Continuous theta-burst stimulation over the left posterior inferior frontal gyrus induced compensatory plasticity in the language network.

Introduction: Continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) has been used as an effective tool in inducing inhibitory aftereffect within a short time periods in the motor cortex; this has been demonstrated in the language network to a limited degree with controversial effect. In this study, we aimed to delineate the offline effect of cTBS-induced changes to the left posterior inferior frontal gyrus (pIFG) in healthy subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Methods: Twenty healthy, normal subjects (mean age: 30.

Correlations between COMT polymorphism and brain structure and cognition in elderly subjects: An observational study.

The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene has been noted to play an important role in individual variations in the aging process. We investigated whether COMT polymorphism could influence cognition related to white matter networks. More specifically, we examined whether methionine (Met) allele loading is associated with better individual cognitive performance.

Spinopelvic Alignment as a Risk Factor for Poor Balance Function in Low Back Pain Patients.

Study Design: Retrospective, observational study.

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between spinopelvic parameters and balance function in low back pain (LBP).

Methods: Among patients in the rehabilitation medicine department, the data of 182 patients (mean age, 47.

Non-Powered automatic velocity-controlled wheeled walker improves gait and satisfaction in patients with hip fracture when walking downhill: A cross-over study.

Background: A standard four-wheeled walker is commonly used after surgery for hip fracture to aid ambulation. However, elderly patients experience some difficulties and are at risk for falls; therefore, attempts are being made to address these issues.

Research Question: Does the non-powered automatic velocity-controlled (NPAVEC) wheeled walker improves the gait and satisfaction of patients with hip fractures when walking downhill using it?

Methods: In this cross-over study, 21 participants performed three trials of walking downhill with two walkers (an NPAVEC wheeled walker and a standard four-wheeled walker) at a self-selected speed.

Changes in Pharyngeal Width Over Time as an Indicator of Dysphagia in Stroke Patients.

Objective: To verify the pharyngeal width at rest as a measurement that could be used to assess changes in the degree of dysphagia over time in stroke patients.

Methods: In a cohort of stroke patients, we performed serial measurements of the pharyngeal width at the midpoints of the second (C2) and third (C3) cervical vertebral bodies using lateral neck X-rays while the patients were at rest. The JOSCYL width, a parameter named after the first initial of each developers' surname and defined as the average value of the upper and lower pharyngeal widths, was used to formulate the JOSCYL scale, which was calculated as the JOSCYL width × 100/neck circumference.

Increased white matter diffusivity associated with phantom limb pain.

Background: We utilized diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to evaluate the cerebral white matter changes that are associated with phantom limb pain in patients with unilateral arm amputation. It was anticipated that this would complement previous research in which we had shown that changes in cerebral blood volume were associated with the cerebral pain network.

Methods: Ten patients with phantom limb pain due to unilateral arm amputation and sixteen healthy age-matched controls were enrolled.

Predictive Value of Pharyngeal Width at Rest (JOSCYL Width) for Aspiration in Elderly People.

Objective: To develop a new tool for aspiration risk prediction based on pharyngeal width at rest in older adults with symptoms of aspiration.

Methods: Lateral cervical spine roentgenograms were obtained from 33 older adult patients who complained of dysphagia and from 33 healthy, age-matched controls. Pharyngeal width at rest was measured at two points.

Pharyngeal width and aspiration after stroke.

It is important to assess aspiration in stroke patients. The aim of this study was to develop a new additional tool to predict aspiration based on the pharyngeal width at rest in stroke patients with aspiration symptoms. The pharyngeal width was measured at the middle level of the second and third cervical vertebral bodies using a lateral neck roentgenogram in stroke patients and healthy controls.

The Association Between Postburn Vitamin D Deficiency and the Biomechanical Properties of Hypertrophic Scars.

Fibroblasts, keratinocytes, mast cells, and other cells participate in hypertrophic scar formation and express the vitamin D receptor. We investigated the association between vitamin D deficiency and the biomechanical properties of hypertrophic burn scars. This cross-sectional study analyzed 486 participants enrolled from May 1, 2013 to April 30, 2017.