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International Journal of Molecular... May 2022Currently, myofascial pain has become one of the main problems in healthcare systems. Research into its causes and the structures related to it may help to improve its... (Review)
Review
Currently, myofascial pain has become one of the main problems in healthcare systems. Research into its causes and the structures related to it may help to improve its management. Until some years ago, all the studies were focused on muscle alterations, as trigger points, but recently, fasciae are starting to be considered a new, possible source of pain. This systematic review has been conducted for the purpose of analyze the current evidence of the muscular/deep fasciae innervation from a histological and/or immunohistochemical point of view. A literature search published between 2000 and 2021 was made in PubMed and Google Scholar. Search terms included a combination of fascia, innervation, immunohistochemical, and different immunohistochemical markers. Of the 23 total studies included in the review, five studies were performed in rats, four in mice, two in horses, ten in humans, and two in both humans and rats. There were a great variety of immunohistochemical markers used to detect the innervation of the fasciae; the most used were Protein Gene Marker 9.5 (used in twelve studies), Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (ten studies), S100 (ten studies), substance P (seven studies), and tyrosine hydroxylase (six studies). Various areas have been studied, with the thoracolumbar fascia being the most observed. Besides, the papers highlighted diversity in the density and type of innervation in the various fasciae, going from free nerve endings to Pacini and Ruffini corpuscles. Finally, it has been observed that the innervation is increased in the pathological fasciae. From this review, it is evident that fasciae are well innerved, their innervation have a particular distribution and precise localization and is composed especially by proprioceptors and nociceptors, the latter being more numerous in pathological situations. This could contribute to a better comprehension and management of pain.
Topics: Animals; Fascia; Horses; Mechanoreceptors; Mice; Musculoskeletal Physiological Phenomena; Pain; Rats; Sensory Receptor Cells
PubMed: 35628484
DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105674 -
Physiological Reviews Jan 2023Taste and smell play a key role in our ability to perceive foods. Overconsumption of highly palatable energy-dense foods can lead to increased caloric intake and... (Review)
Review
Taste and smell play a key role in our ability to perceive foods. Overconsumption of highly palatable energy-dense foods can lead to increased caloric intake and obesity. Thus there is growing interest in the study of the biological mediators of fat taste and associated olfaction as potential targets for pharmacologic and nutritional interventions in the context of obesity and health. The number of studies examining mechanisms underlying fat taste and smell has grown rapidly in the last 5 years. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to summarize emerging evidence examining the biological mechanisms of fat taste and smell. A literature search was conducted of studies published in English between 2014 and 2021 in adult humans and animal models. Database searches were conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science for key terms including fat/lipid, taste, and olfaction. Initially, 4,062 articles were identified through database searches, and a total of 84 relevant articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria and are included in this review. Existing literature suggests that there are several proteins integral to fat chemosensation, including cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) and G protein-coupled receptor 120 (GPR120). This systematic review will discuss these proteins and the signal transduction pathways involved in fat detection. We also review neural circuits, key brain regions, ingestive cues, postingestive signals, and genetic polymorphism that play a role in fat perception and consumption. Finally, we discuss the role of fat taste and smell in the context of eating behavior and obesity.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Feeding Behavior; Obesity; Smell; Taste; Taste Buds
PubMed: 36409650
DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00061.2021 -
Molecular Psychiatry Sep 2022The retina shares structural and functional similarities with the brain. Furthermore, structural changes in the retina have been observed in patients with schizophrenia... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
The retina shares structural and functional similarities with the brain. Furthermore, structural changes in the retina have been observed in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs). This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated retinal abnormalities and their association with clinical factors for SSD.
METHODS
Studies related to retinal layers in SSD patients were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and PSYNDEX databases from inception to March 31, 2021. We screened and assessed the eligibility of the identified studies. EZR ver.1.54 and the metafor package in R were used for the meta-analysis and a random-effects or fixed-effects model was used to report standardized mean differences (SMDs).
RESULTS
Twenty-three studies (2079 eyes of patients and 1571 eyes of controls) were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The average peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness, average macular thickness (MT), and macular ganglion cell layer-inner plexiform layer (GCL-IPL) thickness were significantly lower in patients than in controls (n = 14, 6, and 3, respectively; SMD = -0.33, -0.49, and -0.43, respectively). Patients also had significantly reduced macular volume (MV) compared to controls (n = 7; SMD = -0.53). The optic cup volume (OCV) was significantly larger in patients than in controls (n = 3; SMD = 0.28). The meta-regression analysis indicated an association between several clinical factors, such as duration of illness and the effect size of the pRNFL, macular GCL-IPL, MT, and MV.
CONCLUSION
Thinning of the pRNFL, macular GCL-IPL, MT, and MV and enlargement of the OCV in SSD were observed. Retinal abnormalities may be applicable as state/trait markers in SSDs. The accumulated evidence was mainly cross-sectional and requires verification by longitudinal studies to characterize the relationship between OCT findings and clinical factors.
Topics: Humans; Nerve Fibers; Retinal Ganglion Cells; Tomography, Optical Coherence; Cross-Sectional Studies; Schizophrenia; Retina
PubMed: 35501407
DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01591-x -
BMJ Open Ophthalmology Nov 2023To explore the current research about the role of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in dysthyroid optic neuropathy... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
To explore the current research about the role of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON).
METHODS
Studies in the literature that focused on OCT, OCTA and DON were retrieved by searching PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane databases and Clinical Trial before 20 June 2023. The methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The quantitative calculation was performed using Review Manager V.5.3.
RESULTS
Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria and were included. DON group presented lower macular ganglion cell complex in the overall, superior and inferior hemifields compared with the non-DON group. Furthermore, the ganglion cell layer and inner plexiform layer in DON group was thinner in contrast to the non-DON group. The optic nerve head vessel density was lower in the DON group than that in the non-DON group. A reduction of radial peripapillary capillary vessel density could be seen in the DON group than the non-DON group in overall, inside disc, peripapillary, superior-hemifield, temporal and nasal. Besides, the macular superficial retinal capillary layer of non-DON and DON is lower than the healthy control group.
CONCLUSIONS
This study supported the potential value of OCT and OCTA metrics as novel biomarkers of DON. Ophthalmologists should comprehensively consider the retinal structure and microvasculature in dealing with DON.
ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION
This systematic review included data from published literature and was exempt from ethics approval. Results would be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and presented at academic conferences engaging clinicians.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER
CRD42023414907.
Topics: Humans; Tomography, Optical Coherence; Optic Disk; Angiography; Retinal Ganglion Cells; Optic Nerve Diseases
PubMed: 37996119
DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2023-001379 -
Neurosurgical Review Apr 2018The objective of this systematic literature review is to assess the role of retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the evaluation of patients with tumors of the... (Review)
Review
The objective of this systematic literature review is to assess the role of retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the evaluation of patients with tumors of the visual pathway. We performed a PubMed database search according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The search was restricted to articles published in English between 2000 and 2016, with at least 10 human adult participants enrolled. Twenty-seven articles met the eligibility criteria. All studies investigated tumors of the anterior visual pathway. Both time-domain and spectral-domain OCT technologies were used and the role of OCT as diagnostic and/or prognostic tool was studied. Retinal OCT provides structural information about ganglion cell axon integrity and is complementary to visual function examination. OCT is a prognostic factor for post-operative visual outcome.
Topics: Humans; Nerve Compression Syndromes; Occipital Lobe; Optic Chiasm; Optic Nerve Neoplasms; Postoperative Complications; Retina; Retinal Ganglion Cells; Tomography, Optical Coherence; Visual Cortex; Visual Pathways
PubMed: 27465394
DOI: 10.1007/s10143-016-0772-1 -
Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology 2017The natural aging process may result in morphological changes in the vestibular system and in the afferent neural pathway, including loss of hair cells, decreased... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
The natural aging process may result in morphological changes in the vestibular system and in the afferent neural pathway, including loss of hair cells, decreased numbers of vestibular nerve cells, and loss of neurons in the vestibular nucleus. Thus, with advancing age, there should be a decrease in amplitudes and an increase in latencies of the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, especially the prolongation of p13 latency. Moreover, many investigations have found no significant differences in latencies with advancing age.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if there are significant differences in the latencies of cervical and ocular evoked myogenic potentials between elderly and adult patients.
METHODS
This is a systematic review with meta-analysis of observational studies, comparing the differences of these parameters between elderly and young adults, without language or date restrictions, in the following databases: Pubmed, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Web of Science, SciELO and LILACS, in addition to the gray literature databases: OpenGrey.eu and DissOnline, as well as Research Gate.
RESULTS
The n1 oVEMP latencies had a mean delay in the elderly of 2.32ms with 95% CI of 0.55-4.10ms. The overall effect test showed p=0.01, disclosing that such difference was significant. The heterogeneity found was I=96% (p<0.001). Evaluation of p1 latency was not possible due to the low number of articles selected for this condition. cVEMP analysis was performed in 13 articles. For the p13 component, the mean latency delay in the elderly was 1.34ms with 95% CI of 0.56-2.11ms. The overall effect test showed a p<0.001, with heterogeneity value I=92% (p<0.001). For the n23 component, the mean latency delay for the elderly was 2.82ms with 95% CI of 0.33-5.30ms. The overall effect test showed p=0.03. The heterogeneity found was I=99% (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION
The latency of oVEMP n1 wave component and latencies of cVEMP p13 and n23 wave components are longer in the elderly aged >60 years than in young adults.
Topics: Aged; Aging; Humans; Reaction Time; Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials
PubMed: 28237301
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2016.12.006 -
International Journal of Molecular... Oct 2023Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the gradual loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to... (Review)
Review
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the gradual loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive motor function decline. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment, and its increasing prevalence is linked to an aging population, improved diagnostics, heightened awareness, and changing lifestyles. In the gastrointestinal system, the gut microbiota plays a vital role in producing metabolites, neurotransmitters, and immune molecules. Short-chain fatty acids, of interest for their potential health benefits, are influenced by a fiber- and plant-based diet, promoting a diverse and balanced gut microbiome. These fatty acids impact the body by binding to receptors on enteroendocrine cells, influencing hormones like glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide YY, which regulate appetite and insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, these fatty acids impact the blood-brain barrier, neurotransmitter levels, and neurotrophic factors, and directly stimulate vagal afferent nerves, affecting gut-brain communication. The vagus nerve is a crucial link between the gut and the brain, transmitting signals related to appetite, inflammation, and various processes. Dysregulation of this pathway can contribute to conditions like obesity and irritable bowel syndrome. Emerging evidence suggests the complex interplay among these fatty acids, the gut microbiota, and environmental factors influences neurodegenerative processes via interconnected pathways, including immune function, anti-inflammation, gut barrier, and energy metabolism. Embracing a balanced, fiber-rich diet may foster a diverse gut microbiome, potentially impacting neurodegenerative disease risk. Comprehensive understanding requires further research into interventions targeting the gut microbiome and fatty acid production and their potential therapeutic role in neurodegeneration.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Brain; Fatty Acids, Volatile; Fatty Acids
PubMed: 37894774
DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015094 -
Journal of Ophthalmology 2021Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) is an uncommon vision-threatening disorder that can be caused by ocular or head trauma and is categorized into direct and indirect TON.... (Review)
Review
Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) is an uncommon vision-threatening disorder that can be caused by ocular or head trauma and is categorized into direct and indirect TON. The overall incidence of TON is 0.7-2.5%, and indirect TON has a higher prevalence than direct TON. Detection of an afferent pupillary defect in the presence of an intact globe in a patient with ocular or head trauma with decreased visual acuity strongly suggests TON. However, afferent pupillary defects may be difficult to detect in patients who have received narcotics that cause pupillary constriction and in those with bilateral TON. Mechanical shearing of the optic nerve axons and contusion necrosis due to immediate ischemia from damage to the optic nerve microcirculation and apoptosis of neurons is a probable mechanism. The proper management of TON is controversial. High-dose corticosteroid therapy and decompression of the optic nerve provide no additional benefit over observation alone. Intravenous erythropoietin may be a safe and efficient treatment for patients with TON.
PubMed: 33728056
DOI: 10.1155/2021/5553885 -
Journal of Cataract and Refractive... Sep 2015This review looked at the effect of cataract surgery on the regulation of circadian rhythms and compared the effect of blue light-filtering and clear intraocular lenses... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
UNLABELLED
This review looked at the effect of cataract surgery on the regulation of circadian rhythms and compared the effect of blue light-filtering and clear intraocular lenses (IOLs) on circadian rhythms. A systematic review and metaanalysis were performed, and the level of evidence was evaluated based on the principles described in the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. A literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was performed, as well as a search for unpublished trials at the U.S. National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials web site. Trials that reported the effect of cataract surgery on circadian rhythms were included. Outcomes were the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score, number of poor sleepers, Epworth Sleepiness Score, sleep efficiency, and mean concentration of melatonin. Cataract surgery improved regulation of circadian rhythms measured by the PSQI questionnaire, but the clinical relevance is uncertain. There was no difference between the effect of the 2 IOL types.
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Topics: Aging; Cataract Extraction; Circadian Rhythm; Humans; Lens Implantation, Intraocular; Lenses, Intraocular; Retinal Ganglion Cells; Rod Opsins; Sleep Wake Disorders
PubMed: 26603409
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2015.09.009 -
Journal of the Neurological Sciences Nov 2023Studies have demonstrated that people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) experience visual impairments and neurodegenerative retinal processes. The disability progression in... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Studies have demonstrated that people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) experience visual impairments and neurodegenerative retinal processes. The disability progression in pwMS may be associated with retinal changes assessed with optical coherence tomography (OCT). This meta-analysis aims at synthesizing the correlations between OCT measurements of disability in pwMS.
METHODS
We systematically searched four databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science) from inception to November 2022, then conducted a meta-analysis using a random effects model to determine the pooled correlation coefficient(r) between OCT measurements and disability scales by R version 4.2.3 with the meta version 6.2-1 package.
RESULTS
From 3129 studies, 100 studies were included. Among 9051 pwMS, the female-to-male ratio was 3.15:1, with a mean age of 39.57 ± 6.07 years. The mean disease duration and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were 8.5 ± 3.7 and 2.7 ± 1.1, respectively. Among the pooled subgroup analyses, macular ganglion cell inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) in patients with relapsing-remitting (pwRRMS) and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) in patients with progressive MS (pwPMS) had strong correlations with EDSS, r = -0.33 (95% CI: -0.45 to -0.20, I = 45%, z-score = -4.86, p < 0.001) and r = -0.20 (95% CI:-0.58 to 0.26, I = 76%, z-score = -0.85, p = 0.395), respectively. According to subgroup analysis on pwMS without optic neuritis (ON) history, the largest correlation was seen between EDSS and macular ganglion cell complex (mGCC): r = -0.39 (95% CI: -0.70 to 0.04, I = 79%, z-score = -1.79, p = 0.073).
CONCLUSION
OCT measurements are correlated with disability in pwMS, and they can complement the comprehensive neurological visit as an additional paraclinical test.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Adult; Middle Aged; Multiple Sclerosis; Retinal Ganglion Cells; Tomography, Optical Coherence; Retina; Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive; Optic Neuritis
PubMed: 37924591
DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120847