The authors have no acknowledgements.

The authors have nothing to disclose.

تحفيز العصب عن طريق الجلد يمكن القياس الكمي لخصائص عديدة من الجهاز العصبي العضلي ليس فقط لفهم الأساسية للمراقبة وظيفة حركي في البشر صحية، ولكن أيضا لتكون قادرة على تحليل التعديلات حادة أو مزمنة من خلال التعب أو تدريب 17. وهذا مفيد جدا وخصوصا لبروتوكولات مجهد، ح?...

يستخدم بشكل واسع عن طريق الجلد تحفيز العصب الكهربائية لتقييم العصبية والعضلية وظيفة 1. يتكون المبدأ الأساسي لإحداث حافز الكهربائية إلى العصب المحرك الطرفية لتستثير تقلص العضلات. الميكانيكي (قياس عزم الدوران) والكهربية (النشاط electromyographic) ردود تسجل في وقت واحد. عزم الدوران، وسجلت في المفصل النظر فيها، ويتم تقييم باستخدام مقياس العمل. وقد أظهرت electromyographic (EMG) الإشارات المسجلة باستخدام أقطاب سطح لتمثيل نشاط العضلات 2. هذه الطريقة غير الغازية ليست مؤلمة وتنفيذها بسهولة أكبر من التسجيلات في العضل. كل من الأقطاب الكهربائية أحادي وثنائي القطب يمكن استخدامها. وقد تبين تكوين القطب القطب إلى أن تكون أكثر حساسية للتغيرات في نشاط العضلات 3، والتي يمكن أن تكون مفيدة للعضلات الصغيرة. ومع ذلك، فقد ثبت أقطاب القطبين لتكون أكثر فعالية في تحسين ص إشارة إلى الضوضاءATIO 4 و هي الأكثر شيوعا كطريقة لتسجيل وقياس نشاط الوحدة الحركية. فإن المنهجية المبينة أدناه يركز على التسجيلات القطبين. النشاط EMG هو مؤشر على فعالية وسلامة الجهاز العصبي العضلي. استخدام التحفيز العصبي عن طريق الجلد يقدم مزيدا من الإيضاحات وظيفة العصبية والعضلية، والتغيرات في أي مستوى العضلات، والعمود الفقري، أو فوق الشوكي (الشكل 1). <img alt="الشكل 1" src="/files/ftp_upload/52974/52974fig1.jpg" /> الشكل 1: لمحة عامة عن القياسات العصبية والعضلية STIM: تحفيز العصب. EMG: الكهربائي. فال: الطوعي مستوى التنشيط. RMS: جذر متوسط ​​مربع. M الأقصى: القصوى M-سعة الموجة. في بقية، وإمكانية عمل العضلات مجمع، كما دعا M الموجة، هي استجابة قصيرة الكمون لوحظ بعد الحرفية التحفيز، وتمثل كتلة العضلات منفعل من قبل أكتيف المباشر<html> أوجه من المحاور الحركية مما يؤدي إلى العضلات (الشكل 2، رقم 3). M-موجة السعة تزيد مع كثافة حتى تصل إلى القاع من قيمته القصوى. هذا الرد، ودعا M ماكس، تمثل خلاصة متزامن من جميع الوحدات الحركية و / أو إمكانات العمل الألياف العضلية المسجلة في إطار الأقطاب EMG السطحية 5. يستخدم تطور السعة أو موجة منطقة ذروة إلى ذروة لتحديد التعديلات من انتقال العصبية والعضلية 6. تغييرات في ردود الميكانيكية المرتبطة M الموجة، أي ذروة نشل عزم الدوران / القوة، قد يعزى إلى تغيرات في استثارة العضلات و / أو داخل الألياف العضلية (7). وتقدم الجمعية من M ماكس السعة ونشل ذروة عزم الدوران السعة (حزب العمال نسبة / M) مؤشر الكفاءة الكهربائية لعضلة 8، أي الاستجابة الميكانيكية لأمر محرك كهربائي معين. 52974 / 52974fig2.jpg &quot;/&gt; الشكل 2: السيارات والممرات انعكاسية تفعيلها من خلال تحفيز العصب التحفيز الكهربائي لالمختلط (السيارات / الحسي) العصبية (STIM) يؤدي الى الاستقطاب في كل من محور عصبي السيارات والأولى أ ارد اطلاق النار. الاستقطاب من الأولى أ afferents نحو الحبل الشوكي ينشط في العصبون الحركي ألفا، وهذا بدوره يثير رد فعل منعكس-H (المسار 1 + 2 + 3). تبعا لشدة التحفيز، محور عصبي محرك الاستقطاب يثير استجابة العضلات مباشرة: M-موجة (مسار 3). في أقصى كثافة M الموجة، يتم إنشاء تيار أيضا معاكس للمسيرة (3 &#39;) ويصطدم مع كرة ارادي (2). هذا التصادم جزئيا أو كليا يلغي ردا-H لا ارادي. وH-رد الفعل هو استجابة الكهربية المستخدمة لتقييم التغيرات في IA-α العصبون الحركي المشبك 9. يمكن تقييم هذه المعلمة في الراحة أو أثناء الانقباضات الطوعية. يمثل H-المنعكس البديل من منعكس تمتد (الشكل 2، نوmber 1-3). وH-المنعكس ينشط الوحدات الحركية تجنيد monosynaptically التي كتبها الأولى أ مسارات ارد 10،11، ويمكن أن يخضع للتأثيرات الطرفية والمركزية 12. ومن المعروف أن طريقة تستحضر H-العاكسة لديها مصداقية داخل تخضع عالية لتقييم استثارة العمود الفقري في بقية 13،14 وخلال تقلصات متساوي القياس 15. خلال الانكماش الطوعي، وحجم محرك الأقراص العصبي الطوعي يمكن تقييمها باستخدام اتساع إشارة EMG، كميا باستخدام عموما ساحة متوسط ​​الجذر (RMS). يستخدم RMS EMG عادة وسيلة لقياس مستوى الإثارة للنظام المحرك خلال الانكماش الطوعي (الشكل 1). بسبب التباين داخل وبين تخضع 16، RMS EMG لابد من تطبيع باستخدام EMG المسجلة خلال العضلات محددة القصوى الانكماش الطوعي (RMS EMGmax). وبالإضافة إلى ذلك، لأن التغييرات في إشارة EMG قد بمطلوب ه يرجع إلى تغييرات على مستوى الطرفية، وتطبيع باستخدام المعلمة الطرفية مثل M-موجة لتقييم فقط عنصرا مركزيا في إشارة EMG. ويمكن القيام بذلك عن طريق قسمة RMS EMG من السعة القصوى أو RMS Mmax من M-الموجة. التطبيع باستخدام RMS Mmax (أي RMS EMG / RMS Mmax) هو الأسلوب المفضل لأنه يأخذ في الاعتبار احتمال تغيير مدة M-موجة 17. ويمكن أيضا أن يتم تقييم الأوامر الحركية عن طريق حساب مستوى تفعيل الطوعي (VAL). يستخدم هذا الأسلوب أسلوب نشل الاستيفاء 18 عن طريق إضافة والتحفيز الكهربائي في M كثافة كحد أقصى خلال الانكماش الطوعي القصوى. تتم مقارنة عزم الدوران الإضافي الناجم عن تحفيز العصب لنشل التحكم التي تنتجها تحفيز العصب متطابقة في عضلة استرخاء potentiated 19. لتقييم الأقصى فال، وinterpo نشل الأصليتقنية lation صفها ميرتون 18 ينطوي على التحفيز واحد محرف على الانكماش الطوعي. في الآونة الأخيرة، أصبح استخدام التحفيز إقران أكثر شعبية لأن الزيادات عزم الدوران أثار أكبر، اكتشفت بسهولة أكثر، وأقل تغيرا مقارنة مع ردود التحفيز واحدة 20. يوفر VAL مؤشر قدرة الجهاز العصبي المركزي لتفعيل الحد الأقصى للعضلات العاملة 21. حاليا، تقييم VAL باستخدام تقنية نشل الاستيفاء هو الأسلوب الأكثر قيمة لتقييم مستوى تنشيط العضلات 22. وعلاوة على ذلك، وعزم دوران الذروة المقررة باستخدام مقياس العمل هو الأكثر درس بشكل صحيح قوة اختبار المعلمة الاستخدام المعمول بها في مجال البحوث والمرافق الصحية 23. تحفيز العصب الكهربائية يمكن استخدامها في مجموعة متنوعة من مجموعات العضلات (مثل العضلات القابضة الكوع، العضلات القابضة في المعصم، الباسطة في الركبة، والعضلات القابضة أخمصي). ومع ذلك، يجعل الأعصاب الوصول للتقنية صعبة في بعض المجموعات العضلات. العضلات الباسطة أخمصي، وخاصة الرؤوس ربلة (النعلية وgastrocnemii) العضلات، ويتم التحقيق بشكل متكرر في الأدب 24. في الواقع، وتشارك هذه العضلات في الحركة وتبرير المصالح الخاصة. المسافة بين الموقع التحفيز وأقطاب تسجيل تتيح التعرف على موجات أثار مختلفة من الرؤوس الربلية العضلات. الجزء السطحي من العصب الخلفي قصبي في المبأبضية وعدد كبير من مغزل يجعل من الاسهل لتسجيل ردود الفعل المنعكس مقارنة العضلات الأخرى 24. لهذه الأسباب، تركز منهجية لا ارادي تعرض حاليا على مجموعة ثلاثية الرؤوس الربلية العضلات (النعلية والساق). وبالتالي فإن الهدف من هذا البروتوكول هو وصف عن طريق الجلد تقنية تحفيز العصب للتحقيق وظيفة العصبية والعضلية في ربلة ثلاثية الرؤوس.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Biodex dynamometer</td>
			<td>Biodex Medical System Inc., New York, USA</td>
			<td></td>
			<td><a href="http://www.biodex.com/">www.biodex.com</a></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MP150 Data Acquisition System</td>
			<td>Biopac Systems Inc., Goleta, USA</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Acknowledge 4.1.0 software</td>
			<td>Biopac Systems Inc., Goleta, USA</td>
			<td></td>
			<td><a href="http://www.biopac.com/">www.biopac.com</a></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>DS7A constant current high voltage stimulator</td>
			<td>Digitimer, Hertfordshire, UK</td>
			<td></td>
			<td><a href="http://www.digitimer.com/">www.digitimer.com</a></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Silver chloride surface electrodes</td>
			<td>Control Graphique Medical, Brie-Comte-Robert, France</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Computer</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1 Cable for connecting the Biodex to the MP150</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1 Cable for connecting the Digitimer to the MP150</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1 Cable for connecting the MP150 to the computer</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

assessment of neuromuscular function using percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a non-invasive method commonly used to evaluate neuromuscular function from brain to muscle (supra-spinal, spinal and peripheral levels). The present protocol describes how this method can be used to stimulate the posterior tibial nerve that activates plantar flexor muscles. Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation consists of inducing an electrical stimulus to a motor nerve to evoke a muscular response. Direct (M-wave) and/or indirect (H-reflex) electrophysiological responses can be recorded at rest using surface electromyography. Mechanical (twitch torque) responses can be quantified with a force/torque ergometer. M-wave and twitch torque reflect neuromuscular transmission and excitation-contraction coupling, whereas H-reflex provides an index of spinal excitability. EMG activity and mechanical (superimposed twitch) responses can also be recorded during maximal voluntary contractions to evaluate voluntary activation level. Percutaneous nerve stimulation provides an assessment of neuromuscular function in humans, and is highly beneficial especially for studies evaluating neuromuscular plasticity following acute (fatigue) or chronic (training/detraining) exercise.

زيادة كثافة التحفيز يؤدي إلى تطور مختلف من سعة الاستجابة بين H- وM-الأمواج. في بقية، وH-المنعكس يصل الحد الأقصى لقيمة قبل أن تغيب تماما من إشارة EMG، في حين M موجة يزيد تدريجيا حتى تصل إلى القاع في شدة القصوى (انظر الشكل 4 لتصوير بياني لM-موجة والشكل 6</...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Assessment of Neuromuscular Function Using Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation at JoVE.com

Assessment of Neuromuscular Function Using Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

We present a protocol to assess changes in neuromuscular function. Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a non-invasive method that evokes muscular responses. Electrophysiological and mechanical properties of these responses permit the evaluation of neuromuscular function from brain to muscle (supra-spinal, spinal and peripheral levels).

تقييم عصبي عضلي وظيفة عن طريق العصب عن طريق الجلد الكهربائية تحفيز

Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a non-invasive method commonly used to evaluate neuromuscular function from brain to muscle (supra-spinal, ...

assessment-neuromuscular-function-using-percutaneous-electrical-nerve

Research

JoVE Journal

Neuroscience

21.6K Views.  Univ. Bourgogne Franche–Comté. We present a protocol to assess changes in neuromuscular function. Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a non-invasive method that evokes muscular responses. Electrophysiological and mechanical properties of these responses permit the evaluation of neuromuscular function from brain to muscle (supra-spinal, spinal and peripheral levels). 

Video: Assessment of Neuromuscular Function Using Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

Studying Synaptic Vesicle Pools using Photoconversion of Styryl Dyes

The fusion of synaptic vesicles with the plasma membrane (exocytosis) is a required step in neurotransmitter release and neuronal communication. The vesicles are then retrieved from the plasma membrane (endocytosis) and grouped together with the general pool of vesicles within the nerve terminal, until they undergo a new exo- and endocytosis cycle (vesicle recycling). These processes have been studied using a variety of techniques such as electron microscopy, electrophysiology recordings, amperometry and capacitance measurements. Importantly, during the last two decades a number of fluorescently labeled markers emerged, allowing optical techniques to track vesicles in their recycling dynamics. One of the most commonly used markers is the styryl or FM dye 1; structurally, all FM dyes contain a hydrophilic head and a lipophilic tail connected through an aromatic ring and one or more double bonds (Fig. 1B). A classical FM dye experiment to label a pool of vesicles consists in bathing the preparation (Fig. 1Ai) with the dye during the stimulation of the nerve (electrically or with high K+). This induces vesicle recycling and the subsequent loading of the dye into recently endocytosed vesicles (Fig. 1Ai-iii). After loading the vesicles with dye, a second round of stimulation in a dye-free bath would trigger the FM release through exocytosis (Fig. 1Aiv-v), process that can be followed by monitoring the fluorescence intensity decrease (destaining).

Although FM dyes have contributed greatly to the field of vesicle recycling, it is not possible to determine the exact localization or morphology of individual vesicles by using conventional fluorescence microscopy. For that reason, we explain here how FM dyes can also be used as endocytic markers using electron microscopy, through photoconversion. The photoconversion technique exploits the property of fluorescent dyes to generate reactive oxygen species under intense illumination. Fluorescently labeled preparations are submerged in a solution containing diaminobenzidine (DAB) and illuminated. Reactive species generated by the dye molecules oxidize the DAB, which forms a stable, insoluble precipitate that has a dark appearance and can be easily distinguished in electron microscopy 2,3. As DAB is only oxidized in the immediate vicinity of fluorescent molecules (as the reactive oxygen species are short-lived), the technique ensures that only fluorescently labeled structures are going to contain the electron-dense precipitate. The technique thus allows the study of the exact location and morphology of actively recycling organelles.

FM dyes have been of invaluable help in the understanding of synaptic dynamics. FMs are normally followed under the fluorescent microscope during different stimulation conditions. However, photoconversion of FM dyes combined with electron microscopy allows the visualization of distinct synaptic vesicle pools, among other ultrastructure components, in synaptic boutons.

دراسة تجمعات الحويصلة متشابك من الأصباغ باستخدام Photoconversion Styryl

The fusion of synaptic vesicles with the plasma membrane (exocytosis) is a required step in neurotransmitter release and neuronal communication. The ...

TMS: Using the Theta-Burst Protocol to Explore Mechanism of Plasticity in Individuals with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), also known as Martin-Bell Syndrome, is a genetic abnormality found on the X chromosome.1,2 Individuals suffering from FXS display abnormalities in the expression of FMR1 - a protein required for typical, healthy neural development.3 Recent data has suggested that the loss of this protein can cause the cortex to be hyperexcitable thereby affecting overall patterns of neural plasticity.4,5
In addition, Fragile X shows a strong comorbidity with autism: in fact, 30% of children with FXS are diagnosed with autism, and 2 - 5% of autistic children suffer from FXS.6
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (a non-invasive neurostimulatory and neuromodulatory technique that can transiently or lastingly modulate cortical excitability via the application of localized magnetic field pulses 7,8) represents a unique method of exploring plasticity and the manifestations of FXS within affected individuals. More specifically, Theta-Burst Stimulation (TBS), a specific stimulatory protocol shown to modulate cortical plasticity for a duration up to 30 minutes after stimulation cessation in healthy populations, has already proven an efficacious tool in the exploration of abnormal plasticity.9,10 
Recent studies have shown the effects of TBS last considerably longer in individuals on the autistic spectrum - up to 90 minutes.11 This extended effect-duration suggests an underlying abnormality in the brain's natural plasticity state in autistic individuals - similar to the hyperexcitability induced by Fragile X Syndrome.
In this experiment, utilizing single-pulse motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) as our benchmark, we will explore the effects of both intermittent and continuous TBS on cortical plasticity in individuals suffering from FXS and individuals on the Autistic Spectrum.

In this article, we examine the effects of Theta-Burst TMS stimulation on cortical plasticity in individuals suffering from Fragile X syndrome and individuals on the autistic spectrum.

TMS : استخدام بروتوكول ثيتا المتفجر لاستكشاف Mechasnism من المرونة في الأشخاص الذين يعانون من متلازمة X الهشة والتوحد

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), also known as Martin-Bell Syndrome, is a genetic abnormality found on the X chromosome.1,2 Individuals suffering from FXS ...

Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity

Chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity is a serious consequence of cancer treatment, which occurs with some of the most commonly used chemotherapies1,2. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy produces symptoms of numbness and paraesthesia in the limbs and may progress to difficulties with fine motor skills and walking, leading to functional impairment. In addition to producing troubling symptoms, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy may limit treatment success leading to dose reduction or early cessation of treatment. Neuropathic symptoms may persist long-term, leaving permanent nerve damage in patients with an otherwise good prognosis3. As chemotherapy is utilised more often as a preventative measure, and survival rates increase, the importance of long-lasting and significant neurotoxicity will increase.
There are no established neuroprotective or treatment options and a lack of sensitive assessment methods. Appropriate assessment of neurotoxicity will be critical as a prognostic factor and as suitable endpoints for future trials of neuroprotective agents. Current methods to assess the severity of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy utilise clinician-based grading scales which have been demonstrated to lack sensitivity to change and inter-observer objectivity4. Conventional nerve conduction studies provide information about compound action potential amplitude and conduction velocity, which are relatively non-specific measures and do not provide insight into ion channel function or resting membrane potential. Accordingly, prior studies have demonstrated that conventional nerve conduction studies are not sensitive to early change in chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity4-6. In comparison, nerve excitability studies utilize threshold tracking techniques which have been developed to enable assessment of ion channels, pumps and exchangers in vivo in large myelinated human axons7-9.
Nerve excitability techniques have been established as a tool to examine the development and severity of chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity10-13. Comprising a number of excitability parameters, nerve excitability studies can be used to assess acute neurotoxicity arising immediately following infusion and the development of chronic, cumulative neurotoxicity. Nerve excitability techniques are feasible in the clinical setting, with each test requiring only 5 -10 minutes to complete. Nerve excitability equipment is readily commercially available, and a portable system has been devised so that patients can be tested in situ in the infusion centre setting. In addition, these techniques can be adapted for use in multiple chemotherapies.
In patients treated with the chemotherapy oxaliplatin, primarily utilised for colorectal cancer, nerve excitability techniques provide a method to identify patients at-risk for neurotoxicity prior to the onset of chronic neuropathy. Nerve excitability studies have revealed the development of an acute Na+ channelopathy in motor and sensory axons10-13. Importantly, patients who demonstrated changes in excitability in early treatment were subsequently more likely to develop moderate to severe neurotoxicity11. However, across treatment, striking longitudinal changes were identified only in sensory axons which were able to predict clinical neurological outcome in 80% of patients10. These changes demonstrated a different pattern to those seen acutely following oxaliplatin infusion, and most likely reflect the development of significant axonal damage and membrane potential change in sensory nerves which develops longitudinally during oxaliplatin treatment10. Significant abnormalities developed during early treatment, prior to any reduction in conventional measures of nerve function, suggesting that excitability parameters may provide a sensitive biomarker.

This abstract describes a novel method to assess the development of neurotoxicity in patients receiving chemotherapy treatment. While conventional assessment methods are limited in their ability to detect early changes in nerve function, nerve excitability techniques provide early identification of patients at risk of severe neurotoxicity and insight into pathophysiology.

العصب تقييم الإثارة في العلاج الكيميائي الناجم عن العصبية

Chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity is a serious consequence of cancer treatment, which occurs with some of the most commonly used chemotherapies1,2. ...

Optogenetic Stimulation of the Auditory Nerve

Direct electrical stimulation of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) by cochlear implants (CIs) enables open speech comprehension in the majority of implanted deaf subjects1-6. Nonetheless, sound coding with current CIs has poor frequency and intensity resolution due to broad current spread from each electrode contact activating a large number of SGNs along the tonotopic axis of the cochlea7-9. Optical stimulation is proposed as an alternative to electrical stimulation that promises spatially more confined activation of SGNs and, hence, higher frequency resolution of coding. In recent years, direct infrared illumination of&#160;the cochlea has been used to evoke responses in the auditory nerve10. Nevertheless it requires higher energies than electrical stimulation10,11 and uncertainty remains as to the underlying mechanism12. Here we describe a method based on optogenetics to stimulate SGNs with low intensity blue light, using transgenic mice with neuronal expression of channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2)13 or virus-mediated expression of the ChR2-variant CatCh14. We used micro-light emitting diodes (&#181;LEDs) and fiber-coupled lasers to stimulate ChR2-expressing SGNs through a small artificial opening (cochleostomy) or the round window. We assayed the responses by scalp recordings of light-evoked potentials (optogenetic auditory brainstem response: oABR) or by microelectrode recordings from the auditory pathway and compared them with acoustic and electrical stimulation.

Cochlear implants (CIs) enable hearing by direct electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve. However, poor frequency and intensity resolution limits the quality of hearing with CIs. Here we describe optogenetic stimulation of the auditory nerve in mice as an alternative strategy for auditory research and developing future CIs.

تحفيز Optogenetic من العصب السمعي

Direct electrical stimulation of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) by cochlear implants (CIs) enables open speech comprehension in the majority of implanted ...

A Human-machine-interface Integrating Low-cost Sensors with a Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation System for Post-stroke Balance Rehabilitation

A stroke is caused when an artery carrying blood from heart to an area in the brain bursts or a clot obstructs the blood flow to brain thereby preventing delivery of oxygen and nutrients. About half of the stroke survivors are left with some degree of disability. Innovative methodologies for restorative neurorehabilitation are urgently required to reduce long-term disability. The ability of the nervous system to reorganize its structure, function and connections as a response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli is called neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is involved in post-stroke functional disturbances, but also in rehabilitation. Beneficial neuroplastic changes may be facilitated with non-invasive electrotherapy, such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and sensory electrical stimulation (SES). NMES involves coordinated electrical stimulation of motor nerves and muscles to activate them with continuous short pulses of electrical current while SES involves stimulation of sensory nerves with electrical current resulting in sensations that vary from barely perceivable to highly unpleasant. Here, active cortical participation in rehabilitation procedures may be facilitated by driving the non-invasive electrotherapy with biosignals (electromyogram (EMG), electroencephalogram (EEG), electrooculogram (EOG)) that represent simultaneous active perception and volitional effort. To achieve this in a resource-poor setting, e.g., in low- and middle-income countries, we present a low-cost human-machine-interface (HMI) by leveraging recent advances in off-the-shelf video game sensor technology. In this paper, we discuss the open-source software interface that integrates low-cost off-the-shelf sensors for visual-auditory biofeedback with non-invasive electrotherapy to assist postural control during balance rehabilitation. We demonstrate the proof-of-concept on healthy volunteers.

A novel low-cost human-machine interface for interactive post-stroke balance rehabilitation system is presented in this article. The system integrates off-the-shelf low-cost sensors towards volitionally driven electrotherapy paradigm. The proof-of-concept software interface is demonstrated on healthy volunteers.

الإنسان والآلة واجهة دمج مجسات منخفضة التكلفة مع نظام تحفيز الاعصاب الكهربائية لمرحلة ما بعد السكتة الدماغية تأهيل الرصيد

A stroke is caused when an artery carrying blood from heart to an area in the brain bursts or a clot obstructs the blood flow to brain thereby preventing ...

Transcranial Electrical Brain Stimulation in Alert Rodents

Transcranial electrical brain stimulation can modulate cortical excitability and plasticity in humans and rodents. The most common form of stimulation in humans is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Less frequently, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) or transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), a specific form of tACS using an electrical current applied randomly within a pre-defined frequency range, is used. The increase of noninvasive electrical brain stimulation research in humans, both for experimental and clinical purposes, has yielded an increased need for basic, mechanistic, safety studies in animals. This article describes a model for transcranial electrical brain stimulation (tES) through the intact skull targeting the motor system in alert rodents. The protocol provides step-by-step instructions for the surgical set-up of a permanent epicranial electrode socket combined with an implanted counter electrode on the chest. By placing a stimulation electrode into the epicranial socket, different electrical stimulation types, comparable to tDCS, tACS, and tRNS in humans, can be delivered. Moreover, the practical steps for tES in alert rodents are introduced. The applied current density, stimulation duration, and stimulation type may be chosen depending on the experimental needs. The caveats, advantages, and disadvantages of this set-up are discussed, as well as safety and tolerability aspects.

This protocol describes a surgical set-up for a permanent epicranial electrode socket and an implanted chest electrode in rodents. By placing a second electrode into the socket, different types of transcranial electrical brain stimulation can be delivered to the motor system in alert animals through the intact skull.

تحفيز المخ الكهربائي Transcranial في القوارض التنبيه

Transcranial electrical brain stimulation can modulate cortical excitability and plasticity in humans and rodents. The most common form of stimulation in ...

Chronic Transcranial Electrical Stimulation and Intracortical Recording in Rats

Transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) is a powerful and relatively simple approach to diffusely influence brain activity either randomly or in a closed-loop event-triggered manner. Although many studies are focusing on the possible benefits and side-effects of TES in healthy and pathologic brains, there are still many fundamental open questions regarding the mechanism of action of the stimulation. Therefore, there is a clear need for a robust and reproducible method to test the acute and the chronic effects of TES in rodents. TES can be combined with regular behavioral, electrophysiological, and imaging techniques to investigate neuronal networks in vivo. The implantation of transcranial stimulation electrodes does not impose extra constraints on the experimental design while it offers a versatile, flexible tool to manipulate brain activity. Here we provide a detailed, step-by-step protocol to fabricate and implant transcranial stimulation electrodes to influence brain activity in a temporally constrained manner for months.

This detailed protocol describes transcranial stimulation electrode placement on the temporal bone in order to investigate the short- and long-term effects of transcranial electrical stimulation in freely moving rats.

التحفيز الكهربائي Transcranial المزمن وتسجيل إينتراكورتيكال في الفئران

Transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) is a powerful and relatively simple approach to diffusely influence brain activity either randomly or in a ...

Stimulation Location Determination using a 3D Digitizer with High-Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

The abundance of neuroimaging data and rapid development of machine learning has made it possible to investigate brain activation patterns. However, causal evidence of brain area activation leading to a behavior is often left missing. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which can temporarily alter brain cortical excitability and activity, is a noninvasive neurophysiological tool used to study causal relationships in the human brain. High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) technique that produces a more focal current compared to conventional tDCS. Traditionally, the stimulation location has been roughly determined through the 10-20 EEG system, because determining precise stimulation points can be difficult. This protocol uses a 3D digitizer with HD-tDCS to increase accuracy in determination of stimulation points. The method is demonstrated using a 3D digitizer for more accurate localization of stimulation points in the right temporo-parietal junction (rTPJ).

Presented here is a protocol to achieve higher accuracy in determination of stimulation location combining a 3D digitizer with high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation.

التحفيز تحديد الموقع باستخدام التحويل الرقمي 3D مع عاليه الوضوح جمجمة التحفيز الحالي المباشر

The abundance of neuroimaging data and rapid development of machine learning has made it possible to investigate brain activation patterns. However, ...

3D Kinematic Analysis for the Functional Evaluation in the Rat Model of Sciatic Nerve Crush Injury

Compared to the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI), kinematic analysis is a more reliable and sensitive method for performing functional evaluations of sciatic nerve injury rodent models. In this protocol, we describe a novel kinematic analysis method that uses a three-dimensional (3D) motion capture apparatus for functional evaluations using a rat sciatic nerve crush injury model. First, the rat is familiarized with treadmill walking. Markers are then attached to the designated bone landmarks and the rat is made to walk on the treadmill at the desired speed. Meanwhile, the posterior limb movements of the rat are recorded using four cameras. Depending on the software used, marker tracings are created using both automatic and manual modes and the desired data are produced after subtle adjustments. This method of kinematic analysis, which uses a 3D motion capture apparatus, offers numerous advantages, including superior precision and accuracy. Many more parameters can be investigated during the comprehensive functional evaluations. This method has several shortcomings that require consideration: The system is expensive, can be complicated to operate, and may produce data deviations due to skin shifting. Nevertheless, kinematic analysis using a 3D motion capture apparatus is useful for performing functional anterior and posterior limb evaluations. In the future, this method may become increasingly useful for generating accurate assessments of various traumas and diseases.

We introduce a kinematic analysis method that uses a three-dimensional motion capture apparatus containing four cameras and data processing software for performing functional evaluations during fundamental research involving rodent models.

3D تحليل الحركية للتقييم الوظيفي في نموذج الفئران من عرق النسا الأعصاب سحق الإصابة

Compared to the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI), kinematic analysis is a more reliable and sensitive method for performing functional evaluations of ...

Establishment of Acute Pontine Infarction in Rats by Electrical Stimulation

Pontine infarction is the most common stroke subtype in the posterior circulation, while there lacks a rodent model mimicking pontine infarction. Provided here is a protocol for successfully establishing a rat model of acute pontine infarction. Rats weighing about 250 g are used, and a probe with an insulated sheath is injected into the pons using a stereotaxic apparatus. A lesion is produced by the electrical stimulation with a single pulse. The Longa score, Berderson score, and beam balance test are used to assess neurological deficits. Additionally, the adhesive-removal somatosensory test is used to determine sensorimotor function, and the limb placement test is used to evaluate proprioception. MRI scans are then used to assess the infarction in vivo, and TTC staining is used to confirm the infarction in vitro. Here, a successful infarction is identified that is located in the anterolateral basis of the rostral pons. In conclusion, a new method is described to establish an acute pontine infarction rat model.

Presented here is a protocol for establishing acute pontine infarction in a rat model via electrical stimulation with a single pulse.

إنشاء احتشاء بونتين الحاد في الفئران عن طريق التحفيز الكهربائي

Pontine infarction is the most common stroke subtype in the posterior circulation, while there lacks a rodent model mimicking pontine infarction. Provided ...