Journal Description
Brain Sciences
Brain Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on neuroscience published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PSYNDEX, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.3 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
The α-7 Nicotinic Receptor Positive Allosteric Modulator Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide Induced Depressive-like Behavior by Regulating Microglial Function, Trophic Factor, and Chloride Transporters in Mice
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030290 (registering DOI) - 19 Mar 2024
Abstract
Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) by inducing neuronal excitability via dysregulation of microglial brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Na-K-Cl cotransporter-1 (NKCC1), and K-Cl cotransporter-2 (KCC2) due to activation of BDNF-tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling. Allosteric modulation of α7
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Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) by inducing neuronal excitability via dysregulation of microglial brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Na-K-Cl cotransporter-1 (NKCC1), and K-Cl cotransporter-2 (KCC2) due to activation of BDNF-tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling. Allosteric modulation of α7 nAChRs has not been investigated on BDNF, KCC2, and NKCC1 during LPS-induced depressive-like behavior. Therefore, we examined the effects of PNU120596, an α7 nAChR positive allosteric modulator, on the expression of BDNF, KCC2, and NKCC1 in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex using Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence assay, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The effects of ANA12, a TrkB receptor antagonist, on LPS-induced cognitive deficit and depressive-like behaviors were determined using the Y-maze, tail suspension test (TST), and forced swim test (FST). Pharmacological interactions between PNU120596 and ANA12 were also examined. Experiments were conducted in male C57BL/6J mice. LPS administration (1 mg/kg) resulted in increased expression of BDNF and the NKCC1/KCC2 ratio and decreased expression of KCC2 in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. PNU120596 pretreatment (4 mg/kg) attenuated the LPS-induced increase in the expression of BDNF and NKCC1/KCC2 ratio and the reduction in KCC2 expression in these brain regions. In addition, ANA12 (0.25 or 0.50 mg/kg) reduced the LPS-induced cognitive deficit and depressive-like behaviors measured by a reduced spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze and increased immobility duration in TST and FST. Coadministration of PNU120596 (1 mg/kg) and ANA12 (0.25 mg/kg) prevented the LPS-induced cognitive deficit and depressive-like behaviors. Overall, PNU120596 prevented the LPS-induced depressive-like behavior by likely decreasing neuronal excitability via targeting microglial α7 nAChR in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glial Mechanisms in Psychiatric Disorders Focusing on Drug Addiction, Anxiety and Depression)
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Adventitia Layer-Focused Microsurgical Flow Reconstruction for Long-Segment Tubular Stenosis of the Cervical Segment (C1) Internal Carotid Artery: Clinical Valuable Experience in 20 Cases
by
Efecan Cekic and Mehmet Erkan Ustun
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030289 - 19 Mar 2024
Abstract
To evaluate the efficacy of perivascular sympathectomy in managing adventitia layer-related long-segment tubular stenosis of cervical segment (C1) internal carotid arteries (ICAs) in a cohort where conventional medical and endovascular interventions were not viable options, we retrospectively analyzed 20 patients (8 males, 12
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To evaluate the efficacy of perivascular sympathectomy in managing adventitia layer-related long-segment tubular stenosis of cervical segment (C1) internal carotid arteries (ICAs) in a cohort where conventional medical and endovascular interventions were not viable options, we retrospectively analyzed 20 patients (8 males, 12 females, aged 41–63 years) who underwent perivascular sympathectomy for long-segment (>5 cm) tubular cervical ICA stenosis (non-atherosclerotic, non-intima related, and nondolichoarteriopathic) between 2017 and 2023. The procedure aimed to alleviate symptoms such as hemiparesis, pulsatile tinnitus, and migraines associated with transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Preoperative and postoperative symptoms were assessed, and patient follow-up was conducted by MR angiography and perfusion studies. Postoperatively, 10 out of 11 migraine sufferers (90.9%) reported complete cessation of symptoms, while one patient (9.09%) experienced reduction in frequency and intensity. In cases of tinnitus, six out of nine patients (66.6%) reported complete resolution, two (22.2%) had reduced symptoms, and one (11.1%) saw no change. Regarding motor function, all 12 patients (100%) with initial hemiparesis (30–40% loss of motor function) showed complete recovery postoperatively. There was no TIA attack among the patients after the procedure in the mean two-year follow-up. Perivascular sympathectomy has shown promising results in alleviating symptoms and preventing recurrent cerebrovascular events in long-segment tubular stenosis of cervical ICAs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valuable Experience in Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery)
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Open AccessArticle
Food Finding Test without Deprivation: A Sensorial Paradigm Sensitive to Sex, Genotype, and Isolation Shows Signatures of Derangements in Old Mice with Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology and Normal Aging
by
Daniela Marín-Pardo and Lydia Giménez-Llort
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030288 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Food Finding Test (FFT) olfactory paradigm without overnight food deprivation examined olfaction in aged (16-months-old) animals. Ethograms of three goal-directed behaviors towards hidden food (sniffing, finding and eating) elicited in male and female 3xTg-AD mice for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and their age-matched
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The Food Finding Test (FFT) olfactory paradigm without overnight food deprivation examined olfaction in aged (16-months-old) animals. Ethograms of three goal-directed behaviors towards hidden food (sniffing, finding and eating) elicited in male and female 3xTg-AD mice for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and their age-matched C57BL/6 wild-type counterparts with normal aging were meticulously analyzed with the support of video recordings. The new FFT protocol elicited longer ethograms than previously reported with the standard deprivation protocol. However, it was sensitive when identifying genotype- and sex-dependent olfactory signatures for the temporal patterns of slow sniffing, finding, and eating in AD and males, but it had a striking consistency in females. The impact of forced social isolation was studied and it was found to exert sex-dependent modifications of the ethogram, mostly in males. Still, in both sexes, a functional derangement was detected since the internal correlations among the behaviors decreased or were lost under isolated conditions. In conclusion, the new paradigm without overnight deprivation was sensitive to sex (males), genotype (AD), and social context (isolation-dependent changes) in its ethogram and functional correlation. At the translational level, it is a warning about the impact of isolation in the advanced stages of the disease, paying notable attention to the male sex.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Multisensory Perception and Processing)
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Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Hansen et al. Persisting Verbal Memory Encoding and Recall Deficiency after mGluR5 Autoantibody-Mediated Encephalitis. Brain Sci. 2023, 13, 1537
by
Niels Hansen, Kristin Rentzsch, Sina Hirschel, Jens Wiltfang, Björn H. Schott, Berend Malchow and Claudia Bartels
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030287 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Affiliations: In the published publication [...]
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Infratentorial Relapsing Neuroglial Tumors in Adults: Management and Unsolved Issues—A Systematic Review
by
Lara Brunasso, Chiara Avallone, Ada Maria Florena and Giovanni Grasso
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030286 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Gangliogliomas are rare tumors accounting for about 0.4% of all central nervous system tumors. They are usually located in the temporal lobes of children and young adults, though such tumors in the infratentorial region and adult-age patients rarely reported. (2) Methods:
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(1) Background: Gangliogliomas are rare tumors accounting for about 0.4% of all central nervous system tumors. They are usually located in the temporal lobes of children and young adults, though such tumors in the infratentorial region and adult-age patients rarely reported. (2) Methods: A systematic review on ganglioglioma with infratentorial location in the adult population was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 275 articles were found, and 23 were included. Demographic data, the location and histology of the lesion, pre-operative neurological status, the type of surgery, recurrence, radiotherapy/chemotherapy adjuvant treatments, neurological outcomes and follow-up information were collected. We also presented an illustrative case. (3) Results: A total of 27 patients were included. In 51%, the location was the cerebellum; in 40%, it was the fourth ventricle; in 11%, it was brainstem; and in 4%, it was the cerebellopontine angle. STR was performed in 44%, GTR in 26% and biopsy in 15% of the cases. Adjuvant radiotherapy was found in 22% of cases. Disease recurrence occurred in 15% of patients between 1 and 12 months after surgery with a diagnosis of high-grade ganglioglioma, while in six cases, no disease recurrence was documented. (4) Conclusions: Infratentorial glioneuronal tumors are rare findings in the adult population. Histopathological characterization does not seem to fully reflect their true behavior. Future studies are warranted for better characterizing histopathological findings and treatment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends and Technologies in Modern Neurosurgery)
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Open AccessReview
Sensory Integration: A Novel Approach for Healthy Ageing and Dementia Management
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Ongart Maneemai, Maira Cristina Cujilan Alvarado, Lina Graciela Calderon Intriago, Alicia Jeanette Donoso Triviño, Joicy Anabel Franco Coffré, Domenico Pratico, Kristof Schwartz, Tadele Tesfaye and Takao Yamasaki
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030285 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Sensory processing is a fundamental aspect of the nervous system that plays a pivotal role in the cognitive decline observed in older individuals with dementia. The “sensory diet”, derived from sensory integration theory, may provide a tailored approach to modulating sensory experiences and
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Sensory processing is a fundamental aspect of the nervous system that plays a pivotal role in the cognitive decline observed in older individuals with dementia. The “sensory diet”, derived from sensory integration theory, may provide a tailored approach to modulating sensory experiences and triggering neuroplastic changes in the brain in individuals with dementia. Therefore, this review aimed to investigate the current knowledge regarding the sensory diet and its potential application to dementia. This review encompassed an extensive search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, covering articles published from 2010 to 2023. Keywords such as “sensory integration”, “sensory modulation”, “healthy aging”, and “dementia” were utilized to identify relevant studies. The types of materials retrieved included peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape. This article offers a comprehensive exploration of the effectiveness of sensory diets such as tactile stimulation, auditory therapies, and visual interventions, which have demonstrated noteworthy efficacy in addressing challenges linked to aging and dementia. Research findings consistently report positive outcomes, such as improved cognitive function, elevated emotional well-being, and enhanced overall quality of life in older individuals. Furthermore, we found that the integration of sensory diets with the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality opens up personalized experiences, fostering cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being for individuals during aging. Therefore, we conclude that customized sensory diets, based on interdisciplinary cooperation and leveraging technological advancements, are effective in optimizing sensory processing and improve the overall well-being of older individuals contending with sensory modulation challenges and dementia.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Research on Brain Health and Dementia: Prevention and Early Detection of Cognitive Decline and Dementia: Series II)
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Open AccessReview
Effects of a Diabetic Microenvironment on Neurodegeneration: Special Focus on Neurological Cells
by
Vishal Chavda, Dhananjay Yadav, Snehal Patel and Minseok Song
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030284 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition associated with high levels of blood glucose which leads to serious damage to the heart, kidney, eyes, and nerves. Elevated blood glucose levels damage brain function and cognitive abilities. They also lead to various neurological and neuropsychiatric
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Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition associated with high levels of blood glucose which leads to serious damage to the heart, kidney, eyes, and nerves. Elevated blood glucose levels damage brain function and cognitive abilities. They also lead to various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including chronic neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. High neuronal glucose levels can cause drastic neuronal damage due to glucose neurotoxicity. Astrocytes, a type of glial cell, play a vital role in maintaining brain glucose levels through neuron–astrocyte coupling. Hyperglycemia leads to progressive decline in neuronal networks and cognitive impairment, contributing to neuronal dysfunction and fostering a neurodegenerative environment. In this review, we summarize the various connections, functions, and impairments of glial cells due to metabolic dysfunction in the diabetic brain. We also summarize the effects of hyperglycemia on various neuronal functions in the diabetic brain.
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(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Immersive Virtual Reality for Treatment of Unilateral Spatial Neglect via Eye-Tracking Biofeedback: RCT Protocol and Usability Testing
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Alex Martino Cinnera, Valeria Verna, Matteo Marucci, Aurora Tavernese, Luisa Magnotti, Alessandro Matano, Chiara D’Acunto, Stefano Paolucci, Giovanni Morone, Viviana Betti and Marco Tramontano
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030283 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
About one-third of stroke survivors present unilateral spatial neglect (USN) that negatively impacts the rehabilitation outcome. We reported the study protocol and usability results of an eye-tracking (ET) biofeedback immersive virtual reality (iVR) protocol. Healthy controls and stroke patients with and without USN
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About one-third of stroke survivors present unilateral spatial neglect (USN) that negatively impacts the rehabilitation outcome. We reported the study protocol and usability results of an eye-tracking (ET) biofeedback immersive virtual reality (iVR) protocol. Healthy controls and stroke patients with and without USN underwent a single session of the three iVR tasks. The system usability scale (SUS), adverse events (AEs), and ET data were collected and analyzed via parametric analysis. Twelve healthy controls (six young adults and six older adults) and seven patients with a diagnosis of single ischemic stroke (four without USN and three with confirmed diagnosis of USN) completed the usability investigation. SUS results showed good acceptability of the system for healthy controls and stroke patients without USN. ET results showed a lower performance for patients with USN concerning healthy controls and stroke patients without USN, in particular in the exploration of the left visual field. The results showed that the proposed iVR-ET biofeedback protocol is a safe and well-tolerated technique in patients with USN. The real-time feedback can induce a performance response supporting its investigation such as a treatment approach.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contribution of Eye Movements in Assessment of Deficits and Neurorehabilitation after a Stroke)
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Open AccessArticle
Bimodal Transformer with Regional EEG Data for Accurate Gameplay Regularity Classification
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Jinui Lee and Jae-Ho Han
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030282 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
As games have been applied across various fields, including education and healthcare, numerous new games tailored to each field have emerged. Therefore, understanding user behavior has become crucial in securing the right players for each type of game. This study provides valuable insights
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As games have been applied across various fields, including education and healthcare, numerous new games tailored to each field have emerged. Therefore, understanding user behavior has become crucial in securing the right players for each type of game. This study provides valuable insights for improving game development by measuring the electroencephalography (EEG) of game users and classifying the frequency of game usage. The multimodal mobile brain-body imaging (MOBI) dataset was employed for this study, and the frequency of game usage was categorized into ”often” and ”sometimes”. To achieve decent classification accuracy, a novel bimodal Transformer architecture featuring dedicated channels for the frontal (AF) and temporal (TP) lobes is introduced, wherein convolutional layers, self-attention mechanisms, and cross-attention mechanisms are integrated into a unified model. The model, designed to differentiate between AF and TP channels, exhibits functional differences between brain regions, allowing for a detailed analysis of inter-channel correlations. Evaluated through five-fold cross-validation (CV) and leave-one-subject-out cross-validation (LOSO CV), the proposed model demonstrates classification accuracies of 88.86% and 85.11%, respectively. By effectively classifying gameplay frequency, this methodology provides valuable insights for targeted game participation and contributes to strategic efforts to develop and design customized games for player acquisition.
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(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics)
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Open AccessArticle
APOEε4 Carriers Exhibit Objective Cognitive Deficits: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Single Center Trial
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Yanfang Zeng, Wenying Du, Mingkai Zhang, Ariel Walker, Ying Han and Yuchuan Ding
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030281 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Objective: To explore the association between the apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype and objectively assessed cognitive function. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 537 participants underwent a neuropsychological assessment for cognitive function and blood testing for APOE genotype. Based on cognitive test results, participants were
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Objective: To explore the association between the apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype and objectively assessed cognitive function. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 537 participants underwent a neuropsychological assessment for cognitive function and blood testing for APOE genotype. Based on cognitive test results, participants were stratified into two cohorts: Cognitively Unimpaired participants (CU) and Cognitively Impaired participants (CI). The CI group was further divided into Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Furthermore, we conducted age stratification, categorizing participants into three age groups: age 1: <65 years, age 2: 65–75 years, and age 3: >75 years. We assessed the disparities in cognitive function associated with ε4 carrier status across different age brackets. Plasma amyloid-β levels were measured in a cohort of 294 participants to investigate potential interactions involving ε4 carrier status, diagnosis, sex, or plasma markers. Results: The APOE genotypic distribution among the 537 participants was characterized as follows: ε2/ε2 (5 participants), ε2/ε3 (67), ε2/ε4 (13), ε3/ε3 (330), ε3/ε4 (113), and ε4/ε4 (9). Allele frequencies were: ε3 at 78.21%, ε4 at 13.41%, and ε2 at 8.38%. Notably, the ε4 carrier frequency was markedly elevated in the AD group at 81.8% when compared to MCI at 32.8% and CU at 21.3% (p < 0.05). Within the Cognitively Unimpaired (CU) cohort, the sole discernible contrast between ε4+ and ε4− emerged in STT-B (p < 0.05). Within the CI group, ε4 carriers showed statistically poorer scores as compared to non-ε4 carriers in several cognitive tests (p < 0.05). Age stratification result revealed that, among ε4 carriers, cognitive function scores within the age 3 group were significantly inferior to those of age 1 and age 2 groups (p < 0.05). Plasma amyloid-β detection was applied to the 294 participants. We tested plasma amyloid-β (Aβ42) and plasma amyloid-β (Aβ40) levels and calculated the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio. We found that among female ε4 carriers, both Aβ42 and the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio were notably lower than their male counterparts (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The ε3/ε3 was the most prevalent among participants, succeeded by ε3/ε4 and ε2/ε3. The least prevalent were ε2/ε4, ε4/ε4, and ε2/ε2 genotypes. The ε3 was predominant, followed by the ε4 and ε2. Individuals with the ε4 allele exhibited significant cognitive impairment, with an especially high prevalence in AD group at 81.8%. The study unveils a pronounced correlation between the ε4 allele and cognitive deficits, implying its potential role in the advancement and severity of cognitive disorders, notably Alzheimer’s disease. Cognitive function declines with age in individuals carrying the ε4, and women are more affected by ε4.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Perspectives of Neurological Disorders: Series II)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Various Caffeine Doses on Cognitive Abilities in Female Athletes with Low Caffeine Consumption
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Houda Bougrine, Achraf Ammar, Atef Salem, Khaled Trabelsi, Haitham Jahrami, Hamdi Chtourou and Nizar Souissi
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030280 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Caffeine (CAF), a prevalent psychoactive stimulant, is believed to potentially enhance cognitive ability. However, studies on the effects of various doses are limited and yield inconsistent results, particularly in female athletes. Therefore, we aimed to assess the association between three different dosages of
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Caffeine (CAF), a prevalent psychoactive stimulant, is believed to potentially enhance cognitive ability. However, studies on the effects of various doses are limited and yield inconsistent results, particularly in female athletes. Therefore, we aimed to assess the association between three different dosages of CAF intake (low, moderate, and high) and cognitive skills in female athletes with low CAF consumption. This study had a randomized, crossover, double-blind design in which each athlete performed four experimental sessions after ingesting either a placebo (PLAC), 3 mg·kg−1 of CAF (3 mg of CAF), 6 mg·kg−1 of CAF (6 mg of CAF), or 9 mg·kg−1 of CAF (9 mg of CAF) with an in-between washout period of at least 72 h. Following a 60 min window post-capsule consumption, fourteen female athletes (age: 17.4 ± 0.8 years) were assessed through various cognitive tests, namely, simple reaction time (SRT), choice reaction time (CRT), and attentional task (AT) tests, along with the mental rotation test (MRT). Additionally, they were required to complete a questionnaire about the undesirable side effects of CAF. Our results indicated that, compared to those of PLAC, the SRT, CRT, and AT performance were significantly improved following the administration of both 3 mg of CAF and 6 mg of CAF. While the greatest enhancement was observed after consuming 3 mg of CAF, no significant differences were found between the effects of 3 mg and 6 mg of CAF. Interestingly, MRT performance did not improve with any of the CAF dosages. Moreover, the ingestion of 9 mg of CAF did not enhance cognitive skills and was linked to the highest occurrence of CAF-related side effects. In conclusion, our results highlight the recommendation for a low CAF dosage of 3 mg·kg−1, in contrast to a higher dose of 6 mg·kg−1 or 9 mg·kg−1 of CAF, to enhance various aspects of cognitive performance in female athletes with low CAF consumption without adverse side effects.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Neuroscience)
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Open AccessReview
Terahertz Radiation Modulates Neuronal Morphology and Dynamics Properties
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Shaoqing Ma, Peng Ding, Zhengxuan Zhou, Huilong Jin, Xiaoli Li and Yingwei Li
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030279 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Terahertz radiation falls within the spectrum of hydrogen bonding, molecular rotation, and vibration, as well as van der Waals forces, indicating that many biological macromolecules exhibit a strong absorption and resonance in this frequency band. Research has shown that the terahertz radiation of
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Terahertz radiation falls within the spectrum of hydrogen bonding, molecular rotation, and vibration, as well as van der Waals forces, indicating that many biological macromolecules exhibit a strong absorption and resonance in this frequency band. Research has shown that the terahertz radiation of specific frequencies and energies can mediate changes in cellular morphology and function by exciting nonlinear resonance effects in proteins. However, current studies have mainly focused on the cellular level and lack systematic studies on multiple levels. Moreover, the mechanism and law of interaction between terahertz radiation and neurons are still unclear. Therefore, this paper analyzes the mechanisms by which terahertz radiation modulates the nervous system, and it analyzes and discusses the methods by which terahertz radiation modulates neurons. In addition, this paper reviews the laws of terahertz radiation’s influence on neuronal morphology and kinetic properties and discusses them in detail in terms of terahertz radiation frequency, energy, and time. In the future, the safety of the terahertz radiation system should be considered first to construct the safety criterion of terahertz modulation, and the spatial resolution of the terahertz radiation system should be improved. In addition, the systematic improvement of the laws and mechanisms of terahertz modulation of the nervous system on multiple levels is the key to applying terahertz waves to neuroscience. This paper can provide a platform for researchers to understand the mechanism of the terahertz–nervous system interaction, its current status, and future research directions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews in Neural Engineering, Neuroergonomics and Neurorobotics)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Cognitive, Emotional, and Daily Functioning Domains Involved in Decision-Making among Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review
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Federica Alfeo, Tiziana Lanciano, Chiara Abbatantuono, Giorgia Gintili, Maria Fara De Caro, Antonietta Curci and Paolo Taurisano
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030278 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional or prodromal stage of dementia in which autonomies are largely preserved (autonomies are not particularly affected). However, this condition may entail a depletion of decision-making (DM) abilities likely due to a gradual deterioration of the prefrontal
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Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional or prodromal stage of dementia in which autonomies are largely preserved (autonomies are not particularly affected). However, this condition may entail a depletion of decision-making (DM) abilities likely due to a gradual deterioration of the prefrontal cortex and subcortical brain areas underlying cognitive–emotional processing. Given the clinical implications of a decline in self-determination observed in some MCI sufferers, the present systematic review was aimed at investigating the literature addressing DM processes in patients with MCI, consistent with PRISMA guidelines. The six online databases inquired yielded 1689 research articles that were screened and then assessed based on eligibility and quality criteria. As a result, 41 studies were included and classified following the PICOS framework. Overall, patients with MCI who underwent neuropsychological assessment were found to be slightly or moderately impaired in DM abilities related to financial management, medical adherence, specific cognitive performances, risky conditions, and especially uncertain life circumstances. Comparative cross-sectional studies indicated not only mid-stage cognitive functioning in MCI but also borderline or deficit DM patterns evaluated through different tasks and procedures. Further research addressing MCI profiles suggested an association between explicit memory, executive functions, and DM performance. These findings highlight the diversity of MCI manifestations, in addition to the critical importance of DM features and correlates in patients’ daily functioning. Due to a lack of consensus on both MCI and DM, this review paper sought to shed light on assessment and intervention strategies accounting for the interplay between emotion, motivation, and learning to foster DM in cognitively impaired individuals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Research on Brain Health and Dementia: Prevention and Early Detection of Cognitive Decline and Dementia: Series II)
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Open AccessArticle
On the Move: Correlation of Impaired Mobility with Spatial Navigation Ability in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis
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Alexis N. Chargo, Taylor N. Takla, Nora E. Fritz and Ana M. Daugherty
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030277 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Spatial navigation ability is essential for independent living, and it relies on complex cognitive and motor processes that are vulnerable to decline in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). The role of mobility in the physical act of navigation has been well documented; however,
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Spatial navigation ability is essential for independent living, and it relies on complex cognitive and motor processes that are vulnerable to decline in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). The role of mobility in the physical act of navigation has been well documented; however, its association with cognitive processing that supports efficient navigation and recall of the environment is unknown. This study examined the relation between clinical mobility function and spatial navigation ability in pwMS. In a clinical sample of 43 individuals with relapsing-remitting MS (MPDDS = 2; age 25–67 years), we assessed spatial navigation ability in a virtual Morris water maze that allowed for active search by controlling a joystick while seated at a computer, and subsequent free recall of environment details. Individuals with worse mobility (measured by slower forward and backward walking) traveled less efficient virtual navigation routes to the goal location and recalled fewer accurate details of the environment. A stratified analysis by disability revealed moderate–strong correlations for those with a low level of disability, and effects were attenuated in individuals with a high level of disability. Given that the virtual navigation task was performed while seated, evidence of any correlation with mobility suggests differences in navigation ability that cannot be ascribed to general walking impairment, and instead suggests a role for mobility impairment to modify cognitive processing supporting navigation in pwMS.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Health in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis)
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Open AccessBrief Report
The Association among Hypothalamic Subnits, Gonadotropic and Sex Hormone Plasmas Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease
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Edward Ofori, Anamaria Solis, Nahid Punjani and on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030276 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the sex-specific role of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal axis in Alzheimer’s disease progression, utilizing ADNI1 data for 493 individuals, analyzing plasma levels of gonadotropic and sex hormones, and examining neurodegeneration-related brain structures. We assessed plasma levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing
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This study investigates the sex-specific role of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal axis in Alzheimer’s disease progression, utilizing ADNI1 data for 493 individuals, analyzing plasma levels of gonadotropic and sex hormones, and examining neurodegeneration-related brain structures. We assessed plasma levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone (P4), and testosterone (T), along with volumetric measures of the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and hypothalamic subunits, to explore their correlation with Alzheimer’s disease markers across different cognitive statuses and sexes. Significant cognitive status effects were observed for all volumetric measures, with a distinct sex-by-cognitive status interaction for hypothalamic volume, indicating a decrease in males but not in females across cognitive impairment stages. Regression analyses showed specific hypothalamic subunit volume related to hormone levels, accounting for up to approximately 40% of the variance (p < 0.05). The findings highlight sex differences in neurodegeneration and hormonal regulation, suggesting potential for personalized treatments and advancing the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease etiology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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Open AccessCommunication
Gene Expression of GABAA Receptor Subunits and Association with Patient Survival in Glioma
by
Rafael Badalotti, Matheus Dalmolin, Osvaldo Malafaia, Jurandir M. Ribas Filho, Rafael Roesler, Marcelo A. C. Fernandes and Gustavo R. Isolan
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030275 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Rapid neuronal inhibition in the brain is mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activation of GABAA receptors. The GABRA5 gene, which encodes the α5 subunit of the GABAA receptor, has been implicated in an aggressive subgroup of medulloblastoma (MB), a type of
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Rapid neuronal inhibition in the brain is mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activation of GABAA receptors. The GABRA5 gene, which encodes the α5 subunit of the GABAA receptor, has been implicated in an aggressive subgroup of medulloblastoma (MB), a type of pediatric brain tumor. However, the possible role of GABAA receptor subunits in glioma remains poorly understood. Here, we examined the expression of genes encoding GABAA receptor subunits in different types of glioma, and its possible association with patient prognosis assessed by overall survival (OS). Data were obtained from the French and The Cancer Genome Atlas Brain Lower Grade Glioma (TCGA-LGG) datasets and analyzed for expression of GABAA receptor subunit genes. OS was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier estimate. We found that genes GABRA2, GABRA3, GABRB3, GABRG1, and GABRG2 showed a significant association with OS, with higher gene expression indicating better prognosis. In patients with GBM, high expression of GABRA2 was associated with shorter OS, whereas, in contrast, higher levels of GABRB3 were associated with better prognosis indicated by longer OS. In patients with lower grade gliomas, GABRA3, GABRB3, GABRG1, and GABRG2, were associated with longer OS. High GABRB3 expression was related to longer survival when low grade glioma types were analyzed separately. Our results suggest an overall association between higher expression of most genes encoding GABAA receptor subunits and better prognosis in different types of glioma. Our findings support the possibility that down-regulation of GABAA receptors in glioma contributes to promoting tumor progression by reducing negative inhibition. These findings might contribute to further evaluation of GABAA receptors as a therapeutic target in glioma.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Brain Tumor Treatment)
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Open AccessReview
Autistic Traits and Somatic Symptom Disorders: What Is the Link?
by
Barbara Carpita, Benedetta Nardi, Valeria Tognini, Francesca Poli, Giulia Amatori, Ivan Mirko Cremone, Stefano Pini and Liliana Dell’Osso
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030274 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Alterations in sensory processing, a key component of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have recently attracted increasing attention as they result in peculiar responses to sensory stimuli, possibly representing a risk factor for the development of somatic symptom disorder (SSD). Contextually, other features also
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Alterations in sensory processing, a key component of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have recently attracted increasing attention as they result in peculiar responses to sensory stimuli, possibly representing a risk factor for the development of somatic symptom disorder (SSD). Contextually, other features also associated with ASD, such as alexithymia, camouflaging and altered verbal, and non-verbal communication, have been suggested to represent risk factors for the occurrence and worsening of somatic symptomatology. The aim of this work was to review the available literature about the association between SSD and the autism spectrum. The results highlighted not only a higher prevalence of autistic features in patients suffering from SSD and a higher prevalence of reported somatic symptomatology in subjects with ASD but also how ASD subjects with co-occurrent somatic symptoms exhibit more severe autism-linked symptomatology. From the paper reviewed also emerged many shared features between the two conditions, such as alexithymia, altered sensitivity to sensory stimuli, cognitive inflexibility, intolerance of uncertainty, and an increased risk of experiencing stressful life events, which may provide an explanation for the correlation reported. Even though studies on the topic are still scant, the evidence reported suggests the importance of further assessing the correlation between the two disorders.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
The Use of CGH Arrays for Identifying Copy Number Variations in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
by
Agata Kucińska, Wanda Hawuła, Lena Rutkowska, Urszula Wysocka, Łukasz Kępczyński, Małgorzata Piotrowicz, Tatiana Chilarska, Nina Wieczorek-Cichecka, Katarzyna Połatyńska, Łukasz Przysło and Agnieszka Gach
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030273 - 13 Mar 2024
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) encompass a broad group of neurodevelopmental disorders with varied clinical symptoms, all being characterized by deficits in social communication and repetitive behavior. Although the etiology of ASD is heterogeneous, with many genes involved, a crucial role is believed to
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Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) encompass a broad group of neurodevelopmental disorders with varied clinical symptoms, all being characterized by deficits in social communication and repetitive behavior. Although the etiology of ASD is heterogeneous, with many genes involved, a crucial role is believed to be played by copy number variants (CNVs). The present study examines the role of copy number variation in the development of isolated ASD, or ASD with additional clinical features, among a group of 180 patients ranging in age from two years and four months to 17 years and nine months. Samples were taken and subjected to array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), the gold standard in detecting gains or losses in the genome, using a 4 × 180 CytoSure Autism Research Array, with a resolution of around 75 kb. The results indicated the presence of nine pathogenic and six likely pathogenic imbalances, and 20 variants of uncertain significance (VUSs) among the group. Relevant variants were more prevalent in patients with ASD and additional clinical features. Twelve of the detected variants, four of which were probably pathogenic, would not have been identified using the routine 8 × 60 k microarray. These results confirm the value of microarrays in ASD diagnostics and highlight the need for dedicated tools.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Genetics of Autism Spectrum Disorders)
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Open AccessReview
Neurofilaments Light Chain in Neurodegenerative Dementias: A Review of Imaging Correlates
by
Chiara Gallingani, Chiara Carbone, Manuela Tondelli and Giovanna Zamboni
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030272 - 13 Mar 2024
Abstract
Neurofilaments light chain (NfLs) are currently recognized as a marker of axonal injury and degeneration. Their measurement in biological fluids has a promising role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of the therapeutic response in neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative dementias. In recent years,
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Neurofilaments light chain (NfLs) are currently recognized as a marker of axonal injury and degeneration. Their measurement in biological fluids has a promising role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of the therapeutic response in neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative dementias. In recent years, their relationship with clinical phenotypes and measures of disease severity has been extensively studied. Here, we reviewed studies investigating the association between NfLs and imaging measures of grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) damage in neurodegenerative dementias. We identified a large number of studies investigating this association in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and disorders of the frontotemporal dementia (FTD) spectrum. Results were heterogeneous, possibly due to different methodological approaches—both in NfL measurements and imaging analyses—and inclusion criteria. However, a positive association between NfL levels and GM atrophy, WM microstructural disruption, glucose hypometabolism, and protein accumulation emerged invariably, confirming the role of NfLs as a reliable biomarker for neurodegenerative dementias, albeit not specific.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Neurological Disorders)
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Open AccessArticle
Subject-Independent Emotion Recognition Based on EEG Frequency Band Features and Self-Adaptive Graph Construction
by
Jinhao Zhang, Yanrong Hao, Xin Wen, Chenchen Zhang, Haojie Deng, Juanjuan Zhao and Rui Cao
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(3), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14030271 - 12 Mar 2024
Abstract
Emotion is one of the most important higher cognitive functions of the human brain and plays an important role in transaction processing and decisions. In traditional emotion recognition studies, the frequency band features in EEG signals have been shown to have a high
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Emotion is one of the most important higher cognitive functions of the human brain and plays an important role in transaction processing and decisions. In traditional emotion recognition studies, the frequency band features in EEG signals have been shown to have a high correlation with emotion production. However, traditional emotion recognition methods cannot satisfactorily solve the problem of individual differences in subjects and data heterogeneity in EEG, and subject-independent emotion recognition based on EEG signals has attracted extensive attention from researchers. In this paper, we propose a subject-independent emotion recognition model based on adaptive extraction of layer structure based on frequency bands (BFE-Net), which is adaptive in extracting EEG map features through the multi-graphic layer construction module to obtain a frequency band-based multi-graphic layer emotion representation. To evaluate the performance of the model in subject-independent emotion recognition studies, extensive experiments are conducted on two public datasets including SEED and SEED-IV. The experimental results show that in most experimental settings, our model has a more advanced performance than the existing studies of the same type. In addition, the visualization of brain connectivity patterns reveals that some of the findings are consistent with previous neuroscientific validations, further validating the model in subject-independent emotion recognition studies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trends of Biomedical Signal Processing in Intelligent Emotion Recognition)
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