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With aging skeletal muscle fibers undergo repeating cycles of denervation and reinnervation. In approximately the 8th decade of life reinnervation no longer keeps pace, resulting in the accumulation of persistently denervated muscle fibers that in turn cause an acceleration of muscle dysfunction. The significance of denervation in important clinical outcomes with aging is poorly studied. The Study of Muscle, Mobility, and Aging (SOMMA) is a large cohort study with the primary objective to assess how aging muscle biology impacts clinically important traits. Using transcriptomics data from vastus lateralis muscle biopsies in 575 participants we have selected 49 denervation-responsive genes to provide insights to the burden of denervation in SOMMA, to test the hypothesis that greater expression of denervation-responsive genes negatively associates with SOMMA participant traits that included time to walk 400 meters, fitness (VO2peak), maximal mitochondrial respiration, muscle mass and volume, and leg muscle strength and power. Consistent with our hypothesis, increased transcript levels of: a calciumdependent intercellular adhesion glycoprotein (CDH15), acetylcholine receptor subunits (CHRNA1, CHRND, CHRNE), a glycoprotein promoting reinnervation (NCAM1), a transcription factor regulating aspects of muscle organization (RUNX1), and a sodium channel (SCN5A) were each negatively associated with at least 3 of these traits. VO2peak and maximal respiration had the strongest negative associations with 15 and 19 denervation-responsive genes, respectively. In conclusion, the abundance of denervationresponsive gene transcripts is a significant determinant of muscle and mobility outcomes in aging humans, supporting the imperative to identify new treatment strategies to restore innervation in advanced age.

Radiofrequency ablation of the medial branch is commonly used to treat chronic low back pain involving facet joints, which accounts for 12% to 37% of the total cases of chronic low back pain. An adverse effect of this procedure is the denervation of the multifidus muscle, which may lead to its atrophy which can affect the spine and possibly disc degeneration. This study aims to quantify changes in joint angles and loading caused by multifidus denervation after radiofrequency ablation. AnyBody model of the torso was used to evaluate intervertebral joints in flexion, lateral bending, and torsion. Force-dependent kinematics was used to calculate joint angles and forces. These dependent variables were investigated in intact multifidus, unilateral, and bilateral ablations of L3L4, L4L5, and L5S1 joints. The results showed pronounced angular joint changes, especially in bilateral ablations in flexion, when compared with other cases. The same changes' trend from intact to unilaterally then bilaterally ablated multifidus occurred in joint angles of lateral bending. Meanwhile, joint forces were not adversely affected. These results suggest that multifidus denervation after radiofrequency ablation affects spinal mechanics. Such changes may be associated with abnormal tissue deformations and stresses that can potentially alter their mechanobiology and homeostasis, thereby possibly affecting the health of the spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Renal denervation (RDN) can lower blood pressure (BP) in patients with hypertension in both the presence and absence of medication. This is a sham-controlled trial investigating the safety and efficacy of RDN in China. METHODS: This prospective, multicenter, randomized, patient- and outcome-assessor-blinded, sham-controlled trial investigated radiofrequency RDN in patients with hypertension on standardized triple antihypertensive therapy. Eligible patients were randomized 1:1 to undergo RDN using a multi-electrode radiofrequency catheter (Iberis; Shanghai Angiocare Medical Technology, Shanghai, China) or a sham procedure. The primary efficacy outcome was the between-group difference in baseline-adjusted change in mean 24-hour ambulatory systolic BP from randomization to 6 months. RESULTS: Of 217 randomized patients (mean age, 45.3±10.2 years; 21% female), 107 were randomized to RDN and 110 were randomized to sham control. At 6 months, there was a greater reduction in 24-hour systolic BP in the RDN (-13.0±12.1 mm Hg) compared with the sham control group (-3.0±13.0 mm Hg; baseline-adjusted between-group difference, -9.4 mm Hg [95% CI, -12.8 to -5.9]; P<0.001). Compared with sham, 24-hour diastolic BP was lowered by -5.0 mm Hg ([95% CI, -7.5 to -2.4]; P<0.001) 6 months after RDN, and office systolic and diastolic BP was lowered by -6.4 mm Hg ([95% CI, -10.5 to -2.3]; P=0.003) and -5.1 mm Hg ([95% CI, -8.2 to -2.0]; P=0.001), respectively. One patient in the RDN group experienced an access site complication (hematoma), which resolved without sequelae. No other major device- or procedurerelated safety events occurred through follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: In this trial of Chinese patients with uncontrolled hypertension on a standardized triple pharmacotherapy, RDN was safe and reduced ambulatory and office BP at 6 months compared with sham. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscular atrophy accompanied by neuromuscular junction (NMJ) denervation is often observed after long-term chronic diseases and aging and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Here, we report that histone methyltransferase G9a is elevated in the muscle of muscular atrophy model mice and that muscle-specific deficiency of G9a (Ehmt2Ckmm−KO) alleviates muscular atrophy in both aged and denervated mice. Moreover, increased nerve-to-myofiber ratios and increased Agrin-Lrp4-MuSK signaling, which maintains NMJ, are found in aged Ehmt2Ckmm−KO mice. Together, these data suggest that G9a promotes muscular atrophy and disrupts NMJ; thus, inhibiting the G9a level may be a potential therapy for muscular atrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a widespread global issue, protein deficiency hinders development and optimal growth in offspring. Maternal low-protein diet influences the development of age-related diseases, including sarcopenia, by altering the epigenome and organ structure through potential increase in oxidative stress. However, the long-term effects of lactational protein restriction or postnatal lifelong protein restriction on the neuromuscular system have yet to be elucidated. Our results demonstrated that feeding a normal protein diet after lactational protein restriction did not have significant impacts on the neuromuscular system in later life. In contrast, a lifelong low-protein diet induced a denervation phenotype and led to demyelination in the sciatic nerve, along with an increase in the number of centralised nuclei and in the gene expression of atrogenes at 18 months of age, indicating an induced skeletal muscle atrophy. These changes were accompanied by an increase in proteasome activity in skeletal muscle, with no significant alterations in oxidative stress or mitochondrial dynamics markers in skeletal muscle later in life. Thus, lifelong protein restriction may induce skeletal muscle atrophy through changes in peripheral nerves and neuromuscular junctions, potentially contributing to the early onset or exaggeration of sarcopenia. [Display omitted] • Lifelong protein restriction induces skeletal muscle atrophy. • Lifelong protein restriction induces denervation in skeletal muscle. • Lifelong protein restriction impairs proteostasis in skeletal muscle. • Long-lasting effects of maternal nutritional programming depends on its timing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Medial branch blocks are used to select patients for cervical facet joint radiofrequency neurotomy (CRFN). Blocks are typically performed under fluoroscopic guidance (ie, fluoroscopy-guided blocks [FLBs]). The validity of ultrasound-guided blocks (USBs) is not well established. No prior research has compared cervical USB validity and FLB validity with CRFN outcome used as the criterion standard. Objective To evaluate cervical USB versus FLB validity with CRFN outcome used as the criterion standard. Methods Demographic and outcome data were extracted from the electronic medical records of 2 affiliated musculoskeletal pain management clinics for all patients between 2015 and 2023 inclusive who had cervical USB leading to CRFN. CRFN outcomes of each USB patient were compared with those of a matched FLB patient from the radiofrequency neurotomy (RFN) outcome database of the same clinics. Matching variables included patient age, sex, pain duration, diagnostic/prognostic block paradigm, and CRFN number. Each patient completed a numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score and Pain Disability Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (PDQQ) just before and 3 months after CRFN. At repeat CRFN, patients provided a retrospective estimate of the duration and average magnitude (percentage) of relief after the CRFN. Results USB and FLB groups were comprised of 27 patients (58 RFNs) and 38 patients (58 RFNs), respectively. Post-RFN NRS pain severity and PDQQ-Spine scores demonstrated comparable (P  > .05) absolute improvements, proportion of patients achieving ≥50% improvement, and attainment of the minimum clinically important difference. Retrospective estimates of pain relief magnitude and duration were also comparable. Conclusions This study finds cervical USB and FLB to be comparably valid as defined by their ability to predict CRFN outcome. Within the limitations of operator competence, USB can be used to select patients for CRFN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Preliminary data suggest that gait abnormalities in Parkinson disease (PD) may be associated with sympathetic cardiac denervation. No kinematic gait studies were performed to confirm this observation. We aimed to correlate spatiotemporal kinematic gait parameters with cardiac sympathetic denervation as determined by cardiac [11C]HED PET in PD. Methods: Retrospective database analysis of 27 PD patients with cardiac sympathetic denervation. All patients underwent spatiotemporal kinematic gait assessment (medication 'off' state), cardiac [11C]HED and dopaminergic brain [11C]DTBZ PET scans. We employed a hierarchical regression approach to examine associations between the extent of cardiac denervation, dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurodegeneration, and three gait parameters - velocity, step length and cadence. Results: More extensive cardiac denervation was associated with slower velocity (estimate: -1.034, 95% CI [-1.65, -0.42], p = 0.002), shorter step length (estimate: -0.818, 95% CI [-1.43, -0.21], p = 0.011) and lower cadence (estimate: -0.752, 95% CI [-1.28, -0.23], p = 0.007) explaining alone 30% (Adjusted-R²: 0.297), 20% (Adjusted-R²: 0.202) and 23% (Adjusted-R²: 0.227) of the variability, respecivetly. These associations remained independent of striatal dopaminergic impairment and confounding factors such as age, Hoehn and Yahr (HY) stages, peripheral neuropathy, cognition, and autonomic symptoms. In contrast, striatal dopaminergic denervation was significantly associated with step length (estimate: 0.883, 95% CI [0.29, 1.48], p = 0.005), explaining about 24% of the variability but was dependent of HY stage. Conclusions: More severe cardiac noradrenergic denervation was associated with lower gait velocity, independent of striatal dopaminergic denervation and HY stage, impacting both step length and cadence. These results suggest independent contributions of the peripheral autonomic system degeneration on gait dynsfunction in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of circumferential patellar denervation in reducing anterior knee pain (AKP) and improving clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) without patellar resurfacing. Materials and methods: This prospective, non-randomized, observational study included patients who underwent primary TKA at our institution between August 2023 and January 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received patellar denervation (PD group) and those who did not (NPD group). The primary outcome was the reduction in anterior knee pain (AKP), measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included the Kujala Knee Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), and range of motion (ROM). Assessments were conducted preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Results: Four patients in the PD group and five in the NPD group were excluded from the study due to failure to complete follow-up. Thus, 74 female and 16 male patients with a mean age of 67.4 ± 4.2 years were included in the final analysis. There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to age, sex, side of surgery, height, weight, BMI, grade of patellofemoral osteoarthritis, preoperative ROM, VAS score, Kujala score, and WOMAC score (p: n.s. for all variables). No significant differences were found between the groups for VAS, Kujala, and WOMAC scores at any time point (p: n.s.). Significant improvements in these scores over time were indicated by repeated measures ANOVA (p = 0.001 for both groups). Pairwise comparisons showed significant improvements from preoperative to postoperative months three and six and from postoperative months three to six (p = 0.001 for all comparisons). Both groups experienced decreased knee ROM at third month, which returned to preoperative values at sixth month with no significant differences. No complications were observed during the study. Conclusions: Circumferential patellar denervation does not provide additional benefit in reducing anterior knee pain or improving functional outcomes compared to the non-denervation approach in TKA without patellar resurfacing. Level of evidence: Level III, Prospective comparative study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of patellar denervation (PD) on pain, function and ability to kneel after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Methods: Patients with medial knee osteoarthritis who underwent UKA were prospectively selected. Patients were randomly divided into PD and non-PD groups based on whether patellar denervation was performed. Clinical assessment was performed using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score, Kujiala score, visual analogue scale (VAS) and forgotten joint score (FJS-12), as well as postoperative complications were recorded. The patients' postoperative self-perception and actual ability to perform different kneeling positions were assessed in the two groups. Results: UKA patients treated with PD achieved better Kujiala scores and FJS-12 scores, reduced anterior knee pain and improved kneeling ability postoperatively, validating the effectiveness of PD in UKA. Perception and actual performance of kneeling remained mismatched in PD patients, but performance during different kneeling activities was generally better than in non-PD patients. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR1900025669. Conclusion: Patellar denervation can safely and effectively improve patellofemoral joint function, pain and kneeling ability in the early postoperative period after UKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual hallucinations can increase the burden of disease for both patients with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers. Multiple neurotransmitters have been implicated in the neuropathology of visual hallucinations, which provide targets for treatment and prevention. In this study, we assessed the association between cholinergic denervation and visual hallucinations in Parkinson's disease in vivo , using PET imaging of the cholinergic system. A total of 38 patients with Parkinson's disease participated in this study. A group of 10 healthy subjects, matched for age, sex and education, was included for comparison. None of the participants used cholinergic drugs. Thirteen patients who had experienced visual hallucinations in the past month (VH+) were compared with 20 patients who had never experienced visual hallucinations in their lives (VH−). Cholinergic system integrity was assessed with PET imaging using 18F-fluoroethoxybenzovesamicol as the tracer. We assessed the differences in tracer uptake between groups by cluster-based analysis and by analysis of predefined regions of interest consisting of the ventral visual stream, the dorsal attentional network, the ventral attentional network and the lateral geniculate nucleus and mediodorsal nucleus of the thalamus. The Parkinson's disease group (n = 38) showed an extensive pattern of decreased tracer uptake throughout the brain compared with the controls (n = 10). Within the Parkinson's disease group, the VH+ group (n = 13) showed a cluster of decreased tracer uptake compared with the VH− group (n = 20), which covered most of the left ventral visual stream and extended towards superior temporal areas. These results were mirrored in the regions of interest-based analysis, in which the VH+ group showed the strongest deficits in the left inferior temporal gyrus and the left superior temporal gyrus compared with the VH− group. Visual hallucinations in Parkinson's disease are associated with a marked cholinergic deficiency in the left ventral visual stream and the left superior temporal lobe, in addition to an extensive global cholinergic denervation in the general Parkinson's disease population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to investigate the surgical outcomes following inguinal and subinguinal urologic procedures under deep intravenous sedation (DIVS) with multimodal local anesthesia (LA). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study from September 2022 to December 2023 including adult patients deemed eligible for day surgery (American Society of Anesthesiologist score 1-3) undergoing radical orchiectomy (RO), microscopic varico- score 1-3) undergoing radical orchiectomy (RO), microscopic varico-celectomy (MV), or microscopic denervation of the spermatic cord (MDSC). All procedures were performed at a single urologic ambulatory surgical center and outpatient clinic, and by a single surgeon (PP). Procedures were performed through a subinguinal or inguinal approach with DIVS and adjunctive multimodal LA. We evaluated intraoperative complications and relevant surgical outcomes and parameters. RESULTS: A total of 103 patients were included in the analysis with a mean age ± standard deviation of 37.3±9.6. This included 25 patients who underwent RO, 54 patients who underwent MV, and 24 patients who underwent MDSC. All procedures were completed successfully without intraoperative complications. Oncologic outcomes were preserved, fertility outcomes improved, and pain scores reduced similarly to the expected rates in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: Our preliminary results demonstrate the safety, effectiveness, and feasibility of performing inguinal and subinguinal urologic procedures under DIVS with LA. These findings suggest that this technique preserves high-quality care while avoiding the unnecessary risks of general or spinal anesthesia, representing an opportunity to transfer these cases outside of hospitals' operating rooms into outpatient ambulatory centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the widespread availability of both pharmacological and lifestyle therapeutic options, blood pressure control rates across the globe are worsening. In fact, only 23% of individuals with high blood pressure in the United States achieve treatment goals. In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration approved renal denervation, a catheter-based procedure that ablates the renal sympathetic nerves, as an adjunctive treatment for patients in whom lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure. This approval followed the publication of multiple randomized clinical studies using rigorous trial designs, all incorporating renal angiogram as the sham control. Most but not all of the new generation of trials reached their primary end point, demonstrating modest efficacy of renal denervation in lowering blood pressure across a spectrum of hypertension, from mild to truly resistant. Individual patient responses vary, and further research is needed to identify those who may benefit most. The initial safety profile appears favorable, and multiple ongoing studies are assessing longer-term efficacy and safety. Multidisciplinary teams that include hypertension specialists and adequately trained proceduralists are crucial to ensure that referrals are made appropriately with full consideration of the potential risks and benefits. Incorporating patient preferences and engaging in shared decision-making conversations will help patients make the best decisions given their individual circumstances. Although further research is clearly needed, renal denervation presents a novel treatment strategy for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyposmia in Parkinson's disease (PD) had been studied before but had not been detailed by its temporal progression. This study observed how each olfactory subtype evolved in terms of motor symptoms, cardiac sympathetic innervation, and cognition. Methods: Two hundred and three early PD patients were classified as normosmia, hyposmia-converter (hypo-converter), and hyposmia. Their presynaptic monoamine availability at the time of diagnosis was assessed by positron emission tomography imaging using 18F-N-(3-fluoropropyl)-2beta-carbon ethoxy-3beta-(4-iodophenyl) nortropane and compared across the subtypes. Motor symptoms were evaluated in all patients, cardiac denervation was examined in 183 patients, and cognition in 195 patients were assessed using a neuropsychological battery. The domains were re-assessed 2–4 times, and the longitudinal data were analyzed to discern the natural course of each subtype. Results: Twenty-nine (14.3%) patients belonged to the normosmia group, 34 (16.7%) to the hypo-converter group, and the rest to the hyposmia (69.0%) group. 85.7% of the total population became hyposmic during an average 3 years of follow-up. The baseline motor symptoms, cardiac denervation, and cognition were comparable across the olfactory subtypes. Across the subtypes, a decline in the presynaptic monoamine densities of the caudate, especially the ventral-anterior subdivisions, correlated inversely with olfaction dysfunction. Over time, motor and cardiac denervation burdens worsened regardless of olfactory subtypes, but hypo-converters experienced faster cognitive deterioration than the other two groups. Conclusions: The results suggest that the olfactory subtypes have differential significance along the disease course, which might reflect the involvement of different neuro-biochemical circuitries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilization‐induced skeletal unloading results in muscle atrophy and rapid bone loss, thereby increasing the risk of falling and the need for implant therapy in patients with extended bed rest or neuromuscular injuries. Skeletal unloading causes bone loss by altering bone growth and resorption, suggesting that implant performance might be affected. To test this, we focused on early events in implant osseointegration. We used the rat sciatic neurectomy‐induced disuse model under two different settings. In Study 1, 16 Sprague Dawley rats (SD) were separated into control, sham operated+cast immobilization, and sciatic neurectomy+casting groups; titanium implants with multiscale microtextured topography and hydrophilic chemistry (modSLA) were inserted in the distal femoral metaphysis. Neurectomy surgeries and casting were performed at the same surgical setting as implant placement; rats were euthanized 4 weeks post‐implantation. In Study 2, we established the unloaded condition before implantation. A total of 12 SD rats were divided into control and sciatic+femoral neurectomy groups. A total of 24 days after sciatic and femoral neurectomy surgery, rats received implants. Study 2 rats were euthanized at 4 weeks post‐implantation. MicroCT and histomorphometry showed that trabecular bone and osseointegration were reduced when disuse was established before implantation. Osteoblasts isolated from Study 1 sciatic neurectomy tibial bones exhibited impaired differentiation on modSLA culture disks, revealing a possible mechanism responsible for the decreased osseointegration observed in the Study 2 rats. This study addressed the importance of considering the mechanical unloading and muscle function history before implant insertion and suggests that implant performance was reduced due to poor cellular ability to regenerate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives: Radiofrequency (RF) renal denervation (RDN) has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with uncontrolled hypertension. This analysis sought to explore the cost-effectiveness of this therapy in Spain. Methods: A decision-analytic Markov model projected clinical events, quality-adjusted life years (QALY) and costs over the patients’ lifetime. Treatment effectiveness in the base case analysis was informed by the change in office systolic blood pressure observed in the full cohort of the SPYRAL HTN-ON MED trial (–4.9 mmHg vs sham control). Alternate scenarios were calculated for effect sizes reported in the HTN-ON MED subcohort of patients on 3 antihypertensive medications treated outside the United States, the HTN-OFF MED trial, and the Global SYMPLICITY Registry high-risk and very high-risk cohorts. The analysis was conducted from the Spanish National Health System perspective and a willingness-to-pay a threshold of €25 000 per QALY gained was considered. Results: RF RDN therapy resulted in clinical event reductions (10-year relative risk 0.80 for stroke, 0.88 for myocardial infarction, and 0.72 for heart failure) and a lifetime gain of 0.35 (13.99 vs 13.63) QALYs. Incremental lifetime costs were €5335 (€26 381 vs €21 045), resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of €15 057 per QALY gained. Cost-effectiveness was further improved among all the other clinical evidence scenarios. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that RF RDN can provide a cost-effective alternative in the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension in Spain.

Abstract Muscular atrophy accompanied by neuromuscular junction (NMJ) denervation is often observed after long-term chronic diseases and aging and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Here, we report that histone methyltransferase G9a is elevated in the muscle of muscular atrophy model mice and that muscle-specific deficiency of G9a (Ehmt2 Ckmm−KO) alleviates muscular atrophy in both aged and denervated mice. Moreover, increased nerve-to-myofiber ratios and increased Agrin-Lrp4-MuSK signaling, which maintains NMJ, are found in aged Ehmt2 Ckmm−KO mice. Together, these data suggest that G9a promotes muscular atrophy and disrupts NMJ; thus, inhibiting the G9a level may be a potential therapy for muscular atrophy.

CT and MRI findings of tongue ptosis and atrophy should alert radiologists to potential pathology along the course of the hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII), a purely motor cranial nerve which supplies the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the tongue. While relatively specific for hypoglossal nerve pathology, these findings do not accurately localize the site or cause of denervation. A detailed understanding of the anatomic extent of the nerve, which crosses multiple anatomic spaces, is essential to identify possible underlying pathology, which ranges from benign postoperative changes to life-threatening medical emergencies. This review will describe key imaging findings of tongue denervation, segmental anatomy of the hypoglossal nerve, imaging optimization, and comprehensive imaging examples of diverse pathology which may affect the hypoglossal nerve. Armed with this knowledge, radiologists will increase their sensitivity for detection of pathology and provide clinically relevant differential diagnoses when faced with findings of tongue ptosis and denervation.

Renal artery denervation has re-emerged as a potential therapeutic option for patients with hypertension, especially those resistant to conventional pharmacotherapy. This comprehensive review explores the importance of careful patient selection, procedural techniques, clinical efficacy, safety considerations, and future directions of renal artery denervation in hypertension management. Drawing upon a wide range of available evidence, this review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the procedure and its role in contemporary hypertension treatment paradigms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Atrophy of the muscles following denervation can lead to the death of myofibers. This study evaluated the sciatic nerve and tibialis cranialis muscle (TCM) regeneration using scaffold and cells. Materials and Methods: Ninety adult male Wistar rats were divided into six main groups (n=15) and three subgroups (2, 4, and 8 weeks). Groups: control; without surgery, Tr; sciatic nerve transected in silicone tube, S; collagen gel put inside the silicone tube, MC; placed 3x104 mast cells mixed with scaffold, MSC; placed 3x104 mesenchymal stem cells mixed with scaffold, and MC+MSC; 3x104 of each of the mast cell and mesenchymal stem cells along with scaffold. Animals were euthanized and sampled for muscle and nerve histological and nerve immunohistochemical evaluations. Results: Diameter of muscle fibers, ratio of the muscle fiber's nuclei to the fibrocyte nuclei (mn/fn), ratio of the muscle fibers nuclei number to the muscle fiber's number (mn/mf), and ratio of the blood vessels number to the number of muscle fibers (v/mf) in all treatment groups, especially the MC + MSC group, increased compared to the Tr group but the number of mast cells, the percentage of sarcoplasmolysis, and necrosis fibers decreased. Histomorphometric results of the nerve in its various parts and immunohistochemistry results also showed improved nerve conduction, especially in the MC + MSC group. Conclusion: In this study, nerve improvement happened mainly for two reasons: cells and time. So, the most obvious improvement occurred in the group with mast and mesenchymal cells in the 8th week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral facial nerve palsy (PFP) is a rare occurrence after dental extraction. Early onset PFP after the procedure can be caused by trauma and/or local anesthesia, whereas delayed onset PFP has more speculative etiologies. The latter has a certain affiliation to Bell's palsy and is therefore primarily treated with corticosteroids, and long-term follow-up is often warranted. This article reports a unique case of a 30-year-old woman developing a delayed onset right-sided PFP after local intraoral anesthetic injection for molar extraction. Facial nerve injury was identified with signs of denervation and neuritis and the patient was treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, corticosteroids, vitamin B supplements, and mime therapy. After 9 months, the patient showed an improvement of the facial muscle activity and went from a grade IV to a grade III on the House-Brackmann grading scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) contributes increasingly to disability worldwide. There is ample high-quality research on the treatment of knee and hip OA, whereas research on surgical and non-surgical treatment in hand OA is sparse. Limited evidence suggests that education and exercise may improve pain, function, stiffness, and grip strength in hand OA. The established surgical options in hand OA have disadvantages. Prostheses preserve motion but have a high complication rate, whereas fusions decrease function due to limited movement. There is an unmet need for high-quality research on treatment options for hand OA and a need for the development of effective and safe movement-sparing therapies. This study aims to compare the effects of a motion-preserving surgical treatment (denervation of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint) with a patient education and exercise program on patient-reported outcomes and objective function in painful PIP OA. Methods In this parallel-group, two-armed, randomized, controlled superiority trial (RCT), 90 participants are assigned to surgical PIP joint denervation or education and exercise. Pain on load 1 year after intervention is the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures include pain at rest, Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), HQ8 score, EQ5D-5L, objective physical function, complications, two-point discrimination, Mini Sollerman, consumption of analgesics, and the need for further surgery. Assessments are performed at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after intervention. Discussion There are no previous RCTs comparing surgical and non-surgical treatment in PIP OA. If patient education plus exercise or PIP denervation improve function, these treatments could be implemented as first-line treatment options in PIP OA. However, if denervation does not achieve better results than non-surgical treatment, it is not justified to use in PIP OA. Trial registration Prospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05980793) on 8 August 2023. URL https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05980793 .

Abstract Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) impairs cognitive functions and peripheral systems, including skeletal muscles. The PS19 mouse, expressing the human tau P301S mutation, shows cognitive and muscular pathologies, reflecting the central and peripheral atrophy seen in AD. Methods We analysed skeletal muscle morphology and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) through immunohistochemistry and advanced image quantification. A factorial Analysis of Variance assessed muscle weight, NCAM expression, NMJ, myofibre type distribution, cross‐sectional areas, expression of single or multiple myosin heavy‐chain isoforms, and myofibre grouping in PS19 and wild type (WT) mice over their lifespan (1–12 months). Results Significant weight differences in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles between WT and PS19 mice were noted by 7–8 months. For EDL muscle in females, WT weighed 0.0113 ± 0.0005 compared with PS19's 0.0071 ± 0.0008 (P

Abstract Backgrounds Fat infiltration of skeletal muscle has been recognized as a common feature of many degenerative muscle disorders. Retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) is an adipokine that has been demonstrated to be correlated with the presence and severity of sarcopenia in the elderly. However, the exact role and the underlying mechanism of RBP4 in muscle atrophy remains unclear. Methods Denervation‐induced muscle atrophy model was constructed in wild‐type and RBP4 knockout mice. To modify the expression of RBP4, mice were received intramuscular injection of retinol‐free RBP4 (apo‐RBP4), retinol‐bound RBP4 (holo‐RBP4) or oral gavage of RBP4 inhibitor A1120. Holo‐RBP4‐stimulated C2C12 myotubes were treated with siRNAs or specific inhibitors targeting signalling receptor and transporter of retinol 6 (STRA6)/Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. Fat accumulation, myofibre cross‐sectional area, myotube diameter and the expression of muscle atrophy markers and myogenesis markers were analysed. Results The expression levels of RBP4 in skeletal muscles were significantly up‐regulated more than 2‐fold from 7 days and sustained for 28 days after denervation. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that increased RBP4 was localized in the infiltrated fatty region in denervated skeletal muscles. Knockout of RBP4 alleviated denervation‐induced fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy together with decreased expression of atrophy marker Atrogin‐1 and MuRF1 as well as increased expression of myogenesis regulators MyoD and MyoG. By contrast, injection of retinol‐bound holo‐RBP4 aggregated denervation‐induced ectopic fat accumulation and muscle atrophy. Consistently, holo‐RBP4 stimulation also had a dose‐dependent effect on the reduction of C2C12 myotube diameter and myofibre cross‐sectional area, as well as on the increase of Atrogin‐1and MuRF1 expression and decrease of MyoD and MyoG expression. Mechanistically, holo‐RBP4 treatment increased the expression of its membrane receptor STRA6 (>3‐fold) and promoted the phosphorylation of downstream JAK2 and STAT3. Inhibition of STRA6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway either by specific siRNAs or inhibitors could decrease the expression of Atrogin‐1 and MuRF1 (>50%) and decrease the expression of MyoD and MyoG (>3‐fold) in holo‐RBP4‐treated C2C12 myotube. RBP4 specific pharmacological antagonist A1120 significantly inhibited the activation of STRA6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway, ameliorated ectopic fat infiltration and protected against denervation‐induced muscle atrophy (30% increased myofibre cross‐sectional area) in mice. Conclusions In conclusion, our data reveal that RBP4 promotes fat infiltration and muscle atrophy through a STRA6‐dependent and JAK2/STAT3 pathway‐mediated mechanism in denervated skeletal muscle. Our results suggest that lowering RBP4 levels might serve as a promising therapeutic approach for prevention and treatment of muscle atrophy.

Transurethral resection of the prostate, or other methods to decrease outlet resistance usually leads to relief of symptoms in patients with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). If symptoms of underactivity persist after normalization of outflow conditions, treatment options are limited. In this review, we hypothesize, based on results from basic research, what might become treatment options for such patients in the future. The primary local treatment will still aim at reducing outlet obstruction. We speculate that local secondary treatment in the future might include transplantation of stem cells or mature bladder ganglion cells into the bladder wall. There has been some success in transplanting ganglion cells into the rat bladder. The ganglion cells will sprout into the surrounding tissue but functional connections between the axons of the transplanted neurons, and the detrusor smooth muscle have so far not been demonstrated. Neurotrophins or neurotrimin might be injected into the bladder wall to increase the sprouting of existing or transplanted neurons. Stem cell transplantation has been performed and improves detrusor function, but it has so far, been difficult to demonstrate transplanted stem cells. BOO, persisting detrusor underactivity, and decreased nerve density are often combined with inflammatory activity of the lower urinary tract. NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and its messenger RNA (mRNA) as well as cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) mRNA are increased in obstructed bladders. Systemic treatment with the NLRP3 inhibitor glyburide normalized nerve density in rat bladder, and, to some extent, bladder function. It is unclear whether Cox-2 is involved in the decreased nerve density following obstruction, but Cox-2 mRNA increases 5-fold in obstructed bladder. Future therapy against bladder underactivity remaining following relief of obstruction includes either systemic treatment, perhaps by anti-inflammatory drugs, or local treatment by injection of stem cells, mature ganglion cells, and/or neurotrophins or neurotrimin into the bladder wall.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) contributes increasingly to disability worldwide. There is ample high-quality research on the treatment of knee and hip OA, whereas research on surgical and non-surgical treatment in hand OA is sparse. Limited evidence suggests that education and exercise may improve pain, function, stiffness, and grip strength in hand OA. The established surgical options in hand OA have disadvantages. Prostheses preserve motion but have a high complication rate, whereas fusions decrease function due to limited movement. There is an unmet need for high-quality research on treatment options for hand OA and a need for the development of effective and safe movement-sparing therapies. This study aims to compare the effects of a motion-preserving surgical treatment (denervation of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint) with a patient education and exercise program on patient-reported outcomes and objective function in painful PIP OA. Methods: In this parallel-group, two-armed, randomized, controlled superiority trial (RCT), 90 participants are assigned to surgical PIP joint denervation or education and exercise. Pain on load 1 year after intervention is the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures include pain at rest, Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), HQ8 score, EQ5D-5L, objective physical function, complications, two-point discrimination, Mini Sollerman, consumption of analgesics, and the need for further surgery. Assessments are performed at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after intervention. Discussion: There are no previous RCTs comparing surgical and non-surgical treatment in PIP OA. If patient education plus exercise or PIP denervation improve function, these treatments could be implemented as first-line treatment options in PIP OA. However, if denervation does not achieve better results than non-surgical treatment, it is not justified to use in PIP OA. Trial registration: Prospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05980793) on 8 August 2023. URL https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05980793. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a primary contributor to cardiovascular disease, and the leading risk factor for loss of quality adjusted life years. Up to 50% of the cases of hypertension in the United States remain uncontrolled. Additionally, 8%-18% of the hypertensive population have resistant hypertension; uncontrolled pressure despite 3 different antihypertensive agents. Recently, catheter-based percutaneous renal denervation emerged as a method for ablating renal sympathetic nerves for difficult-to-control hypertension. Initial randomized (non-sham) trials and registry analyses showed impressive benefit, but the first sham-controlled randomized controlled trial using monopolar radiofrequency ablation showed limited benefit. With refinement of techniques to include multipolar radiofrequency, ultrasound denervation, and direct ethanol injection, randomized controlled trials demonstrated significant blood pressure improvement, leading to US Food and Drug Administration approval of radiofrequency- and ultrasound-based denervation technologies. In this review article, we summarize the major randomized sham-controlled trials and societal guidelines regarding the efficacy and safety of renal artery denervation for the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronical, persistent pain of the shoulder or knee in DJD are especially at the knee mostly treated with the implantation of an artificial joint. Nevertheless there is a considerable percentage of patients that either do not want a replacement or are not suitable therefore. After a long development of looking for purely sensible branches of innervating nerves of the facet joints and the SIJ and treating pain there with an ablation of these nerves with radio frequency in the last 15 years also the ablation of sensible nerves at knee and shoulder was developed and established. The article shows the anatomical situation of theses nerves and the established techniques of treating knee- and shoulder pain with this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of osteoporosis (OP) on the outcomes of facet medial branch radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFT). Materials and Methods: Thirty-six patients with chronic lower back pain due to lumbar facet joint syndrome (LFJS) who underwent facet medial branch RFT were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: Group I (without OP, n=19) and group II (with OP, n=16). Pre-intervention and post-intervention evaluations of the patients were assessed at 1, 6, and 12th months by visual analog scale (VAS). Results: In both groups, VAS scores 1st, 6th, and 12th months after intervention were lower than those at baseline (p=0.001). There were no significant difference between the groups in terms of VAS score improvement. Conclusion: Lumbar facet medial branch RFT is an effective and safe treatment method in both the short and long-term in patients with LFJS. OP therapy had no effect on RFT treatment results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a common subtype of heart failure marked by impaired left ventricular diastolic function and decreased myocardial compliance. Given the limited availability of evidence-based pharmacological treatments for HFpEF, there is a growing interest in nonpharmacological interventions as viable therapeutic alternatives. This review aims to explore the pathophysiology of HFpEF and present recent advancements in nonpharmacological management approaches, encompassing noninvasive therapies, invasive procedures and targeted treatments for comorbidities. An extensive literature review was undertaken to identify and synthesize emerging nonpharmacological treatment options for HFpEF, assessing their potential to enhance patient outcomes. Nonpharmacological strategies, such as vagus nerve stimulation, percutaneous pulmonary artery denervation, renal denervation, transcatheter insertion of atrial shunts and pericardial resection, demonstrate promising potential for alleviating HFpEF symptoms and improving patient prognosis. Moreover, addressing comorbidities, such as hypertension and diabetes, may offer additional therapeutic benefits. These cutting-edge techniques, in conjunction with well-established exercise therapies, pave the way for future research and clinical applications in the field. Nonpharmacological interventions hold promise for advancing HFpEF patient care and fostering a deeper understanding of these treatment approaches, which will facilitate new clinical applications and contribute to the development of more targeted therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case of frontotemporal dementia with motor neurone disease (FTD‐MND) is presented including diagnosis and inpatient management. This rare form of dementia demonstrates that input from multiple professional sources is required to effectively manage this condition. It highlights the ongoing need experienced by this small but significant population of dementia sufferers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chemical neurolysis of genicular nerves is an increasingly common procedure for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) pain. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of alcohol neurolysis of the genicular nerves in KOA pain. Methods: Patients with KOA underwent superior medial, superior lateral and inferior medial genicular nerves alcohol neurolysis after ≥ 50% pain relief following diagnostic genicular nerve blocks. Numeric rating scale (NRS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were evaluated at baseline, 1 and 3 months after the procedure. Our primary outcome was pain relief, as revealed by the change in NRS scores. Secondary outcomes were changes in WOMAC score and the incidence of procedure-related adverse events. Results: Fifty-one patients who met the inclusion criteria were included. The median baseline NRS score was 8, and the 1st and 3rd month scores were 3. The median WOMAC score at the baseline was 68. It was 30.25 at month 1 and 30 at month 3. The reduction in NRS and WOMAC scores was significant at both times compared with baseline (p<0.001). Genicular alcohol neurolysis provided 50% or more pain relief in 64.7% of the patients at the 3rd month follow-up. Paresthesia was observed in five (9.8%) patients and hypoesthesia in two (3.9%) patients, but these adverse events resolved within one month without treatment. Conclusion: Genicular nerve alcohol neurolysis may be a good alternative to more expensive methods, such as radiofrequency, with low cost, and high efficacy. Further studies are needed to determine the ideal alcohol dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dystrophin protein has well‐characterized roles in force transmission and maintaining membrane integrity during muscle contraction. Studies have reported decreased expression of dystrophin in atrophying muscles during wasting conditions, and that restoration of dystrophin can attenuate atrophy, suggesting a role in maintaining muscle mass. Phosphorylation of S3059 within the cysteine‐rich region of dystrophin enhances binding between dystrophin and β‐dystroglycan, and mimicking phosphorylation at this site by site‐directed mutagenesis attenuates myotube atrophy in vitro. To determine whether dystrophin phosphorylation can attenuate muscle wasting in vivo, CRISPR‐Cas9 was used to generate mice with whole body mutations of S3059 to either alanine (DmdS3059A) or glutamate (DmdS3059E), to mimic a loss of, or constitutive phosphorylation of S3059, on all endogenous dystrophin isoforms, respectively. Sciatic nerve transection was performed on these mice to determine whether phosphorylation of dystrophin S3059 could attenuate denervation atrophy. At 14 days post denervation, atrophy of tibialis anterior (TA) but not gastrocnemius or soleus muscles, was partially attenuated in DmdS3059E mice relative to WT mice. Attenuation of atrophy was associated with increased expression of β‐dystroglycan in TA muscles of DmdS3059E mice. Dystrophin S3059 phosphorylation can partially attenuate denervation‐induced atrophy, but may have more significant impact in less severe modes of muscle wasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: New therapies for resistant hypertension (RH), including renal denervation (RDN), have been studied. Aim: Access the safety and effectiveness of radiofrequency-based RDN vs pharmacological treatment for RH. Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane databases, focusing on studies that compared the effects of radiofrequency-based RDN versus pharmacological treatment for RH. Treatment effects for binary and continuous endpoints were pooled and used, respectively, odds-ratio (OR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to analyze continuous outcomes. Results: In the 10 included studies, involving 1.182 patients, 682 received radiofrequency-based RDN. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 84 months. Analysis revealed that the RDN group had a significant reduction in office systolic blood pressure (BP) (MD − 9.5 mmHg; 95% CI − 16.81 to − 2.29; P = 0.01), office diastolic BP (MD − 5.1 mmHg; 95% CI − 8.42 to − 2.80; P < 0.001), 24 h systolic BP (MD − 4.8 mmHg; 95% CI − 7.26 to − 2.42; P < 0.001). For 24 h diastolic BP RDN did not have a significant reduction (MD − 2.3 mmHg; 95% CI − 4.19 to − 0.52; P = 0.012). The heterogeneity between the studies was high, visible in the funnel and Baujat plots. The OR was non-significant for non-serious adverse events, but also clinically significant for hypertensive crises and strokes for the RDN group. Conclusions: While the pharmacological regimen of 3 or more anti-hypertensive, including a diuretic, still be the first-line option for RH treatment, our results support that radiofrequency-based RDN is superior in reducing global BP and is safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment modality in the symptomatic treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Our aim was to compare the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation of the superomedial and inferomedial genicular nerves (2 branches) with the superolateral, superomedial, and inferomedial genicular nerves (3 branches) and to show whether the 2-branch procedure is inferior to the 3-branch procedure. Methods: This study is a prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical study. Eligible participants were randomized into 2 groups: group A, which applied the procedure to the superomedial and inferomedial genicular nerves, and group B, which applied it to the superomedial, superolateral and inferomedial genicular nerves. Pain was evaluated with the numerical rating scale, quality of life with the Short Form-36 (SF-36), and disability with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index before, and at 1 and 3 months after the procedure. Results: A total of 41 patients were included. There were no differences between the groups except for the SF-36 physical health sub-score at baseline. A significant improvement was seen in the numeric rating scale (NRS) score, SF-36 sub-scores, WOMAC Index total, as well as pain and physical function scores in both groups, though no significant difference was detected between the groups during follow-up. Conclusions: Although we were unable to establish the noninferiority of conventional radiofrequency ablation (CRFA) applied to 2 branches to CRFA applied to 3 branches, in this trial, significant and similar improvement was observed in NRS, WOMAC total, pain, and physical function and SF-36 scores in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review provides an overview of the efficacy and safety of renal sympathetic denervation as a therapeutic approach for resistant hypertension. While the initial enthusiasm was sparked by the results of early clinical trials, it was dampened by the findings of the Symplicity HTN-3 study. However, recent advances in catheter technology and more refined patient selection criteria have yielded more promising results. Subsequent studies, such as SPYRAL HTN-OFF MED and RADIANCE II, demonstrated significant reductions in blood pressure, even in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Despite the lack of robust data on major clinical outcomes, investigations into the time in therapeutic range for patients undergoing renal sympathetic denervation suggested potential cardiovascular benefits. Nevertheless, further research is needed to thoroughly understand the long-term impact, assess cost-effectiveness, and accurately identify which patient subgroups may derive the greatest benefits from this therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) has been improved with drugs and effective reperfusion, but it still cannot be prevented. Methods: To investigate whether renal denervation (RDN) reduces cardiomyocyte apoptosis by ameliorating endoplasmic reticulum stress, 60 male specific pathogen-free (SPF) Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 6). We established the I/R rat model by ligating the left anterior descending artery. The I/R+ angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) group received ARNIs for 2 weeks until euthanasia. Results: The I/R+RDN and I/R+ARNI groups have signifiantly ameliorated left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS) and reversed expansion of the left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVSD) and left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVDD) compared to the I/R group. The levels of norepinephrine (NE), angiotensin II, and aldosterone (ALD) increased signifiantly in the I/R group, but decreased signifiantly after RDN and ARNI intervention. In the I/R+RDN and I/R+ARNI groups, the myocardial tissue edema was alleviated. The infarct size was smaller in the I/R+RDN and I/R+ARNI groups compared to the I/R group. Apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and fib oblasts in myocardial tissue increased signifiantly in the I/R group, which was greatly diminished by RDN and ARNI. The expression of Bax, caspase-3, CHOP, PERK, and ATF4 protein was signifiantly increased in the I/R group, which compared to other groups, and the level of CHOP, PERK, and ATF4 gene expression increased. After RDN intervention, these expression levels recovered to varying degrees. Conclusion: The effect of RDN may be associated with regulating the endoplasmic reticulum stress PERK/ATF4 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Swallowing impairment is a crucial issue that can lead to aspiration, pneumonia, and malnutrition. Animal models are useful to reveal pathophysiology and to facilitate development of new treatments for dysphagia caused by many diseases. The present study aimed to develop a new dysphagia model with reduced pharyngeal constriction during pharyngeal swallowing. Methods: We analyzed the dynamics of pharyngeal swallowing over time with the pharyngeal branches of the vagus nerve (Ph-X) bilaterally or unilaterally transected, using videofluoroscopic assessment of swallowing in guinea pigs. We also evaluated the detailed anatomy of the pharyngeal constrictor muscles after the denervation. Results: Videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing showed a significant increase in the pharyngeal area during swallowing after bilateral and unilateral sectioning of the Ph-X. The videofluoroscopy also showed significantly higher pharyngeal transit duration for bilateral and unilateral section groups. The thyropharyngeal muscle on the sectioned side was significantly thinner than that on the intact side. In contrast, the thickness of the cricopharyngeal muscles on the sectioned and intact sides were not significantly different. The mean thickness of the bilateral thyropharyngeal muscles showed a linear correlation to the pharyngeal area and pharyngeal transit duration. Discussion: Data obtained in this study suggest that denervation of the Ph-X could influence the strength of pharyngeal contraction during pharyngeal swallowing in relation to thickness of the pharyngeal constrictor muscles, resulting in a decrease in bolus speed. This experimental model may provide essential information (1) for the development of treatments for pharyngeal dysphagia and (2) on the mechanisms related to the recovery process, reinnervation, and nerve regeneration following injury and swallowing impairment possibly caused by medullary stroke, neuromuscular disease, or surgical damage from head and neck cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) affects 1% of people worldwide. Changes in the pulmonary vasculature, obstructive lesions in the pulmonary arteries, and an increase in pulmonary artery pressure are the hallmarks of PH, a progressive and deadly cardiovascular illness. These modifications result in a rise in right ventricular afterload, which frequently causes unfavorable right ventricular remodeling, right ventricular dysfunction and, in the end, mortality. One of the more severe and well-researched types of PH is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), which is treatable with medication. The mechanisms involved in the regulation of pulmonary vascular tone and proliferation are the focus of PAH as well as some other forms of PH. The main characteristics of PAH (group 1) are discussed in this article, along with new and existing treatment options for the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The effectiveness of renal denervation (RDN) in reducing blood pressure and systemic sympathetic activity in hypertensive patients has been established. However, the underlying central mechanism remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of RDN in regulating cardiovascular function via the central renin–angiotensin system (RAS) pathway. METHODS Ten-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were subjected to selective afferent renal denervation (ADN) using capsaicin solution. We hypothesized that ADN would effectively reduce blood pressure and rebalance the RAS component of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in SHR. RESULTS The experimental results show that the ADN group exhibited significantly lower blood pressure, reduced systemic sympathetic activity, decreased chronic neuronal activation marker C-FOS expression in the PVN, and improved arterial baroreflex function, compared with the Sham group. Furthermore, ACE and AT1 protein expression was reduced while ACE2 and MAS protein expression was increased in the PVN of SHR after ADN. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that RDN may exert these beneficial effects through modulating the central RAS pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background. Ouabain, a Na+, K+‐ATPase inhibitor, is elevated in hypertensive patients. Evidence suggests ouabain contributes to hypertension mainly through activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Renal nerves play a vital role in the regulation of SNS activity, so we hypothesize that renal denervation may attenuate the development of ouabain‐induced hypertension. Methods and Results. Forty Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into following groups (n = 10 each): control group (sham surgery plus intraperitoneal saline injection), RDN group (renal denervation (RDN) plus intraperitoneal saline injection), ouabain group (sham surgery plus intraperitoneal ouabain injection), and ouabain + RDN group (RDN plus intraperitoneal ouabain injection). After eight weeks, compared with the control group, rats in the ouabain group exhibited elevated blood pressure (P < 0.05), increased plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, angiotensin II, and aldosterone levels (P < 0.05). These indexes could be significantly ameliorated by RDN. RDN also reduced the thickening of aortic tunica media and downregulated the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the thoracic aorta induced by ouabain. Masson staining and echocardiography showed that myocardial fibrosis and increased left ventricular mass in the ouabain group could be attenuated by RDN. Conclusions. The present study reveals that renal nerves play an important role in the development of ouabain‐induced hypertension. RDN could inhibit the pressor effect and the myocardial remodeling induced by ouabain potentially via inhibiting catecholamine release and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Clinical studies are needed to explore whether RDN may exhibit better antihypertensive effects on hypertensive patients with high plasma ouabain levels as compared to those with normal plasma ouabain levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Renal denervation (RDN) has demonstrated clinically relevant reductions in blood pressure (BP) among individuals with uncontrolled hypertension despite lifestyle intervention and medications. The safety and effectiveness of alcohol-mediated RDN have not been formally studied in this indication. METHODS: TARGET BP I is a prospective, international, sham-controlled, randomized, patient- and assessor-blinded trial investigating the safety and efficacy of alcohol-mediated RDN. Patients with office systolic BP (SBP) ≥150 and ≤180 mm Hg, office diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg, and mean 24-hour ambulatory SBP ≥135 and ≤170 mm Hg despite prescription of 2 to 5 antihypertensive medications were enrolled. The primary end point was the baseline-adjusted change in mean 24-hour ambulatory SBP 3 months after the procedure. Secondary end points included mean between-group differences in office and ambulatory BP at additional time points. RESULTS: Among 301 patients randomized 1:1 to RDN or sham control, RDN was associated with a significant reduction in 24-hour ambulatory SBP at 3 months (mean±SD, -10.0±14.2 mm Hg versus -6.8±12.1 mm Hg; treatment difference, -3.2 mm Hg [95% CI, -6.3 to 0.0]; P=0.0487). Subgroup analysis of the primary end point revealed no significant interaction across predefined subgroups. At 3 months, the mean change in office SBP was -12.7±18.3 and -9.7±17.3 mm Hg (difference, -3.0 [95% CI, -7.0 to 1.0]; P=0.173) for RDN and sham, respectively. No significant differences in ambulatory or office diastolic BP were observed. Adverse safety events through 6 months were uncommon, with one instance of accessory renal artery dissection in the RDN group (0.7%). No significant between-group differences in medication changes or patient adherence were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Alcohol-mediated RDN was associated with a modest but statistically significant reduction in 24-hour ambulatory SBP compared with sham control. No significant differences between groups in office BP or 6-month major adverse events were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Synkinesis refers to abnormal involuntary facial movements that accompany volitional facial movements. Despite a 55% incidence of synkinesis reported in patients with enduring facial paralysis, there is still a lack of complete understanding of this debilitating condition, leading to functional limitations and decreased quality of life. 1 This article reviews the diagnostic assessment, etiology, pathophysiology, rehabilitation, and nonsurgical and surgical treatments for facial synkinesis. Methods: A PubMed and Cochrane search was done with no date restrictions for English-language literature on facial synkinesis. The search terms used were "facial," "synkinesis," "palsy," and various combinations of the terms. Results: The resultant inability to control the full extent of one's facial movements has functional and psychosocial consequences and may result in social withdrawal with a significant decrease in quality of life. An understanding of facial mimetic musculature is imperative in guiding appropriate intervention. While chemodenervation with botulinum toxin and neurorehabilitation have continued to be the primary treatment strategy for facial synkinesis, novel techniques such as selective myectomy, selective neurolysis, free-functioning muscle transfer, and nerve grafting techniques are becoming increasingly utilized in treatment regimens. Facial rehabilitation, including neuromuscular retraining, soft tissue massage, and relaxation therapy in addition to chemodenervation with botulinum toxin, remains the cornerstone of treatment. In cases of severe, intractable synkinesis and non-flaccid facial paralysis, surgical interventions, including selective neurectomy, selective myectomy, nerve grafting, or free muscle transfer, may play a more significant role in alleviating symptoms. Discussion: A multidisciplinary approach involving therapists, clinicians, and surgeons is necessary to develop a comprehensive treatment regimen that will result in optimal outcomes. Ultimately, therapy should be tailored to the severity and pattern of synkinesis, and each patient approached on a case-by-case basis. A multidisciplinary approach involving therapists, clinicians, and surgeons is necessary to develop a comprehensive treatment regimen that will result in optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transurethral resection of the prostate, or other methods to decrease outlet resistance usually leads to relief of symptoms in patients with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). If symptoms of underactivity persist after normalization of outflow conditions, treatment options are limited. In this review, we hypothesize, based on results from basic research, what might become treatment options for such patients in the future. The primary local treatment will still aim at reducing outlet obstruction. We speculate that local secondary treatment in the future might include transplantation of stem cells or mature bladder ganglion cells into the bladder wall. There has been some success in transplanting ganglion cells into the rat bladder. The ganglion cells will sprout into the surrounding tissue but functional connections between the axons of the transplanted neurons, and the detrusor smooth muscle have so far not been demonstrated. Neurotrophins or neurotrimin might be injected into the bladder wall to increase the sprouting of existing or transplanted neurons. Stem cell transplantation has been performed and improves detrusor function, but it has so far, been difficult to demonstrate transplanted stem cells. BOO, persisting detrusor underactivity, and decreased nerve density are often combined with inflammatory activity of the lower urinary tract. NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and its messenger RNA (mRNA) as well as cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) mRNA are increased in obstructed bladders. Systemic treatment with the NLRP3 inhibitor glyburide normalized nerve density in rat bladder, and, to some extent, bladder function. It is unclear whether Cox-2 is involved in the decreased nerve density following obstruction, but Cox-2 mRNA increases 5-fold in obstructed bladder. Future therapy against bladder underactivity remaining following relief of obstruction includes either systemic treatment, perhaps by anti-inflammatory drugs, or local treatment by injection of stem cells, mature ganglion cells, and/or neurotrophins or neurotrimin into the bladder wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With aging skeletal muscle fibers undergo repeating cycles of denervation and reinnervation. In approximately the 8th decade of life reinnervation no longer keeps pace, resulting in the accumulation of persistently denervated muscle fibers that in turn cause an acceleration of muscle dysfunction. The significance of denervation in important clinical outcomes with aging is poorly studied. The Study of Muscle, Mobility, and Aging (SOMMA) is a large cohort study with the primary objective to assess how aging muscle biology impacts clinically important traits. Using transcriptomics data from vastus lateralis muscle biopsies in 575 participants we have selected 49 denervation‐responsive genes to provide insights to the burden of denervation in SOMMA, to test the hypothesis that greater expression of denervation‐responsive genes negatively associates with SOMMA participant traits that included time to walk 400 meters, fitness (VO2peak), maximal mitochondrial respiration, muscle mass and volume, and leg muscle strength and power. Consistent with our hypothesis, increased transcript levels of: a calciumdependent intercellular adhesion glycoprotein (CDH15), acetylcholine receptor subunits (CHRNA1, CHRND, CHRNE), a glycoprotein promoting reinnervation (NCAM1), a transcription factor regulating aspects of muscle organization (RUNX1), and a sodium channel (SCN5A) were each negatively associated with at least 3 of these traits. VO2peak and maximal respiration had the strongest negative associations with 15 and 19 denervation‐responsive genes, respectively. In conclusion, the abundance of denervationresponsive gene transcripts is a significant determinant of muscle and mobility outcomes in aging humans, supporting the imperative to identify new treatment strategies to restore innervation in advanced age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Findings from the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA) in this issue of Aging Cell show that several biological pathways in skeletal muscle cells play an important role in determining mobility in older adults. These are based on assays in skeletal muscle biopsies obtained from participants, aged 70 years and older in SOMMA tested for association with assessments related to mobility, including muscle mass, strength, power, cardiopulmonary fitness, and 400 m walking speed. The papers show that, using mass spectrometry, oxidative modifications of proteins essential to myocellular function are associated with poorer mobility. Using RNA‐seq to quantify gene expression, lower levels of expression of antioxidant enzymes located in mitochondria, autophagy, patterns of expression of genes involved in autophagy, and higher levels of RNA transcripts that increase with denervation were associated with poorer performance on tests of mobility. These results extend previous research from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and recent studies from SOMMA showing the importance of mitochondrial energetics in mobility. Together, these findings are painting a picture of how fundamental cellular processes influence the loss of mobility with aging. They may also be a window on aging in other cells, tissues, and systems. The data collected in SOMMA are publicly available and SOMMA welcomes collaborations with scientists who are interested in research about human aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fibrosis is a significant pathological feature of chronic skeletal muscle injury, profoundly affecting muscle regeneration. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) have the ability to differentiate into myofibroblasts, acting as a primary source of extracellular matrix (ECM). the process by which FAPs differentiate into myofibroblasts during chronic skeletal muscle injury remains inadequately explored. Method: mouse model with sciatic nerve denervated was constructed and miRNA expression profiles between the mouse model and uninjured mouse were analyzed. qRT/PCR and immunofluorescence elucidated the effect of miR-27b-3p on fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. Dual-luciferase reporter identified the target gene of miR-27b-3p, and finally knocked down or overexpressed the target gene and phosphorylation inhibition of Smad verified the influence of downstream molecules on the abundance of miR-27b-3p and fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Result: FAPs derived from a mouse model with sciatic nerves denervated exhibited a progressively worsening fibrotic phenotype over time. Introducing agomiR-27b-3p effectively suppressed fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. MiR-27b-3p targeted Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 1 (TGF-βR1) and the abundance of miR-27b-3p was negatively regulated by TGF-βR1/Smad. Conclusion: miR-27b-3p targeting the TGF-βR1/Smad pathway is a novel mechanism for regulating fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Increasing abundance of miR-27b-3p, suppressing expression of TGF-βR1 and inhibiting phosphorylation of smad3 presented potential strategies for treating fibrosis in chronic skeletal muscle injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Despite being a commonly encountered urologic condition, there remains a paucity of understanding and literature on the management and natural history of isolated epididymal pain. Typically, patients who do not respond to conservative management undergo an epididymectomy; however, the literature on its efficacy is also scarce, with success rates varying from 10-90%. Our goal was to better describe the etiology and natural history of isolated epididymal pain and to describe the rates of success associated with epididymectomy. METHODS: A retrospective, case-control study was conducted at the Manitoba Men's Health Clinic, with the approval of the University of Manitoba Research Ethics Board. All patients presenting with chronic epididymitis, defined as discomfort or pain localized to the epididymis for at least three months, were identified. Information regarding patient demographics, past medical and surgical history, duration of pain, localization of pain, findings on previous ultrasounds, prior conservative therapies trialed, and response rates, as well as response rates to surgical therapy were collected. RESULTS: From April 2022 to April 2023, a total of 275 patients with chronic orchialgia were identified; among them, 74 patients presented with chronic isolated epididymal pain. On average, 22.9% of patients experienced symptoms for 3-6 months, 10% for 6-12 months, and 67.1% for over 12 months; 13.5% (n=10) had associated ejaculatory pain, 8.1% (n=6) had lower urinary tract symptoms, and 4.1% (n=3) had erectile dysfunction. Ultrasound findings were observed in 68.9% of patients, with 31.1% having an epididymal cyst, 27.1% having a varicocele, 5.4% having a spermatocele, and 4.1% having a hydrocele. Among those who underwent conservative therapy, only 36.2% of patients reported a positive response. Surgical intervention was performed on 23 patients, including 16 who underwent epididymectomy, three who underwent cord denervation, and two who underwent vasovasostomy and spermatocelectomy each. Most (81.3%, n=13) patients who underwent epididymectomy had a positive response to the surgical intervention, defined as no pain on followup, while all patients undergoing other surgical interventions experienced a positive response. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic epididymal pain is a condition with limited data surrounding its management. Prior to referral, a large proportion of patients did not undergo any conservative treatment, and of those that did, there was limited response. For those who underwent surgical intervention, all were pain-free on followup, except three patients who underwent epididymectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article delves into specific nerve pathways and their role in hip joint innervation, highlighting the sensory and motor functions involved. It also discusses common clinical scenarios where knowledge of hip joint innervation is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, such as in cases of hip pain, trauma, or postoperative management.

Introduction/Aims: Redundant nerve roots (RNRs) are abnormally elongated and tortuous nerve roots that develop secondary to degenerative spinal stenosis. RNRs have been associated with poorer clinical outcomes after decompression surgery; however, studies on their clinical characteristics are limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between RNRs and denervation potentials, that is, abnormal spontaneous activity (ASA), on electromyography. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data of patients who underwent an electrodiagnostic study of the lower extremities between January 2020 and March 2023. Of these, patients with lumbar central spinal stenosis, as seen on magnetic resonance imaging, were included. We analyzed clinical and imaging data, including presence of ASA, and compared them according to the presence of RNRs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with development of ASA. Results: Among the 2003 patients screened, 193 were included in the study. RNRs were associated with advanced age (p <.001), longer symptom duration (p =.009), smaller cross‐sectional area of the dural sac at the stenotic level (p <.001), and higher frequency of ASA (p <.001). Higher probability of ASA was correlated with greater RNR severity (p <.001). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, ASA occurrence was associated with smaller cross‐sectional area, multiple stenotic sites, and severe‐grade RNRs. Discussion: The presence of RNRs, particularly severe‐grade RNRs, was identified as a significant risk factor for the development of ASA on electromyography. This finding may aid physicians in estimating the prognosis of patients with central spinal stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]