Fostering Daily Life Skills in Young and Older Adults With Neurodegenerative Diseases Through Technological Supports

Life Skills ◽

Daily Life ◽

Physical Activities ◽

Social Impairments ◽

Leisure And Recreation ◽

Clinical Conditions ◽

Critical Overview

Persons with neurodegenerative diseases may have behavioral, cognitive, emotional, motor, and social impairments due to their clinical conditions. The objective of this article is to provide the reader with the newest empirical contributions available and a comprehensive critical overview on the use of assistive technology-based interventions and virtual reality-mediated setups to assess and recover individuals with neurodegenerative diseases. A literature overview was carried out. Thirty-one studies published along last decade were selected. The retained studies overall recruited 438 participants. Four categories of studies were identified, namely (1) recovering of functional and physical activities, (2) communication abilities, (3) leisure and recreation, and (4) virtual reality. AT-based interventions were effective and suitable to promote adaptive behaviors of patients with neurodegenerative diseases. VR setups were helpful to assess and recover persons with neurodegenerative disorders.

Fostering Daily Life Skills in Young and Older Adults With Neurodegenerative Diseases Through Technological Supports

International Journal of Ambient Computing and Intelligence ◽

10.4018/ijaci.2020100101 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 11 (4) ◽

pp. 1-15

Author(s):

Fabrizio Stasolla ◽

Sara Bottiroli

Keyword(s):

Virtual Reality ◽

Life Skills ◽

Physical Activities ◽

Social Impairments ◽

Literature Overview ◽

Leisure And Recreation ◽

Clinical Conditions ◽

Critical Overview

Assistive Technology-Based Programs and Telerehabilitation Strategies to Support Adaptive Responding of Individuals With Neurodegenerative Diseases

10.4018/978-1-7998-7430-0.ch010 ◽

2022 ◽

pp. 196-216

Author(s):

Fabrizio Stasolla ◽

Donatella Ciarmoli

Keyword(s):

Assistive Technology ◽

Daily Life ◽

Research And Practice ◽

Adaptive Responding ◽

Clinical Conditions

Individuals with neurodegenerative diseases (NDD) may pose serious challenges to daily life medical contexts. In fact, they commonly fail while dealing with environmental requests. To overcome this issue, one may rely on assistive technology-based programs. The COVID-19 pandemic suddenly exacerbated their clinical conditions. Telerehabilitation may be useful to profitably tackle the latter issue. A concise survey on the newest empirical contributions available was proposed. Five main categories of studies were identified. Results were satisfactory, although failures occurred. Findings were critically discussed and some useful insights for both research and practice were highlighted.

A Scoping Review of Cognitive Training in Neurodegenerative Diseases via Computerized and Virtual Reality Tools: What We Know So Far

Brain Sciences ◽

10.3390/brainsci11050528 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (5) ◽

pp. 528

Author(s):

Stefano Lasaponara ◽

Fabio Marson ◽

Fabrizio Doricchi ◽

Marco Cavallo

Keyword(s):

Virtual Reality ◽

Cognitive Impairment ◽

Cognitive Training ◽

State Of The Art ◽

Scientific Evidence ◽

Clinical Profiles ◽

Therapeutic Tools ◽

Clinical Conditions ◽

Underlying Pathophysiology

Most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis are heterogeneous in their clinical profiles and underlying pathophysiology, although they typically share the presence of cognitive impairment that worsens significantly during the course of the disease. Viable pharmacological options for cognitive symptoms in these clinical conditions are currently lacking. In recent years, several studies have started to apply Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools to try and contrast patients’ cognitive decay over time. However, no in-depth literature review of the contribution of these promising therapeutic options across main neurodegenerative diseases has been conducted yet. The present paper reports the state-of-the-art of CCT and VR studies targeting cognitive impairment in most common neurodegenerative conditions. Our twofold aim is to point out the scientific evidence available so far and to support health professionals to consider these promising therapeutic tools when planning rehabilitative interventions, especially when the access to regular and frequent hospital consultations is not easy to be provided.

Purines and Pyrimidines: Metabolism, Function and Potential as therapeutic options in neurodegenerative diseases

Current Protein and Peptide Science ◽

10.2174/1389203721999201208200605 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 21 ◽

Author(s):

Debanjan Kundu ◽

Vikash Kumar Dubey

Keyword(s):

Protein Misfolding ◽

Molecular Mechanisms ◽

Treatment Regimens ◽

Loss Of Balance ◽

Current Scenario ◽

Unexplored Area ◽

Molecular Origin ◽

Purines And Pyrimidines

Abstract:: Various neurodegenerative disorders have molecular origin but some common molecular mechanisms. In the current scenario, there are very few treatment regimens present for advanced neurodegenerative diseases. In this context, there is an urgent need for alternate options in the form of natural compounds with an ameliorating effect on patients. There have been individual scattered experiments trying to identify potential values of various intracellular metabolites. Purines and Pyrimidines, which are vital molecules governing various aspects of cellular biochemical reactions, have been long sought as crucial candidates for the same, but there are still many questions that go unanswered. Some critical functions of these molecules associated with neuromodulation activities have been identified. They are also known to play a role in foetal neurodevelopment, but there is a lacuna in understanding their mechanisms. In this review, we have tried to assemble and identify the importance of purines and pyrimidines, connecting them with the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases. The leading cause of this class of diseases is protein misfolding and the formation of amyloids. A direct correlation between loss of balance in cellular homeostasis and amyloidosis is yet an unexplored area. This review aims at bringing the current literature available under one umbrella serving as a foundation for further extensive research in this field of drug development in neurodegenerative diseases.

Neurodegenerative disorders associated with genes of mitochondria

Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences ◽

10.1186/s43094-021-00215-5 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 7 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Vaibhav S. Marde ◽

Prerna L. Tiwari ◽

Nitu L. Wankhede ◽

Brijesh G. Taksande ◽

Aman B. Upaganlawar ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Mitochondrial Dysfunction ◽

Friedreich Ataxia ◽

Mitochondrial Genes ◽

Disease Development ◽

Main Text ◽

Functional Studies ◽

Dominant Part ◽

Causative Link

Abstract Background Over the last decade, aggregating evidences suggested that there is a causative link between mutation in gene associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and development of several neurodegenerative disorders. Main text Recent structural and functional studies associated with mitochondrial genes have shown that mitochondrial abnormalities possibly lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Several studies on animal models of neurodegenerative diseases and mitochondrial genes have provided compelling evidence that mitochondria is involved in the initiation as well as progression of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), and Friedreich ataxia (FA). Conclusion In this mini-review, we have discussed the different etiologic and pathogenesis connected with the mitochondrial dysfunction and relevant neurodegenerative diseases that underlie the dominant part of mitochondrial genes in the disease development and its progress.

From virtual to real healing: a critical overview of the therapeutic use of virtual reality to cope with mourning

Current Psychology ◽

10.1007/s12144-021-02158-9 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Silvia Francesca Maria Pizzoli ◽

Dario Monzani ◽

Laura Vergani ◽

Virginia Sanchini ◽

Ketti Mazzocco

Keyword(s):

Health Care ◽

Social Media ◽

Virtual Reality ◽

Side Effects ◽

Virtual Environments ◽

Therapeutic Use ◽

Health Care Needs ◽

Care Needs ◽

South Korean ◽

Critical Overview

AbstractIn recent years, virtual reality (VR) has been effectively employed in several settings, ranging from health care needs to leisure and gaming activities. A new application of virtual stimuli appeared in social media: in the documentary ‘I met you’ from the South-Korean Munhwa Broadcasting, a mother made the experience of interacting with the avatar of the seven-year-old daughter, who died four years before. We think that this new application of virtual stimuli should open a debate on its possible implications: it represents contents related to grief, a dramatic and yet natural experience, that can have deep psychological impacts on fragile subjects put in virtual environments. In the present work, possible side-effects, as well as hypothetical therapeutical application of VR for the treatment of mourning, are discussed.

Molecular and cellular pathways contributing to brain aging

Behavioral and Brain Functions ◽

10.1186/s12993-021-00179-9 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 17 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Aliabbas Zia ◽

Ali Mohammad Pourbagher-Shahri ◽

Tahereh Farkhondeh ◽

Saeed Samarghandian

Keyword(s):

Brain Aging ◽

Neuroprotective Effect ◽

Ros Generation ◽

Brain Health ◽

Cellular Pathways ◽

Aging Mechanisms ◽

Oxidatively Modified ◽

Biology Of Aging

AbstractAging is the leading risk factor for several age-associated diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the biology of aging mechanisms is essential to the pursuit of brain health. In this regard, brain aging is defined by a gradual decrease in neurophysiological functions, impaired adaptive neuroplasticity, dysregulation of neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis, neuroinflammation, and oxidatively modified molecules and organelles. Numerous pathways lead to brain aging, including increased oxidative stress, inflammation, disturbances in energy metabolism such as deregulated autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, and IGF-1, mTOR, ROS, AMPK, SIRTs, and p53 as central modulators of the metabolic control, connecting aging to the pathways, which lead to neurodegenerative disorders. Also, calorie restriction (CR), physical exercise, and mental activities can extend lifespan and increase nervous system resistance to age-associated neurodegenerative diseases. The neuroprotective effect of CR involves increased protection against ROS generation, maintenance of cellular Ca2+ homeostasis, and inhibition of apoptosis. The recent evidence about the modem molecular and cellular methods in neurobiology to brain aging is exhibiting a significant potential in brain cells for adaptation to aging and resistance to neurodegenerative disorders.

Prion Diseases: A Unique Transmissible Agent or a Model for Neurodegenerative Diseases?

Biomolecules ◽

10.3390/biom11020207 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (2) ◽

pp. 207

Author(s):

Diane L. Ritchie ◽

Marcelo A. Barria

Keyword(s):

Public Health ◽

Prion Protein ◽

Prion Diseases ◽

Experimental Models ◽

Misfolded Proteins ◽

Current Evidence

The accumulation and propagation in the brain of misfolded proteins is a pathological hallmark shared by many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (Aβ and tau), Parkinson’s disease (α-synuclein), and prion disease (prion protein). Currently, there is no epidemiological evidence to suggest that neurodegenerative disorders are infectious, apart from prion diseases. However, there is an increasing body of evidence from experimental models to suggest that other pathogenic proteins such as Aβ and tau can propagate in vivo and in vitro in a prion-like mechanism, inducing the formation of misfolded protein aggregates such as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Such similarities have raised concerns that misfolded proteins, other than the prion protein, could potentially transmit from person-to-person as rare events after lengthy incubation periods. Such concerns have been heightened following a number of recent reports of the possible inadvertent transmission of Aβ pathology via medical and surgical procedures. This review will provide a historical perspective on the unique transmissible nature of prion diseases, examining their impact on public health and the ongoing concerns raised by this rare group of disorders. Additionally, this review will provide an insight into current evidence supporting the potential transmissibility of other pathogenic proteins associated with more common neurodegenerative disorders and the potential implications for public health.

Friedreich ataxia in COVID-19 time: current impact and future possibilities

Cerebellum & Ataxias ◽

10.1186/s40673-020-00127-9 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 8 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Tommaso Schirinzi ◽

Andrea Sancesario ◽

Enrico Castelli ◽

Enrico Bertini ◽

Gessica Vasco

Keyword(s):

Physical Activity ◽

Global Health ◽

Daily Life ◽

Friedreich Ataxia ◽

Electronic Survey ◽

Home Based ◽

Training Strategies ◽

Physical Activity Programs ◽

Current Impact

AbstractCOVID-19 outbreak profoundly impacted on daily-life of patients with neurodegenerative diseases, including those with ataxia. Effects on interventional trials have been recently described. Conversely, changes in physical activity programs, which are crucial in care of ataxic patients, have not been assessed yet.Here we used a structured electronic survey to interview twenty patients with Friedreich ataxia (FA) on changes in physical activity during the lockdown in Italy.Regular physiotherapy was interrupted for most patients and up to 60% of them referred a substantial worsening of self-perceived global health. However, FA patients (especially those mildly affected) adopted voluntarily home-based training strategies and, in 30% of cases, used technology-based tools (TBTs) for exercise.COVID-19 crisis thus disclosed the urgent need to support ataxic patients improving systems for remote physical activity and technology-based assistance.

A mixed reality cognitive orthosis to support older adults in achieving their daily living activities: perspective from stakeholders (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.34983 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Amel Yaddaden ◽

Guillaume Spalla ◽

Charles Gouin-Vallerand ◽

Patty Semeniuk ◽

Nathalie Bier

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Focus Groups ◽

Daily Living ◽

Mixed Reality ◽

Daily Life ◽

User Centered Design ◽

Daily Living Activities ◽

Effective Interventions ◽

Head Mounted Displays

BACKGROUND Mixed reality is an emerging technology allowing to "blend" virtual objects in the actual user's environment. A way to realize this is by using head-mounted displays. Many recent studies have suggested the possibility of using this technology to support the cognition of people with neurodegenerative disorders. However, most studies explored improvements in cognition rather than in independence and safety during the accomplishment of daily living activities. It is therefore crucial to document the possibility of using mixed reality to support the independence of older adults in their daily life. OBJECTIVE This study is part of a larger user-centered design study of a cognitive orthosis using pure mixed reality to support independence of people living with neurodegenerative disorders (NDs). The objectives were to explore: (1) What are the main difficulties encountered by older adults with NDs in their daily life to ensure that the pure mixed reality meets their needs; (2) What are the most effective interventions with this population in order to determine what types of assistance should be given by the pure mixed reality technology; (3) How should the pure mixed reality technology provide assistance to promote safety and independence at home; and (4) What are the main facilitators and barriers for the use of this technology. METHODS We conducted a descriptive qualitative study with 5 focus groups with experts of the disease and its functional impacts (n = 29) to gather information. Qualitative data from the focus groups was analyzed through an inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS The themes emerging from the analysis will provide clear guidelines to the development team prototyping a first version of a cognitive orthosis based on pure mixed reality. CONCLUSIONS The cognitive orthosis that will be developed in the light of this study will act as a proof of concept of the possibility of supporting people with neurodegenerative disorders using pure mixed reality.