Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
-
The application of transcranial static magnetic field stimulation (tSMS) in humans reduces the excitability of the motor cortex for a few minutes after the end of stimulation. However, when tSMS is applied in humans, the cortex is at least 2 cm away, so most of the strength of the magnetic field will not reach the target. The main objective of the study was to measure the strength and reproducibility of static magnetic fields produced by commercial neodymium magnets. ⋯ These measurements offer a quantitative empirical reference for developing devices useful for tSMS protocols in both humans and animals.
-
Ziconotide is often administered in combination with other analgesics via an intrathecal pump. Studies have established that ziconotide is stable when delivered alone in high concentrations. No stability data are available, however, for ziconotide given in low concentrations and/or with other analgesics as usually occurs in clinical oncology practice. The objective of this study was to assess the in vitro stability of ziconotide alone and combined with other analgesics in intrathecal pumps at 37 °C, as well as in syringes at 5 °C, to evaluate conditions for storing and transporting preparations. ⋯ At the low ziconotide concentrations studied, the degradation of ziconotide admixed with other drugs was linear and only weakly influenced by the baseline concentration. Linear regression with intrapolation to 30 days showed that the degradation of ziconotide admixed with other drugs was consistent with previously published data.
-
Rechargeable (RC) implantable pulse generators (IPGs) for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in movement disorders have recently become available. No guidelines exist for parameter adjustment after conversion of non-RC to RC IPGs, or reports of patient satisfaction with RC IPGs when used as initial DBS device or after conversion from non-RC IPGs. ⋯ RC IPGs in DBS for movement disorders are well received by patients as initial therapy and after conversion. Mild reduction in stimulation parameters might be allowed after conversion to RC IPG.
-
Using an adjustable stimulator with a wide range of stimulation parameters, the aims of this study were 1) to investigate the effects of long-term gastric electrical stimulation (GES) on appetite and differential food cravings for three different foods and 2) to investigate the effects of GES on plasma gastrointestinal peptide concentrations. ⋯ Food intake and food craving were changed significantly by adjustable GES. GES may be used for treating obesity by changing food preferences. Further clinical studies are necessary to highlight the effect of adjustable GES on eating behavior.
-
Letter Biography Historical Article
Krishna Kumar, MD, neuromodulation and immortality.