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Egger M, Bergmann J, Krewer C, Jahn K, Müller F. Sensory Stimulation and Robot-Assisted Arm Training after Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Neurol Phys Ther 2024:01253086-990000000-00068. [PMID: 38912852 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Functional recovery after stroke is often limited, despite various treatment methods such as robot-assisted therapy. Repetitive sensory stimulation (RSS) might be a promising add-on therapy that is thought to directly drive plasticity processes. First positive effects on sensorimotor function have been shown. However, clinical studies are scarce, and the effect of RSS combined with robot-assisted training has not been evaluated yet. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the feasibility and sensorimotor effects of RSS (compared to a control group receiving sham stimulation) followed by robot-assisted arm therapy. METHODS Forty participants in the subacute phase (4.4-23.9 weeks) after stroke with a moderate to severe arm paresis were randomized to RSS or control group. Participants received 12 sessions of (sham-) stimulation within 3 weeks. Stimulation of the fingertips and the robot-assisted therapy were each applied in 45-min sessions. Motor and sensory outcome assessments (e.g. Fugl-Meyer-Assessment, grip strength) were measured at baseline, post intervention and at a 3-week follow-up. RESULTS Participants in both groups improved their sensorimotor function from baseline to post and follow-up measurements, as illustrated by most motor and sensory outcome assessments. However, no significant group effects were found for any measures at any time (P > 0.058). Stimulations were well accepted, no safety issues arose. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Feasibility of robot-assisted therapy with preceding RSS in persons with moderate to severe paresis was demonstrated. However, RSS preceding robot-assisted training failed to show a preliminary effect compared to the control intervention. Participants might have been too severely affected to identify changes driven by the RSS, or these might have been diluted or more difficult to identify because of the additional robotic training and neurorehabilitation. VIDEO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A478).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Egger
- Department of Neurology, Research Group, Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Bad Aibling, Germany (M.E., J.B., C.K., K.J., F.M.)
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany (M.E.); German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Munich, Germany (J.B., K.J.); and Chair of Human Movement Science, Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany (C.K.)
| | - Jeannine Bergmann
- Department of Neurology, Research Group, Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Bad Aibling, Germany (M.E., J.B., C.K., K.J., F.M.)
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany (M.E.); German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Munich, Germany (J.B., K.J.); and Chair of Human Movement Science, Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany (C.K.)
| | - Carmen Krewer
- Department of Neurology, Research Group, Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Bad Aibling, Germany (M.E., J.B., C.K., K.J., F.M.)
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany (M.E.); German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Munich, Germany (J.B., K.J.); and Chair of Human Movement Science, Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany (C.K.)
| | - Klaus Jahn
- Department of Neurology, Research Group, Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Bad Aibling, Germany (M.E., J.B., C.K., K.J., F.M.)
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany (M.E.); German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Munich, Germany (J.B., K.J.); and Chair of Human Movement Science, Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany (C.K.)
| | - Friedemann Müller
- Department of Neurology, Research Group, Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Bad Aibling, Germany (M.E., J.B., C.K., K.J., F.M.)
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany (M.E.); German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Munich, Germany (J.B., K.J.); and Chair of Human Movement Science, Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany (C.K.)
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Mora L, Committeri G, L'Abbate T, Cocchini G. Unlocking the potential of 'passive' modulation: How sensory stimulation shapes hand and face size. J Neuropsychol 2024. [PMID: 38877675 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12379] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Knowledge of the body size is intricately tied to multisensory integration processes that rely on the dynamic interplay of top-down and bottom-up mechanisms. Recent years have seen the development of passive sensory stimulation protocols aimed at investigating the modulation of various cognitive functions, primarily inducing perceptual learning and behaviour change without the need for extensive training. Given that reductions in sensory input have been associated with alterations in body size perception, it is reasonable to hypothesize that increasing sensory information through passive sensory stimulation could similarly influence the perception of the size of body parts. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the potential modulatory effects of passive sensory stimulation on the perception of hand and face size in a group of young adults. Passive sensory stimulation effectively modulated the size representation of the stimulated hand, supporting the notion that access to somatosensory and proprioceptive information is prioritised for the hands but may not extend to the face. Increased somatosensory input resulted in a reduction of distortion, providing evidence for bottom-up modulation of size representation. Passive sensory stimulation can induce subjective changes in body size perception without the need for extensive training. This paradigm holds promise as a potential alternative for modulating distorted size representation in individuals with body representational deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mora
- Psychology Department, Goldsmiths University of London, London, UK
| | - Giorgia Committeri
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Technologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Teresa L'Abbate
- Department of Psychology, International Telematic University Uninettuno, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianna Cocchini
- Psychology Department, Goldsmiths University of London, London, UK
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Doehler J, Northall A, Liu P, Fracasso A, Chrysidou A, Speck O, Lohmann G, Wolbers T, Kuehn E. The 3D Structural Architecture of the Human Hand Area Is Nontopographic. J Neurosci 2023; 43:3456-3476. [PMID: 37001994 PMCID: PMC10184749 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1692-22.2023] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The functional topography of the human primary somatosensory cortex hand area is a widely studied model system to understand sensory organization and plasticity. It is so far unclear whether the underlying 3D structural architecture also shows a topographic organization. We used 7 Tesla (7T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to quantify layer-specific myelin, iron, and mineralization in relation to population receptive field maps of individual finger representations in Brodman area 3b (BA 3b) of human S1 in female and male younger adults. This 3D description allowed us to identify a characteristic profile of layer-specific myelin and iron deposition in the BA 3b hand area, but revealed an absence of structural differences, an absence of low-myelin borders, and high similarity of 3D microstructure profiles between individual fingers. However, structural differences and borders were detected between the hand and face areas. We conclude that the 3D structural architecture of the human hand area is nontopographic, unlike in some monkey species, which suggests a high degree of flexibility for functional finger organization and a new perspective on human topographic plasticity.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Using ultra-high-field MRI, we provide the first comprehensive in vivo description of the 3D structural architecture of the human BA 3b hand area in relation to functional population receptive field maps. High similarity of precise finger-specific 3D profiles, together with an absence of structural differences and an absence of low-myelin borders between individual fingers, reveals the 3D structural architecture of the human hand area to be nontopographic. This suggests reduced structural limitations to cortical plasticity and reorganization and allows for shared representational features across fingers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Doehler
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alicia Northall
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Peng Liu
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alessio Fracasso
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Anastasia Chrysidou
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Speck
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Lohmann
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Wolbers
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Esther Kuehn
- Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
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Chen D, Werder EJ, Stewart PA, Stenzel MR, Gerr FE, Lawrence KG, Groth CP, Huynh TB, Ramachandran G, Banerjee S, Jackson WB, Christenbury K, Kwok RK, Sandler DP, Engel LS. Exposure to volatile hydrocarbons and neurologic function among oil spill workers up to 6 years after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116069. [PMID: 37149022 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the 2010 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) disaster, oil spill response and cleanup (OSRC) workers were exposed to toxic volatile components of crude oil. Few studies have examined exposure to individual volatile hydrocarbon chemicals below occupational exposure limits in relation to neurologic function among OSRC workers. OBJECTIVES To investigate the association of several spill-related chemicals (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, n-hexane, i.e., BTEX-H) and total petroleum hydrocarbons (THC) with neurologic function among DWH spill workers enrolled in the Gulf Long-term Follow-up Study. METHODS Cumulative exposure to THC and BTEX-H across the oil spill cleanup period were estimated using a job-exposure matrix that linked air measurement data to detailed self-reported DWH OSRC work histories. We ascertained quantitative neurologic function data via a comprehensive test battery at a clinical examination that occurred 4-6 years after the DWH disaster. We used multivariable linear regression and modified Poisson regression to evaluate relationships of exposures (quartiles (Q)) with 4 neurologic function measures. We examined modification of the associations by age at enrollment (<50 vs. ≥50 years). RESULTS We did not find evidence of adverse neurologic effects from crude oil exposures among the overall study population. However, among workers ≥50 years of age, several individual chemical exposures were associated with poorer vibrotactile acuity of the great toe, with statistically significant effects observed in Q3 or Q4 of exposures (range of log mean difference in Q4 across exposures: 0.13-0.26 μm). We also observed suggestive adverse associations among those ≥ age 50 years for tests of postural stability and single-leg stance, although most effect estimates did not reach thresholds of statistical significance (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Higher exposures to volatile components of crude oil were associated with modest deficits in neurologic function among OSRC workers who were age 50 years or older at study enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhe Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emily J Werder
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Mark R Stenzel
- Exposure Assessment Applications, LLC, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Fredric E Gerr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn G Lawrence
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Caroline P Groth
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Tran B Huynh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gurumurthy Ramachandran
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sudipto Banerjee
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - W Braxton Jackson
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc, a DLH Holdings Company, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kate Christenbury
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc, a DLH Holdings Company, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard K Kwok
- Population Studies and Genetics Branch, National Institute on Aging, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence S Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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Ross B, Dobri S, Jamali S, Bartel L. Entrainment of somatosensory beta and gamma oscillations accompany improvement in tactile acuity after periodic and aperiodic repetitive sensory stimulation. Int J Psychophysiol 2022; 177:11-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Correlations between Age, Pain Intensity, Disability, and Tactile Acuity in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain. Pain Res Manag 2022; 2022:2907009. [PMID: 35371368 PMCID: PMC8975654 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2907009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective Chronic low back pain is an overwhelming problem for a wide range of people and leads to tactile acuity deficits. We aimed to investigate the correlations among age, pain severity, disability, and tactile acuity in patients with chronic low back pain by using multiple tactile acuity tests. Methods A total of 58 participants (36.40 ± 14.95 years) with chronic low back pain were recruited, and two-point discrimination, point-to-point test, and two-point estimation were performed on their painful low back areas. The correlations between age, pain intensity, disability, and tactile acuity were characterized with Pearson's correlation coefficients. Subgroup analyses according to the median values of age, pain intensity, and disability were used to compare the intergroup difference in tactile acuity. Results Results illustrated significant negative associations among age, pain intensity, disability, and tactile acuity. Subgroup analyses revealed that patients with below-the-median values of age, pain intensity, and disability had better performance in tactile acuity tests than those with above-the-median values. Conclusion This study indicated that tactile acuity was negatively associated with age, pain intensity, and disability in young patients with chronic low back pain.
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Hsu HY, Lin CW, Lin YC, Wu PT, Kato H, Su FC, Kuo LC. Effects of vibrotactile-enhanced music-based intervention on sensorimotor control capacity in the hand of an aging brain: a pilot feasibility randomized crossover trial. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:660. [PMID: 34814839 PMCID: PMC8609800 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02604-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Music-based interventions (MBI), using music as a therapeutic medium, has been utilized as a promising strategy for motor relearning and shaping. However, currently, MBI with active performance training is restricted to being extensively applied for patients with various levels of defects in fine motor skills and cognitive functions. Therefore, the integration of vibrotactile stimulation with MBI has been adopted as a motor training strategy intended to enhance motor learning through use of vibration stimuli. The current study was designed to investigate differences in the sensorimotor performance of older adults' hands under baseline, a single session of active MBI, and vibrotactile-enriched MBI conditions. METHODS Thirty healthy older adults were recruited and randomized to receive either the single session of 30-min of vibrotactile-enriched MBI or 30-min of active MBI at the beginning of the experiment. After a one-week washout period, they switched their treatment programs and then were assessed to study the training effects of both approaches through measuring precision pinch performance, hand function, and sensory status. RESULTS The results of the Pinch-Holding-Up Activity test revealed a statistically significant difference in the FRpeak parameter (F = 14.37, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.507) under the vibrotactile-enriched MBI condition compared to the baseline and active MBI conditions. In addition, significant beneficial effects were found on the results of the barognosis (F = 19.126, p < 0.001, η2p = 0. 577) and roughness differentiation subtests (F = 15.036, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.518) in the Manual Tactile Test for the participants in the vibrotactile-enriched MBI group. In addition, the participants under both the active MBI and vibrotactile-enriched MBI conditions exhibited better performance in the three subtests of the Purdue Pegboard Test as compared to under the baseline condition (p < 0.016). CONCLUSIONS The findings indicated that vibrotactile-enriched MBI potentially improves the precision pinch performance of hands in healthy older adults. In addition, the add-on effect of vibrotactile stimulation to the MBI condition provides beneficial effects on the sensory functions of the upper extremities. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04802564 . Date of registration: 15/03/2021. The first posted date: 17/03/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Yun Hsu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Che-Wei Lin
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ching Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ting Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hirokazu Kato
- Graduate School of Information Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Japan
| | - Fong-Chin Su
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chieh Kuo
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Liu P, Chrysidou A, Doehler J, Hebart MN, Wolbers T, Kuehn E. The organizational principles of de-differentiated topographic maps in somatosensory cortex. eLife 2021; 10:e60090. [PMID: 34003108 PMCID: PMC8186903 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Topographic maps are a fundamental feature of cortex architecture in the mammalian brain. One common theory is that the de-differentiation of topographic maps links to impairments in everyday behavior due to less precise functional map readouts. Here, we tested this theory by characterizing de-differentiated topographic maps in primary somatosensory cortex (SI) of younger and older adults by means of ultra-high resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging together with perceptual finger individuation and hand motor performance. Older adults' SI maps showed similar amplitude and size to younger adults' maps, but presented with less representational similarity between distant fingers. Larger population receptive field sizes in older adults' maps did not correlate with behavior, whereas reduced cortical distances between D2 and D3 related to worse finger individuation but better motor performance. Our data uncover the drawbacks of a simple de-differentiation model of topographic map function, and motivate the introduction of feature-based models of cortical reorganization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Liu
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)MagdeburgGermany
| | - Anastasia Chrysidou
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)MagdeburgGermany
| | - Juliane Doehler
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)MagdeburgGermany
| | - Martin N Hebart
- Vision and Computational Cognition Group, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
| | - Thomas Wolbers
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)MagdeburgGermany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS) MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
| | - Esther Kuehn
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)MagdeburgGermany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS) MagdeburgMagdeburgGermany
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Impact of Somatosensory Training on Neural and Functional Recovery of Lower Extremity in Patients with Chronic Stroke: A Single Blind Controlled Randomized Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020583. [PMID: 33445588 PMCID: PMC7826555 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Recovery of lower extremity (LE) function in chronic stroke patients is considered a barrier to community reintegration. An adequate training program is required to improve neural and functional performance of the affected LE in chronic stroke patients. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of somatosensory rehabilitation on neural and functional recovery of LE in stroke patients. Thirty male and female patients were recruited and randomized to equal groups: control group (GI) and intervention group (GII). All patients were matched for age, duration of stroke, and degree of motor impairment of the affected LE. Both groups received standard program of physical therapy in addition to somatosensory rehabilitation for GII. The duration of treatment for both groups was eight consecutive weeks. Outcome measures used were Functional Independent Measure (FIM) and Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG), obtained pre- and post-treatment. A significant improvement was found in the FIM scores of the intervention group (GII), as compared to the control group (GI) (p < 0.001). Additionally, QEEG scores improved within the intervention group post-treatment. QEEG scores did not improve within the control group post-treatment, except for “Cz-AR”, compared to pretreatment, with no significant difference between groups. Adding somatosensory training to standard physical therapy program results in better improvement of neuromuscular control of LE function in chronic stroke patients.
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Predel C, Kaminski E, Hoff M, Carius D, Villringer A, Ragert P. Motor Skill Learning-Induced Functional Plasticity in the Primary Somatosensory Cortex: A Comparison Between Young and Older Adults. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:596438. [PMID: 33324196 PMCID: PMC7723828 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.596438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While in young adults (YAs) the underlying neural mechanisms of motor learning are well-studied, studies on the involvement of the somatosensory system during motor skill learning in older adults (OAs) remain sparse. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate motor learning-induced neuroplasticity in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) in YAs and OAs. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) were used to quantify somatosensory activation prior and immediately after motor skill learning in 20 right-handed healthy YAs (age range: 19–35 years) and OAs (age range: 57–76 years). Participants underwent a single session of a 30-min co-contraction task of the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) and deltoid muscle. To assess the effect of motor learning, muscle onset asynchrony (MOA) between the onsets of the contractions of both muscles was measured using electromyography monitoring. In both groups, MOA shortened significantly during motor learning, with YAs showing bigger reductions. No changes were found in SEP amplitudes after motor learning in both groups. However, a correlation analysis revealed an association between baseline SEP amplitudes of the N20/P25 and N30 SEP component and the motor learning slope in YAs such that higher amplitudes are related to higher learning. Hence, the present findings suggest that SEP amplitudes might serve as a predictor of individual motor learning success, at least in YAs. Additionally, our results suggest that OAs are still capable of learning complex motor tasks, showing the importance of motor training in higher age to remain an active part of our society as a prevention for care dependency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Predel
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaminski
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.,Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maike Hoff
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Carius
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.,Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Mind Brain Body Institute, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.,Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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O'Brien JM, Chan JS, Setti A. Audio-Visual Training in Older Adults: 2-Interval-Forced Choice Task Improves Performance. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:569212. [PMID: 33304234 PMCID: PMC7693639 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.569212] [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: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing interest in ameliorating multisensory perception deficits in older adults arises from recent evidence showing that impaired multisensory processing, particularly in the temporal domain, may be associated with cognitive and functional impairments. Perceptual training has proved successful in improving multisensory temporal processing in young adults, but few studies have investigated this training approach in older adults. In the present study we used a simultaneity (or synchronicity) judgement task with feedback, to train the audio-visual abilities of community-dwelling, cognitively healthy older adults. We recruited 23 older adults (M = 74.17, SD = 6.23) and a group of 20 young adults (M = 24.20, SD = 4.23) who served as a comparison. Participants were tested before and after perceptual training using a 2-Interval Forced Choice Task (2-IFC); and the Sound-Induced Flash Illusion (SIFI). After 3 days of training, participants improved on the 2-IFC task, with a significant narrowing of the temporal window of integration (TWI) found for both groups. Generalization of training effects was not found, with no post-training differences in perceptual sensitivity to the SIFI for either group. These findings provide evidence perceptual narrowing can be achieved in older as well as younger adults after 3 days of perceptual training. These results provide useful information for future studies attempting to improve audio-visual temporal discrimination abilities in older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M O'Brien
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jason S Chan
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Annalisa Setti
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Bartsch KM, Schleip R, Zullo A, Hoppe K, Klingler W. The Stiffness Comparison Test: A pilot study to determine inter-individual differences in palpatory skill related to gender, age, and occupation-related experience. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2020; 24:1-6. [PMID: 33218495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Manual palpation is a core skill in physical examination. Assessing elastic properties such as tissue stiffness has the potential for being an important diagnostics tool in the detection of cancer and other diseases. OBJECTIVE The study describes the newly developed Stiffness Comparison Test (SCT). The aim of our study was to test the SCT as a tool to detect interindividual differences in palpation skill related to gender, age and occupational experience. METHODS We used eight pairs of polyuterhane gel pads with the stiffness difference decreasing from the first to the last pair. Test subjects were asked to palpate each pair and determine stiffness differences. PARTICIPANTS We recruited 25 osteopaths, 48 other manual therapists and 50 participants from other non-manual professions. RESULTS As hypothesized there was no significant difference in SCT performance between the sexes (t(121) = 0.288, p = .774). To investigate if an age-related decline would have an effect on palpation skill, we carried out a linear regression. As hypothesized, the model did not predict any significant associations (F(1, 121) = 2.733, b = -0.149, p = .101, R2 = 0.022). To compare the effect of occupational groups on SCT performance a one-way ANOVA was conducted. There were no statistically significant differences between group means (F(2, 120) = 0.598, p = .552). CONCLUSIONS The SCT can be used as simple and affordable tool for assessment, teaching and training in all disciplines of manual medicine. Further refinements of the tool are suggested to advance its discrimination power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Martina Bartsch
- Verein zur Förderung der Faszienforschung e.V., Munich, Germany; Department of Sport Science and Sports, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.
| | - Robert Schleip
- Experimental Anaesthesiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany; Department of Sports Medicine and Health Promotion, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany; Fascia Research Group, Experimental Anesthesiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany; Diploma University of Applied Sciences, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany; Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Germany.
| | - Alberto Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy.
| | - Kerstin Hoppe
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Werner Klingler
- Experimental Anaesthesiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany; SRH Hospital, Sigmaringen, Germany; Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia; Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Germany.
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13
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Timm F, Kuehn E. A Mechanical Stimulation Glove to Induce Hebbian Plasticity at the Fingertip. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:177. [PMID: 32528264 PMCID: PMC7263020 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive sensory stimulation of the fingertip induces Hebbian plasticity in the sensorimotor cortex that benefits the tactile and motor behavior of the hand in healthy younger adults, older adults, and patients. To use this method outside the laboratory, robust and portable stimulation systems are needed that allow prolonged stimulation phases over several hours without compromising on signal intensity or personal mobility. Here, we introduce two stimulation gloves that apply finger- and frequency-specific mechanical stimulation to individual fingertips over prolonged periods. The stimulators are built into commercially available cotton gloves and apply stimulation either via loudspeaker membranes or via linear resonant actuators (LRAs). We tested the efficiency of both gloves to induce Hebbian plasticity in younger adults by using two established measures of tactile performance, the grating orientation task (GOT), and the two-point discrimination task (2PDT). Both tests were performed before and after 3 h of sensory finger stimulation using one of either glove system. As a control condition, a non-stimulated finger was tested in both tasks before and after stimulation. The results show no significant effect of sensory stimulation on GOT thresholds, but a significant decrease in the 2PDT thresholds after compared to before the training at the stimulated finger only. The loudspeaker membrane improved performance in the 2PDT in 10/16 participants, whereas the LRA improved performance in the 2PDT in 13/16 participants. Stimulation gloves with built-in modules may be used in future larger-scale cohort studies on sensorimotor plasticity, rehabilitation, and learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Timm
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Esther Kuehn
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany.,Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS) Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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14
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Watanabe H, Kojima S, Otsuru N, Onishi H. The Repetitive Mechanical Tactile Stimulus Intervention Effects Depend on Input Methods. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:393. [PMID: 32410954 PMCID: PMC7198832 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hiraku Watanabe
- Graduate School, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
- *Correspondence: Hiraku Watanabe,
| | - Sho Kojima
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| | - Naofumi Otsuru
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hideaki Onishi
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
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15
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Yıldırım E, Güntekin B, Hanoğlu L, Algun C. EEG alpha activity increased in response to transcutaneous electrical nervous stimulation in young healthy subjects but not in the healthy elderly. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8330. [PMID: 31938578 PMCID: PMC6953335 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is used not only in the treatment of pain but also in the examination of sensory functions. With aging, there is decreased sensitivity to somatosensory stimuli. It is essential to examine the effect of TENS application on the sensory functions in the brain by recording the spontaneous electroencephalogram (EEG) activity and the effect of aging on the sensory functions of the brain during the application. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of the application of TENS on the brain’s electrical activity and the effect of aging on the sensory functions of the brain during application of TENS. A total of 15 young (24.2 ± 3.59) and 14 elderly (65.64 ± 4.92) subjects were included in the study. Spontaneous EEG was recorded from 32 channels during TENS application. Power spectrum analysis was performed by Fast Fourier Transform in the alpha frequency band (8–13 Hz) for all subjects. Repeated measures of analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). Young subjects had increased alpha power during the TENS application and had gradually increased alpha power by increasing the current intensity of TENS (p = 0.035). Young subjects had higher alpha power than elderly subjects in the occipital and parietal locations (p = 0.073). We can, therefore, conclude that TENS indicated increased alpha activity in young subjects. Young subjects had higher alpha activity than elderly subjects in the occipital and somatosensory areas. To our knowledge, the present study is one of the first studies examining the effect of TENS on spontaneous EEG in healthy subjects. Based on the results of the present study, TENS may be used as an objective method for the examination of sensory impairments, and in the evaluative efficiency of the treatment of pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebru Yıldırım
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation/Graduate School of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Biophysics/School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,REMER, Clinical Electrophysiology, Neuroimaging, and Neuromodulation Lab., Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bahar Güntekin
- Department of Biophysics/School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,REMER, Clinical Electrophysiology, Neuroimaging, and Neuromodulation Lab., Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Lütfü Hanoğlu
- REMER, Clinical Electrophysiology, Neuroimaging, and Neuromodulation Lab., Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Neurology/School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Candan Algun
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation/School of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Orthesis-Prosthesis/School of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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16
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Taghizadeh G, Azad A, Kashefi S, Fallah S, Daneshjoo F. The effect of sensory-motor training on hand and upper extremity sensory and motor function in patients with idiopathic Parkinson disease. J Hand Ther 2019; 31:486-493. [PMID: 29150384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Blinded randomized controlled trial. INTRODUCTION Patients with Parkinson disease (PD) have sensory problems, but there is still no accurate understanding of the effects of sensory-motor interventions on PD. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To investigate the effects of sensory-motor training (SMT) on hand and upper extremity sensory and motor function in patients with PD. METHODS Forty patients with PD were allocated to the SMT group or the control group (CG) (mean ages ± standard deviation: SMT, 61.05 ± 13.9 years; CG, 59.15 ± 11.26 years). The CG received the common rehabilitation therapies, whereas the SMT group received SMT. The SMT included discrimination of temperatures, weights, textures, shapes, and objects and was performed 5 times each week for 2 weeks. RESULTS Significantly reducing the error rates in the haptic object recognition test (dominant hand [DH]: F = 15.36, P = .001, and effect size [ES] = 0.29; nondominant hand [NDH]: F = 9.33, P = .004, and ES = 0.21) and the error means in the wrist proprioception sensation test (DH: F = 9.11, P = .005, and ES = 0.19; NDH: F = 13.04, P = .001, and ES = 0.26) and increasing matched objects in the hand active sensation test (DH: F = 12.15, P = .001, and ES = 0.24; NDH: F = 5.03, P = .03, and ES = 0.12) founded in the SMT. Also, the DH (F = 6.65, P = .01, and ES = 0.15), both hands (F = 7.61, P = .009, and ES = 0.17), and assembly (F = 7.02, P = .01, and ES = 0.15) subtests of fine motor performance, as well as DH (F = 10.1, P = .003, and ES = 0.21) and NDH (F = 8.37, P = .006, and ES = 0.18) in upper extremity functional performance, were improved in the SMT. DISCUSSION SMT improved hand and upper extremity sensory-motor function in patients with PD. CONCLUSION The SMT group showed improved sensory and motor function. But these results were limited to levels 1 to 3 of the Hoehn and Yahr Scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghorban Taghizadeh
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Azad
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepiede Kashefi
- Occupational Therapy, Zabol University of Medical Science, Zabol, Iran
| | - Soheila Fallah
- Department of Advance Technology of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Daneshjoo
- Occupational Therapy Department, Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Science, Semnan, Iran.
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17
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Friedrich J, Beste C. Passive perceptual learning modulates motor inhibitory control in superior frontal regions. Hum Brain Mapp 2019; 41:726-738. [PMID: 31652018 PMCID: PMC7267975 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.24835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Response inhibition is of vital importance in the context of controlling inappropriate responses. The role of perceptual processes during inhibitory control has attracted increased interest. Yet, we are far from an understanding of the mechanisms. One candidate mechanism by which perceptual processes may affect response inhibition refers to “gain control” that is closely linked to the signal‐to‐noise ratio of incoming information. A means to modulate the signal‐to‐noise ratio and gain control mechanisms is perceptual learning. In the current study, we examine the impact of perceptual learning (i.e., passive repetitive sensory stimulation) on response inhibition combining EEG signal decomposition with source localization analyses. A tactile GO/NOGO paradigm was conducted to measure action restraint as one subcomponent of response inhibition. We show that passive perceptual learning modulates response inhibition processes. In particular, perceptual learning attenuates the detrimental effect of response automation during inhibitory control. Temporally decomposed EEG data show that stimulus‐related and not response selection processes during conflict monitoring are linked to these effects. The superior and middle frontal gyrus (BA6), as well as the motor cortex (BA4), are associated with the effects of perceptual learning on response inhibition. Reliable neurophysiological effects were not evident on the basis of standard ERPs, which has important methodological implications for perceptual learning research. The results detail how lower level sensory plasticity protocols affect higher‐order cognitive control functions in frontal cortical structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Friedrich
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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18
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Marzoll A, Saygi T, Dinse HR. The effect of LTP- and LTD-like visual stimulation on modulation of human orientation discrimination. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16156. [PMID: 30385849 PMCID: PMC6212525 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34276-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies showing that repetitive visual stimulation protocols alter perception and induce cortical reorganization, as well-reported for the tactile domain, have been sparse. In this study, we investigated how “long-term potentiation [LTP]-like” and “long-term depression [LTD]-like” repetitive visual stimulation affects orientation discrimination ability in human observers. LTP-like stimulation with features most closely resembling the stimuli used during behavioral assessment evoked the largest improvement, while the effects were smaller in protocols that differed in shape or orientation features. This gradient suggests lower learning specificity than classical perceptual learning experiments, possibly because of an interplay of task- and feature-based factors. All modulatory effects of repetitive stimulation were superimposed on top of spontaneous task learning. Moreover, blockwise analysis revealed that LTP-like stimulation, in contrast to LTD-like or sham stimulation, prevented a loss of practice-related gain of orientation discrimination thresholds. This observation highlights a critical role of LTP-like stimulation for consolidation, typically observed during sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Marzoll
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Tan Saygi
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Hubert R Dinse
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany. .,Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
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19
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Sozzi S, Decortes F, Schmid M, Crisafulli O, Schieppati M. Balance in Blind Subjects: Cane and Fingertip Touch Induce Similar Extent and Promptness of Stance Stabilization. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:639. [PMID: 30254565 PMCID: PMC6141713 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Subjects with low vision often use a cane when standing and walking autonomously in everyday life. One aim of this study was to assess differences in the body stabilizing effect produced by the contact of the cane with the ground or by the fingertip touch of a firm surface. Another aim was to estimate the promptness of balance stabilization (or destabilization) on adding (or withdrawing) the haptic input from cane or fingertip. Twelve blind subjects and two subjects with severe visual impairment participated in two experimental protocols while maintaining the tandem Romberg posture on a force platform. In one protocol, subjects lowered the cane to a second platform on the ground and lifted it in sequence at their own pace. In the other protocol, they touched an instrumented pad with the index finger and withdrew the finger from the pad in sequence. In both protocols, subjects were asked to exert a force not granting mechanical stabilization. Under steady-state condition, the finger touch or the contact of the cane with the ground significantly reduced (to ∼78% and ∼86%, respectively) the amplitude of medio-lateral oscillation of the centre of foot pressure (CoP). Oscillation then increased when haptic information was removed. The delay to the change in body oscillation after the haptic shift was longer for addition than withdrawal of the haptic information (∼1.4 s and ∼0.7 s, respectively; p < 0.001), but was not different between the two haptic conditions (finger and cane). Similar stabilizing effects of input from cane on the ground and from fingertip touch, and similar latencies to integrate haptic cue from both sources, suggest that the process of integration of the input for balance control is initiated by the haptic stimulus at the interface cane-hand. Use of a tool is as helpful as the fingertip input, and does not produce different stabilization. Further, the latencies to haptic cue integration (from fingertip or cane) are similar to those previously found in a group of sighted subjects, suggesting that integration delays for automatic balance stabilization are not modified by visual impairment. Haptic input from a tool is easily exploited by the neural circuits subserving automatic balance stabilization in blind people, and its use should be enforced by sensory-enhancing devices and appropriate training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Sozzi
- Centro Studi Attività Motorie, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Decortes
- Centro di Riabilitazione Visiva, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
| | - Monica Schmid
- Centro di Riabilitazione Visiva, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
| | - Oscar Crisafulli
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Schieppati
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
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20
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Sex-Specific Links in Motor and Sensory Adaptations to Repetitive Motion–Induced Fatigue. Motor Control 2018; 22:149-169. [DOI: 10.1123/mc.2017-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Cheng CH, Lin MY, Yang SH. Age Effect on Automatic Inhibitory Function of the Somatosensory and Motor Cortex: An MEG Study. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:53. [PMID: 29551971 PMCID: PMC5840154 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related deficiency in the top-down modulation of cognitive inhibition has been extensively documented, whereas the effects of age on a bottom-up or automatic operation of inhibitory function were less investigated. It is unknown that whether the older adults (OA)’ reduced behavioral performance and neural responses are due to the insufficient bottom-up processes. Compared to behavioral assessments which have been widely used to examine the top-down control of response inhibition, electrophysiological recordings are more suitable to probe the early-stage processes of automatic inhibitory function. Sensory gating (SG), a phenomenon of attenuated neural response to the second identical stimulus in a paired-pulse paradigm, is an indicator to assess automatic inhibitory function of the sensory cortex. On the other hand, electricity-induced beta rebound oscillation in a single-pulse paradigm reflects cortical inhibition of the motor cortex. From the neurophysiological perspective, SG and beta rebound oscillation are replicable indicators to examine the automatic inhibitory function of human sensorimotor cortices. Thus, the present study aimed to use a whole-head magnetoencephalography (MEG) to investigate the age-related alterations of SG function in the primary somatosensory cortex (SI) and of beta rebound oscillation in the primary motor cortex (MI) in 17 healthy younger and 15 older adults. The Stimulus 2/Stimulus 1 (S2/S1) amplitude ratio in response to the paired-pulse electrical stimulation to the left median nerve was used to evaluate the automatic inhibitory function of SI, and the beta rebound response in the single-pulse paradigm was used to evaluate the automatic inhibitory function of MI. Although there were no significant age-related differences found in the SI SG ratios, the MI beta rebound power was reduced and peak latency was prolonged in the OA. Furthermore, significant association between the SI SG ratio and the MI beta rebound power, which was seen in the younger adults (YA), was absent in the OA. In conclusion, our data suggested an age-related defect of association between sensorimotor cortices regarding automatic inhibitory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsiung Cheng
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Graduate Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Laboratory of Brain Imaging and Neural Dynamics (BIND Lab), Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Yin Lin
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Graduate Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Laboratory of Brain Imaging and Neural Dynamics (BIND Lab), Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shiou-Han Yang
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Graduate Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Laboratory of Brain Imaging and Neural Dynamics (BIND Lab), Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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22
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Kattenstroth JC, Kalisch T, Sczesny-Kaiser M, Greulich W, Tegenthoff M, Dinse HR. Daily repetitive sensory stimulation of the paretic hand for the treatment of sensorimotor deficits in patients with subacute stroke: RESET, a randomized, sham-controlled trial. BMC Neurol 2018; 18:2. [PMID: 29316895 PMCID: PMC5759807 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-017-1006-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Repetitive sensory stimulation (RSS) adapts the timing of stimulation protocols used in cellular studies to induce synaptic plasticity. In healthy subjects, RSS leads to widespread sensorimotor cortical reorganization paralleled by improved sensorimotor behavior. Here, we investigated whether RSS reduces sensorimotor upper limb impairment in patients with subacute stroke more effectively than conventional therapy. Methods A single-blinded sham-controlled clinical trial assessed the effectiveness of RSS in treating sensorimotor deficits of the upper limbs. Patients with subacute unilateral ischemic stroke were randomly assigned to receive standard therapy in combination with RSS or with sham RSS. Patients were masked to treatment allocation. RSS consisted of intermittent 20 Hz electrical stimulation applied on the affected hand for 45 min/day, 5 days per week, for 2 weeks, and was transmitted using custom-made stimulation-gloves with built-in electrodes contacting each fingertip separately. Before and after the intervention, we assessed light-touch and tactile discrimination, proprioception, dexterity, grip force, and subtasks of the Jebsen Taylor hand-function test for the non-affected and the affected hand. Data from these quantitative tests were combined into a total performance index serving as primary outcome measure. In addition, tolerability and side effects of RSS intervention were recorded. Results Seventy one eligible patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive RSS treatment (n = 35) or sham RSS (n = 36). Data of 25 patients were not completed because they were transferred to another hospital, resulting in n = 23 for each group. Before treatment, sensorimotor performance between groups was balanced (p = 0.237). After 2 weeks of the intervention, patients in the group receiving standard therapy with RSS showed significantly better restored sensorimotor function than the control group (standardized mean difference 0.57; 95% CI -0.013–1.16; p = 0.027) RSS treatment was superior in all domains tested. Repetitive sensory stimulation was well tolerated and accepted, and no adverse events were observed. Conclusions Rehabilitation including RSS enhanced sensorimotor recovery more effectively than standard therapy alone. Rehabilitation outcome between the effects of RSS and standard therapy was largest for sensory and motor improvement; however, the results for proprioception and everyday tasks were encouraging warranting further studies in more severe patients. Trial registration The trial was retrospectively registered January 31, 2012 under DRKS00003515 (https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do;jsessionid=AEE2585CCB82A22A2B285470B37C47C8?navigationId=results).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan C Kattenstroth
- Institute for Neuroinformatik, Neural Plasticity Lab, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Tobias Kalisch
- Institute for Neuroinformatik, Neural Plasticity Lab, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Matthias Sczesny-Kaiser
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Martin Tegenthoff
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Hubert R Dinse
- Institute for Neuroinformatik, Neural Plasticity Lab, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany. .,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany. .,Department of Neuroinformatik, Neural Plasticity Lab, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Building NB3, 44780, Bochum, Germany.
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Dinse HR, Tegenthoff M. Repetitive Sensory Stimulation—A Canonical Approach to Control the Induction of Human Learning at a Behavioral and Neural Level. HANDBOOK OF BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-812028-6.00021-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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24
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Rocchi L, Erro R, Antelmi E, Berardelli A, Tinazzi M, Liguori R, Bhatia K, Rothwell J. High frequency somatosensory stimulation increases sensori-motor inhibition and leads to perceptual improvement in healthy subjects. Clin Neurophysiol 2017; 128:1015-1025. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2017.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 03/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Ordnung M, Hoff M, Kaminski E, Villringer A, Ragert P. No Overt Effects of a 6-Week Exergame Training on Sensorimotor and Cognitive Function in Older Adults. A Preliminary Investigation. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11:160. [PMID: 28420973 PMCID: PMC5378780 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies investigating the relationship between physical activity and cognition showed that exercise interventions might have beneficial effects on working memory, executive functions as well as motor fitness in old adults. Recently, movement based video games (exergames) have been introduced to have the capability to improve cognitive function in older adults. Healthy aging is associated with a loss of cognitive, as well as sensorimotor functions. During exergaming, participants are required to perform physical activities while being simultaneously surrounded by a cognitively challenging environment. However, only little is known about the impact of exergame training interventions on a broad range of motor, sensory, and cognitive skills. Therefore, the present study aims at investigating the effects of an exergame training over 6 weeks on cognitive, motor, and sensory functions in healthy old participants. For this purpose, 30 neurologically healthy older adults were randomly assigned to either an experimental (ETG, n = 15, 1 h training, twice a week) or a control group (NTG, n = 15, no training). Several cognitive tests were performed before and after exergaming in order to capture potential training-induced effects on processing speed as well as on executive functions. To measure the impact of exergaming on sensorimotor performance, a test battery consisting of pinch and grip force of the hand, tactile acuity, eye-hand coordination, flexibility, reaction time, coordination, and static balance were additionally performed. While we observed significant improvements in the trained exergame (mainly in tasks that required a high load of coordinative abilities), these gains did not result in differential performance improvements when comparing ETG and NTG. The only exergaming-induced difference was a superior behavioral gain in fine motor skills of the left hand in ETG compared to NTG. In an exploratory analysis, within-group comparison revealed improvements in sensorimotor and cognitive tasks (ETG) while NTG only showed an improvement in a static balance test. Taken together, the present study indicates that even though exergames might improve gaming performance, our behavioral assessment was probably not sensitive enough to capture exergaming-induced improvements. Hence, we suggest to use more tailored outcome measures in future studies to assess potential exergaming-induced changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Ordnung
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzig, Germany
| | - Maike Hoff
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaminski
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzig, Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzig, Germany
- Mind and Brain Institute, Charité and Humboldt UniversityBerlin, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzig, Germany
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of LeipzigLeipzig, Germany
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Vieira AI, Nogueira D, de Azevedo Reis E, da Lapa Rosado M, Vânia Nunes M, Castro-Caldas A. Hand tactile discrimination, social touch and frailty criteria in elderly people: A cross sectional observational study. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2016; 66:73-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2016.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Muret D, Daligault S, Dinse HR, Delpuech C, Mattout J, Reilly KT, Farnè A. Neuromagnetic correlates of adaptive plasticity across the hand-face border in human primary somatosensory cortex. J Neurophysiol 2016; 115:2095-104. [PMID: 26888099 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00628.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that permanent or transient reduction of somatosensory inputs, following hand deafferentation or anesthesia, induces plastic changes across the hand-face border, supposedly responsible for some altered perceptual phenomena such as tactile sensations being referred from the face to the phantom hand. It is also known that transient increase of hand somatosensory inputs, via repetitive somatosensory stimulation (RSS) at a fingertip, induces local somatosensory discriminative improvement accompanied by cortical representational changes in the primary somatosensory cortex (SI). We recently demonstrated that RSS at the tip of the right index finger induces similar training-independent perceptual learning across the hand-face border, improving somatosensory perception at the lips (Muret D, Dinse HR, Macchione S, Urquizar C, Farnè A, Reilly KT.Curr Biol24: R736-R737, 2014). Whether neural plastic changes across the hand-face border accompany such remote and adaptive perceptual plasticity remains unknown. Here we used magnetoencephalography to investigate the electrophysiological correlates underlying RSS-induced behavioral changes across the hand-face border. The results highlight significant changes in dipole location after RSS both for the stimulated finger and for the lips. These findings reveal plastic changes that cross the hand-face border after an increase, instead of a decrease, in somatosensory inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dollyane Muret
- ImpAct Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France; University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France;
| | | | - Hubert R Dinse
- Neural Plasticity Laboratory, Institute of Neuroinformatics, Ruhr University, Bochum, Germany; Clinic of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Bochum, Germany; and
| | | | - Jérémie Mattout
- University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France; Dycog Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France
| | - Karen T Reilly
- ImpAct Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France; University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Alessandro Farnè
- ImpAct Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France; University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
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Lämås K, Häger C, Lindgren L, Wester P, Brulin C. Does touch massage facilitate recovery after stroke? A study protocol of a randomized controlled trial. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2016; 16:50. [PMID: 26846253 PMCID: PMC4743203 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1029-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite high quality stroke care, decreased sensorimotor function, anxiety and pain often remain one year after stroke which can lead to impaired health and dependence, as well as higher healthcare costs. Touch massage (TM) has been proven to decrease anxiety and pain, and improve quality of health in other conditions of reduced health, where reduced anxiety seems to be the most pronounced benefit. Thus there are reasons to believe that TM may also reduce anxiety and pain, and improve quality of life after stroke. Further, several studies indicate that somatosensory stimulation can increase sensorimotor function, and it seems feasible to believe that TM could increase independence after stroke. In this study we will evaluate effects of TM after stroke compared to sham treatment. METHODS This is a prospective randomized open-labelled control trial with blinded evaluation (PROBE-design). Fifty patients with stroke admitted to stroke units will be randomized (1:1) to either a TM intervention or a non-active transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (non-TENS) control group. Ten sessions of 30 min treatments (TM or control) will be administered during two weeks. Assessment of status according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), including body function, activity, and participation. Assessment of body function will include anxiety, pain, and stress response (heart rate variability and salivary cortisol), where anxiety is the primary outcome. Activity will be assessed by means of sensorimotor function and disability, and participation by means of health-related quality of life. Assessments will be made at baseline, after one week of treatment, after two weeks of treatment, and finally a follow-up after two months. The trial has been approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board. DISCUSSION TM seems to decrease anxiety and pain, increase health-related quality of life, and improve sensorimotor functions after stroke, but the field is largely unexplored. Considering the documented pleasant effects of massage in general, absence of reported adverse effects, and potential effects in relation to stroke, it is essential to evaluate effects of TM during the sub-acute phase after stroke. The results of this project will hopefully provide important knowledge for evidence-based care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NTC01883947.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charlotte Häger
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | | | - Per Wester
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Division of Medicine at Umea University, Umea, Sweden.
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Schaefer SY, Duff K. Rapid Responsiveness to Practice Predicts Longer-Term Retention of Upper Extremity Motor Skill in Non-Demented Older Adults. Front Aging Neurosci 2015; 7:214. [PMID: 26635601 PMCID: PMC4649025 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2015.00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Skill acquisition is a form of motor learning that may provide key insights into the aging brain. Although previous work suggests that older adults learn novel motor tasks slower and to a lesser extent than younger adults, we have recently demonstrated no significant effect of chronological age on the rates and amounts of skill acquisition, nor on its long-term retention, in adults over the age of 65. To better understand predictors of skill acquisition in non-demented older adults, we now explore the relationship between early improvements in motor performance due to practice (i.e., rapid responsiveness) and longer-term retention of an upper extremity motor skill, and whether the extent of rapid responsiveness was associated with global cognitive status. Results showed significant improvements in motor performance within the first five (of 150) trials, and that this “rapid responsiveness” was predictive of skill retention 1 month later. Notably, the extent of rapid responsiveness was not dependent on global cognitive status, as measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Thus, rapid responsiveness appears to be an important variable in longer-term neurorehabilitative efforts with older adults, regardless of their cognitive status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Y Schaefer
- Motor Rehabilitation and Learning Laboratory, Utah State University Logan, UT, USA ; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Center on Aging, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kevin Duff
- Center on Aging, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Department of Neurology, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging and Research, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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30
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Borstad A, Altenburger A, Hannigan A, LaPorte J, Mott R, Nichols-Larsen DS. Design, Fabrication, and Administration of the Hand Active Sensation Test (HASTe). J Vis Exp 2015. [PMID: 26382931 PMCID: PMC4692599 DOI: 10.3791/53178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of personalizing neurologic rehabilitation, based on individual impairments, has experienced a recent surge. In parallel, the number of outcome measures of upper extremity motor performance has grown. However, clinicians and researchers lack practical, quantitative measures of the hand's natural role as a receptor of the environment. The Hand Active Sensation Test (HASTe), developed by Williams and colleagues in 2006, is a valid and reliable measure of haptic performance. Though not available commercially, the HASTe can be fabricated from inexpensive materials, and it has been used successfully to identify impairments in haptic touch in individuals with stroke. (Williams, 2006). This paper presents the methods of design and fabrication of the HASTe testing kit, as well as a visual screen to be used during administration, and instructions for the tests administration and scoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rachael Mott
- Division of Physical Therapy, The Ohio State University
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31
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Abstract
Bodily training typically evokes behavioral and perceptual gains, enforcing neuroplastic processes and affecting neural representations. We investigated the effect on somatosensory perception of a three-day Zen meditation exercise, a purely mental intervention. Tactile spatial discrimination of the right index finger was persistently improved by only 6 hours of mental–sensory focusing on this finger, suggesting that intrinsic brain activity created by mental states can alter perception and behavior similarly to external stimulation.
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32
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Valdes K, Naughton N, Algar L. Sensorimotor interventions and assessments for the hand and wrist: a scoping review. J Hand Ther 2015; 27:272-85; quiz 286. [PMID: 25193532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2014] [Revised: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Scoping review. INTRODUCTION Sensorimotor deficits can impair function and may be present in individuals with common upper extremity conditions. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To provide clinicians with an understanding of the usefulness of the assessments to evaluate sensorimotor function and the interventions reported in the literature to effect positive change in our patients with sensorimotor deficits affecting the hand and wrist. METHODS A systematic search produced seventeen studies involving sensorimotor retraining and assessment of sensorimotor performance for the upper extremity. RESULTS Sensorimotor interventions and assessments found in the literature vary in regards to their effectiveness in restoring sensorimotor function in subjects with a number of conditions that affect hand and wrist function. CONCLUSIONS There is a potential value of sensorimotor interventions for individuals with specific upper extremity conditions. There is a need for further studies to improve treatment of sensorimotor deficits and understanding of sensorimotor interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Valdes
- Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Hand Works Therapy, 744 the Rialto, Venice, FL 34285, USA.
| | | | - Lori Algar
- Northeast Orthopaedic and Hand Surgery, Waterbury, CT, USA
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33
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Parianen Lesemann FH, Reuter EM, Godde B. Tactile stimulation interventions: Influence of stimulation parameters on sensorimotor behavior and neurophysiological correlates in healthy and clinical samples. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 51:126-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Ritter P, Born J, Brecht M, Dinse HR, Heinemann U, Pleger B, Schmitz D, Schreiber S, Villringer A, Kempter R. State-dependencies of learning across brain scales. Front Comput Neurosci 2015; 9:1. [PMID: 25767445 PMCID: PMC4341560 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2015.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Learning is a complex brain function operating on different time scales, from milliseconds to years, which induces enduring changes in brain dynamics. The brain also undergoes continuous “spontaneous” shifts in states, which, amongst others, are characterized by rhythmic activity of various frequencies. Besides the most obvious distinct modes of waking and sleep, wake-associated brain states comprise modulations of vigilance and attention. Recent findings show that certain brain states, particularly during sleep, are essential for learning and memory consolidation. Oscillatory activity plays a crucial role on several spatial scales, for example in plasticity at a synaptic level or in communication across brain areas. However, the underlying mechanisms and computational rules linking brain states and rhythms to learning, though relevant for our understanding of brain function and therapeutic approaches in brain disease, have not yet been elucidated. Here we review known mechanisms of how brain states mediate and modulate learning by their characteristic rhythmic signatures. To understand the critical interplay between brain states, brain rhythms, and learning processes, a wide range of experimental and theoretical work in animal models and human subjects from the single synapse to the large-scale cortical level needs to be integrated. By discussing results from experiments and theoretical approaches, we illuminate new avenues for utilizing neuronal learning mechanisms in developing tools and therapies, e.g., for stroke patients and to devise memory enhancement strategies for the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Ritter
- Minerva Research Group BrainModes, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany ; Department of Neurology, Charité University Medicine Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Berlin School of Mind and Brain & Mind and Brain Institute, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Born
- Department of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology & Center for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), University of Tübingen Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Brecht
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Hubert R Dinse
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum Bochum, Germany ; Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Uwe Heinemann
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence Berlin, Germany
| | - Burkhard Pleger
- Clinic for Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig Leipzig, Germany ; Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence Berlin, Germany ; Neuroscience Research Center NWFZ, Charité University Medicine Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, MDC Berlin, Germany ; Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Schreiber
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Department of Biology, Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Berlin School of Mind and Brain & Mind and Brain Institute, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Clinic for Cognitive Neurology, University Hospital Leipzig Leipzig, Germany ; Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany
| | - Richard Kempter
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany ; Department of Biology, Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany
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Roy D, Sigala R, Breakspear M, McIntosh AR, Jirsa VK, Deco G, Ritter P. Using the Virtual Brain to Reveal the Role of Oscillations and Plasticity in Shaping Brain's Dynamical Landscape. Brain Connect 2014; 4:791-811. [DOI: 10.1089/brain.2014.0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dipanjan Roy
- Department of Neurology, Charité—University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Sigala
- Department of Neurology, Charité—University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Breakspear
- Division of Mental Health Research, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales and The Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The Royal Brisbane and Woman's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Viktor K. Jirsa
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes UMR INSERM 1106, Aix-Marseille Université Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | - Gustavo Deco
- Center for Brain and Cognition, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, ICREA (Institut Catala Recerca i Estudis Avancats), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Petra Ritter
- Department of Neurology, Charité—University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
- Minerva Research Group BrainModes, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Berlin School of Mind and Brain & Mind and Brain Institute, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
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Borstad AL, Nichols-Larsen DS. Assessing and treating higher level somatosensory impairments post stroke. Top Stroke Rehabil 2014; 21:290-5. [PMID: 25150660 DOI: 10.1310/tsr2104-290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Poststroke somatosensory impairment is prevalent, yet commonly used clinical measures lack the sensitivity needed to quantify impairment and detect change due to intervention. This selective review, prepared and presented as a part of the I-Treat Conference (June 22, 2013, Columbus, Ohio), discusses the prevalence of somatosensory impairment after stroke, highlights measures of higher level somatosensory processing, and briefly reviews sensorimotor rehabilitation. The goal of this article is to encourage dialogue regarding the development and use of measures of higher level somatosensory function that will enable personalization of sensorimotor rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Borstad
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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37
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The prevalence and magnitude of impaired cutaneous sensation across the hand in the chronic period post-stroke. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104153. [PMID: 25121607 PMCID: PMC4133225 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensation is commonly impaired immediately post-stroke but little is known about the long-term changes in cutaneous sensation that have the capacity to adversely impact independence and motor-function. We investigated cutaneous sensory thresholds across the hand in the chronic post-stroke period. Cutaneous sensation was assessed in 42 community-dwelling stroke patients and compared to 36 healthy subjects. Sensation was tested with calibrated monofilaments at 6 sites on the hand that covered the median, ulnar and radial innervation territories and included both glabrous (hairless) and hairy skin. The motor-function of stroke patients was assessed with the Wolf Motor Function Test and the upper-limb motor Fugl-Meyer Assessment. Impaired cutaneous sensation was defined as monofilament thresholds >3 SD above the mean of healthy subjects and good sensation was ≤ 3 SD. Cutaneous sensation was impaired for 33% of patients and was 40-84% worse on the more-affected side compared to healthy subjects depending on the site (p<0.05). When the stroke patient data were pooled cutaneous sensation fell within the healthy range, although ∼ 1/3 of patients were classified with impaired sensation. Classification by motor-function revealed low levels of impaired sensation. The magnitude of sensory loss was only apparent when the sensory-function of stroke patients was classified as good or impaired. Sensation was most impaired on the dorsum of the hand where age-related changes in monofilament thresholds are minimal in healthy subjects. Although patients with both high and low motor-function had poor cutaneous sensation, overall patients with low motor-function had poorer cutaneous sensation than those with higher motor-function, and relationships were found between motor impairments and sensation at the fingertip and palm. These results emphasize the importance of identifying the presence and magnitude of cutaneous sensory impairments in the chronic period after stroke.
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38
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Reuter EM, Voelcker-Rehage C, Vieluf S, Godde B. Effects of age and expertise on tactile learning in humans. Eur J Neurosci 2014; 40:2589-99. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Reuter
- Jacobs Center on Lifelong Learning and Institutional Development; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
| | - Claudia Voelcker-Rehage
- Jacobs Center on Lifelong Learning and Institutional Development; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
- AGEACT Research Center; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
| | - Solveig Vieluf
- Jacobs Center on Lifelong Learning and Institutional Development; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
- Aix-Marseille Université; CNRS; ISM UMR; Marseille France
| | - Ben Godde
- Jacobs Center on Lifelong Learning and Institutional Development; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
- AGEACT Research Center; Jacobs University Bremen; Bremen Germany
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39
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Mueller S, Winkelmann C, Krause F, Grunwald M. Occupation-related long-term sensory training enhances roughness discrimination but not tactile acuity. Exp Brain Res 2014; 232:1905-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s00221-014-3882-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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40
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Ladda AM, Pfannmoeller JP, Kalisch T, Roschka S, Platz T, Dinse HR, Lotze M. Effects of combining 2 weeks of passive sensory stimulation with active hand motor training in healthy adults. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84402. [PMID: 24416229 PMCID: PMC3886996 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The gold standard to acquire motor skills is through intensive training and practicing. Recent studies have demonstrated that behavioral gains can also be acquired by mere exposure to repetitive sensory stimulation to drive the plasticity processes. Single application of repetitive electric stimulation (rES) of the fingers has been shown to improve tactile perception in young adults as well as sensorimotor performance in healthy elderly individuals. The combination of repetitive motor training with a preceding rES has not been reported yet. In addition, the impact of such a training on somatosensory tactile and spatial sensitivity as well as on somatosensory cortical activation remains elusive. Therefore, we tested 15 right-handed participants who underwent repetitive electric stimulation of all finger tips of the left hand for 20 minutes prior to one hour of motor training of the left hand over the period of two weeks. Overall, participants substantially improved the motor performance of the left trained hand by 34%, but also showed a relevant transfer to the untrained right hand by 24%. Baseline ipsilateral activation fMRI-magnitude in BA 1 to sensory index finger stimulation predicted training outcome for somatosensory guided movements: those who showed higher ipsilateral activation were those who did profit less from training. Improvement of spatial tactile discrimination was positively associated with gains in pinch grip velocity. Overall, a combination of priming rES and repetitive motor training is capable to induce motor and somatosensory performance increase and representation changes in BA1 in healthy young subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aija Marie Ladda
- Functional Imaging Unit, Center for Diagnostic Radiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Joerg Peter Pfannmoeller
- Functional Imaging Unit, Center for Diagnostic Radiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Tobias Kalisch
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sybille Roschka
- BDH-Klinik Greifswald, Neurorehabilitation Centre and Spinal Cord Injury Unit, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Thomas Platz
- BDH-Klinik Greifswald, Neurorehabilitation Centre and Spinal Cord Injury Unit, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Hubert R. Dinse
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute for Neuroinformatics, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Martin Lotze
- Functional Imaging Unit, Center for Diagnostic Radiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Achieving high-level skills is generally considered to require intense training, which is thought to optimally engage neuronal plasticity mechanisms. Recent work, however, suggests that intensive training may not be necessary for skill learning. Skills can be effectively acquired by a complementary approach in which the learning occurs in response to mere exposure to repetitive sensory stimulation. Such training-independent sensory learning induces lasting changes in perception and goal-directed behaviour in humans, without any explicit task training. We suggest that the effectiveness of this form of learning in different sensory domains stems from the fact that the stimulation protocols used are optimized to alter synaptic transmission and efficacy. While this approach directly links behavioural research in humans with studies on cellular plasticity, other approaches show that learning can occur even in the absence of an actual stimulus. These include learning through imagery or feedback-induced cortical activation, resulting in learning without task training. All these approaches challenge our understanding of the mechanisms that mediate learning. Apparently, humans can learn under conditions thought to be impossible a few years ago. Although the underlying mechanisms are far from being understood, training-independent sensory learning opens novel possibilities for applications aimed at augmenting human cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Beste
- Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Biopsychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitätsstrasse 150, D-44780 Bochum, Germany.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Impaired hand function decreases quality of life after stroke. The purpose of this study was to pilot a novel 2-week upper extremity sensorimotor training program. This case series describes the training program and highlights outcome measures used for documenting behavioral change and neural reorganization. CASE DESCRIPTION Behavioral/performance changes were identified via sensorimotor evaluation. Activity-induced neural reorganization was examined using sensory functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor tractography, and brain volume measurement. Participant 1 was a 75-year-old right-handed man 1 year post-right hemisphere stroke, with severe sensory impairment across domains in his left hand; he reported limited left-hand/arm use. Participant 2 was a 63-year-old right-handed woman who had experienced a left hemisphere stroke 9 months earlier, resulting in mild sensory impairment across domains in her right hand, as well as mild motor deficit. INTERVENTION Participants were trained 4 hours per day, 5 days per week for 2 weeks. Training tasks required sensory discrimination of temperature, weights, textures, shapes, and objects in the context of active exploration with the involved hand. Random multimodal feedback was used. OUTCOMES Both participants had improved scores on the Wolf Motor Function Test after training. Participant 1 had no measurable change in sensory function, while participant 2 improved in touch perception, proprioception, and haptic performance. Sensory functional magnetic resonance imaging suggested neural reorganization in both participants; participant 1 had a small increase in brain volume, while superior thalamic radiation white matter connectivity was unchanged in either participant. DISCUSSION Participating in sensorimotor training focused on sensory discrimination during manual manipulation was feasible for both participants. Future research to determine efficacy and identify optimal measures of sensory function and neural reorganization is recommended. VIDEO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A38) for more insights from the authors.
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Bowden JL, McNulty PA. Age-related changes in cutaneous sensation in the healthy human hand. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 35:1077-89. [PMID: 22661298 PMCID: PMC3705116 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-012-9429-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2012] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous sensation deteriorates with age. It is not known if this change is consistent over the entire hand or if sensation is affected by changes in skin mechanics. Cutaneous perceptual thresholds were tested at eight sites in the glabrous skin and two in the hairy skin of both hands in 70 subjects (20-88 years), five male and five female per decade, using calibrated von Frey filaments, two-point discrimination, and texture discrimination. Venous occlusion at the wrist (40 ± 10 mmHg) and moisturizer were used to alter skin mechanics. Cutaneous thresholds increased significantly with age (p < 0.001); von Frey thresholds were 0.04 g [0.02-0.07] (median and interquartile range) in the 20s and 0.16 g [0.04-0.4] in the 80s, with differences between hands for older females (p = 0.044) but not males. The pattern of changes in cutaneous sensation varied according to the site tested with smaller changes on the fingers compared to the palm. Two-point discrimination deteriorated with age (p = 0.046), but with no interaction between sex, handedness, or changes in skin mechanics. There were no significant differences for texture discrimination. Changes in skin mechanics improved cutaneous thresholds in the oldest males after moisturizing (p = 0.001) but not otherwise. These results emphasize the complex pattern of age-related deterioration in cutaneous sensation with differences between sexes, the hands, sites on the hand, and the mode of testing. As the index fingertip is not a sensitive indicator of sensory decline, the minimum assessment of age-related changes in cutaneous sensation should include both hands, and sites on the palm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn L. Bowden
- />Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW 2031 Australia
- />The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Penelope A. McNulty
- />Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW 2031 Australia
- />The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
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Llinares A, Badesa FJ, Morales R, Garcia-Aracil N, Sabater JM, Fernandez E. Robotic assessment of the influence of age on upper-limb sensorimotor function. Clin Interv Aging 2013; 8:879-88. [PMID: 23885170 PMCID: PMC3716446 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s45900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This paper examines the influence of age on several attributes of sensorimotor performance while performing a reaching task. Our hypothesis, based on previous studies, is that aged persons will show differences in one or more of the attributes of sensorimotor performance. Patients and methods Fifty-one subjects (aged 20–80 years) with no known neuromotor disorders of the upper limbs participated in the study. Subjects were asked to grasp the end-effector of a pneumatic robotic device with two degrees of freedom in order to reach peripheral targets (1.0 cm radius), “quickly and accurately”, from a centrally located target (1.0 cm radius). Subjects began each trial by holding the hand within the central target for 2000 milliseconds. Afterwards, a peripheral target was illuminated. Then participants were given 3000 milliseconds to complete the movement. When a target was reached, the participant had to return to the central target in order to start a new trial. A total of 64 trials were completed and each peripheral target was illuminated in a random block design. Results Subjects were divided into three groups according to age: group 1 (age 20–40 years), group 2 (age 41–60 years), and group 3 (age 61–80 years). The Kruskal–Wallis test showed significant differences (P < 0.05) between groups, except for the variables postural speed in the dominant arm, and postural speed and initial deviation in the non-dominant arm (P > 0.05). These results suggest that age introduces significant differences in upper-limb motor function. Conclusion Our findings show that there are objective differences in sensorimotor function due to age, and that these differences are greater for the dominant arm. Therefore for the assessment of upper-limb function, we should take into account the influence of age. Moreover, these results suggest that robotic systems can provide a new and effective approach in the assessment of sensorimotor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Llinares
- Biomedical Neuroengineering, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, 03202 Elche, Spain
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Interactions between cold ambient temperature and older age on haptic acuity and manual performance. Can J Aging 2013; 32:195-202. [PMID: 23664002 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980813000184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of exposure to cold on individuals' motor skills demands a deeper understanding of the ways in which cold weather influences psychomotor and haptic performance. In this study, various facets of psychomotor performance were evaluated in order to determine the impacts of ambient cold exposure on older persons. Healthy younger and older persons performed a battery of haptic psychomotor tests at room (23° C) and cold (1° C) ambient temperatures. The results indicate that older individuals do not perform as well as younger persons across the battery of tests, with cold temperature further degrading their performance in dexterity tasks (in, for example, Minnesota Manual Dexterity test placing: F [1, 16] = 10.23, p < .01) and peak precision grip force generation (F [1, 16] = 18.97, p < .01). The results suggest that cold weather may have an impact on the occupations older persons are able to perform during the winter months.
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Lambercy O, Kim Y, Gassert R. Robot-assisted assessment of vibration perception and localization on the hand. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2013. [PMID: 23194307 DOI: 10.3109/17483107.2012.737535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Sensory perception is crucial for motor learning and the control of fine manipulations. However, therapy after stroke still strongly focuses on the training of motor skills. Sensory assessments are often left out or provide only very subjective data from poorly controlled stimuli. This paper presents a vibration detection/localization test with the Robotic Sensory Trainer, a device that focuses entirely on the assessment and training of sensory function of the hand, with the aim of gaining insights into the prevalence and severity of sensory deficits after stroke, and to provide semiobjective data on absolute and difference perception thresholds in patients. An initial feasibility study investigated localization performance and reaction time during the discrimination of vibration stimuli presented in four locations on the dominant and nondominant hands of 13 healthy volunteers. High correct detection rates were observed (mean ± SD of 99.6% ± 0.6%), touch screen PC Robotic Sensory Trainer which were found to be significantly different between stimulus locations on the dominant hand. Average correct detection rates were not statistically different between dominant and nondominant hand. These data will serve as baseline for future measurements on elderly and stroke subjects, and suggest that data from the nonimpaired hand could be used to identify and assess sensory deficits in the affected hand of stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Lambercy
- Rehabilitation Engineering Lab, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Kattenstroth JC, Kalisch T, Holt S, Tegenthoff M, Dinse HR. Six months of dance intervention enhances postural, sensorimotor, and cognitive performance in elderly without affecting cardio-respiratory functions. Front Aging Neurosci 2013; 5:5. [PMID: 23447455 PMCID: PMC3581819 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2013.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
During aging, sensorimotor, cognitive and physical performance decline, but can improve by training and exercise indicating that age-related changes are treatable. Dancing is increasingly used as an intervention because it combines many diverse features making it a promising neuroplasticity-inducing tool. We here investigated the effects of a 6-month dance class (1 h/week) on a group of healthy elderly individuals compared to a matched control group (CG). We performed a broad assessment covering cognition, intelligence, attention, reaction time, motor, tactile, and postural performance, as well as subjective well-being and cardio-respiratory performance. After 6 months, in the CG no changes, or further degradation of performance was found. In the dance group, beneficial effects were found for dance-related parameters such as posture and reaction times, but also for cognitive, tactile, motor performance, and subjective well-being. These effects developed without alterations in the cardio-respiratory performance. Correlation of baseline performance with the improvement following intervention revealed that those individuals, who benefitted most from the intervention, were those who showed the lowest performance prior to the intervention. Our findings corroborate previous observations that dancing evokes widespread positive effects. The pre-post design used in the present study implies that the efficacy of dance is most likely not based on a selection bias of particularly gifted individuals. The lack of changes of cardio-respiratory fitness indicates that even moderate levels of physical activity can in combination with rich sensorimotor, cognitive, social, and emotional challenges act to ameliorate a wide spectrum of age-related decline.
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Pau S, Jahn G, Sakreida K, Domin M, Lotze M. Encoding and recall of finger sequences in experienced pianists compared with musically naïve controls: A combined behavioral and functional imaging study. Neuroimage 2013; 64:379-87. [PMID: 22982586 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Kalisch T, Kattenstroth JC, Kowalewski R, Tegenthoff M, Dinse HR. Age-related changes in the joint position sense of the human hand. Clin Interv Aging 2012; 7:499-507. [PMID: 23226011 PMCID: PMC3514063 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s37573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related changes in lower limb joint position sense and their contributions to postural stability are well documented. In contrast, only a few studies have investigated the effect of age on proprioceptive hand function. Here, we introduce a novel test for measuring joint position sense in the fingers of the human hand. In a concurrent matching task, subjects had to detect volume differences between polystyrene balls grasped with their dominant (seven test stimuli: 126-505 cm(3)) and their nondominant hand (three reference stimuli: 210, 294, and 505 cm(3)). A total of 21 comparisons were performed to assess the number of errors, the weight of errors (ie, the volume difference between test and reference stimuli), and the direction of errors (ie, over- or underestimation of test stimulus). The test was applied to 45 healthy subjects aged 21 to 79 years. Our results revealed that all variables changed significantly with age, with the number of errors showing the strongest increase. We also assessed tactile acuity (two-point discrimination thresholds) and sensorimotor performance (pegboard performance) in a subset of subjects, but these scores did not correlate with joint position sense performance, indicating that the test reveals specific information about joint position sense that is not captured with pure sensory or motor tests. The average test-retest reliability assessed on 3 consecutive days was 0.8 (Cronbach's alpha). Our results demonstrate that this novel test reveals age-related decline in joint position sense acuity that is independent from sensorimotor performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Kalisch
- Department of Neurology, BG-Kliniken Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
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