Neurophysiological Techniques Research Articles

Exploring the complexity of EEG patterns in Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily associated with motor dysfunctions. By the time of definitive diagnosis, about 60% of dopaminergic neurons have already been lost; moreover, even if dopaminergic drugs are highly effective in symptoms control, they only help maintaining a near-healthy condition when started as soon as possible. Therefore, interest in identifying early biomarkers of PD has grown in recent years, especially using neurophysiological techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG). This study aims to investigate brain complexity differences in PD patients compared to healthy controls, focusing on the beta band using approximate entropy (ApEn) analysis of resting-state EEG recordings. Sixty participants were recruited, including 25 PD patients and 35 healthy elderly subjects, matched for age and gender. EEG were recorded for each participant and ApEn values were computed in the beta 1 (13-20Hz) and beta 2 (20-30Hz) frequency bands for each EEG-channel and for ROIs. PD patients showed statistically lower ApEn values compared to controls in both beta 1 and beta 2 bands. Regarding electrodes analysis, beta 1 band alterations were found in frontocentral areas, while beta 2 band alterations were observed in centroparietal and frontocentral areas. Considering ROIs, statistically lower ApEn values for PD patients has been reported in central and parietal ROIs in the beta 2 band. Complexity reduction in these areas may underlie beta oscillatory activity dysfunction, reflecting impaired cortical mechanisms associated with motor dysfunction in PD. The results suggest that ApEn analysis of resting EEG activity may serve as a potential tool for early PD detection. Further studies are necessary to validate this approach in PD diagnosis and rehabilitation planning.

To Compare the Effectiveness of Neurophysiological Facilitation Technique Versus Pursed Lip Breathing Exercise to Improve Lung Function among Geriatric COPD Patients

To Compare the Effectiveness of Neurophysiological Facilitation Technique Versus Pursed Lip Breathing Exercise to Improve Lung Function among Geriatric COPD Patients

The choice of method of electroneuromyogaphy in remote consequences of gunshot and mine-blast injuries of limb nerves

Objective. Clarification of the nature of damage and degree of functional disorders in the remote consequences of gunshot and mine-blast injuries of limb nerves using neurophysiological techniques (NP) of functional diagnostics (stimulation and needle electromyography), correlation of these data with the nerve damage characteristics determined during surgical interventions (operative findings). Materials and methods. 480 military personnel and civilians, men aged 18-64 years (average age 33.5 years), with gunshot and mine-blast injuries of limb nerves (LNI) within 1 to 11 months after injury were examined. A total of 1400 EMG studies were conducted. Clinical-neurological methods were used to determine the level, degree, and nature of LNI. Results. Among the examined 480 patients, complete nerve damage was detected in 299, and partial in 181. Causes of nerve damage included: shrapnel, gunshot, mine-blast injuries, nerve rupture due to bone fractures, injuries by sharp objects, iatrogenic damage. In 62.3% of cases of complete LNI surgical interventions were performed using the technique of neurotization using branches of donor nerves. Provided anatomical integrity of nerve structures and presence of conductivity during EMG testing, external or internal neurolysis was performed. Surgical intervention timing: up to 6 months post-injury - 68.1% of cases; up to 3 months - 31.9%. Based on the results of comprehensive clinical-NP research, adapted schemes for assessing NP data corresponding to each pathohistological type of LNI were developed, and NP criteria for classifying consequences of LNI into three degrees of severity of functional deficit - mild, moderate, and severe were proposed. Conclusions. Criteria for choosing the optimal NP diagnostic methodology for the remote consequences of gunshot and mine-blast injuries of limb nerves have been determined. Comprehensive clinical-instrumental diagnostics allows to objectify the level and degree of limb nerve damage, signs of neuromuscular apparatus recovery, provides information for planning of the surgical tactics and subsequent rehabilitation therapy.

Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Tethered Cord Syndrome Surgery: Predictive Values and Clinical Outcome.

"Tethered cord syndrome" (TCS) refers to a congenital abnormality associated with neurological signs and symptoms. The aim of surgery is to prevent or arrest their progression. This study reports a retrospective case series of tethered cord syndrome surgeries, supported by intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. The case series comprises 50 surgeries for tethered cord syndrome in which multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring was performed using motor evoked potentials (transcranial motor evoked potentials [TcMEPs]), tibial nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (TNSEPs), and pudendal-anal reflex (PAR). The intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring results are reported and correlated with clinical outcomes. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value were high for TcMEPs and TNSEPs, while PAR exhibited low sensitivity and positive predictive value but high specificity and negative predictive value. Fisher's exact test revealed a significant correlation between changes in TcMEPs, TNSEPs, and clinical outcome ( P < 0.000 and P = 0.049 respectively), but no correlation was detected between PAR and urinary/anal function ( P = 0.497). While TcMEPs and TNSEPs were found to be reliable intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring parameters during tethered cord syndrome surgery, PAR had low sensitivity and positive predictive value probably because the reflex is not directly related to bladder function and because its multisynaptic pathway may be sensitive to anesthetics. New onset muscle weakness and sensory deficits were related to postoperative changes in TcMEPs and TNSEPs, whereas changes in PAR did not predict bladder/urinary impairment. Urinary deficits may be predicted and prevented with other neurophysiological techniques, such as the bladder-anal reflex.

Expert consensus on neurophysiologic monitoring and evaluation of neurocritical care patients (2024 version)

Neurophysiological monitoring is important for the assessment and prediction of regression in patients with severe neurocritical illnesses due to various etiologies. At present, the popularity of neuroelectrophysiological monitoring technology for severe neurocritical patients in China is not widespread enought, the level of monitoring varies, and there is a lack of relevant consensus and norms. This expert consensus combines the opinions of national experts in neuroelectrophysiology and neurocritical care medicine, and providess 13 expert opinions on neuroelectrophysiology technology and application. Commonly used Neurophysiologic monitoring in the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit (NICU) includes three categories: electroencephalogram, evoked potentials and electromyography. The main applications include assessment of coma level and prognosis prediction, reflection of intracranial pressure level, identification of nonconvulsive status epilepticus, assessment of sedation level, determination of brain death, and monitoring of severe peripheral neuropathy. It is recommended that NICU at all levels apply neurophysiologic monitoring techniques to severe neurocritical patients according to the expert consensus.

EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION METHOD APPLICATION ON UPPER LIMB FUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS AFTER STROKE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The brain damage caused by a stroke can lead to severe and long-lasting physical and mental health problems, which can have a significant impact on human quality of life. Although restoring gait parameters in stroke patients is one of the most important rehabilitation goals, currently around 80% of stroke survivors have some degree of upper limb motor impairment. Several authors have shown that restoration of upper limb function is often more difficult to achieve and requires a longer rehabilitation period. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) is thought to be one of the most common neurophysiological techniques used by physiotherapists in post-stroke rehabilitation. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) in improving upper limb function in patients after stroke through a systematic literature review. The research inquiry was performed by searching through various online databases until February 2023. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, studies were selected using the PICO model and its elements, and based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the selected studies was assessed using the PEDro scale. The review examined five studies on PNF effects in 210 stroke patients, all scoring six or more on the high-quality PEDro scale. Patients were, on average, 52 to 63 years old. Four of the five studies, using the Arm Motor Ability Test and Fugl-Meyer assessment, showed statistically significant improvements in upper limb motor ability and function post-PNF intervention. One study assessing self-care functional ability revealed significant improvements in the Barthel index for both experimental and control groups. Spasticity assessment with the Ashford scale in one study indicated a statistically significant reduction in upper limb spasticity in both groups. Yeole et al. found significant improvements in active range of motion using a manual goniometer in shoulder and elbow joints and wrist joint flexion, extension, and radial deviation for PNF-applied participants.

Exploring the disruptions of the neurophysiological organization in Alzheimer’s disease: An integrative approach

Background and Objective:Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurological disorder that impairs brain functions associated with cognition, memory, and behavior. Noninvasive neurophysiological techniques like magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG) have shown promise in reflecting brain changes related to AD. These techniques are usually assessed at two levels: local activation (spectral, nonlinear, and dynamic properties) and global synchronization (functional connectivity, frequency-dependent network, and multiplex network organization characteristics). Nonetheless, the understanding of the organization formed by the existing relationships between these levels, henceforth named neurophysiological organization, remains unexplored. This work aims to assess the alterations AD causes in the resting-state neurophysiological organization. Methods:To that end, three datasets from healthy controls (HC) and patients with dementia due to AD were considered: MEG database (55 HC and 87 patients with AD), EEG1 database (51 HC and 100 patients with AD), and EEG2 database (45 HC and 82 patients with AD). To explore the alterations induced by AD in the relationships between several features extracted from M/EEG data, association networks (ANs) were computed. ANs are graphs, useful to quantify and visualize the intricate relationships between multiple features. Results:Our results suggested a disruption in the neurophysiological organization of patients with AD, exhibiting a greater inclination towards the local activation level; and a significant decrease in the complexity and diversity of the ANs (p-value ¡ 0.05, Mann–Whitney U-test, Bonferroni correction). This effect might be due to a shift of the neurophysiological organization towards more regular configurations, which may increase its vulnerability. Moreover, our findings support the crucial role played by the local activation level in maintaining the stability of the neurophysiological organization. Classification performance exhibited accuracy values of 83.91%, 73.68%, and 72.65% for MEG, EEG1, and EEG2 databases, respectively. Conclusion:This study introduces a novel, valuable methodology able to integrate parameters characterize different properties of the brain activity and to explore the intricate organization of the neurophysiological organization at different levels. It was noted that AD increases susceptibility to changes in functional neural organization, suggesting a greater ease in the development of severe impairments. Therefore, ANs could facilitate a deeper comprehension of the complex interactions in brain function from a global standpoint.

Reduction in short interval intracortical inhibition from the early stage reflects the pathophysiology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A meta-analysis study.

Cortical hyperexcitability has been identified as a diagnostic and pathogenic biomarker of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Cortical excitability is assessed by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive neurophysiological technique. The TMS biomarkers exhibiting highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS remain to be elucidated. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the TMS biomarkers exhibiting the highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS. A systematic literature review was conducted of all relevant studies published in the English language by searching PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus electronic databases from 1 January 2006 to 28 February 2023. Inclusion criteria included studies reporting the utility of threshold tracking TMS (serial ascending method) in ALS and controls. In total, more than 2500 participants, incorporating 1530 ALS patients and 1102 controls (healthy, 907; neuromuscular, 195) were assessed with threshold tracking TMS across 25 studies. Significant reduction of mean short interval intracortical inhibition (interstimulus interval 1-7 ms) exhibited the highest standardized mean difference with moderate heterogeneity (-0.994, 95% confidence interval -1.12 to -0.873, p < 0.001; Q = 38.61, p < 0.05; I2 = 40%). The reduction of cortical silent period duration along with an increase in motor evoked potential amplitude and intracortical facilitation also exhibited significant, albeit smaller, standardized mean differences. This large meta-analysis study disclosed that mean short interval intracortical inhibition reduction exhibited the highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS. Combined findings from this meta-analysis suggest that research strategies aimed at understanding the cause of inhibitory interneuronal circuit dysfunction could enhance understanding of ALS pathogenesis.

The feasibility and technical aspects of trigemino-cervical reflex elicitation in humans under general anesthesia

ObjectiveTo analyze the feasibility, neurophysiological aspects, stimulation patterns, and topographic distribution of trigemino-cervical reflex (TCR) components in humans under general anesthesia. MethodsThis prospective observational study enrolled 20 participants who underwent posterior fossa surgery, surgical proceduresin thecraniovertebral junction,or spinal cord surgery. TCR responses were simultaneously recorded in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and trapezius muscles after electrical stimulation of the supraorbital and infraorbital nerves. TCR responses were recorded preoperatively and intraoperatively using single-pulse and multipulse (trains of 2–7 electrical stimuli) stimulation, respectively. Two stimulus duration patterns were evaluated: 0.2–0.5 ms and 0.5–1.0 ms. ResultsIntraoperatively, short- and long-latency TCR components were obtained in the SCM ipsilateral to the stimulation with variable recordability. Short-latency responses were the most commonly recorded components. A longer stimulus duration (0.5–1.0 ms) seems to favor the elicitation of TCR responses under general anesthesia. ConclusionsShort-latency components recorded in the SCM ipsilateral to the stimulation could be regularly elicited under general anesthesia when a larger stimulus duration (0.5–1.0 ms) was applied. SignificanceThis is the first study to demonstrate the elicitation of TCR components in humans under general anesthesia. This neurophysiological technique can potentially optimize intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring during brainstem surgery.

Global Perceptions and Utilization of Clinical Neurophysiology in Movement Disorders.

Clinical neurophysiology (CNP) involves the use of neurophysiological techniques to make an accurate clinical diagnosis, to quantify the severity, and to measure the treatment response. Despite several studies showing CNP to be a useful diagnostic tool in Movement Disorders (MD), its more widespread utilization in clinical practice has been limited. To better understand the current availability, global perceptions, and challenges for implementation of diagnostic CNP in the clinical practice of MD. The International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society (IPMDS) formed a Task Force on CNP. The Task Force distributed an online survey via email to all the members of the IPMDS between August 5 and 30, 2021. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis of the survey results. Some results are presented by IPMDS geographical sections namely PanAmerican (PAS), European (ES), African (AFR), Asian and Oceanian (AOS). Four hundred and ninety-one IPMDS members (52% males), from 196 countries, responded. The majority of responders from the AFR (65%) and PAS (63%) sections had no formal training in diagnostic CNP (40% for AOS and 37% for ES). The most commonly used techniques are electroencephalography (EEG) (72%) followed by surface EMG (71%). The majority of responders think that CNP is somewhat valuable or very valuable in the assessment of MD. All the sections identified "lack of training" as one of the biggest challenges for diagnostic CNP studies in MD. CNP is perceived to be a useful diagnostic tool in MD. Several challenges were identified that prevent widespread utilization of CNP in MD.

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) Data Processing in Epilepsy Patients with Implanted Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) Devices.

Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is often treated with surgery or neuromodulation. Specifically, responsive neurostimulation (RNS) is a widely used therapy that is programmed to detect abnormal brain activity and intervene with tailored stimulation. Despite the success of RNS, some patients require further interventions. However, having an RNS device in situ is a hindrance to the performance of neuroimaging techniques. Magnetoencephalography (MEG), a non-invasive neurophysiologic and functional imaging technique, aids epilepsy assessment and surgery planning. MEG performed post-RNS is complicated by signal distortions. This study proposes an independent component analysis (ICA)-based approach to enhance MEG signal quality, facilitating improved assessment for epilepsy patients with implanted RNS devices. Three epilepsy patients, two with RNS implants and one without, underwent MEG scans. Preprocessing included temporal signal space separation (tSSS) and an automated ICA-based approach with MNE-Python. Power spectral density (PSD) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were analyzed, and MEG dipole analysis was conducted using single equivalent current dipole (SECD) modeling. The ICA-based noise removal preprocessing method substantially improved the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for MEG data from epilepsy patients with implanted RNS devices. Qualitative assessment confirmed enhanced signal readability and improved MEG dipole analysis. ICA-based processing markedly enhanced MEG data quality in RNS patients, emphasizing its clinical relevance.

Design and methodology for a proof of mechanism study of individualized neuronavigated continuous Theta burst stimulation for auditory processing in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.

It has been suggested that aberrant excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance and dysfunctional structure and function of relevant brain networks may underlie the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the nomological network linking these constructs to quantifiable measures and mechanistically relating these constructs to behavioral symptoms of ASD is lacking. Herein we describe a within-subject, controlled, proof-of-mechanism study investigating the pathophysiology of auditory/language processing in adolescents with ASD. We utilize neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques including magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and magnetoencephalography (MEG) metrics of language network structure and function. Additionally, we apply a single, individually targeted session of continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) as an experimental probe of the impact of perturbation of the system on these neurophysiological and neuroimaging outcomes. MRS, fMRI, and MEG measures are evaluated at baseline and immediately prior to and following cTBS over the posterior superior temporal cortex (pSTC), a region involved in auditory and language processing deficits in ASD. Also, behavioral measures of ASD and language processing and DWI measures of auditory/language network structures are obtained at baseline to characterize the relationship between the neuroimaging and neurophysiological measures and baseline symptom presentation. We hypothesize that local gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate concentrations (measured with MRS), and structural and functional activity and network connectivity (measured with DWI and fMRI), will significantly predict MEG indices of auditory/language processing and behavioral deficits in ASD. Furthermore, a single session of cTBS over left pSTC is hypothesized to lead to significant, acute changes in local glutamate and GABA concentration, functional activity and network connectivity, and MEG indices of auditory/language processing. We have completed the pilot phase of the study (n=20 Healthy Volunteer adults) and have begun enrollment for the main phase with adolescents with ASD (n=86; age 14-17). If successful, this study will establish a nomological network linking local E/I balance measures to functional and structural connectivity within relevant brain networks, ultimately connecting them to ASD symptoms. Furthermore, this study will inform future therapeutic trials using cTBS to treat the symptoms of ASD.

Understanding the Pathophysiology of Mental Diseases and Early Diagnosis Thanks to Electrophysiological Tools: Some Insights and Empirical Facts.

Objective. Neurophysiological tools remain indispensable instruments in the assessment of psychiatric disorders. These techniques are widely available, inexpensive and well tolerated, providing access to the assessment of brain functional alterations. In the clinical psychiatric context, electrophysiological techniques are required to provide important information on brain function. While there is an immediate benefit in the clinical application of these techniques in the daily routine (emergency assessments, exclusion of organic brain alterations), these tools are also useful in monitoring the progress of psychiatric disorders or the effects of therapy. There is increasing evidence and convincing literature to confirm that electroencephalography and related techniques can contribute to the diagnostic workup, to the identification of subgroups of disease categories, to the assessment of long-term causes and to facilitate response predictions. Methods and Results. In this report we focus on 3 different novel developments of the use of neurophysiological techniques in 3 highly prevalent psychiatric disorders: (1) the value of EEG recordings and machine learning analyses (deep learning) in order to improve the diagnosis of dementia subtypes; (2) the use of mismatch negativity in the early diagnosis of schizophrenia; and (3) the monitoring of addiction and the prevention of relapse using cognitive event-related potentials. Empirical evidence was presented. Conclusion. Such information emphasized the important role of neurophysiological tools in the identification of useful biological markers leading to a more efficient care management. The potential of the implementation of machine learning approaches together with the conduction of large cross-sectional and longitudinal studies was also discussed.

Effects of Cognitive Sensory Motor Training Versus Repetitive Facilitation Exercises of Upper Limb in Hemiparetic Patients

Stroke [CVA] is the sudden loss of neurological function caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain. Large numbers of people who survive a stroke are left with permanent impairment of arm and hand function, even after completion of conventional rehabilitation programs. The standard neuro physiological facilitation technique use for hemiplegic upper limb have not been confirmed to promote functional recovery of hemiplegic limb. This promote that more research needs to be conducted for same. Cognitive Sensory Motor Training Therapy &amp; The repetitive facilitation exercises (RFEs) Both techniques will promote functional recovery of hemiparetic upper limb and hand by improving joint perception and realization of movement. Hence, this study aims to compare the effectiveness of cognitive sensory motor training versus repetitive facilitation exercises on quality of movement of upper limb, functional activity and Range of motion of upper limb in hemiparetic patients. A blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted 30 patients were divided into 2 groups (GROUP A and GROUP B)- those who performed cognitive Sensory Motor exercises(GROUP A- experimental group) and those who performed repetitive facilitation exercises (GROUP B-control group) Data for measures quality of movement performance of the hemiparetic arm and hand on MESUPES scale, Barthel Index (BI) measures the extent to which somebody can function independently and has mobility in their &amp;, goniometer measuring the joint ranges in each plane of the joint was collected on day 1 (pretreatment session), and on 190 day after the experiment. This study produced a stastically significant increase in overall on quality of movement, functional activity and range of motion in both the group of upper limb in hemiplegic patients. This research also provides evidence that training exercise may be a valuable and important tool in clinical practice and is consistent with the current use by clinical physiotherapist in the treatment of upper limb in hemiplegic patients.

Hub overload and failure as a final common pathway in neurological brain network disorders.

Understanding the concept of network hubs and their role in brain disease is now rapidly becoming important for clinical neurology. Hub nodes in brain networks are areas highly connected to the rest of the brain, which handle a large part of all the network traffic. They also show high levels of neural activity and metabolism, which makes them vulnerable to many different types of pathology. The present review examines recent evidence for the prevalence and nature of hub involvement in a variety of neurological disorders, emphasizing common themes across different types of pathology. In focal epilepsy, pathological hubs may play a role in spreading of seizure activity, and removal of such hub nodes is associated with improved outcome. In stroke, damage to hubs is associated with impaired cognitive recovery. Breakdown of optimal brain network organization in multiple sclerosis is accompanied by cognitive dysfunction. In Alzheimer's disease, hyperactive hub nodes are directly associated with amyloid-beta and tau pathology. Early and reliable detection of hub pathology and disturbed connectivity in Alzheimer's disease with imaging and neurophysiological techniques opens up opportunities to detect patients with a network hyperexcitability profile, who could benefit from treatment with anti-epileptic drugs.

Contribution of neurophysiology to the diagnosis and monitoring of ALS.

This chapter describes the role of neurophysiological techniques in diagnosing and monitoring amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Despite many advances, electromyography (EMG) remains a keystone investigation from which to build support for a diagnosis of ALS, demonstrating the pathophysiological processes of motor unit hyperexcitability, denervation and reinnervation. We consider development of the different diagnostic criteria and the role of EMG therein. While not formally recognised by established diagnostic criteria, we discuss the pioneering studies that have demonstrated the diagnostic potential of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the motor cortex and highlight the growing evidence for TMS in the diagnostic process. Finally, accurately monitoring disease progression is crucial for the successful implementation of clinical trials. Neurophysiological measures of disease state have been incorporated into clinical trials for over 20 years and we review prominent techniques for assessing disease progression.

Breaking the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis early diagnostic barrier: the promise of general markers

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disease that is associated with selective and progressive loss of motor neurons. As a consequence, the symptoms of ALS are muscle cramps and weakness, and it eventually leads to death. The general markers for early diagnosis can assist ALS patients in receiving early intervention and prolonging their survival. Recently, some novel approaches or previously suggested methods have validated the potential for early diagnosis of ALS. The purpose of this review is to summarize the status of current general markers discovery and development for early diagnosis of ALS, including genes, proteins neuroimaging, neurophysiology, neuroultrasound, and machine learning models. The main genetic markers evaluated are superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72), transactivation-responsive DNA binding protein 43 (TARDBP), and fused in sarcoma (FUS) genes. Among proteins, neurofilament light chain is still the most established disease-specific adaptive change in ALS. The expression of chitinases, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and inflammatory factors are changed in the early stage of ALS. Besides, more patient-friendly and accessible feature assays are explored by the development of neuroimaging, neurophysiology, and neuroultrasound techniques. The novel disease-specific changes exhibited the promising potential for early diagnosis of ALS. All of these general markers still have limitations in the early diagnosis, therefore there is an urgent need for the validation and development of new disease-specific features for ALS.

Central neuropathic pain.

Central neuropathic pain arises from a lesion or disease of the central somatosensory nervous system such as brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis or related neuroinflammatory conditions. The incidence of central neuropathic pain differs based on its underlying cause. Individuals with spinal cord injury are at the highest risk; however, central post-stroke pain is the most prevalent form of central neuropathic pain worldwide. The mechanisms that underlie central neuropathic pain are not fully understood, but the pathophysiology likely involves intricate interactions and maladaptive plasticity within spinal circuits and brain circuits associated with nociception and antinociception coupled with neuronal hyperexcitability. Modulation of neuronal activity, neuron-glia and neuro-immune interactions and targeting pain-related alterations in brain connectivity, represent potential therapeutic approaches. Current evidence-based pharmacological treatments include antidepressants and gabapentinoids as first-line options. Non-pharmacological pain management options include self-management strategies, exercise and neuromodulation. A comprehensive pain history and clinical examination form the foundation of central neuropathic pain classification, identification of potential risk factors and stratification of patients for clinical trials. Advanced neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques hold promise to improve the understanding of mechanisms that underlie central neuropathic pain and as predictive biomarkers of treatment outcome.

Decoding Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia: From Epidemiology and Genetics to Advanced Diagnosis and Management Strategies.

Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia are neurosurgical entities that have been the subject of extensive research and clinical interest. Globally prevalent, these disorders vary demographically and have witnessed evolving temporal trends. Chiari Malformation impacts the normal cerebrospinal fluid flow, consequently affecting overall health. Key observations from canine studies offer pivotal insights into the pathogenesis of Syringomyelia and its extrapolation to human manifestations. Genetics plays a pivotal role; contemporary knowledge identifies specific genes, illuminating avenues for future exploration. Clinically, these disorders present distinct phenotypes. Diagnostically, while traditional methods have stood the test of time, innovative neurophysiological techniques are revolutionizing early detection and management. Neuroradiology, a cornerstone in diagnosis, follows defined criteria. Advanced imaging techniques are amplifying diagnostic precision. In therapeutic realms, surgery remains primary. For Chiari 1 Malformation, surgical outcomes vary based on the presence of Syringomyelia. Isolated Syringomyelia demands a unique surgical approach, the effectiveness of which is continually being optimized. Post-operative long-term prognosis and quality of life measures are crucial in assessing intervention success. In conclusion, this review amalgamates existing knowledge, paving the way for future research and enhanced clinical strategies in the management of Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia.

Multimodal Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Cranial and Spinal Tumour Surgeries: A Descriptive Observational Study.

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) involves monitoring the functional integrity of critical brain regions and pathways as well as identifying and preserving functionally viable neural tissues (mapping) during surgery using electrophysiological techniques. Multimodality combines various neurophysiological techniques to optimise diagnostic effectiveness and to improve the outcomes of the surgeries. The present study is a case series with comprehensive and illustrative descriptions of the neurophysiological changes in five neuromonitored cases of cranial and spinal cord tumour surgeries conducted with a multimodal approach. The cases were monitored with somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP), transcranial motor evoked potentials (TcMEP), and both free run and triggered electromyography (fEMG and tEMG). No false negative outcomes were identified in the cases studied as there was an association of absence of change in SSEP and TcMEP both, with no neurological deficit postoperatively.Two cases were identified as having true positive neuromonitoring alerts.No false positive alerts were found in any case. Multimodal monitoring using SSEP, TcMEP, and EMG (fEMG and tEMG) in cranial and spinal tumour surgeries can improve performance with fewer false-negative and false-positive results. Neuromonitoring approaches used in combination can provide reliable information regarding postoperative neurological outcomes.