Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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This study analyzes the stimulation parameters implemented during two successful trials that used non-invasive transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) to effectively improve upper extremity function after chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). It proposes a framework to guide stimulation programming decisions for the successful translation of these techniques into the clinic. ⋯ This analysis summarizes effective stimulation parameters from the trials and provides a decision-making framework for clinical implementation of tSCS for upper extremity functional restoration after SCI. The parameters are aligned with existing literature and proved safe and well tolerated by participants.
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Transcranial ultrasound neuromodulation (TUSN) is a noninvasive and spatially specific therapy that promises to deliver treatments tailored to the specific needs of individuals. To fulfill this promise, each treatment must be modified to adequately correct for variation across individual skulls and neural anatomy. This study examines the use of ultrasound-induced voltage potentials (measured with electroencephalography [EEG]) to guide TUSN therapies. ⋯ We report reliable ultrasound evoked potentials measured with EEG after the deep brain ultrasonic modulation in nonhuman primates. Robust responses are observed after just ten repetitions of the ultrasonic stimuli. Moreover, these potentials are only evoked for specific deep brain targets. Furthermore, a behavioral study in one subject shows a direct correspondence between the target with maximal EEG response and ultrasound-based modulation of visual choice behavior. Thus, this study provides evidence for the feasibility of EEG-based guidance for ultrasound neuromodulation therapies.
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Noninvasive neuromodulation, particularly through low-intensity ultrasound, holds promise in the fields of neuroscience and neuro-engineering. Ultrasound can stimulate the central nervous system to treat neurologic disorders of the brain and activate peripheral nerve activity. The aim of this study is to investigate the inhibitory effect of low-intensity ultrasonic tibial nerve stimulation on both the physiological state and the overactive bladder (OAB) model in rats. ⋯ This study confirmed the potential of transcutaneous ultrasound tibial nerve stimulation to improve bladder function. According to the findings, the ultrasonic intensities ranging from 1 to 3 W/cm2 and frequencies of 1 MHz and 3 MHz are both feasible and safe treatment parameters. This study portended the promise of low-intensity ultrasound tibial nerve stimulation as a treatment for OAB and provides a basis and reference for future clinical applications.
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Review Meta Analysis
A Mechanistic Analysis of the Neural Modulation of the Inflammatory System Through Vagus Nerve Stimulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the antiinflammatory effects of various VNS methods while exploring multiple antiinflammatory pathways. ⋯ Pooling all VNS techniques indicated the ability of VNS to modulate inflammatory markers such as CRP, IL-10, and IFN-γ. Individually, methods such as taVNS were effective in modulating IL-1ß and IL-10, whereas iVNS modulated IL-6. However, different VNS techniques should be separately analyzed in larger, homogeneous, and powerful studies to achieve a clearer and more consistent understanding of the effect of each VNS method on the inflammatory system.
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Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is gaining increased interest as a potential therapeutic modality for a range of neuropsychiatric diseases. Current neuromodulation modalities often require a choice between high spatial fidelity or invasiveness. LIFU is unique in this regard because it provides high spatial acuity of both superficial and deep neural structures while remaining noninvasive. This new form of noninvasive brain stimulation may provide exciting potential treatment options for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders involving aberrant neurocircuitry within deep brain structures, including pain and substance use disorders. Furthermore, LIFU is compatible with noninvasive neuroimaging techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography, making it a useful tool for more precise clinical neuroscience research to further understand the central nervous system. ⋯ Although still in its infancy, LIFU is a promising tool that has the potential to change the way we approach and treat neuropsychiatric disorders. In this quickly evolving field, this review serves as a snapshot of the current understanding of LIFU in neuropsychiatric research.