Muscle & nerve
-
In this investigation we assessed the spectrum of creatine kinase (CK) responses in military recruits undergoing basic training. ⋯ CK elevations and muscle pain are common during basic training. Widely accepted laboratory diagnostic values for ER are routinely exceeded in this military recruits, suggesting that CK levels >50 times the upper limit of normal are more specific. The findings support using CK as a marker for ER. Normal laboratory reference ranges for CK should be published by ethnicity.
-
The purpose of this study is to describe our technique for high-frequency sonography of the volar digital nerves and to define the course, caliber, and morphology of normal volar digital nerves. ⋯ High-frequency sonography permits high-resolution imaging of the volar digital nerves.
-
Muscle weakness often complicates critical illness and is associated with devastating short- and long-term consequences. For interventional studies, reliable measurements of muscle force in the intensive care unit (ICU) are needed. ⋯ Interobserver agreement on MRC sum-score and handgrip strength in the ICU was very good. Agreement on "severe weakness" (MRC sum-score <36) was excellent and supports its use in interventional studies. Agreement on "significant weakness" (MRC sum-score <48) was good, but even better using the equivalent cut-off in the upper limbs. It remains to be determined whether this may serve as a substitute.
-
Widespread musculoskeletal pain is a well-known symptom of myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2), but so far it has been addressed in only a few studies. ⋯ Pain of moderate severity and unpleasant muscular symptoms are common in DM2. DM2 should be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis of musculoskeletal pain.
-
Comparative Study
NMDA receptors at the endplate of rat skeletal muscles: precise postsynaptic localization.
In this study we demonstrate expression of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor NR1 subunit in the rat neuromuscular junction of skeletal muscles of different functional types (extensor digitorum longus, soleus, and diaphragm muscles) using fluorescence immunocytochemistry. Electron microscopic immunocytochemistry has shown that the NR1 subunit is localized solely on the sarcolemma in the depths of the postsynaptic folds. These findings suggest participation of the glutamatergic signaling system in functioning of the adult mammalian neuromuscular junction.