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Neuromuscular Disorders : NMD Jul 2024Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a hereditary disease characterized by muscular impairments. Fundamental and clinical positive effects of strength training have been...
Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a hereditary disease characterized by muscular impairments. Fundamental and clinical positive effects of strength training have been reported in men with DM1, but its impact on women remains unknown. We evaluated the effects of a 12-week supervised strength training on physical and neuropsychiatric health. Women with DM1 performed a twice-weekly supervised resistance training program (3 series of 6-8 repetitions of squat, leg press, plantar flexion, knee extension, and hip abduction). Lower limb muscle strength, physical function, apathy, anxiety and depression, fatigue and excessive somnolence, pain, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention, as well as three and six months after completion of the training program. Muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were also taken before and after the training program to assess muscle fiber growth. Eleven participants completed the program (attendance: 98.5 %). Maximal hip and knee extension strength (p < 0.006), all One-Repetition Maximum strength measures (p < 0.001), apathy (p = 0.0005), depression (p = 0.02), pain interference (p = 0.01) and perception of the lower limb function (p = 0.003) were significantly improved by training. Some of these gains were maintained up to six months after the training program. Strength training is a good therapeutic strategy for women with DM1.
Topics: Humans; Myotonic Dystrophy; Female; Resistance Training; Muscle Strength; Adult; Middle Aged; Depression; Muscle, Skeletal; Anxiety; Apathy; Treatment Outcome; Fatigue; Lower Extremity
PubMed: 38824906
DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2024.05.009 -
Current Biology : CB Jun 2024Somatosensation is essential for animals to perceive the external world through touch, allowing them to detect physical contact, temperature, pain, and body position....
Somatosensation is essential for animals to perceive the external world through touch, allowing them to detect physical contact, temperature, pain, and body position. Studies on rodent vibrissae have highlighted the organization and processing in mammalian somatosensory pathways. Comparative research across vertebrates is vital for understanding evolutionary influences and ecological specialization on somatosensory systems. Birds, with their diverse morphologies, sensory abilities, and behaviors, serve as ideal models for investigating the evolution of somatosensation. Prior studies have uncovered tactile-responsive areas within the avian telencephalon, particularly in pigeons, parrots, and finches, but variations in somatosensory maps and responses across avian species are not fully understood. This study aims to explore somatotopic organization and neural coding in the telencephalon of Anna's hummingbirds (Calypte anna) and zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) by using in vivo extracellular electrophysiology to record activity in response to controlled tactile stimuli on various body regions. These findings reveal unique representations of body regions across distinct forebrain somatosensory nuclei, indicating significant differences in the extent of areas dedicated to certain body surfaces, which may correlate with their behavioral importance.
Topics: Animals; Finches; Prosencephalon; Touch; Birds; Male; Touch Perception; Female
PubMed: 38815578
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.081 -
Frontiers in Pain Research (Lausanne,... 2024Fabry disease (FD) causes cold-evoked pain and impaired cold perception through small fiber damage, which also occurs in polyneuropathies (PNP) of other origins. The...
BACKGROUND
Fabry disease (FD) causes cold-evoked pain and impaired cold perception through small fiber damage, which also occurs in polyneuropathies (PNP) of other origins. The integrity of thinly myelinated fibers and the spinothalamic tract is assessable by cold-evoked potentials (CEPs). In this study, we aimed to assess the clinical value of CEP by investigating its associations with pain, autonomic measures, sensory loss, and neuropathic signs.
METHODS
CEPs were examined at the hand and foot dorsum of patients with FD ( = 16) and PNP ( = 21) and healthy controls ( = 23). Sensory phenotyping was performed using quantitative sensory testing (QST). The painDETECT questionnaire (PDQ), FabryScan, and measures for the autonomic nervous system were applied. Group comparisons and correlation analyses were performed.
RESULTS
CEPs of 87.5% of the FD and 85.7% of the PNP patients were eligible for statistical analysis. In all patients combined, CEP data correlated significantly with cold detection loss, PDQ items, pain, and autonomic measures. Abnormal CEP latency in FD patients was associated with an abnormal heart frequency variability item ( = -0.684; adjusted = 0.04). In PNP patients, CEP latency correlated significantly with PDQ items, and CEP amplitude correlated with autonomic measures ( = 0.688, adjusted = 0.008; = 0.619, adjusted = 0.024). Furthermore, mechanical pain thresholds differed significantly between FD (gain range) and PNP patients (loss range) ( = 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS
Abnormal CEPs were associated with current pain, neuropathic signs and symptoms, and an abnormal function of the autonomic nervous system. The latter has not been mirrored by QST parameters. Therefore, CEPs appear to deliver a wider spectrum of information on the sensory nervous system than QST alone.
PubMed: 38812855
DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2024.1352711 -
Journal of Integrative Neuroscience Apr 2024Neuropathic pain is a common pain syndrome, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. The mechanism of neuropathic pain is complex. Peripheral tissue... (Review)
Review
Neuropathic pain is a common pain syndrome, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. The mechanism of neuropathic pain is complex. Peripheral tissue injury can trigger peripheral sensitization; however, what really plays a key role is the sensitization of the central nervous system. Central sensitization is a key factor in the perception of chronic pain. Central sensitization refers to the increased sensitivity of the central nervous system to pain treatment, which is related to the change of the functional connection mode of the neural network. The current study aims to reveal the basic molecular mechanisms of central sensitization, including the involvement of P2 purine X4 receptor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. In terms of treatment, although there are drugs and physical therapy, the accuracy of targeting is limited and the efficacy needs to be further improved. Future therapeutic strategies may involve the development of new drugs designed to specifically inhibit the central sensitization process. This article focuses on the effector molecules involved in central sensitization, aiming to elucidate the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and provide a basis for the development of more effective treatment models.
Topics: Neuralgia; Humans; Central Nervous System Sensitization; Animals; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
PubMed: 38812380
DOI: 10.31083/j.jin2305089 -
Lifestyle Genomics 2024It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism,...
INTRODUCTION
It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism, but evidence is not consistent. Genetics may account for differences in CAP tolerance and its impact on adiposity status. The aim of this study was to systematically review current evidence concerning the role of genetic polymorphisms influencing CAP tolerance.
METHODS
The present systematic review analyzed and synthesized available evidence concerning associations between genetic polymorphisms and CAP tolerance following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS were screened. Out of 228 publications identified, only 6 meet inclusion criteria and were finally included in the final report.
RESULTS
Overall, a total of 28 single nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with several CAP tolerance traits including sensitivity to burning/stinging, heat pain, and cough reactions, and detection of bitter taste thresholds. These genetic variants were located within 6 genes involved in key physiological processes such synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide production (GCH1), CAP uptake and transduction of thermal stimuli (TRPV1), and bitter taste perception (TAS2R38, TAS2R3, TAS2R4, and TAS2R5).
CONCLUSION
There is evidence about the influence of genetic polymorphisms on CAP tolerance by affecting nociceptive signaling, CAP binding, and bitter tasting. This knowledge may facilitate the design and implementation of innovative CAP-based nutrigenetic strategies for a more precise clinical management of obesity.
Topics: Humans; Capsaicin; Obesity; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Capsicum; Taste; Taste Perception; TRPV Cation Channels; Precision Medicine
PubMed: 38810602
DOI: 10.1159/000539293 -
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive &... Jul 2024Breast hypertrophy may cause significant suffering, such as back- and breast pain, painful shoulder groves, and eczemas. Furthermore, women with breast hypertrophy may...
BACKGROUND
Breast hypertrophy may cause significant suffering, such as back- and breast pain, painful shoulder groves, and eczemas. Furthermore, women with breast hypertrophy may have lower quality of life than women without breast hypertrophy. Although 50% of the women undergoing breast reduction in the US have body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m, the current standard of normality is based on studies focusing on women <40 years of age and BMIs <25 kg/m. This study aimed to present reference values for breast measurements for women with obesity and to investigate the relationship between BMI loss and each breast measurement.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
One hundred and six women underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in Gothenburg, Sweden. The participants' breast anthropometrics were measured before and after bariatric surgery and their perception of the skin on their breasts was measured using the Sahlgrenska Excess Skin Questionnaire.
RESULTS
Breast volume, sternal notch to nipple (SNN) distance, and ptosis increased significantly with increasing BMI. For instance, women with BMIs between 30-34.9 kg/m have a mean breast volume of approximately 770 ml, those with BMIs of 40-44.9 kg/m have approximately 1150 ml, and those with BMIs above 50 kg/m have approximately 1400 ml. Furthermore, the percent change in the respective breast measurements relative to percent BMI change can be predicted, for instance, with a 20% reduction in BMI, the breast volume, SNN-distance, and ptosis decrease by 25%, 4%, and 20% respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
This article presents the first standard of normality for breast anthropometrics in women with obesity and a model for predicting the change in breast anthropometrics relative to BMI.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION
This is a longitudinal observation study, registered https://fou.nu/is/gsb/ansokan/49651, No: VGFOUGSB-49651. Trial registry name: "Överskottshud efter överviktskirurgi - dess utveckling samt behov och effekt av plastikkirurgi" ("Excess skin after bariatric surgery - its development and the need and effect of plastic surgery").
Topics: Humans; Female; Breast; Weight Loss; Adult; Body Mass Index; Reference Values; Middle Aged; Obesity; Mammaplasty; Gastric Bypass; Hypertrophy; Sweden
PubMed: 38810359
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.05.021 -
PloS One 2024Home blood self-collection devices can enable remote monitoring, but their implementation requires validation. Our objectives were to explore (i) the impact of sampling... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Home blood self-collection devices can enable remote monitoring, but their implementation requires validation. Our objectives were to explore (i) the impact of sampling sites and topical analgesia on capillary blood volume and pain perception and (ii) the safety, acceptability, and failure of capillary self-collection among adults and children using the Tasso-SST device.
METHODS
We conducted a two-phase study. The investigational phase consisted of two on-site cross-sectional studies in healthy adult participants (≥ 12 years) and children (1-17 years) with their accompanying parent. Adults received 4 capillary samplings, where puncture sites and topical analgesia were randomized in a factorial design, and a venipuncture; children (and one parent) had one capillary sampling. The two co-primary outcomes were blood volume and pain. The implementation phase was conducted in two multicentre trials in participants choosing remote visits; blood volume, collection failure, adverse events, and satisfaction were documented.
RESULTS
In the investigational phase, 90 participants and 9 children with 7 parents were enrolled; 15 adults and 2 preschoolers participated in the implementation phase. In the adult investigational study, the device collected a median (25%, 75%) of 450 (250, 550) μl of blood with no significant difference between the puncture site, topical analgesia, and its interaction. Using topical analgesia reduced pain perception by 0.61 (95% CI: 0.97, 0.24; P <0.01) points on the 11-point scale; the pain reduction varied by puncture site, with the lower back showing the most significant decrease. Overall, combining all studies and phases, the median volume collected was 425 (250, 500) μl, and the device failure rate was 4.4%; minor adverse effects were reported in 8.9% of the participants, all were willing to use the device again.
CONCLUSION
Capillary blood self-collection, yielding slightly less than 500 μl, proves to be a safe and relatively painless method for adults and children, with high satisfaction and low failure rates. The puncture site and topical analgesia do not affect blood volume, but topical analgesia on the lower back could reduce pain.
Topics: Humans; Child; Adult; Male; Female; Adolescent; Blood Specimen Collection; Child, Preschool; Middle Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; COVID-19; Infant; Phlebotomy; Feasibility Studies; Young Adult; Pandemics; Capillaries; Blood Volume
PubMed: 38809872
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304155 -
Pain Physician May 2024There are limited therapeutic options to treat complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Spinal cord stimulation and dorsal root ganglion stimulation are proven therapies... (Clinical Trial)
Clinical Trial
BACKGROUND
There are limited therapeutic options to treat complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Spinal cord stimulation and dorsal root ganglion stimulation are proven therapies for treating chronic low limb pain in CRPS patients. There is limited evidence that stimulation of dorsal nerve roots can also provide relief of lower limb pain in these patients.
OBJECTIVES
To demonstrate that electrical stimulation of dorsal nerve roots via epidural lead placement provides relief of chronic lower limb pain in patients suffering from CRPS.
STUDY DESIGN
Prospective, open label, single arm, multi-center study.
SETTING
The study was performed at the Center for Interventional Pain and Spine (Exton, PA), Millennium Pain Center (Bloomington, IL), and the Carolinas Pain Center (Huntersville, NC). It was approved by the Western Institutional Review Board-Copernicus Group Institutional Review Board and is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03954080).
METHODS
Sixteen patients with intractable chronic severe lower limb pain associated with CRPS were enrolled in the study. A standard trial period to evaluate a patients' response to stimulation of the dorsal nerve roots was conducted over 3 to 10-days. Patients that obtained 50% or greater pain relief during the trial period underwent permanent implantation of a neurostimulation system. The primary outcome was the evaluated pain level after 3 months of device activation, based on NRS pain score relative to baseline. Patients were followed up for 6 months after activation of the permanently implanted system.
RESULTS
At the primary endpoint, patients reported a significant (P = 0.0006) reduction in pain of 3.3 points, improvement in quality of life, improved neuropathic pain characteristics, improved satisfaction, and an overall perception of improvement with the therapy. Improvements were sustained throughout the duration of the study up to the final 6-month visit.
LIMITATIONS
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic occurring during patient enrollment, only 16 patients were enrolled and trialed, with 12 being permanently implanted. Nine were able to complete the end of study evaluation at 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of this short feasibility study confirm the functionality, effectiveness, and safety of intraspinal stimulation of dorsal nerve roots in patients with intractable chronic lower limb pain due to CRPS using commercially approved systems and conventional parameters.
Topics: Humans; Feasibility Studies; Prospective Studies; Complex Regional Pain Syndromes; Spinal Nerve Roots; Chronic Pain; Female; Male; Middle Aged; Adult; Electric Stimulation Therapy; Lower Extremity; Aged; Pain, Intractable; Treatment Outcome; Pain Management
PubMed: 38805527
DOI: No ID Found