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Brain Sciences
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Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024
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Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024

A special issue of Brain Sciences (ISSN 2076-3425). This special issue belongs to the section "Neurorehabilitation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 9828

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Rocco Salvatore Calabrò

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, 98124 Messina, Italy
Interests: robot-aided neurorehabilitation; disorders of consciousness; neurosexology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Giovanni Morone

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
Interests: functional recovery; robot-sassited training; robotic training; neurorehabilitation; virtual reality; motor-cognitive recovery; stroke rehabilitation; serious game therapy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Over the last decade, with the advances of science and technology, we have become more familiar with the human brain and its function as well as the neuroplasticity mechanisms underpinning functional recovery following brain damage. The development of assessment tools, including neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques, has greatly enhanced the scope and outcome of neurorehabilitation. As a new field of translational neuroscience, innovation technologies in neurorehabilitation provide cutting edge improvements in therapies for patients with neurological disorders, such as stroke, spinal cord, and traumatic brain injury. In particular, the use of robotics in neurorehabilitation is becoming more and more common, leading to more personalized training and further improving functional outcomes. At the same time, virtual reality simulations and video games provide patients with an interactive way to explore and re-learn different aspects of their lives and environments while being observed within the safety of their treating therapists and physicians. Finally, the use of artificial intelligence in the neurorehab field offers novel opportunities further tailored to the rehabilitation pathway.

The aim of this special collection is to provide an update on the main techniques and training protocols currently used in the multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation approach, with particular regards to innovation technologies (such as robotics, virtual reality, metaverse, artificial intelligence, neuromodulation, etc…). 

Dr. Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
Dr. Giovanni Morone
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Brain Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • multidisciplinary approach
  • gait analysis
  • robotics
  • VR
  • AI
  • metaverse
  • neuromodulation
  • acquired brain injury
  • neurodegenerative disorders

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 559 KiB  
Article
Neuroticism Overestimated? Neuroticism Versus Hypertonia, Pain and Rehabilitation Outcomes in Post-Spinal Cord Injury Patients Rehabilitated Conventionally and with Robotic-Assisted Gait Training
by Alicja Widuch-Spodyniuk, Beata Tarnacka, Bogumił Korczyński and Aleksandra Borkowska
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14111153 - 18 Nov 2024
Viewed by 468
Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to analyse the association between neuroticism (one of the Big Five personality traits) and the most common secondary sensorimotor complications occurring in patients after spinal cord injury (SCI), i.e., muscle spasticity (hypertonia) and pain, and [...] Read more.
Background: The aim of the present study was to analyse the association between neuroticism (one of the Big Five personality traits) and the most common secondary sensorimotor complications occurring in patients after spinal cord injury (SCI), i.e., muscle spasticity (hypertonia) and pain, and to investigate the associations between neuroticism and the effects of conventional rehabilitation (dynamic parapodium) and those using robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) in this group of patients. In addition, the association of neuroticism with self-efficacy, personal beliefs about pain control, and adopted coping strategies among SCI patients was analysed. These data can be used as a reference for designing effective forms of therapy and support dedicated to this group of patients. Methods and procedures: Quantitative analysis included 110 patients after SCI. The participants were divided by simple randomisation into a rehabilitation group with RAGT and a rehabilitation group with dynamic parapodium therapy (DPT). The following survey instruments were used for data collection: Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R); Ashworth Scale; the Spinal Cord Independence Measure III (SCIM III); the Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI-II); the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS); the Pain Coping Strategies Questionnaire—CSQ; and the Beliefs about Pain Control Questionnaire—BPCQ. Outcomes and results: analyses showed a positive association between neuroticism and spastic tension (rho = 0.39; p < 0.001). Conclusions and implications: the study showed that a high level of neuroticism correlates with a higher level of spasticity, but no such correlation was observed for pain. Additionally, the study did not show a significant correlation between neuroticism and rehabilitation outcome depending on the rehabilitation modality (RAGT vs. DPT). The results underline the importance of carrying out a psychological diagnosis of patients to provide therapeutic support in the rehabilitation process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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19 pages, 2986 KiB  
Article
Clinical Feasibility of Applying Immersive Virtual Reality during Robot-Assisted Gait Training for Individuals with Neurological Diseases: A Pilot Study
by Daniele Munari, Angela von Wartburg, Veronica G. Garcia-Marti, Matjaž Zadravec, Zlatko Matjačić and Jan F. Veneman
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(10), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14101002 - 2 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1234
Abstract
Background: Immersive virtual reality has the potential to motivate and challenge patients who need and want to relearn movements in the process of neurorehabilitation. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and user acceptance of an innovative immersive virtual [...] Read more.
Background: Immersive virtual reality has the potential to motivate and challenge patients who need and want to relearn movements in the process of neurorehabilitation. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and user acceptance of an innovative immersive virtual reality system (head-mounted display) used in combination with robot-assisted gait training in subjects suffering from neurological diseases. Methods: Fifteen participants suffering from cerebrovascular accident or spinal cord injury completed a single session of immersive virtual reality using a head-mounted display during a Lokomat® gait session. Training parameters and safety indicators were collected, and acceptance was investigated among participants and therapists. Results: The results suggest that an immersive virtual reality system is feasible in terms of safety and tolerance. Furthermore, the very positive overall acceptance of the system suggests that it has the potential to be included in a robot-assisted gait training session using Lokomat®. Conclusion: Overall, this study demonstrates that a fully immersive virtual reality system based on a head-mounted display is both feasible and well received by cerebrovascular accident and spinal cord injury patients and their therapists during robot-assisted gait training. This study suggests that such a virtual reality system could be a viable alternative to the screen-based training games currently used in neurorehabilitation. It may be especially suitable for enhancing patient motivation and adherence to training, particularly if the application is enjoyable and not mentally taxing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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14 pages, 1504 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Two Models of Telerehabilitation in Improving Recovery from Subacute Upper Limb Disability after Stroke: Robotic vs. Non-Robotic
by Arianna Pavan, Alessio Fasano, Stefania Lattanzi, Laura Cortellini, Valeria Cipollini, Sabina Insalaco, Maria Cristina Mauro, Marco Germanotta and Irene Giovanna Aprile
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(9), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14090941 - 21 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1483
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Finding innovative digital solutions is fundamental to ensure prompt and continuous care for patients with chronic neurological disorders, whose demand for rehabilitation also in home-based settings is steadily increasing. The aim is to verify the safety and the effectiveness of two telerehabilitation [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Finding innovative digital solutions is fundamental to ensure prompt and continuous care for patients with chronic neurological disorders, whose demand for rehabilitation also in home-based settings is steadily increasing. The aim is to verify the safety and the effectiveness of two telerehabilitation (TR) models in improving recovery from subacute upper limb (UL) disability after stroke, with and without a robotic device. Methods: One hundred nineteen subjects with subacute post-stroke UL disability were assessed for eligibility. Of them, 30 patients were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned to either the Robotic Group (RG), undergoing a 20-session TR program, using a robotic device, or the Non-Robotic Group (NRG), undergoing a 20-session TR program without robotics. Clinical evaluations were measured at baseline (T0) and post-intervention (T1, 5 weeks after baseline), and included assessments of quality of life, motor skills, and clinical/functional status. The primary outcome measure was the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0, evaluating the change in perceived disability. Results: Statistical analysis shows that patients of both groups improved significantly over time in all domains analyzed (mean decrease from baseline in the WHODAS 2.0 of 6.09 ± 2.62% for the NRG, and of 0.76 ± 2.21% for the RG), with a greater improvement of patients in the NRG in motor (Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity—motor function, Box and Block Test) and cognitive skills (Trail Making Test-A). Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of TR programs to transform stroke rehabilitation by enhancing accessibility and patient-centered care, promoting autonomy, improving adherence, and leading to better outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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17 pages, 1635 KiB  
Article
Integrating Machine Learning with Robotic Rehabilitation May Support Prediction of Recovery of the Upper Limb Motor Function in Stroke Survivors
by Sara Quattrocelli, Emanuele Francesco Russo, Maria Teresa Gatta, Serena Filoni, Raffaello Pellegrino, Leonardo Cangelmi, Daniela Cardone, Arcangelo Merla and David Perpetuini
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080759 - 29 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1113
Abstract
Motor impairment is a common issue in stroke patients, often affecting the upper limbs. To this standpoint, robotic neurorehabilitation has shown to be highly effective for motor function recovery. Notably, Machine learning (ML) may be a powerful technique able to identify the optimal [...] Read more.
Motor impairment is a common issue in stroke patients, often affecting the upper limbs. To this standpoint, robotic neurorehabilitation has shown to be highly effective for motor function recovery. Notably, Machine learning (ML) may be a powerful technique able to identify the optimal kind and intensity of rehabilitation treatments to maximize the outcomes. This retrospective observational research aims to assess the efficacy of robotic devices in facilitating the functional rehabilitation of upper limbs in stroke patients through ML models. Specifically, clinical scales, such as the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (A-D) (FMA), the Frenchay Arm Test (FAT), and the Barthel Index (BI), were used to assess the patients’ condition before and after robotic therapy. The values of these scales were predicted based on the patients’ clinical and demographic data obtained before the treatment. The findings showed that ML models have high accuracy in predicting the FMA, FAT, and BI, with R-squared (R2) values of 0.79, 0.57, and 0.74, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that integrating ML into robotic therapy may have the capacity to establish a personalized and streamlined clinical practice, leading to significant improvements in patients’ quality of life and the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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20 pages, 4586 KiB  
Article
Neurohabilitation of Cognitive Functions in Pediatric Epilepsy Patients through LEGO®-Based Therapy
by Flor Lorena Zaldumbide-Alcocer, Norma Angélica Labra-Ruiz, Abril Astrid Carbó-Godinez, Matilde Ruíz-García, Julieta Griselda Mendoza-Torreblanca, Lizbeth Naranjo-Albarrán, Noemí Cárdenas-Rodríguez, Erika Valenzuela-Alarcón and Eduardo Espinosa-Garamendi
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(7), 702; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14070702 - 13 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1127
Abstract
In the pediatric population, epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders that often results in cognitive dysfunction. It affects patients’ life quality by limiting academic performance and self-esteem and increasing social rejection. There are several interventions for the neurohabilitation of cognitive [...] Read more.
In the pediatric population, epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders that often results in cognitive dysfunction. It affects patients’ life quality by limiting academic performance and self-esteem and increasing social rejection. There are several interventions for the neurohabilitation of cognitive impairment, including LEGO®-based therapy (LEGO® B-T), which promotes neuronal connectivity and cortical plasticity through the use of assembly sets and robotic programming. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the effect of LEGO® B-T on cognitive processes in pediatric patients with epilepsy. Eligible patients were identified; in the treatment group, an initial evaluation was performed with the NEUROPSI and BANFE-2 neuropsychological tests. Then, the interventions were performed once a week, and a final test was performed. In the control group, after the initial evaluation, the final evaluation was performed. An overall improvement was observed in the LEGO® B-T patients, with a significant increase in BANFE-2 scores in the orbitomedial, anterior prefrontal, and dorsolateral areas. In addition, in the gain score analysis, the orbitomedial and memory scores were significantly different from the control group. LEGO® B-T neurohabilitation is a remarkable option for epilepsy patients, who are motivated when they observe improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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Other

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15 pages, 2540 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Use of Mirror Therapy in Peripheral Seventh Nerve Palsy: A Systematic Review
by Marco Castaldo, Giovanni Sellitto, Ilaria Ruotolo, Anna Berardi and Giovanni Galeoto
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(6), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14060530 - 23 May 2024
Viewed by 1390
Abstract
Background: Conservative therapy is currently the elective treatment for peripheric facial palsy according to scientific literature. The success of conservative therapy is due to physiotherapy and the application of its methods. The aim of this systematic review was to assess mirror therapy, a [...] Read more.
Background: Conservative therapy is currently the elective treatment for peripheric facial palsy according to scientific literature. The success of conservative therapy is due to physiotherapy and the application of its methods. The aim of this systematic review was to assess mirror therapy, a physiotherapeutic method. Objectives: The aim of the following systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of using mirror therapy in patients with peripheral paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The screening of literature was carried out on Cochrane, PEDro, PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Web of Science databases up until August 2022. All studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 5 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. The risk of bias was evaluated with PEDro and Jadad scales. Discussion: In the present study, we reviewed 5 RCTs that compared mirror therapy with other physiotherapy treatments or placebo to reduce pain, depression and improve range of motion in patients with peripheric facial nerve palsy. Conclusions: Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of this type of treatment, but nevertheless the data obtained are very encouraging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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13 pages, 873 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Role of Immersive Virtual Reality Interventions in Pediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review across Motor and Cognitive Domains
by Maria Grazia Maggio, Maria Chiara Valeri, Rosaria De Luca, Fulvia Di Iulio, Irene Ciancarelli, Morena De Francesco, Rocco Salvatore Calabrò and Giovanni Morone
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(5), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14050490 - 12 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2364
Abstract
Background: In recent years, new technologies have been applied in cerebral palsy. Among these, immersive virtual reality is one with promising motor and cognitive effects along with the reduced costs of its application. The level of immersion of the subject in the illusional [...] Read more.
Background: In recent years, new technologies have been applied in cerebral palsy. Among these, immersive virtual reality is one with promising motor and cognitive effects along with the reduced costs of its application. The level of immersion of the subject in the illusional world gives the feeling of being a real part of the virtual environment. This study aims to investigate the safety and the efficacy of immersive virtual reality in children affected by cerebral palsy. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, RehabData, and Web of Science were screened up to February 2023 to identify eligible clinical studies. Results: Out of 788, we included 15 studies involving CP patients. There was high heterogeneity in the outcomes considered, and the results showed non-inferiority to conventional therapy and initial additional benefits in comparison with conventional rehabilitation. Conclusions: Immersive virtual reality emerges as a pivotal technological tool in rehabilitation, seamlessly integrating with conventional therapy within CP rehabilitation programs. Indeed, it not only enhances motivation but significantly increases children’s functional capacity and abilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collection Series: Neurorehabilitation Insights in 2024)
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