracy and variability in preadolescent children. Furthermore, we investigated corticomuscular coherence and potential changes following motor practice. We designed a setup allowing discrete wrist flexions of the non-dominant hand and tested motor accuracy and variability when the task was to generate specific movement endpoints (15-75 deg) or force levels (5-25% MVC). All participants were tested in both tasks at baseline and post motor practice without augmented feedback on performance. Following baseline assessment, participants (44 children aged 9-11 years) were randomly assigned to either position (PC) or force control (FC) motor practice or a resting control group (CON). The PC and FC groups performed four blocks of 40 trials motor practice with augmented feedback on performance. Following practice, improvements in movement accuracy were significantly greater in the PC group compared to the FC and CON groups (p < 0.001). None of the groups displayed changes in force task performance indicating no benefits of force control motor practice and low transfer between tasks (p-values:0.08-0.45). Corticomuscular coherence (C4-FCR) was demonstrated during the hold phase in both tasks with no difference between tasks. Corticomuscular coherence did not change from baseline to post practice in any group. Our findings demonstrate that preadolescent children improve position control following dynamic accuracy motor practice. Contrary to previous findings in adults, preadolescent children displayed smaller or no improvements in force control following isometric motor practice, low transfer between tasks and no changes in corticomuscular coherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Norup
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - August Lomholt Nielsen
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Rud Bjørndal
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick Wiegel
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Meaghan Elizabeth Spedden
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Spomer AM, Yan RZ, Schwartz MH, Steele KM. Motor control complexity can be dynamically simplified during gait pattern exploration using motor control-based biofeedback. J Neurophysiol 2023; 129:984-998. [PMID: 37017327 PMCID: PMC10125030 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00323.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding how the central nervous system coordinates diverse motor outputs has been a topic of extensive investigation. Although it is generally accepted that a small set of synergies underlies many common activities, such as walking, whether synergies are equally robust across a broader array of gait patterns or can be flexibly modified remains unclear. Here, we evaluated the extent to which synergies changed as nondisabled adults (n = 14) explored gait patterns using custom biofeedback. Secondarily, we used Bayesian additive regression trees to identify factors that were associated with synergy modulation. Participants explored 41.1 ± 8.0 gait patterns using biofeedback, during which synergy recruitment changed depending on the type and magnitude of gait pattern modification. Specifically, a consistent set of synergies was recruited to accommodate small deviations from baseline, but additional synergies emerged for larger gait changes. Synergy complexity was similarly modulated; complexity decreased for 82.6% of the attempted gait patterns, but distal gait mechanics were strongly associated with these changes. In particular, greater ankle dorsiflexion moments and knee flexion through stance, as well as greater knee extension moments at initial contact, corresponded to a reduction in synergy complexity. Taken together, these results suggest that the central nervous system preferentially adopts a low-dimensional, largely invariant control strategy but can modify that strategy to produce diverse gait patterns. Beyond improving understanding of how synergies are recruited during gait, study outcomes may also help identify parameters that can be targeted with interventions to alter synergies and improve motor control after neurological injury.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used a motor control-based biofeedback system and machine learning to characterize the extent to which nondisabled adults can modulate synergies during gait pattern exploration. Results revealed that a small library of synergies underlies an array of gait patterns but that recruitment from this library changes as a function of the imposed biomechanical constraints. Our findings enhance understanding of the neural control of gait and may inform biofeedback strategies to improve synergy recruitment after neurological injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa M Spomer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Robin Z Yan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Michael H Schwartz
- James R. Gage Center for Gait & Motion Analysis, Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Katherine M Steele
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
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Wagner V, Knudsen MS, Curtis DJ, Riberholt CG. Use of the EXOPULSE Mollii for severe ataxia in an adult male 4 months after cardiac arrest. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e249574. [PMID: 36963762 PMCID: PMC10040057 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-249574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The EXOPULSE Mollii is designed to reduce spasticity through low-current electrical stimulation of major muscle groups. The effect on severe cerebellar ataxia has not been investigated. This case describes the use of the EXOPULSE Mollii in an adult male with severe cerebellar ataxia 4 months after cardiac arrest and ischaemic stroke. The patient used the suit in 15 of 19 possible sessions (78.9%). He improved in the sit-to-stand test, arm function test and 10 m walking test. He described improved visual focus, ability to speak and swallow. Improvements were maintained for 1 week after the last session. The EXOPULSE Mollii is relevant to consider in the early stages of inpatient rehabilitation for patients with severe ataxia, but further research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vibeke Wagner
- Department of Neurorehabilitation TBI Unit, Rigshospitalet, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | - Derek John Curtis
- Child and Youth Administration, City of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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7
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Kolmos M, Madsen MJ, Liu ML, Karabanov A, Johansen KL, Thielscher A, Gandrup K, Lundell H, Fuglsang S, Thade E, Christensen H, Iversen HK, Siebner HR, Kruuse C. Patient-tailored transcranial direct current stimulation to improve stroke rehabilitation: study protocol of a randomized sham-controlled trial. Trials 2023; 24:216. [PMID: 36949490 PMCID: PMC10035265 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07234-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients do not fully regain motor function after ischemic stroke. Transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) targeting the motor cortex may improve motor outcome as an add-on intervention to physical rehabilitation. However, beneficial effects on motor function vary largely among patients within and across TDCS trials. In addition to a large heterogeneity of study designs, this variability may be caused by the fact that TDCS was given as a one-size-fits-all protocol without accounting for anatomical differences between subjects. The efficacy and consistency of TDCS might be improved by a patient-tailored design that ensures precise targeting of a physiologically relevant area with an appropriate current strength. METHODS In a randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled trial, patients with subacute ischemic stroke and residual upper-extremity paresis will receive two times 20 min of focal TDCS of ipsilesional primary motor hand area (M1-HAND) during supervised rehabilitation training three times weekly for 4 weeks. Anticipated 60 patients will be randomly assigned to active or sham TDCS of ipsilesional M1-HAND, using a central anode and four equidistant cathodes. The placement of the electrode grid on the scalp and current strength at each cathode will be personalized based on individual electrical field models to induce an electrical current of 0.2 V/m in the cortical target region resulting in current strengths between 1 and 4 mA. Primary endpoint will be the difference in change of Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) score between active TDCS and sham at the end of the intervention. Exploratory endpoints will include UE-FMA at 12 weeks. Effects of TDCS on motor network connectivity and interhemispheric inhibition will be assessed with functional MRI and transcranial magnetic stimulation. DISCUSSION The study will show the feasibility and test the efficacy of personalized, multi-electrode anodal TDCS of M1-HAND in patients with subacute stroke patients with upper-extremity paresis. Concurrent multimodal brain mapping will shed light into the mechanisms of action of therapeutic personalized TDCS of M1-HAND. Together, the results from this trial may inform future personalized TDCS studies in patients with focal neurological deficits after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Kolmos
- Neurovascular Research Unit (NVRU), Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital -Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Just Madsen
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Louise Liu
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anke Karabanov
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport (NEXS), Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine Lyders Johansen
- Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Axel Thielscher
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Karen Gandrup
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Lundell
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Fuglsang
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Esben Thade
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Hanne Christensen
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Klingenberg Iversen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig Roman Siebner
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance (DRCMR), Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Kruuse
- Neurovascular Research Unit (NVRU), Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital -Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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8
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Woodhead A, North JS, Hill J, Murphy CP, Kidgell DJ, Tallent J. Corticospinal and spinal adaptations following lower limb motor skill training: a meta-analysis with best evidence synthesis. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:807-824. [PMID: 36740653 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06563-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Motor skill training alters the human nervous system; however, lower limb motor tasks have been less researched compared to upper limb tasks. This meta-analysis with best evidence synthesis aimed to determine the cortical and subcortical responses that occur following lower limb motor skill training, and whether these responses are accompanied by improvements in motor performance. Following a literature search that adhered to the PRISMA guidelines, data were extracted and analysed from six studies (n = 172) for the meta-analysis, and 11 studies (n = 257) were assessed for the best evidence synthesis. Pooled data indicated that lower limb motor skill training increased motor performance, with a standardised mean difference (SMD) of 1.09 being observed. However, lower limb motor skill training had no effect on corticospinal excitability (CSE), Hoffmann's reflex (H-reflex) or muscle compound action potential (MMAX) amplitude. The best evidence synthesis found strong evidence for improved motor performance and reduced short-interval cortical inhibition (SICI) following lower limb motor skill training, with conflicting evidence towards the modulation of CSE. Taken together, this review highlights the need for further investigation on how motor skill training performed with the lower limb musculature can modulate corticospinal responses. This will also help us to better understand whether these neuronal measures are underpinning mechanisms that support an improvement in motor performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Woodhead
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St. Mary's University, Middlesex, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK.
| | - Jamie S North
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St. Mary's University, Middlesex, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK
| | - Jessica Hill
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St. Mary's University, Middlesex, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK
| | - Colm P Murphy
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dawson J Kidgell
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3199, Australia
| | - Jamie Tallent
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3199, Australia.,School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, UK
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9
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Norup M, Bjørndal JR, Nielsen AL, Wiegel P, Lundbye-Jensen J. Dynamic motor practice improves movement accuracy, force control and leads to increased corticospinal excitability compared to isometric motor practice. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 16:1019729. [PMID: 36684837 PMCID: PMC9849878 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.1019729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system has a remarkable ability to plan motor actions, to predict and monitor the sensory consequences during and following motor actions and integrate these into future actions. Numerous studies investigating human motor learning have employed tasks involving either force control during isometric contractions or position control during dynamic tasks. To our knowledge, it remains to be elucidated how motor practice with an emphasis on position control influences force control and vice versa. Furthermore, it remains unexplored whether these distinct types of motor practice are accompanied by differential effects on corticospinal excitability. In this study, we tested motor accuracy and effects of motor practice in a force or position control task allowing wrist flexions of the non-dominant hand in the absence of online visual feedback. For each trial, motor performance was quantified as errors (pixels) between the displayed target and the movement endpoint. In the main experiment, 46 young adults were randomized into three groups: position control motor practice (PC), force control motor practice (FC), and a resting control group (CON). Following assessment of baseline motor performance in the position and force control tasks, intervention groups performed motor practice with, augmented visual feedback on performance. Motor performance in both tasks was assessed following motor practice. In a supplementary experiment, measures of corticospinal excitability were obtained in twenty additional participants by application of transcranial magnetic stimulation to the primary motor cortex hot spot of the flexor carpi radialis muscle before and following either position or force control motor practice. Following motor practice, accuracy in the position task improved significantly more for PC compared to FC and CON. For the force control task, both the PC and FC group improved more compared to CON. The two types of motor practice thus led to distinct effects including positive between-task transfer accompanying dynamic motor practice The results of the supplementary study demonstrated an increase in corticospinal excitability following dynamic motor practice compared to isometric motor practice. In conclusion, dynamic motor practice improves movement accuracy, and force control and leads to increased corticospinal excitability compared to isometric motor practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Norup
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,*Correspondence: Malene Norup,
| | - Jonas Rud Bjørndal
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - August Lomholt Nielsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick Wiegel
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Kweon J, Vigne MM, Jones RN, Carpenter LL, Brown JC. Practice makes plasticity: 10-Hz rTMS enhances LTP-like plasticity in musicians and athletes. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1124221. [PMID: 37025991 PMCID: PMC10070804 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1124221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Motor skill learning has been linked to functional and structural changes in the brain. Musicians and athletes undergo intensive motor training through the practice of an instrument or sport and have demonstrated use-dependent plasticity that may be subserved by long-term potentiation (LTP) processes. We know less, however, about whether the brains of musicians and athletes respond to plasticity-inducing interventions, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), differently than those without extensive motor training. In a pharmaco-rTMS study, we evaluated motor cortex excitability before and after an rTMS protocol in combination with oral administration of D-cycloserine (DCS) or placebo. In a secondary covariate analysis, we compared results between self-identified musicians and athletes (M&As) and non-musicians and athletes (non-M&As). Three TMS measures of cortical physiology were used to evaluate plasticity. We found that M&As did not have higher baseline corticomotor excitability. However, a plasticity-inducing protocol (10-Hz rTMS in combination with DCS) strongly facilitated motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) in M&As, but only weakly in non-M&As. Placebo and rTMS produced modest facilitation in both groups. Our findings suggest that motor practice and learning create a neuronal environment more responsive to plasticity-inducing events, including rTMS. These findings may explain one factor contributing to the high inter-individual variability found with MEP data. Greater capacity for plasticity holds implications for learning paradigms, such as psychotherapy and rehabilitation, by facilitating LTP-like activation of key networks, including recovery from neurological/mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Kweon
- Neuromodulation Research Facility, TMS Clinic, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Megan M. Vigne
- Neuromodulation Research Facility, TMS Clinic, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Richard N. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Linda L. Carpenter
- Neuromodulation Research Facility, TMS Clinic, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Joshua C. Brown
- Neuromodulation Research Facility, TMS Clinic, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- *Correspondence: Joshua C. Brown
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11
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Not for kids: 2nd grade school children require more practice than adults to attain long-term gains in a graphomotor task. COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cogdev.2022.101246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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12
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Lingo VanGilder J, Bergamino M, Hooyman A, Fitzhugh MC, Rogalsky C, Stewart JC, Beeman SC, Schaefer SY. Using whole-brain diffusion tensor analysis to evaluate white matter structural correlates of delayed visuospatial memory and one-week motor skill retention in nondemented older adults: A preliminary study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274955. [PMID: 36137126 PMCID: PMC9499308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Skill retention is important for motor rehabilitation outcomes. Recent work has demonstrated that delayed visuospatial memory performance may predict motor skill retention in older and neuropathological populations. White matter integrity between parietal and frontal cortices may explain variance in upper-extremity motor learning tasks and visuospatial processes. We performed a whole-brain analysis to determine the white matter correlates of delayed visuospatial memory and one-week motor skill retention in nondemented older adults. We hypothesized that better frontoparietal tract integrity would be positively related to better behavioral performance. Nineteen participants (age>58) completed diffusion-weighted imaging, then a clinical test of delayed visuospatial memory and 50 training trials of an upper-extremity motor task; participants were retested on the motor task one week later. Principal component analysis was used to create a composite score for each participant’s behavioral data, i.e. shared variance between delayed visuospatial memory and motor skill retention, which was then entered into a voxel-based regression analysis. Behavioral results demonstrated that participants learned and retained their skill level after a week of no practice, and their delayed visuospatial memory score was positively related to the extent of skill retention. Consistent with previous work, neuroimaging results indicated that regions within bilateral anterior thalamic radiations, corticospinal tracts, and superior longitudinal fasciculi were related to better delayed visuospatial memory and skill retention. Results of this study suggest that the simple act of testing for specific cognitive impairments prior to therapy may identify older adults who will receive little to no benefit from the motor rehabilitation regimen, and that these neural regions may be potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennapher Lingo VanGilder
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Maurizio Bergamino
- Barrow Neuroimaging Innovation Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Andrew Hooyman
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Megan C. Fitzhugh
- Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Corianne Rogalsky
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Jill C. Stewart
- Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Scott C. Beeman
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Sydney Y. Schaefer
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, United States of America
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Amer A, Martin JH. Repeated motor cortex theta-burst stimulation produces persistent strengthening of corticospinal motor output and durable spinal cord structural changes in the rat. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:1013-1022. [PMID: 35850438 PMCID: PMC10164459 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The strength of connections between motor cortex (MCX) and muscle can be augmented with a variety of stimulation protocols. Augmenting MCX-to-muscle connection strength by neuromodulation may be a way to enhance the intact motor system's capacity for acquiring motor skills and promote function after injury to strengthen spared connections. But this enhancement must be maintained for functional improvements. OBJECTIVE We determined if brief MCX muscle evoked potential (MEP) enhancement produced by intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) can be converted into a longer and structurally durable form of response enhancement with repeated daily and longer-term application. METHODS Electrical iTBS was delivered through an implanted MCX epidural electrode and MEPs were recorded using implanted EMG electrodes in awake naïve rats. MCX activity was modulated further using chemogenetic (DREADDs) excitation and inhibition. Corticospinal tract (CST) axons were traced and immunochemistry used to measure CST synapses. RESULTS A single MCX iTBS block (600 pulses) produced MEP LTP lasting ∼30-45 min. Concatenating five iTBS blocks within a 30-min session produced MEP LTP lasting 24-48 h, which could be strengthened or weakened by bidirectional MCX activity modulation. Effect duration was not changed. Finally, daily induction of this persistent MEP LTP with daily iTBS for 10-days produced MEP enhancement outlasting the stimulation period by at least 10 days, and accompanied by CST axonal outgrowth and structural changes at the CST-spinal interneuron synapse. CONCLUSION Our findings inform the mechanisms of iTBS and provide a framework for designing neuromodulatory strategies to promote durable enhancement of cortical motor actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alzahraa Amer
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences, Center for Discovery and Innovation, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - John H Martin
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences, Center for Discovery and Innovation, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
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14
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Hodges NJ, Lohse KR. An extended challenge-based framework for practice design in sports coaching. J Sports Sci 2022; 40:754-768. [PMID: 35019816 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.2015917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The challenge-point framework as a model for thinking about motor learning was first proposed in 2004. Although it has been well-cited, surprisingly this framework has not made its way into much of the applied sport science literature. One of the reasons for this omission is that the original framework had not been encapsulated into a paper accessible for sports practitioners. The framework had mostly a theoretical focus, providing a mechanistic summary of motor learning research. Our aims in this paper were to explain and elaborate on the challenge point framework to present an applied framework guiding practice design. We connect the framework to other theories that involve predictive coding, where information is attended when it disconfirms current predictions, providing a strong signal for learning. We also consider how two new dimensions (learners' motivation and practice specificity) need to be considered when designing practice settings. By moving around the different dimensions of functional difficulty, motivation, and specificity, coaches can optimize practice to achieve different learning goals. Specifically, we present three general "types" of practice: practice to learn, to transfer to competition, and to maintain current skills. Practical examples are given to illustrate how this framework can inform coach practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Hodges
- University of British Columbia, School of Kinesiology, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Keith R Lohse
- School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, United States
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15
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Forman CR, Nielsen JB, Lorentzen J. Neuroplasticity at Home: Improving Home-Based Motor Learning Through Technological Solutions. A Review. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2021; 2:789165. [PMID: 36188793 PMCID: PMC9397835 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2021.789165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Effective science-based motor rehabilitation requires high volume of individualized, intense physical training, which can be difficult to achieve exclusively through physical 1-on-1 sessions with a therapist. Home-based training, enhanced by technological solutions, could be a tool to help facilitate the important factors for neuroplastic motor improvements. Objectives: This review aimed to discover how the inclusion of modern information and communications technology in home-based training programs can promote key neuroplastic factors associated with motor learning in neurological disabilities and identify which challenges are still needed to overcome. Methods: We conducted a thorough literature search on technological home-based training solutions and categorized the different fundamental approaches that were used. We then analyzed how these approaches can be used to promote certain key factors of neuroplasticity and which challenges still need to be solved or require external personalized input from a therapist. Conclusions: The technological approaches to home-based training were divided into three categories: sensory stimuli training, digital exchange of information training, and telerehabilitation. Generally, some technologies could be characterized as easily applicable, which gave the opportunity to promote flexible scheduling and a larger overall training volume, but limited options for individualized variation and progression. Other technologies included individualization options through personalized feedback that might increase the training effect, but also increases the workload of the therapist. Further development of easily applicable and intelligent solutions, which can return precise feedback and individualized training suggestions, is needed to fully realize the potential of home-based training in motor learning activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Riis Forman
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Jens Bo Nielsen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Jakob Lorentzen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Jakob Lorentzen
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Sampaio ASB, Real CC, Gutierrez RMS, Singulani MP, Alouche SR, Britto LR, Pires RS. Neuroplasticity induced by the retention period of a complex motor skill learning in rats. Behav Brain Res 2021; 414:113480. [PMID: 34302881 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Learning complex motor skills is an essential process in our daily lives. Moreover, it is an important aspect for the development of therapeutic strategies that refer to rehabilitation processes since motor skills previously acquired can be transferred to similar tasks (motor skill transfer) or recovered without further practice after longer delays (motor skill retention). Different acrobatic exercise training (AE) protocols induce plastic changes in areas involved in motor control and improvement in motor performance. However, the plastic mechanisms involved in the retention of a complex motor skill, essential for motor learning, are not well described. Thus, our objective was to analyze the brain plasticity mechanisms involved in motor skill retention in AE . Motor behavior tests, and the expression of synaptophysin (SYP), synapsin-I (SYS), and early growth response protein 1 (Egr-1) in brain areas involved in motor learning were evaluated. Young male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: sedentary (SED), AE, and AE with retention period (AER). AE was performed three times a week for 8 weeks, with 5 rounds in the circuit. After a fifteen-day retention interval, the AER animals was again exposed to the acrobatic circuit. Our results revealed motor performance improvement in the AE and AER groups. In the elevated beam test, the AER group presented a lower time and greater distance, suggesting retention period is important for optimizing motor learning consolidation. Moreover, AE promoted significant plastic changes in the expression of proteins in important areas involved in control and motor learning, some of which were maintained in the AER group. In summary, these data contribute to the understanding of neural mechanisms involved in motor learning in an animal model, and can be useful to the construction of therapeutics strategies that optimize motor learning in a rehabilitative context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline Cristiano Real
- Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine (LIM 43), Institute of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biomedical Science Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Rita Mara Soares Gutierrez
- Master's and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, University of the City of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Monique Patricio Singulani
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biomedical Science Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM 27), Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sandra Regina Alouche
- Master's and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, University of the City of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Roberto Britto
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biomedical Science Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Raquel Simoni Pires
- Master's and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, University of the City of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Sekiguchi H, Yamanaka K, Takeuchi S, Futatsubashi G, Kadota H, Miyazaki M, Nakazawa K. Acquisition of novel ball-related skills associated with sports experience. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12379. [PMID: 34183685 PMCID: PMC8238969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91120-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Some individuals can quickly acquire novel motor skills, while others take longer. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between neurophysiological state, sports experience, and novel ball-related skill acquisition. We enrolled 28 healthy collegiate participants. The participants’ neurophysiological data (input–output curve of the corticospinal tract) were recorded through transcranial magnetic stimulation. Subsequently, the participants performed a novel motor task (unilateral two-ball juggling) on a different day, after which they reported their previous sports experience (types and years). We found that individuals with more years of experience in ball sports showed faster acquisition of novel ball-related skills. Further, this result was not limited to any single ball sport. Therefore, the acquisition of novel ball-related skills is associated with familiarity with a ball’s nature. Furthermore, gain of the corticospinal tract was negatively and positively correlated with the years of experience in primary ball and non-ball sports (implemented for the longest time in individuals), respectively. These results could be associated with the extent of proficiency in their primary sport. The chosen type of sports (e.g., ball or non-ball) could critically influence the future acquisition of novel motor skills. This study provides important insights regarding how to approach sports and physical activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Sekiguchi
- Sports and Health Management Program, Faculty of Business and Information Sciences, Jobu University, 634-1 Toyazukamachi, Isesaki-shi, Gunma, 372-8588, Japan.
| | - Kentaro Yamanaka
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Showa Women's University, 1-7-57 Taishido, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 154-8533, Japan
| | - Shigeki Takeuchi
- Sports and Health Management Program, Faculty of Business and Information Sciences, Jobu University, 634-1 Toyazukamachi, Isesaki-shi, Gunma, 372-8588, Japan
| | - Genki Futatsubashi
- Faculty of Management, Josai University, 1-1 Keyakidai, Sakado-shi, Saitama, 350-0295, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kadota
- School of Information, Kochi University of Technology, 185 Miyanokuchi, Tosayamada, Kami-shi, Kochi, 782-8502, Japan
| | - Makoto Miyazaki
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Informatics, Shizuoka University, 3-5-1 Johoku, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka, 432-8011, Japan
| | - Kimitaka Nakazawa
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan
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18
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Tallent J, Woodhead A, Frazer AK, Hill J, Kidgell DJ, Howatson G. Corticospinal and spinal adaptations to motor skill and resistance training: Potential mechanisms and implications for motor rehabilitation and athletic development. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:707-719. [PMID: 33389142 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04584-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Optimal strategies for enhancing strength and improving motor skills are vital in athletic performance and clinical rehabilitation. Initial increases in strength and the acquisition of new motor skills have long been attributed to neurological adaptations. However, early increases in strength may be predominantly due to improvements in inter-muscular coordination rather than the force-generating capacity of the muscle. Despite the plethora of research investigating neurological adaptations from motor skill or resistance training in isolation, little effort has been made in consolidating this research to compare motor skill and resistance training adaptations. The findings of this review demonstrated that motor skill and resistance training adaptations show similar short-term mechanisms of adaptations, particularly at a cortical level. Increases in corticospinal excitability and a release in short-interval cortical inhibition occur as a result of the commencement of both resistance and motor skill training. Spinal changes show evidence of task-specific adaptations from the acquired motor skill, with an increase or decrease in spinal reflex excitability, dependant on the motor task. An increase in synaptic efficacy of the reticulospinal projections is likely to be a prominent mechanism for driving strength adaptations at the subcortical level, though more research is needed. Transcranial electric stimulation has been shown to increase corticospinal excitability and augment motor skill adaptations, but limited evidence exists for further enhancing strength adaptations from resistance training. Despite the logistical challenges, future work should compare the longitudinal adaptations between motor skill and resistance training to further optimise exercise programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Tallent
- Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Sciences, St Mary's University, Waldgrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK.
| | - Alex Woodhead
- Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Sciences, St Mary's University, Waldgrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK
| | - Ashlyn K Frazer
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jessica Hill
- Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Sciences, St Mary's University, Waldgrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4SX, UK
| | - Dawson J Kidgell
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,Water Research Group, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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