Effect of brain-computer interface based on visual, auditory and motor feedback combined with transcranial direct current stimulation on upper limb function in stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of brain-computer interface (BCI) based on visual, auditory and motor feedback combined with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on upper limb function in stroke patients. MethodsFrom March to October, 2023, 45 stroke inpatients in Xuzhou Rehabilitation Hospital and Xuzhou Central Hospital were divided into BCI group (n = 15), tDCS group (n = 15) and combined group (n = 15) randomly. All the groups received routine rehabilitation, while BCI group received BCI training, tDCS group received tDCS, while the combined group received tDCS and followed by BCI training immediately, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), modified Barthel Index (MBI) and delta-alpha ratio (DAR) and power ratio index (PRI) of electroencephalogram before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FMA-UE, ARAT and MBI increased in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 5.350, P < 0.001), and all these indexes were the best in the combined group (F > 3.366, P < 0.05); while DAR and PRI decreased in all the groups (|t| > 2.208 , P < 0.05), they were the best in the combined group (F > 5.224, P < 0.01). ConclusionBCI based on visual, auditory and motor feedback combined with tDCS can further improve the motor function of upper limbs and the activities of daily living of stroke patients.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on cognitive function and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease: a meta-analysis / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the cognitive function and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. MethodsRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) on tDCS for Parkinson's disease were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, CBM, VIP and Wanfang Data from the inception to September, 2023. Control group was administered standard Parkinson's medications or placebo, physical therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation, while treatment group received tDCS additionally. The quality of the researches was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data synthesis and analysis were performed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 17.0, with heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses. ResultsEight articles were included. tDCS significantly improved the scores of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MD = 2.00, 95%CI 1.13 to 2.87, P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the scores of Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (MD = 0.73, 95%CI -5.78 to 7.23, P = 0.830), Beck Depression Inventory-Ⅱ(MD = -0.77, 95%CI -7.14 to 5.60, P = 0.810), and Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale-Ⅲ (MD = 1.60, 95%CI -0.77 to 3.97, P = 0.190). ConclusiontDCS may improve cognitive function of patients with Parkinson's disease.

Effect of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in M1 region combined with dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on electroencephalogram θ frequency band amplitude of patients with neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the efficacy of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in M1 region combined with dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on electroencephalogram (EEG) θ frequency band amplitude of patients with neuropathic pain (NP) after spinal cord injury. MethodsFrom June, 2022 to June, 2023, 50 NP patients after SCI in Qingdao University Affiliated Hospital were included and divided into M1 region stimulation group (n = 25) and M1 region combined with DLPFC stimulation group (the combined stimulation group, n = 25). M1 region stimulation group received 10 Hz rTMS in the left M1 region, while the combined stimulation group received same stimulation in left M1 region combined with DLPFC, for three weeks. Before and after intervention, the pain was assessed with Short Form of McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), the depression and anxiety status were evaluated using Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and the EEG θ frequency band amplitude was recorded to detect the changes of brain electrophysiological activity. ResultsFour cases in M1 region stimulation group, and two cases in the combined stimulation group were dropped. After intervention, the total score of SF-MPQ and the scores of the subscales, the scores of HMMD and HAMA decreased in both groups (|t| > 2.523, P < 0.05). The EEG θ frequency band amplitude significantly reduced in the prefrontal and frontal regions in M1 region stimulation group (|t| > 5.243, P < 0.001), and it also significantly reduced in the prefrontal, frontal regions, central and parietal regions in the combined stimulation group (|t| > 4.630, P < 0.001). All the scores were lower (|t| > 2.270, Z = -1.973, P < 0.05), and the EEG θ frequency band amplitude in the prefrontal, frontal regions, central and parietal regions were lower (P < 0.05) in the combined stimulation group than in M1 region stimulation group. ConclusionHigh frequency rTMS is an effective analgesic method on NP after SCI, which can improve their depression and anxiety symptoms and reduce the EEG θ frequency band amplitude. Compared with M1 region rTMS stimulation, the combination of M1 region and DLPFC rTMS is more effective.

Effect of multi-target transcranial direct current stimulation on performance of working memory-postural control dual-task in healthy adults / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of multi-target transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and single-target tDCS on the performance of working memory-postural control dual-task in healthy adults, and to compare the regulatory effect of the two stimulation protocols. MethodsFrom November, 2020 to February, 2021, 19 healthy adults in Shanghai University of Sport were recruited and randomly accepted multi-target tDCS, single-target tDCS and sham stimulation with at least one week interval between any two stimulation protocols. The target areas of multi-target tDCS included left dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (L-DLPFC) and bilateral primary motor cortex (M1), and single-tDCS only applied to L-DLPFC. Before and after stimulation, participants completed walking and standing balance tests under single task and dual-task conditions with the second task being a N-back task. The dual-task postural control performance, dual-task cost (DTC) and working memory performance were observed before and after stimulation. ResultsSignificant differences were observed among three stimulation protocols in the changes of stride variability (F = 3.792, P = 0.029), DTC of stride variability (F = 3.412, P = 0.040) and velocity of center of pressure (Vcop) (F = 3.815, P = 0.029). The stride variability (P = 0.047) and Vcop (P = 0.015) were significantly lower and the decrease in DTC of stride variability tended to be significant (P = 0.073) following multi-target tDCS, as compared to sham stimulation. Single-target tDCS significantly decreased the changes of stride variability (P = 0.011), DTC of stride variability (P = 0.014) and Vcop (P = 0.025), as compared to sham stimulation. Compared with single target tDCS, multi-target tDCS reduced the changes of the dual-task cost of the area of center of pressure (P = 0.035). Moreover, no significant difference was observed among the three stimulation protocols in the changes of each measure in the working memory test (P > 0.05). ConclusionBoth multi-target tDCS and single-target tDCS can improve the performance of working memory-postural control dual-task in healthy adults, and compared with single-target tDCS, multi-target tDCS has some advantages in regulating postural control.

Efficacy and influencing factors of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of chronic insomnia / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundChronic insomnia is characterized by a prolonged and recurrent course. The efficacy of repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation （rTMS） as a physical therapy method to improve sleep quality remains inadequately supported by evidence， particularly regarding its relationship with personality traits. ObjectiveTo explore the efficacy and influencing factors of rTMS in the treatment of chronic insomnia， and to provide insights into its therapeutic potential. MethodA total of 46 patients who met the diagnostic criteria for chronic insomnia according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders， fifth edition （DSM-5）， and were treated at the Third Hospital of Mianyang from September 2022 to September 2023 were selected. Prior to treatment， participants underwent assessments using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire （EPQ）， Hamilton Depression Scale-17 item （HAMD-17） and Hamilton Anxiety Scale （HAMA）. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI） was used to assess sleep quality before treatment， at the end of the second week of treatment and one week post-treatment. ResultsAt the end of the second week of treatment， patients exhibited significantly improved total PSQI score and subscale scores related to subjective sleep quality， sleep latency， sleep duration， sleep efficiency， sleep disturbance and daytime dysfunction （t=4.755~13.361， P<0.01）， with 24 cases （54.35%） showing effective treatment outcomes. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that introverted and extroverted personality traits contributed significantly to the regression equation （B=0.317， P<0.01）， explaining 29.90% of the total variation （R2=0.299）. ConclusionrTMS treatment may effectively improve the sleep quality of patients with chronic insomnia， with its therapeutic effect appearing to associated with introverted and extroverted personality traits. ［Funded by National Natural Science Project of China （number， 82372080）］

Transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of phantom limb pain: a systematic review / Estimulação magnética transcraniana no tratamento da dor do membro fantasma: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Phantom limb pain (PLP) occurs after amputations and can persist in a chronic and debilitating way. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation method capable of influencing brain function and modulating cortical excitability. Its effectiveness in treating chronic pain is promising. Objective To evaluate the evidence on the efficacy and safety of using rTMS in the treatment of PLP, observing the stimulation parameters used, side effects, and benefits of the therapy. Methods This is a systematic review of scientific articles published in national and international literature using electronic platforms. Results Two hundred and fifty two articles were identified. Two hundred and forty six publications were removed because they were duplicated or met the exclusion criteria. After selection, six studies were reviewed, those being two randomized clinical trials and four case reports. All evaluated studies indicated some degree of benefit of rTMS to relieve painful symptoms, even temporarily. Pain perception was lower at the end of treatment when compared to the period prior to the sessions and remained during patient follow-up. There was no standardization of the stimulation parameters used. There were no reports of serious adverse events. The effects of long-term therapy have not been evaluated. Conclusion There are some benefits, even if temporary, in the use of rTMS to relieve painful symptoms in PLP. High-frequency stimulation at M1 demonstrated a significant analgesic effect. Given the potential that has been demonstrated, but limited by the paucity of high-quality studies, further controlled studies are needed to establish and standardize the clinical use of the method.

Resumo Antecedentes A dor do membro fantasma (DMF) ocorre após amputações e pode persistir de forma crônica e debilitante. A estimulação magnética transcraniana repetitiva (EMTr) é um método de neuromodulação não invasivo capaz de influenciar a função cerebral e modular a excitabilidade cortical. Sua eficácia no tratamento da dor crônica é promissora. Objetivo Avaliar as evidências sobre a eficácia e segurança do uso da EMTr no tratamento da DMF, observando os parâmetros de estimulação utilizados, efeitos colaterais e benefícios da terapia. Métodos Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática de artigos científicos publicados na literatura nacional e internacional utilizando plataformas eletrônicas. Resultados Foram identificados 252 artigos. Duzentas e quarenta e seis publicações foram removidas por estarem duplicadas ou atenderem aos critérios de exclusão. Após a seleção, foram revisados seis estudos, sendo dois ensaios clínicos randomizados e quatro relatos de caso. Todos os estudos avaliados indicaram algum grau de benefício da EMTr no alívio dos sintomas dolorosos, mesmo que temporariamente. A percepção da dor foi menor ao final do tratamento quando comparada ao período anterior às sessões e permaneceu durante o acompanhamento do paciente. Não houve padronização dos parâmetros de estimulação utilizados. Não houve relatos de eventos adversos graves. Os efeitos da terapia a longo prazo não foram avaliados. Conclusão Existem alguns benefícios, mesmo que temporários, no uso da EMTr para alívio dos sintomas dolorosos na DMF. A estimulação de alta frequência em M1 demonstrou um efeito analgésico significativo. Dado o potencial demonstrado, mas limitado pela escassez de estudos de alta qualidade, são necessários mais estudos controlados para estabelecer e padronizar o uso clínico do método.

An electric field modeling study with meta-analysis to understand the antidepressant effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

Objective: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has mixed effects for major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms, partially owing to large inter-experimental variability in tDCS protocols and their correlated induced electric fields (E-fields). We investigated whether the E-field strength of distinct tDCS parameters was associated with antidepressant effect. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed with placebo-controlled clinical trials of tDCS enrolling MDD patients. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 10, 2023. Effect sizes of tDCS protocols were correlated with E-field simulations (SimNIBS) of brain regions of interest (bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC] and bilateral subgenual anterior cingulate cortex [sgACC]). Moderators of tDCS responses were also investigated. Results: A total of 20 studies were included (21 datasets, 1,008 patients), using 11 distinct tDCS protocols. Results revealed a moderate effect for MDD (g = 0.41, 95%CI 0.18-0.64), while cathode position and treatment strategy were found to be moderators of response. A negative association between effect size and tDCS-induced E-field magnitude was seen, with stronger E-fields in the right frontal and medial parts of the DLPFC (targeted by the cathode) leading to smaller effects. No association was found for the left DLPFC and the bilateral sgACC. An optimized tDCS protocol is proposed. Conclusions: Our results highlight the need for a standardized tDCS protocol in MDD clinical trials. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42022296246.

Historia y principios básicos de la estimulación magnética transcraneal

La estimulación magnética transcraneal (EMT) es una técnica no invasiva que consiste en la utilización de campos magnéticos para estimular a las neuronas de la corteza cerebral. Si bien la electricidad se ha pretendido emplear previamente en el campo de la medicina, la historia de la EMT se remonta al descubrimiento de la inducción electromagnética, por Faraday, en el siglo XIX. Sin embargo, no fue hasta la década de 1980 cuando Anthony Barker, en la Universidad de Sheffield, desarrolló el primer dispositivo de EMT. La EMT funciona mediante una bobina colocada en el cuero cabelludo, la cual produce un campo magnético que puede atravesar el cráneo y estimular las neuronas corticales. La intensidad y la frecuencia del campo magnético pueden ajustarse para dirigirse a zonas específicas del cerebro y producir efectos excitatorios e inhibitorios. Los principios de la EMT se basan en el concepto de neuroplasticidad, que se refiere a la capacidad del cerebro para cambiar y adaptarse en respuesta a nuevas experiencias y estímulos. Al estimular las neuronas del cerebro con la EMT, es posible inducir cambios en la actividad neuronal y la conectividad, lo que a su vez puede provocar cambios cognitivos y en el estado de ánimo.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate neurons in the cerebral cortex. While electricity has previously been intended to be used in the medical field, the history of TMS dates back to the discovery of electromagnetic induction by Faraday in the 19th century. However, it was not until the 1980s when Anthony Barker developed the first TMS device at the University of Sheffield. TMS works by means of a coil placed against the scalp, thereby producing a magnetic field. This magnetic field can pass through the skull and stimulate cortical neurons. The intensity and frequency of the magnetic field can be adjusted to target specific areas of the brain and produce excitatory and inhibitory effects. The principles of TMS are based on the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences and stimuli. By stimulating neurons in the brain with TMS, it is possible to cause changes in neuronal activity and connectivity, which in turn can lead to cognitive and mood changes.

Parameters and results of non-invasive neuromodulation in the management of chronic pelvic pain: integrative literature review / Parâmetros e resultados da neuromodulação não invasiva no manejo da dor pélvica crônica: revisão integrativa da literatura

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is characterized by persistent pain in the pelvic region for more than six months, affecting both men and women and causing significant impairment in quality of life (QoL). Two of the main non-invasive approaches are Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). These techniques aim to modulate neural activity and promote pain relief. In this context, this research conducted an integrative literature review to summarize the results of relevant studies, aiming to identify the key parameters used in TMS and tDCS for CPP treatment. The objective was to assess the effect and efficacy of non-invasive neuromodulation as a therapeutic intervention for CPP. CONTENTS: For this integrative review, electronic searches were conducted in Pubmed, Scielo, PEDro, Medline, Cochrane, and Scopus databases, examining studies in Portuguese, English, or Spanish. The keywords "pelvic pain," "transcranial direct current stimulation," and "transcranial magnetic stimulation" and their derivatives were searched in the three languages in studies from 2013 to 2023. Seven studies were included for analysis. Both techniques showed positive effects in managing CPP, improving pain levels and quality of life to a relevant extent. However, there is still no consensus on the parameters applied in TMS and tDCS techniques for CPP. CONCLUSION: Non-invasive neuromodulation improves pain levels and quality of life in patients with CPP. Further studies are needed to establish more reliable parameter relationships, and the limited number of studies restricts definitive conclusions on the subject.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor pélvica crônica (DPC) é caracterizada pela persistência da dor na região pélvica por mais de seis meses, afetando tanto homens quanto mulheres e causando prejuízos significativos na qualidade de vida (QV). Duas das principais abordagens não invasivas são Estimulação Magnética Transcraniana (EMT) e a Estimulação Transcraniana por Corrente Contínua (ETCC). Nesse contexto, esta pesquisa realizou uma revisão integrativa da literatura com o intuito de resumir os resultados de estudos relevantes, buscando identificar os principais parâmetros utilizados no tratamento da DPC. O objetivo foi fornecer uma visão abrangente sobre essas técnicas de neuromodulação e suas aplicações específicas no controle da dor pélvica crônica. CONTEÚDO: Para esta revisão integrativa, as buscas eletrônicas ocorreram nas bases de dados Pubmed, Scielo, PEDro, Medline, Cochrane e Scopus, verificando estudos em português, inglês ou espanhol. "Dor pélvica", "estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua" e "estimulação magnética transcraniana" e suas derivações foram pesquisadas nos três idiomas em estudos entre 2013 e 2023. Sete estudos foram incluídos para análise. Ambas as técnicas apresentaram efeitos positivos no manejo da DPC, melhorando os níveis de dor e a QV em proporções relevantes. Entretanto, ainda não há um consenso sobre os parâmetros aplicados nas técnicas de EMT e ETCC para DPC. CONCLUSÃO: A neuromodulação não invasiva melhora os níveis de dor e a QV em pacientes com DPC. São necessários mais estudos para que relações mais confiáveis de parâmetros possam ser preestabelecidas e a ausência de um maior número de estudos limita conclusões acerca do assunto.

Endarterectomía carotídea en paciente con estenosis aórtica crítica. Importancia de la anestesia regional y del neuromonitoreo / Carotid endarterectomy in a patient with critical aortic stenosis. Importance of regional anesthesia and transoperative neurological monitoring

Resumen: La estenosis carotídea (EC) ocurre en 13% de los pacientes con estenosis valvular aórtica (EVA). El riesgo de evento vascular cerebral (EVC), en los pacientes con EC significativa sometidos a cirugía valvular cardíaca, puede aumentar hasta 11%. Someter a un paciente con EVA crítica y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) disminuida a endarterectomía carotídea es todo un reto anestésico, cuyo principal objetivo es evitar la hipotensión y el bajo gasto cardíaco. La anestesia regional es una opción para estos pacientes. Presentamos el caso de un hombre de 70 años con diagnóstico de EC significativa y EVA crítica con disfunción ventricular izquierda, al que se realizó endarterectomía carotídea con bloqueo del plexo cervical superficial por alto riesgo de colapso circulatorio. Dicha estrategia anestésica permitió mantener al paciente despierto durante la cirugía, al valorar continuamente su estado neurológico. Asimismo, se documentaron los cambios transoperatorios en el NIRS (Near-infrared spectroscopy) cerebral y Doppler transcraneal (DTC), los cuales se correlacionaron con el estado clínico del paciente. En un segundo tiempo se hizo cambio valvular aórtico sin complicaciones. En este caso destaca la importancia de la anestesia regional y el monitoreo neurológico con Doppler transcraneal, en pacientes sometidos a endarterectomía carotídea con alto riesgo quirúrgico por EVA crítica.

Abstract: Carotid stenosis occurs in 13% of patients with aortic valve stenosis. The risk of stroke in patients with significant carotid stenosis undergoing heart valve surgery may increase to 11%. Proposing a patient with critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction to carotid endarterectomy is an anesthetic challenge, where the objective is to avoid hypotension and low cardiac output. Regional anesthesia is an option for these patients. Due to the high incidence of intraoperative stroke during carotid endarterectomy, continuous neurological monitoring is of relevance. We present the case of a 70-year-old man diagnosed with significant carotid stenosis and critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction who underwent carotid endarterectomy with superficial cervical plexus block due to a high risk of circulatory collapse. In addition, this anesthetic strategy made it possible to keep the patient awake during surgery, and to continuously assess their neurological status. Likewise, transoperative changes in brain NIRS and transcranial Doppler were documented, which correlated with the patient's clinical status. In a second time, aortic valve replacement was performed without complications. This case highlights the importance of regional anesthesia and neurological monitoring in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy with high surgical risk due to critical aortic valve stenosis.

Estimulação Transcraniana para Transtornos do Sono: uma revisão sistemática / Transcranial Stimulation in Sleep Disorders: a systematic review / Estimulación Transcraneal para los Trastornos del Sueño: una revisión sistemática

Os transtornos do sono podem ter várias consequências para a cognição, comportamento e vida social das pessoas. No entanto, a terapia utilizada para avaliar e intervir nesses transtornos ainda não está consolidada. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a aplicabilidade e eficácia da estimulação transcraniana (ETCA / ETCC / EMTr) nos transtornos do sono. Foi realizada uma busca sistemática de acordo com as diretrizes do PRISMA nas bases de dados Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS e SciELO. Inicialmente, foram encontrados 448 artigos, de acordo com os critérios de elegibilidade. O banco de dados de evidências de fisioterapia (PEDro) foi utilizado para avaliar a qualidade metodológica dos 11 artigos finais. Em geral, os resultados indicam que há tanto relatos favoráveis quanto desfavoráveis à eficácia do uso terapêutico das técnicas de estimulação transcraniana nos transtornos do sono e, portanto, ainda se configura como uma questão em aberto, dependendo de múltiplos fatores metodológicos e conceituais.

Sleep disorders can have several consequences on people's cognition, behavior and social life. However, the therapy used to assess and intervene in these disorders is not yet consolidated. In this context, the aim of this study was to verify the applicability and effectiveness of transcranial stimulation (tACS / tDCS / rTMS) in sleep disorders. A systematic search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines in the Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases. Initially, 448 articles were found, according to the eligibility criteria. The physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) was used to assess the methodological quality of the 11 final articles. In general, the results indicate that there are both favorable and unfavorable reports on the effectiveness of the therapeutic use of transcranial stimulation techniques in sleep disorders and, therefore, it is still an open question, depending on multiple methodological and conceptual factors.

Trastornos del sueño pueden tener varias consecuencias para la cognición, el comportamiento y la vida social de las personas. La terapia utilizada para evaluar e intervenir en estos trastornos aún no está consolidada. En este contexto, el objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la aplicabilidad y efectividad de la estimulación transcraneal (ETCA / ETCC / EMTr) en los trastornos del sueño. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática según las guías PRISMA en las bases de datos Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS y SciELO. Inicialmente se encontraron 448 artículos, según los criterios de elegibilidad. Se utilizó la base de datos PEDro para evaluar la calidad metodológica de los 11 artículos finales. En general, los resultados indican que existen informes tanto favorables como desfavorables sobre la efectividad del uso terapéutico de las técnicas de estimulación transcraneal en los trastornos del sueño y, por tanto, sigue siendo una cuestión abierta, dependiendo de múltiples factores metodológicos y conceptuales.

Effect of rTMS on the efficacy and cognitive function of adolescents with depression / 四川精神卫生

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation （rTMS） on the efficacy and cognitive function of adolescents with depression. MethodsA total of sixty adolescent depression patients who met the diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Diseases， tenth edition （ICD-10） and were admitted to the psychological outpatient clinic of the Affiliated Hospital of North China University of Technology from September 2021 to March 2022 were selected for the study， and the random number table method was used to divide the study group （escitalopram oxalate combined with rTMS treatment） and a control group （escitalopram oxalate combined with rTMS pseudo-stimulation treatment） of 30 cases each， and both groups were treated for 4 weeks. Before treatment and at 1， 2， 3 and 4 weeks of treatment， patients' depressive symptoms were assessed using the scores and subtraction rates of the Hamilton Depression Scale-24 item （HAMD-24）， and before treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment， cognitive function was assessed using the Motion Screening Task （MOT）， Rule Switch Task （RST） and Delayed Matching-to-Sample （DMS） task of the Zhiyun Neuropsychological Automated Test System assessment. Adverse effects during treatment were recorded in both groups. ResultsRepeated measures ANOVA results showed statistically significant time main effects， group main effects， and the interaction between the two groups for HAMD-24 scores before treatment and after 1， 2， 3 and 4 weeks of treatment in patients （F=522.021， 39.905， 26.412， P<0.05）. Individual effect analysis showed statistically significant differences in HAMD-24 scores between the two groups after 2， 3 and 4 weeks of treatment （t=-12.784~-2.776， P<0.01）. After 4 weeks of treatment， the total effective rate of treatment in the study group was higher than that in the control group （93.33% vs. 73.33%， χ2=4.320， P<0.05）， and the differences in each indicator of RST and DMS between the two groups were statistically significant compared with those before treatment （t=-5.616~9.135， P<0.05 or 0.01）， and the differences between the two groups were statistically significant （t=-4.823~5.518， P<0.05 or 0.01）. ConclusionrTMS may help improve depressive symptoms as well as cognitive function in adolescents with depression.

Research progress on transcranial electrical stimulation for deep brain stimulation / 生物医学工程学杂志

Transcranial electric stimulation (TES) is a non-invasive, economical, and well-tolerated neuromodulation technique. However, traditional TES is a whole-brain stimulation with a small current, which cannot satisfy the need for effectively focused stimulation of deep brain areas in clinical treatment. With the deepening of the clinical application of TES, researchers have constantly investigated new methods for deeper, more intense, and more focused stimulation, especially multi-electrode stimulation represented by high-precision TES and temporal interference stimulation. This paper reviews the stimulation optimization schemes of TES in recent years and further analyzes the characteristics and limitations of existing stimulation methods, aiming to provide a reference for related clinical applications and guide the following research on TES. In addition, this paper proposes the viewpoint of the development direction of TES, especially the direction of optimizing TES for deep brain stimulation, aiming to provide new ideas for subsequent research and application.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with contralateral control functional electrical stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) combined with contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation (CCFES) on upper limb motor function of stroke patients. MethodsFrom January to December, 2022, 60 stroke patients from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into atDCS group (n = 20), CCFES group (n = 20) and combined group (n = 20). All the groups accepted routine rehabilitation, while atDCS group accepted atDCS on the primary motor (M1) area of the damaged hemisphere, CCFES group accepted CCFES on the triceps brachii and extensors carpi muscles, and the combined group accepted atDCS on the M1 area of damaged hemisphere and CCFES on triceps brachii and extensors carpi muscles, for six weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and the electromyography root mean square (RMS) ratio of bilateral triceps brachii muscles and extensor carpi muscles, before and after treatment. ResultsThe FMA-UE score, WMFT score, and the RMS ratio of the triceps brachii muscles and extensor carpi muscles improved in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 5.007, P < 0.001), and improved the most in the combined group (F > 14.492, P < 0.001). ConclusionatDCS combined with CCFES can effectively improve upper limb motor function of stroke patients.

Effect of anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS and ctDCS) on upper limb function of stroke patients with moderate to severe upper extremity impairment. MethodsFrom January to September, 2022, 69 patients in Zhongda Hospital Southeast University were randomly divided into control group (n = 23), atDCS group (n = 23) and ctDCS group (n = 23). All the groups received conventional rehabilitation. Moreover, atDCS group received atDCS over the M1 area of the affected hemisphere, ctDCS group received ctDCS over the M1 area of the unaffected hemisphere, and the control group received placebo stimulation. Before and four weeks after treatment, they were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and modified Barthel index (MBI). ResultsBefore treatment, there was no significant difference in the scores of FMA-UE, WMFT and MBI among groups (F < 1.165, P > 0.05). After treatment, all the scores improved significantly in all the groups (|t| > 6.412, P < 0.001), and were higher in the atDCS group and ctDCS group than in the control group (P < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found between the atDCS group and ctDCS group (P > 0.05). ConclusionBoth atDCS and ctDCS could improve the upper limb motor function and activities of daily living of stroke patients with moderate to severe upper extremity impairment.

Effect of graded motor imagery combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of graded motor imagery (GMI) combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on upper limb function and activities of daily living of stroke patients. MethodsFrom June, 2022 to February, 2023, 45 stroke patients from Xuzhou Rehabilitation Hospital and Xuzhou Central Hospital were recruited and divided into control group (n = 15), GMI group (n = 15) and combined group (n = 15) randomly. All the groups received conventional rehabilitation, in addition, GMI group received GMI and the combined group received GMI and rTMS, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), modified Barthel Index (MBI) and Hong Kong version of Functional Test for the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity (FTHUE-HK) before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FMA-UE, ARAT and MBI, and grades of FTHUE-HK improved in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 9.681, P < 0.001), and all these indexes were the best in the combined group (F > 13.241, P < 0.001). ConclusionGMI combined with rTMS can further improve the motor function of upper limbs and activities of daily living of stroke patients.

Effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on premotor cortex on upper limb motor function in patients with severe stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) on premotor cortex (PMC) on upper limb motor function in patients with severe stroke. MethodsFrom June, 2021 to December, 2022, 60 patients with severe stroke in Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 20), primary motor cortex (M1) group (n = 20) and PMC group (n = 20). All the groups accepted routine rehabilitation treatment, while the control group accepted atDCS pseudo stimulation to the focus side PMC, M1 group accepted atDCS to the focus side M1, and PMC group accepted atDCS to the focus side PMC, for six weeks. Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), the surface electromyography root mean square (RMS) ratio of affected/unaffected side of triceps and extensor carpus were used to evaluate the efficacy before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and WMFT, and RMS ratio of triceps and extensor carpus significantly increased in all the groups (|t| > 2.458, P < 0.05), and were better in PMC group than in the other two groups (F > 4.084, P < 0.05). ConclusionatDCS on PMC could improve the overall function of upper limb in patients with severe stroke.

Effect of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation combined with rehabilitation robot on upper limb and hand function in patients with subacute stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) combined with rehabilitation robot on upper limb and hand dysfunction in patients with subacute stroke. MethodsFrom December, 2019 to December, 2021, 50 inpatients with subacute stroke in Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 25) and experimental group (n = 25). Both groups received routine rehabilitation therapy, while the control group added sham HD-tDCS combined with rehabilitation robot, and the experimental group added HD-tDCS combined with rehabilitation robot, for four weeks. The upper limb and hand function was assessed with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and Motor Assessment Scale (MAS) before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of ARAT, FMA-UE and MAS increased in the two groups (∣Z∣ > 3.320, t > 6.379, P < 0.01), while the scores of FMA-UE and MAS were higher in the experimental group than in the control group (Z = -2.379, t = 3.181, P < 0.05), as well as the scores of grasping and gross motor of ARAT (∣Z∣ > 2.033, P < 0.05). ConclusionThe combination of HD-tDCS and rehabilitation robot can be more effective on upper limb and hand function in patients with subacute stroke than rehabilitation robot alone.

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Endurance Performance of Lower Limbs:A Systematic Review / 医用生物力学

Sports fatigue of the lower limbs is one of the important factors affecting sports performance. How to improve the anti-fatigue ability of the lower limbs during endurance exercise is the focus of the research field of human sports biomechanics. This study systematically reviewed the relevant literature on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) intervention on lower limb endurance performance, summarized the effect of tDCS on lower limb endurance performance, and analyzed the influencing factors and potential mechanisms. The results showed that: tDCS intervention has a significant effect on the endurance performance of the whole lower limbs, but there is no unified conclusion on the effect on the endurance performance of the knee joint. The researchers deem that tDCS can increase the excitability of the primary motor cortex and reduce the activation of the supplementary motor area and the premotor area to producing a lower rating of perceived exertion, but cannot affect the perception of exercise-induced pain, and stimulation protocols varied across studies, which may be partly responsible. This study can provide a theoretical basis for exploring the central mechanism of tDCS to improve endurance performance, formulating rehabilitation and sports training programsfor different groups of people, and developing new stimulation equipment to enhance the human body’s anti fatigue ability.

SUN Shen-tian's clinical experience in treating Tourette's syndrome with acupuncture / 中国针灸

To introduce the clinical experience of professor SUN Shen-tian in treatment of Tourette's syndrome (TS) with acupuncture. TS is a psychosomatic disease and the core pathogenesis refers to blood deficiency producing internal wind. The disease is located in the heart and liver. Acupoints are selected according to the functional orientation of the cerebral cortex. The extrapyramidal system area is preferred for tic disorder, and the emotional area is for behavioral disorder. The treatment focuses on regulating the mind by multiple methods, including manual needling technique used the transcranial repeated acupuncture, and regulating the mind by taking multiple acupoints, Baihui (GV 20), Neiguan (PC 6), Shenmen (HT 7) and Dazhong (KI 4) are stimulated. For abdominal twitching and mental symptoms of TS children, the first and third abdominal areas are selected. The target symptoms (biao) are treated specially by local acupoints, the combination of the starting and ending acupoints of the affected meridian, or the acupoints of the meridians with same name. The modified chaihu longgu muli decoction and siwu decoction are prescribed to sooth liver, nourish blood and soothe wind. In association with the characteristics and target symptoms of TS, the sequential therapy is used with filiform needling, intradermal needling, Chinese herbal medication and psychotherapy.