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Dastgheib SS, Wang W, Kaufmann JM, Moratti S, Schweinberger SR. Mu-Suppression Neurofeedback Training Targeting the Mirror Neuron System: A Pilot Study. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2024; 49:457-471. [PMID: 38739182 PMCID: PMC11310260 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-024-09643-4] [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] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a promising adjuvant intervention method. The desynchronization of mu rhythm (8-13 Hz) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) over centro-parietal areas is known as a valid indicator of mirror neuron system (MNS) activation, which has been associated with social skills. Still, the effect of neurofeedback training on the MNS requires to be well investigated. The present study examined the possible impact of NFT with a mu suppression training protocol encompassing 15 NFT sessions (45 min each) on 16 healthy neurotypical participants. In separate pre- and post-training sessions, 64-channel EEG was recorded while participants (1) observed videos with various types of movements (including complex goal-directed hand movements and social interaction scenes) and (2) performed the "Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test" (RMET). EEG source reconstruction analysis revealed statistically significant mu suppression during hand movement observation across MNS-attributed fronto-parietal areas after NFT. The frequency analysis showed no significant mu suppression after NFT, despite the fact that numerical mu suppression appeared to be visible in a majority of participants during goal-directed hand movement observation. At the behavioral level, RMET accuracy scores did not suggest an effect of NFT on the ability to interpret subtle emotional expressions, although RMET response times were reduced after NFT. In conclusion, the present study exhibited preliminary and partial evidence that mu suppression NFT can induce mu suppression in MNS-attributed areas. More powerful experimental designs and longer training may be necessary to induce substantial and consistent mu suppression, particularly while observing social scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh S Dastgheib
- Department for General Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Social Potential in Autism Research Unit, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Center for Intervention and Research On Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying, Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
| | - Wenbo Wang
- Department for General Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Social Potential in Autism Research Unit, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Center for Intervention and Research On Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying, Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
| | - Jürgen M Kaufmann
- Department for General Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Social Potential in Autism Research Unit, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Stephan Moratti
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stefan R Schweinberger
- Department for General Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany.
- Social Potential in Autism Research Unit, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Am Steiger 3/1, 07743, Jena, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany.
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Peng J, Zikereya T, Shao Z, Shi K. The neuromechanical of Beta-band corticomuscular coupling within the human motor system. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1441002. [PMID: 39211436 PMCID: PMC11358111 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1441002] [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: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Beta-band activity in the sensorimotor cortex is considered a potential biomarker for evaluating motor functions. The intricate connection between the brain and muscle (corticomuscular coherence), especially in beta band, was found to be modulated by multiple motor demands. This coherence also showed abnormality in motion-related disorders. However, although there has been a substantial accumulation of experimental evidence, the neural mechanisms underlie corticomuscular coupling in beta band are not yet fully clear, and some are still a matter of controversy. In this review, we summarized the findings on the impact of Beta-band corticomuscular coherence to multiple conditions (sports, exercise training, injury recovery, human functional restoration, neurodegenerative diseases, age-related changes, cognitive functions, pain and fatigue, and clinical applications), and pointed out several future directions for the scientific questions currently unsolved. In conclusion, an in-depth study of Beta-band corticomuscular coupling not only elucidates the neural mechanisms of motor control but also offers new insights and methodologies for the diagnosis and treatment of motor rehabilitation and related disorders. Understanding these mechanisms can lead to personalized neuromodulation strategies and real-time neurofeedback systems, optimizing interventions based on individual neurophysiological profiles. This personalized approach has the potential to significantly improve therapeutic outcomes and athletic performance by addressing the unique needs of each individual.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kaixuan Shi
- Physical Education Department, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing, China
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Borzelli D, Vieira TMM, Botter A, Gazzoni M, Lacquaniti F, d'Avella A. Synaptic inputs to motor neurons underlying muscle coactivation for functionally different tasks have different spectral characteristics. J Neurophysiol 2024; 131:1126-1142. [PMID: 38629162 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00199.2023] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) may produce the same endpoint trajectory or torque profile with different muscle activation patterns. What differentiates these patterns is the presence of cocontraction, which does not contribute to effective torque generation but allows to modulate joints' mechanical stiffness. Although it has been suggested that the generation of force and the modulation of stiffness rely on separate pathways, a characterization of the differences between the synaptic inputs to motor neurons (MNs) underlying these tasks is still missing. In this study, participants coactivated the same pair of upper-limb muscles, i.e., the biceps brachii and the triceps brachii, to perform two functionally different tasks: limb stiffness modulation or endpoint force generation. Spike trains of MNs were identified through decomposition of high-density electromyograms (EMGs) collected from the two muscles. Cross-correlogram showed a higher synchronization between MNs recruited to modulate stiffness, whereas cross-muscle coherence analysis revealed peaks in the β-band, which is commonly ascribed to a cortical origin. These peaks did not appear during the coactivation for force generation, thus suggesting separate cortical inputs for stiffness modulation. Moreover, a within-muscle coherence analysis identified two subsets of MNs that were selectively recruited to generate force or regulate stiffness. This study is the first to highlight different characteristics, and probable different neural origins, of the synaptic inputs driving a pair of muscles under different functional conditions. We suggest that stiffness modulation is driven by cortical inputs that project to a separate set of MNs, supporting the existence of a separate pathway underlying the control of stiffness.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The characterization of the pathways underlying force generation or stiffness modulation are still unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that the common input to motor neurons of antagonist muscles shows a high-frequency component when muscles are coactivated to modulate stiffness but not to generate force. Our results provide novel insights on the neural strategies for the recruitment of multiple muscles by identifying specific spectral characteristics of the synaptic inputs underlying functionally different tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Borzelli
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Taian M M Vieira
- Laboratory for Engineering of the Neuromuscular System, Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
- PoliToBIOMed Lab, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Botter
- Laboratory for Engineering of the Neuromuscular System, Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
- PoliToBIOMed Lab, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Gazzoni
- Laboratory for Engineering of the Neuromuscular System, Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
- PoliToBIOMed Lab, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea d'Avella
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Xiong Q, Wan J, Liu Y, Wu X, Jiang S, Xiao N, Hou W. Reduced corticospinal drive to antagonist muscles of upper and lower limbs during hands-and-knees crawling in infants with cerebral palsy: Evidence from intermuscular EMG-EMG coherence. Behav Brain Res 2024; 457:114718. [PMID: 37858871 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114718] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing interest in understanding the central control of hands-and-knees crawling, especially as a significant motor developmental milestone for early assessment of motor dysfunction in infants with cerebral palsy (CP) who have not yet acquired walking ability. In particular, CP is known to be associated with walking dysfunctions caused by early damage and incomplete maturation of the corticospinal tract. However, the extent of damage to the corticospinal connections during crawling in infants with CP has not been fully clarified. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the disparities in intermuscular EMG-EMG coherence, which serve as indicators of corticospinal drives to antagonist muscles in the upper and lower limbs during crawling, between infants with and without CP. METHODS This study involved 15 infants diagnosed with CP and 20 typically developing (TD) infants. Surface EMG recordings were obtained from two pairs of antagonist muscles in the upper limbs (triceps brachii (TB) and biceps brachii (BB)) and lower limbs (quadriceps femoris (QF) and hamstrings (HS)), while the infants performed hands-and-knees crawling at their self-selected velocity. Intermuscular EMG-EMG coherence was computed in two frequency bands, the beta band (15-30 Hz) and gamma band (30-60 Hz), which indicate corticospinal drive. Additionally, spatiotemporal parameters, including crawling velocity, cadence, duration, and the percentage of stance phase time, were calculated for comparison. Spearman rank correlations were conducted to assess the relationship between EMG-EMG coherence and crawling spatiotemporal parameters. RESULTS Infants with CP exhibited significantly reduced crawling velocity, decreased cadence, longer cycle duration, and a higher percentage of stance phase time compared to TD infants. Furthermore, CP infants demonstrated decreased coherence in the beta and gamma frequency bands (indicators of corticospinal drive) in both upper and lower limb muscles. Regarding limb-related differences in the beta and gamma coherence, significant disparities were found between upper and lower limb muscles in TD infants (p < 0.05), but not in infants with CP (p > 0.05). Additionally, significant correlations between coherence metrics and crawling spatiotemporal parameters were identified in the TD group (p < 0.05), while such correlations were not evident in the CP group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the corticospinal drive may functionally influence the central control of antagonist muscles in the limbs during typical infant crawling. This functional role could be impaired by neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy. The neurophysiological markers of corticospinal drive, specifically intermuscular EMG-EMG coherence during crawling in infants with cerebral palsy, could potentially serve as a tool to assess developmental response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiliang Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Jiangxi, China; Department of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jinliang Wan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaofeng Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Nong Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wensheng Hou
- Department of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Ortega-Auriol P, Byblow WD, Besier T, McMorland AJC. Muscle synergies are associated with intermuscular coherence and cortico-synergy coherence in an isometric upper limb task. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:2627-2643. [PMID: 37737925 PMCID: PMC10635925 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06706-6] [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: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
To elucidate the underlying physiological mechanisms of muscle synergies, we investigated long-range functional connectivity by cortico-muscular (CMC), intermuscular (IMC) and cortico-synergy (CSC) coherence. Fourteen healthy participants executed an isometric upper limb task in synergy-tuned directions. Cortical activity was recorded using 32-channel electroencephalography (EEG) and muscle activity using 16-channel electromyography (EMG). Using non-negative matrix factorisation (NMF), we calculated muscle synergies from two different tasks. A preliminary multidirectional task was used to identify synergy-preferred directions (PDs). A subsequent coherence task, consisting of generating forces isometrically in the synergy PDs, was used to assess the functional connectivity properties of synergies. Overall, we were able to identify four different synergies from the multidirectional task. A significant alpha band IMC was consistently present in all extracted synergies. Moreover, IMC alpha band was higher between muscles with higher weights within a synergy. Interestingly, CSC alpha band was also significantly higher across muscles with higher weights within a synergy. In contrast, no significant CMC was found between the motor cortex area and synergy muscles. The presence of a shared input onto synergistic muscles within a synergy supports the idea of neurally derived muscle synergies that build human movement. Our findings suggest cortical modulation of some of the synergies and the consequential existence of shared input between muscles within cortically modulated synergies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Ortega-Auriol
- Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Winston D Byblow
- Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Thor Besier
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Angus J C McMorland
- Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Dolinskaya IY, Solopova IA, Zhvansky DS, Rubeca D, Sylos-Labini F, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Muscle Activity during Passive and Active Movements in Preterm and Full-Term Infants. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050724. [PMID: 37237537 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Manifestation of muscle reactions at an early developmental stage may reflect the processes underlying the generation of appropriate muscle tone, which is also an integral part of all movements. In preterm infants, some aspects of muscular development may occur differently than in infants born at term. Here we evaluated early manifestations of muscle tone by measuring muscle responses to passive stretching (StR) and shortening (ShR) in both upper and lower limbs in preterm infants (at the corrected age from 0 weeks to 12 months), and compared them to those reported in our previous study on full-term infants. In a subgroup of participants, we also assessed spontaneous muscle activity during episodes of relatively large limb movements. The results showed very frequent StR and ShR, and also responses in muscles not being primarily stretched/shortened, in both preterm and full-term infants. A reduction of sensorimotor responses to muscle lengthening and shortening with age suggests a reduction in excitability and/or the acquisition of functionally appropriate muscle tone during the first year of life. The alterations of responses during passive and active movements in preterm infants were primarily seen in the early months, perhaps reflecting temporal changes in the excitability of the sensorimotor networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Y Dolinskaya
- Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 127994, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny 141701, Russia
| | - Irina A Solopova
- Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 127994, Russia
| | - Dmitry S Zhvansky
- Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 127994, Russia
| | - Damiana Rubeca
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Cappellini G, Sylos-Labini F, Avaltroni P, Dewolf AH, Assenza C, Morelli D, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Comparison of the forward and sideways locomotor patterns in children with Cerebral Palsy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7286. [PMID: 37142631 PMCID: PMC10160037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34369-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Switching locomotion direction is a common task in daily life, and it has been studied extensively in healthy people. Little is known, however, about the locomotor adjustments involved in changing locomotion direction from forward (FW) to sideways (SW) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The importance of testing the ability of children with CP in this task lies in the assessment of flexible, adaptable adjustments of locomotion as a function of the environmental context. On the one hand, the ability of a child to cope with novel task requirements may provide prognostic cues as to the chances of modifying the gait adaptively. On the other hand, challenging the child with the novel task may represent a useful rehabilitation tool to improve the locomotor performance. SW is an asymmetrical locomotor task and requires a differential control of right and left limb muscles. Here, we report the results of a cross-sectional study comparing FW and SW in 27 children with CP (17 diplegic, 10 hemiplegic, 2-10 years) and 18 age-matched typically developing (TD) children. We analyzed gait kinematics, joint moments, EMG activity of 12 pairs of bilateral muscles, and muscle modules evaluated by factorization of EMG signals. Task performance in several children with CP differed drastically from that of TD children. Only 2/3 of children with CP met the primary outcome, i.e. they succeeded to step sideways, and they often demonstrated attempts to step forward. They tended to rotate their trunk FW, cross one leg over the other, flex the knee and hip. Moreover, in contrast to TD children, children with CP often exhibited similar motor modules for FW and SW. Overall, the results reflect developmental deficits in the control of gait, bilateral coordination and adjustment of basic motor modules in children with CP. We suggest that the sideways (along with the backward) style of locomotion represents a novel rehabilitation protocol that challenges the child to cope with novel contextual requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germana Cappellini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 306 Via Ardeatina, 00179, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 306 Via Ardeatina, 00179, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Priscilla Avaltroni
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 306 Via Ardeatina, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Arthur H Dewolf
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Assenza
- Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Morelli
- Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 306 Via Ardeatina, 00179, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 306 Via Ardeatina, 00179, Rome, Italy.
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Gangwani RR, Mark JI, Vaughn RM, Holland H, Thorpe DE, Alexander JJ, Surkar SM, Cassidy JM. Corticomuscular Coherence in Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy: A Feasibility and Preliminary Protocol Study. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:357-366. [PMID: 37448333 PMCID: PMC10466949 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231187010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective This study assessed the feasibility of corticomuscular coherence measurement during a goal-directed task in children with unilateral cerebral palsy while establishing optimal experimental parameters. Methods Participants (Manual Ability Classification System levels I-III) completed a submaximal isometric goal-directed grip task during simultaneous electroencephalography and electromyography (EMG) acquisition. Results All participants (n = 11, 6 females, mean age 11.3 ±2.4 years) completed corticomuscular coherence procedures. Of the 40 trials obtained per extremity, an average of 29 (n = 9) and 27 (n = 10) trials were retained from the more- and less-affected extremities, respectively. Obtaining measurement stability required an average of 28 trials per extremity. Conclusion Findings from this work support the feasibility of corticomuscular coherence measurement in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. Acquiring 28 to 40 corticomuscular coherence trials per extremity is ideal. The experimental parameters established in this work will inform future corticomuscular coherence application in pediatric unilateral cerebral palsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachana R. Gangwani
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jasper I. Mark
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Rachel M. Vaughn
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Deborah E. Thorpe
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joshua J. Alexander
- Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Swati M. Surkar
- Department of Physical Therapy, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Jessica M. Cassidy
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Open-ended movements structure sensorimotor information in early human development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2209953120. [PMID: 36574659 PMCID: PMC9910617 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2209953120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human behaviors, with whole-body coordination, involve large-scale sensorimotor interaction. Spontaneous bodily movements in the early developmental stage potentially lead toward acquisition of such coordinated behavior. These movements presumably contribute to the structuration of sensorimotor interaction, providing specific regularities in bidirectional information among muscle activities and proprioception. Whether and how spontaneous movements, despite being task-free, structure and organize sensorimotor interactions in the entire body during early development remain unknown. Herein, to address these issues, we gained insights into the structuration process of the sensorimotor interaction in neonates and 3-mo-old infants. By combining detailed motion capture and musculoskeletal simulation, sensorimotor information flows among muscle activities and proprioception throughout the body were obtained. Subsequently, we extracted spatial modules and temporal state in sensorimotor information flows. Our approach demonstrated that early spontaneous movements elicited body-dependent sensorimotor modules, revealing age-related changes in them, depending on the combination or direction. The sensorimotor interactions also displayed temporal non-random fluctuations analogous to those seen in spontaneous activities in the cerebral cortex and spinal cord. Furthermore, we found recurring state sequence patterns across multiple participants, characterized by a substantial increase in infants compared to the patterns in neonates. Therefore, early spontaneous movements induce the spatiotemporal structuration in sensorimotor interactions and subsequent developmental changes. These results implicated that early open-ended movements, emerging from a certain neural substrate, regulate the sensorimotor interactions through embodiment and contribute to subsequent coordinated behaviors. Our findings also provide a conceptual linkage between early spontaneous movements and spontaneous neuronal activity in terms of spatiotemporal characteristics.
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10
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Dewolf AH, La Scaleia V, Fabiano A, Sylos-Labini F, Mondi V, Picone S, Di Paolo A, Paolillo P, Ivanenko Y, Lacquaniti F. Left-Right Locomotor Coordination in Human Neonates. J Neurosci 2022; 42:6566-6580. [PMID: 35831172 PMCID: PMC9410754 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0612-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Terrestrial locomotion requires coordinated bilateral activation of limb muscles, with left-right alternation in walking or running, and synchronous activation in hopping or skipping. The neural mechanisms involved in interlimb coordination at birth are well known in different mammalian species, but less so in humans. Here, 46 neonates (of either sex) performed bilateral and unilateral stepping with one leg blocked in different positions. By recording EMG activities of lower-limb muscles, we observed episodes of left-right alternating or synchronous coordination. In most cases, the frequency of EMG oscillations during sequences of consecutive steps was approximately similar between the two sides, but in some cases it was considerably different, with episodes of 2:1 interlimb coordination and episodes of activity deletions on the blocked side. Hip position of the blocked limb significantly affected ipsilateral, but not contralateral, muscle activities. Thus, hip extension backward engaged hip flexor muscle, and hip flexion engaged hip extensors. Moreover, the sudden release of the blocked limb in the posterior position elicited the immediate initiation of the swing phase of the limb, with hip flexion and a burst of an ankle flexor muscle. Extensor muscles showed load responses at midstance. The variable interlimb coordination and its incomplete sensory modulation suggest that the neonatal locomotor networks do not operate in the same manner as in mature locomotion, also because of the limited cortical control at birth. These neonatal mechanisms share many properties with spinal mammalian preparations (i.e., independent pattern generators for each limb, and for flexor and extensor muscles, load, and hip position feedback).SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Bilateral coupling and reciprocal activation of flexor and extensor burst generators represent the fundamental mechanisms used by mammalian limbed locomotion. Considerable progress has been made in deciphering the early development of the spinal networks and left-right coordination in different mammals, but less is known about human newborns. We compared bilateral and unilateral stepping in human neonates, where cortical control is still underdeveloped. We found neonatal mechanisms that share many properties with spinal mammalian preparations (i.e., independent pattern generators for each limb, the independent generators for flexor and extensor muscles, load, and hip-position feedback. The variable interlimb coordination and its incomplete sensory modulation suggest that the human neonatal locomotor networks do not operate in the same manner as in mature locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur H Dewolf
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina La Scaleia
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Adele Fabiano
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, 00169 Rome, Italy
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale San Giovanni, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Vito Mondi
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Picone
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Ambrogio Di Paolo
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale San Giovanni, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Piermichele Paolillo
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Yuri Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Burger M, Einspieler C, Jordaan ER, Unger M, Niehaus DJH. Early motor behavior of infants exposed to maternal mental health disorders - A South African perspective. Early Hum Dev 2022; 168:105572. [PMID: 35461052 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2022.105572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the past five decades the bulk of research on exposure to maternal mental health disorders and infant neurodevelopment has been generated in high-income countries. The current study included infants, residing in low-income communities in South Africa, born to mothers with a history of psychiatric disorders. AIM To assess the motor behavior of 10- to 20-week-old infants exposed to maternal mental health disorders, and a subgroup of infants with prenatal psychotropic medication exposure. METHODS The present study is a cross-sectional descriptive study, with a longitudinal subgroup analysis. General Movement Assessment (GMA), including the Motor Optimality Score-Revised (MOS-R), was used at 10-20 weeks corrected age to assess infant motor behavior. RESULTS The study included 112 infants. No significant difference (p = 0.523) was found on the MOS-R between infants exposed to maternal mental health disorders (n = 70) and the comparison group (n = 42). Both the exposed and comparison groups scored within the mildly reduced range on the MOS-R. No significant differences were found in a subgroup of infants with prenatal exposure to multi-class psychotropic medication (n = 17), mono-class psychotropic medication (n = 35) or valproate exposure (n = 10) (p > 0.1). CONCLUSION No association was found between exposure to maternal mental health disorders or exposure to psychotropic medication and infant motor behavior at 10-20 weeks post-term age on the MOS-R. Future research should focus on the contribution of exposure to specific classes and types of psychotropic medication on neurodevelopmental outcome of infants in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlette Burger
- Physiotherapy Division, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa.
| | - Christa Einspieler
- Research Unit iDN - Interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Division of Phoniatrics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Esme R Jordaan
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa; Statistics and Population Studies, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Marianne Unger
- Physiotherapy Division, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Dana J H Niehaus
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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12
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From Hemispheric Asymmetry through Sensorimotor Experiences to Cognitive Outcomes in Children with Cerebral Palsy. Symmetry (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/sym14020345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent neuroimaging studies allowed us to explore abnormal brain structures and interhemispheric connectivity in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Behavioral researchers have long reported that children with CP exhibit suboptimal performance in different cognitive domains (e.g., receptive and expressive language skills, reading, mental imagery, spatial processing, subitizing, math, and executive functions). However, there has been very limited cross-domain research involving these two areas of scientific inquiry. To stimulate such research, this perspective paper proposes some possible neurological mechanisms involved in the cognitive delays and impairments in children with CP. Additionally, the paper examines the ways motor and sensorimotor experience during the development of these neural substrates could enable more optimal development for children with CP. Understanding these developmental mechanisms could guide more effective interventions to promote the development of both sensorimotor and cognitive skills in children with CP.
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13
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Liu W, Fleming A, Lee IC, Huang HH. Direct Myoelectric Control Modifies Lower Limb Functional Connectivity: A Case Study. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2021; 2021:6573-6576. [PMID: 34892615 DOI: 10.1109/embc46164.2021.9630844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Prostheses with direct EMG control could restore amputee's biomechanics structure and residual muscle functions by using efferent signals to drive prosthetic ankle joint movements. Because only feedforward control is restored, it is unclear 1) what neuromuscular control mechanisms are used in coordinating residual and intact muscle activities and 2) how this mechanism changes over guided training with the prosthetic ankle. To address these questions, we applied functional connectivity analysis to an individual with unilateral lower-limb amputation during postural sway task. We built functional connectivity networks of surface EMGs from eleven lower-limb muscles during three sessions to investigate the coupling among different function modules. We observed that functional network was reshaped by training and we identified a stronger connection between residual and intact below knee modules with improved bilateral symmetry after amputee acquired skills to better control the powered prosthetic ankle. The evaluation session showed that functional connectivity was largely preserved even after nine months interval. This preliminary study might inform a unique way to unveil the potential neuromechanic changes that occur after extended training with direct EMG control of a powered prosthetic ankle.
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14
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Hautala S, Tokariev A, Roienko O, Häyrinen T, Ilen E, Haataja L, Vanhatalo S. Recording activity in proximal muscle networks with surface EMG in assessing infant motor development. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2840-2850. [PMID: 34592561 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.07.031] [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: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop methods for recording and analysing infant's proximal muscle activations. METHODS Surface electromyography (sEMG) of truncal muscles was recorded in three months old infants (N = 18) during spontaneous movement and controlled postural changes. The infants were also divided into two groups according to motor performance. We developed an efficient method for removing dynamic cardiac artefacts to allow i) accurate estimation of individual muscle activations, as well as ii) quantitative characterization of muscle networks. RESULTS The automated removal of cardiac artefacts allowed quantitation of truncal muscle activity, which showed predictable effects during postural changes, and there were differences between high and low performing infants.The muscle networks showed consistent change in network density during spontaneous movements between supine and prone position. Moreover, activity correlations in individual pairs of back muscles linked to infant́s motor performance. CONCLUSIONS The hereby developed sEMG analysis methodology is feasible and may disclose differences between high and low performing infants. Analysis of the muscle networks may provide novel insight to central control of motility. SIGNIFICANCE Quantitative analysis of infant's muscle activity and muscle networks holds promise for an objective neurodevelopmental assessment of motor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sini Hautala
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, HUS Medical Imaging Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Anton Tokariev
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Oleksii Roienko
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taru Häyrinen
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elina Ilen
- Department of Design, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Leena Haataja
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sampsa Vanhatalo
- Baba Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, HUS Medical Imaging Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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15
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Gennaro F, de Bruin ED. A pilot study assessing reliability and age-related differences in corticomuscular and intramuscular coherence in ankle dorsiflexors during walking. Physiol Rep 2021; 8:e14378. [PMID: 32109345 PMCID: PMC7048377 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticomuscular (CMC) and intramuscular (intraMC) coherence represent measures of corticospinal interaction. Both CMC and intraMC can be assessed during human locomotion tasks, for example, while walking. Corticospinal control of gait can deteriorate during the aging process and CMC and intraMC may represent an important monitoring means. However, it is unclear whether such assessments represent a reliable tool when performed during walking in an ecologically valid scenario and whether age‐related differences may occur. Wireless surface electroencephalography and electromyography were employed in a pilot study with young and old adults during overground walking in two separate sessions. CMC and intraMC analyses were performed in the gathered beta and lower gamma frequencies (i.e., 13–40 Hz). Significant log‐transformed coherence area was tested for intersessions test–retest reliability by determining intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), yielding to low reliability in CMC in both younger and older adults. intraMC exclusively showed low reliability in the older adults, whereas intraMC in the younger adults revealed similar values as previously reported: test–retest reliability [ICC (95% CI): 0.44 (−0.23, 0.87); SEM: 0.46; MDC: 1.28; MDC%: 103; Hedge's g (95% CI): 0.54 (−0.13, 1.57)]. Significant differences between the age groups were observed in intraMC by either comparing the two groups with the first test [Hedge's g (95% CI): 1.55 (0.85, 2.15); p‐value: .006] or with the retest data [Hedge's g (95% CI): 2.24 (0.73, 3.70); p‐value: .005]. Notwithstanding the small sample size investigated, intraMC seems a moderately reliable assessment in younger adults. The further development and use of this measure in practical settings to infer corticospinal interaction in human locomotion in clinical practice is warranted and should help to refine the analysis. This necessitates involving larger sample sizes as well as including a wider number of lower limb muscles. Moreover, further research seems warranted by the observed differences in modulation mechanisms of corticospinal control of gait as ascertained by intraMC between the age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Gennaro
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eling D de Bruin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Cappellini G, Sylos-Labini F, Dewolf AH, Solopova IA, Morelli D, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Maturation of the Locomotor Circuitry in Children With Cerebral Palsy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:998. [PMID: 32974319 PMCID: PMC7462003 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The first years of life represent an important phase of maturation of the central nervous system, processing of sensory information, posture control and acquisition of the locomotor function. Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common group of motor disorders in childhood attributed to disturbances in the fetal or infant brain, frequently resulting in impaired gait. Here we will consider various findings about functional maturation of the locomotor output in early infancy, and how much the dysfunction of gait in children with CP can be related to spinal neuronal networks vs. supraspinal dysfunction. A better knowledge about pattern generation circuitries in infancy may improve our understanding of developmental motor disorders, highlighting the necessity for regulating the functional properties of abnormally developed neuronal locomotor networks as a target for early sensorimotor rehabilitation. Various clinical approaches and advances in biotechnology are also considered that might promote acquisition of the locomotor function in infants at risk for locomotor delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germana Cappellini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Arthur H Dewolf
- Centre of Space Bio-medicine and Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Irina A Solopova
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Motor Control, Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daniela Morelli
- Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Centre of Space Bio-medicine and Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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17
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Gennaro F, Maino P, Kaelin-Lang A, De Bock K, de Bruin ED. Corticospinal Control of Human Locomotion as a New Determinant of Age-Related Sarcopenia: An Exploratory Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E720. [PMID: 32155951 PMCID: PMC7141202 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is a muscle disease listed within the ICD-10 classification. Several operational definitions have been created for sarcopenia screening; however, an international consensus is lacking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recently recognized that sarcopenia detection requires improved diagnosis and screening measures. Mounting evidence hints towards changes in the corticospinal communication system where corticomuscular coherence (CMC) reflects an effective mechanism of corticospinal interaction. CMC can be assessed during locomotion by means of simultaneously measuring Electroencephalography (EEG) and Electromyography (EMG). The aim of this study was to perform sarcopenia screening in community-dwelling older adults and explore the possibility of using CMC assessed during gait to discriminate between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves showed high sensitivity, precision and accuracy of CMC assessed from EEG Cz sensor and EMG sensors located over Musculus Vastus Medialis [Cz-VM; AUC (95.0%CI): 0.98 (0.92-1.04), sensitivity: 1.00, 1-specificity: 0.89, p < 0.001] and with Musculus Biceps Femoris [Cz-BF; AUC (95.0%CI): 0.86 (0.68-1.03), sensitivity: 1.00, 1-specificity: 0.70, p < 0.001]. These muscles showed significant differences with large magnitude of effect between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults [Hedge's g (95.0%CI): 2.2 (1.3-3.1), p = 0.005 and Hedge's g (95.0%CI): 1.5 (0.7-2.2), p = 0.010; respectively]. The novelty of this exploratory investigation is the hint toward a novel possible determinant of age-related sarcopenia, derived from corticospinal control of locomotion and shown by the observed large differences in CMC when sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults are compared. This, in turn, might represent in future a potential treatment target to counteract sarcopenia as well as a parameter to monitor the progression of the disease and/or the potential recovery following other treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Gennaro
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (K.D.B.); (E.D.d.B.)
| | - Paolo Maino
- Pain Management Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, 6962 Lugano, Switzerland;
| | - Alain Kaelin-Lang
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
- Medical faculty, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katrien De Bock
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (K.D.B.); (E.D.d.B.)
| | - Eling D. de Bruin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (K.D.B.); (E.D.d.B.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Division of Physiotherapy, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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19
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Solopova IA, Zhvansky DS, Dolinskaya IY, Keshishian ES, Selionov VA, Sylos-Labini F, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Muscle Responses to Passive Joint Movements in Infants During the First Year of Life. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1158. [PMID: 31607940 PMCID: PMC6769424 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle tone represents one of the important concepts for characterizing changes in the state of the developing nervous system. It can be manifested in the level of activity of flexors and extensors and in muscle reactions to its passive stretching (StR) or shortening (ShR). Here we investigated such reactions in a cohort of healthy infants aged from 2 weeks to 12 months. We examined the presence and the characteristics of StR and ShR during slow passive cyclic flexion/extension movements (T~3 s) in the hip, knee, ankle, and elbow joints while awake infants were in the supine position. The results showed that most infants demonstrated prominent ShRs in response to passive joint rotations, although the StR was observed more frequently, suggesting that the ShR is an important component of adaptive motor behavior already at an early developmental stage. Interestingly, the occurrence of both StR and ShR in most muscles significantly decreased throughout the first year of life. Passive cyclic flexion/extension movements could also evoke rhythmic muscle responses in other joints or in the contralateral limb, however, such responses were predominantly observed in younger infants (<6 months). A noticeable manifestation of muscle reactions at an early developmental stage, along with spontaneous motor activity in this period of life, may reflect the processes underlying a formation of appropriate muscle tone and the self-organization of neural circuits. A substantial reduction of ipsilateral and contralateral muscle responses to passive movements with age is consistent with the idea of a functional reorganization of the motor circuitry during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina A Solopova
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Motor Control, Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry S Zhvansky
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Motor Control, Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina Y Dolinskaya
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Motor Control, Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena S Keshishian
- Moscow Research Institute of Clinical Pediatrics of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor A Selionov
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Motor Control, Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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20
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Nemanich ST, Chen CY, Chen M, Zorn E, Mueller B, Peyton C, Elison JT, Stinear J, Rao R, Georgieff M, Menk J, Rudser K, Gillick B. Safety and Feasibility of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as an Exploratory Assessment of Corticospinal Connectivity in Infants After Perinatal Brain Injury: An Observational Study. Phys Ther 2019; 99:689-700. [PMID: 30806664 PMCID: PMC6545276 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzz028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal brain injuries often impact the corticospinal system, leading to motor impairment and cerebral palsy. Although transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been widely used to study corticospinal connectivity in adults and older children, similar studies of young infants are limited. OBJECTIVES The objective was to establish the safety and feasibility of advanced TMS assessments of the corticospinal connectivity of young infants with perinatal brain injury. DESIGN This was a pilot, cross-sectional study of 3- to 12-month-old (corrected age) infants with perinatal stroke or intracranial hemorrhage. METHODS Six participants (2 term, 4 preterm) were assessed with stereotactic neuronavigation-guided TMS. Single-pulse TMS was applied to each hemisphere and responses were recorded simultaneously from both upper limbs. During data collection, vital signs and stress responses were measured to assess safety. Developmental motor outcomes were evaluated using the General Movements Assessment and Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (3rd edition). A clinical diagnosis of cerebral palsy was recorded, if available. RESULTS No adverse events occurred during TMS testing. All sessions were well tolerated. Contralateral motor evoked responses were detected in 4 of 6 participants. Both contralateral and ipsilateral responses were observed in 2 of 6 participants. LIMITATIONS TMS responses were not obtained in all participants. This could be related to the location of brain injury or developmental stage of the corticospinal system controlling the wrist flexor muscle group from which responses were recorded. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a summary of the framework for performing novel TMS assessments in infants with perinatal brain injury. Implementing this approach to measure corticospinal connectivity in hypothesis-driven studies in young infants appears to be justified. Such studies could inform the characterization of corticospinal development and the neural mechanisms driving recovery following early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel T Nemanich
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, MMC 388, 420 Delaware St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (USA). Address all correspondence to Dr Nemanich at:
| | - Chao-Ying Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Mo Chen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota
| | | | - Bryon Mueller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota
| | - Colleen Peyton
- Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jed T Elison
- Department of Pediatrics; and Institute of Child Development, College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota
| | - James Stinear
- Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Raghu Rao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota
| | | | - Jeremiah Menk
- School of Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota
| | - Kyle Rudser
- School of Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota
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Ritterband-Rosenbaum A, Justiniano MD, Nielsen JB, Christensen MS. Are sensorimotor experiences the key for successful early intervention in infants with congenital brain lesion? Infant Behav Dev 2019; 54:133-139. [PMID: 30769300 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Living with a congenital brain lesion may have detrimental effects on the ability to do everyday activities, but contrary to acquired brain lesions, people and in particular children, with congenital brain lesions may have limited or no experience of how their bodies work. This absence of experience gives rise to challenges for habilitation of sensorimotor abilities and derived cognitive abilities. How can motor and cognitive abilities be achieved and trained in an individual with no experience of potential abilities? In this article, we aim to review the existing knowledge about the development of sensorimotor integration. Further, we will discuss this knowledge in the light of two neurocognitive theories: embodied cognition and predictive coding. Moreover, using developmental knowledge and theory in combination, we will argue that early sensorimotor development serves as a foundation for later cognitive development. Finally, we try to use these elements in a strategy to make interventions as early as possible, with the purpose of improving sensorimotor and cognitive abilities in children with congenital brain lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anina Ritterband-Rosenbaum
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Elsass Institute, Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark.
| | - Mikkel Damgaard Justiniano
- Elsass Institute, Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark; DTU Compute, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jens Bo Nielsen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Elsass Institute, Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Mark Schram Christensen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; DTU Compute, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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Impaired Ability to Suppress Excitability of Antagonist Motoneurons at Onset of Dorsiflexion in Adults with Cerebral Palsy. Neural Plast 2018; 2018:1265143. [PMID: 30402086 PMCID: PMC6198563 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1265143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently showed that impaired gait function in adults with cerebral palsy (CP) is associated with reduced rate of force development in ankle dorsiflexors. Here, we explore potential mechanisms. We investigated the suppression of antagonist excitability, calculated as the amount of soleus H-reflex depression at the onset of ankle dorsiflexion compared to rest, in 24 adults with CP (34.3 years, range 18–57; GMFCS 1.95, range 1–3) and 15 healthy, age-matched controls. Furthermore, the central common drive to dorsiflexor motoneurons during a static contraction in the two groups was examined by coherence analyses. The H-reflex was significantly reduced by 37% at the onset of dorsiflexion compared to rest in healthy adults (P < 0.001) but unchanged in adults with CP (P = 0.91). Also, the adults with CP had significantly less coherence. These findings suggest that the ability to suppress antagonist motoneuronal excitability at movement onset is impaired and that the central common drive during static contractions is reduced in adults with CP.
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Kerkman JN, Daffertshofer A, Gollo LL, Breakspear M, Boonstra TW. Network structure of the human musculoskeletal system shapes neural interactions on multiple time scales. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2018; 4:eaat0497. [PMID: 29963631 PMCID: PMC6021138 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aat0497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Human motor control requires the coordination of muscle activity under the anatomical constraints imposed by the musculoskeletal system. Interactions within the central nervous system are fundamental to motor coordination, but the principles governing functional integration remain poorly understood. We used network analysis to investigate the relationship between anatomical and functional connectivity among 36 muscles. Anatomical networks were defined by the physical connections between muscles, and functional networks were based on intermuscular coherence assessed during postural tasks. We found a modular structure of functional networks that was strongly shaped by the anatomical constraints of the musculoskeletal system. Changes in postural tasks were associated with a frequency-dependent reconfiguration of the coupling between functional modules. These findings reveal distinct patterns of functional interactions between muscles involved in flexibly organizing muscle activity during postural control. Our network approach to the motor system offers a unique window into the neural circuitry driving the musculoskeletal system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N. Kerkman
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences and Institute for Brain and Behavior, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Daffertshofer
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences and Institute for Brain and Behavior, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Leonardo L. Gollo
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
- National Institute for Dementia Research, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Brisbane, Queensland 4006, Australia
| | - Michael Breakspear
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Metro North Mental Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tjeerd W. Boonstra
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hadders-Algra M. Early human motor development: From variation to the ability to vary and adapt. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 90:411-427. [PMID: 29752957 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes early human motor development. From early fetal age motor behavior is based on spontaneous neural activity: activity of networks in the brainstem and spinal cord that is modulated by supraspinal activity. The supraspinal activity, first primarily brought about by the cortical subplate, later by the cortical plate, induces movement variation. Initially, movement variation especially serves exploration; its associated afferent information is primarily used to sculpt the developing nervous system, and less to adapt motor behavior. In the next phase, beginning at function-specific ages, movement variation starts to serve adaptation. In sucking and swallowing, this phase emerges shortly before term age. In speech, gross and fine motor development, it emerges from 3 to 4 months post-term onwards, i.e., when developmental focus in the primary sensory and motor cortices has shifted to the permanent cortical circuitries. With increasing age and increasing trial-and-error exploration, the infant improves its ability to use adaptive and efficicient forms of upright gross motor behavior, manual activities and vocalizations belonging to the native language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijna Hadders-Algra
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Dept. Pediatrics - Section Developmental Neurology, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Hadders-Algra M. Neural substrate and clinical significance of general movements: an update. Dev Med Child Neurol 2018; 60:39-46. [PMID: 28832987 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED General movements are present from early fetal life to 3 to 5 months corrected age. Atypical general movements, especially in the last, so-called fidgety general movement phase, are predictive of cerebral palsy (CP). This review updates knowledge on the neural substrate and clinical significance of typical and atypical general movements. Typical general movements are primarily characterized by complexity and variation. Presumably these core characteristics are initially induced by modulating activity of the cortical subplate. When the subplate gradually dissolves between 3 months before term and 3 months corrected age the cortical plate takes over. This coincides with the fidgety general movement phase. Conceivably, fidgety activity reflects 'sparsification', i.e. fragmentation of cortical network activity. The quintessential feature of atypical general movements is reduced complexity and variation. This is attributed to impaired integrity of extensive cortical-subcortical networks, in which the subplate and periventricular white matter play a prominent role. The most serious forms of network impairment are associated with absent fidgety movements. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS The emergence of fidgety movements reflects a developmental transition from widespread to fragmented cortical network activity. Atypical general movements characterized by reduced complexity and variation are attributed to impaired integrity of extensive cortical-subcortical networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijna Hadders-Algra
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Paediatrics - Developmental Neurology, Groningen, the Netherlands
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26
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Sylos-Labini F, Magnani S, Cappellini G, La Scaleia V, Fabiano A, Picone S, Paolillo P, Di Paolo A, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Foot Placement Characteristics and Plantar Pressure Distribution Patterns during Stepping on Ground in Neonates. Front Physiol 2017; 8:784. [PMID: 29066982 PMCID: PMC5641324 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stepping on ground can be evoked in human neonates, though it is rather irregular and stereotyped heel-to-toe roll-over pattern is lacking. Such investigations can provide insights into the role of contact- or load-related proprioceptive feedback during early development of locomotion. However, the detailed characteristics of foot placements and their association with motor patterns are still incompletely documented. We elicited stepping in 33 neonates supported on a table. Unilateral limb kinematics, bilateral plantar pressure distribution and EMG activity from up to 11 ipsilateral leg muscles were recorded. Foot placement characteristics in neonates showed a wide variation. In ~25% of steps, the swinging foot stepped onto the contralateral foot due to generally small step width. In the remaining steps with separate foot placements, the stance phase could start with forefoot (28%), midfoot (47%), or heel (25%) touchdowns. Despite forefoot or heel initial contacts, the kinematic and loading patterns markedly differed relatively to toe-walking or adult-like two-peaked vertical force profile. Furthermore, while the general stepping parameters (cycle duration, step length, range of motion of proximal joints) were similar, the initial foot contact was consistently associated with specific center-of-pressure excursion, range of motion in the ankle joint, and the center-of-activity of extensor muscles (being shifted by ~5% of cycle toward the end of stance in the "heel" relative to "forefoot" condition). In sum, we found a variety of footfall patterns in conjunction with associated changes in motor patterns. These findings suggest the potential contribution of load-related proprioceptive feedback and/or the expression of variations in the locomotor program already during early manifestations of stepping on ground in human babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Sylos-Labini
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Neuromotor Physiology Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - S Magnani
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Cappellini
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Neuromotor Physiology Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - V La Scaleia
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Neuromotor Physiology Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - A Fabiano
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - S Picone
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - P Paolillo
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Di Paolo
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale San Giovanni, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - F Lacquaniti
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Neuromotor Physiology Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia (IRCCS), Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Y Ivanenko
- Neuromotor Physiology Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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Geertsen SS, Willerslev-Olsen M, Lorentzen J, Nielsen JB. Development and aging of human spinal cord circuitries. J Neurophysiol 2017; 118:1133-1140. [PMID: 28566459 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00103.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The neural motor circuitries in the spinal cord receive information from our senses and the rest of the nervous system and translate it into purposeful movements, which allow us to interact with the rest of the world. In this review, we discuss how these circuitries are established during early development and the extent to which they are shaped according to the demands of the body that they control and the environment with which the body has to interact. We also discuss how aging processes and physiological changes in our body are reflected in adaptations of activity in the spinal cord motor circuitries. The complex, multifaceted connectivity of the spinal cord motor circuitries allows them to generate vastly different movements and to adapt their activity to meet new challenges imposed by bodily changes or a changing environment. There are thus plenty of possibilities for adaptive changes in the spinal motor circuitries both early and late in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svend Sparre Geertsen
- Neural Control of Movement Research Group, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark; and
| | - Maria Willerslev-Olsen
- Neural Control of Movement Research Group, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,Elsass Institute, Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Jakob Lorentzen
- Neural Control of Movement Research Group, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,Elsass Institute, Charlottenlund, Denmark
| | - Jens Bo Nielsen
- Neural Control of Movement Research Group, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark; .,Elsass Institute, Charlottenlund, Denmark
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28
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Lacquaniti F, Zago M, Farina D. Tick-tock, spinal motor neurons go with the cortical clock in young infants. J Physiol 2017; 595:2405-2406. [PMID: 28155234 DOI: 10.1113/jp273901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space BioMedicine of the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology of the IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Myrka Zago
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology of the IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario Farina
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
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