Brain Sciences

13 pages, 7108 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Histiocytic Sarcoma Involving Cervical Vertebra: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

by Eshagh Bahrami, Masoumeh Najafi, Amin Jahanbakhshi, Jaber Hatam, Saadat Molanaei, Patrizia Ciammella and Salvatore Cozzi

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070958 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1426

Abstract

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a rare neoplasm composed of cells with immunohistochemical characteristics of mature histiocytes. It can be disseminated or localized and usually involves the skin, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Primary involvement of the vertebral column is extremely rare. We report a [...] Read more.

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a rare neoplasm composed of cells with immunohistochemical characteristics of mature histiocytes. It can be disseminated or localized and usually involves the skin, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Primary involvement of the vertebral column is extremely rare. We report a 29-year-old female who presented with neck pain and had a destructive 35*43*48 mm lesion in C2 with a paravertebral extension. The initial biopsy did not lead to the correct diagnosis. She later developed dysphagia, and the anterior approach was used for tumor decompression. The diagnosis of cervical histiocytic sarcoma was made, and she underwent radiotherapy. The follow-up MRI showed a marked response to radiotherapy. Here, we report the first case of cervical HS, review all cases of vertebral HS, compare patients’ characteristics and clinical courses, and discuss diagnostic nuances and treatment options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy)

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14 pages, 2443 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Relapse in Substance Use: Prospective Modeling Based on Intensive Longitudinal Data on Mental Health, Cognition, and Craving

by Anders Dahlen Forsmo Lauvsnes, Rolf W. Gråwe and Mette Langaas

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070957 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2356

Abstract

Patients with severe substance use disorders are often characterized by neurocognitive impairments and elevated mental health symptom load, typically associated with craving intensity and substance use relapse. There is a need to improve the predictive capabilities of when relapse occurs in order to [...] Read more.

Patients with severe substance use disorders are often characterized by neurocognitive impairments and elevated mental health symptom load, typically associated with craving intensity and substance use relapse. There is a need to improve the predictive capabilities of when relapse occurs in order to improve substance use treatment. The current paper contains data from 19 patients (seven females) in a long-term inpatient substance use treatment setting over the course of several weeks, with up to three weekly data collections. We collected data from 252 sessions, ranging from 1 to 24 sessions per subject. The subjects reported craving, self-control, and mental health on each occasion. Before starting the repeated data collection, a baseline neuropsychological screening was performed. In this repeated-measures prospective study, the mixed-effects models with time-lagged predictors support a model of substance use craving and relapse being predicted by the baseline reaction time as well as the temporal changes and variability in mental health symptom load, self-control, and craving intensity with moderate to high effect sizes. This knowledge may contribute to more personalized risk assessments and treatments for this group of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric Diseases)

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15 pages, 3520 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Assessment of Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Wenqi Cui, Zhenghao Duan and Juan Feng

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070956 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1663

Abstract

(1) Background: The brainstem plays an essential role in the early stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD), but it is not widely tested in clinical examinations of PD. Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) are recognized as fundamental tools in the assessment of brainstem function. The [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The brainstem plays an essential role in the early stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD), but it is not widely tested in clinical examinations of PD. Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) are recognized as fundamental tools in the assessment of brainstem function. The aim of our meta-analysis was to assess the abnormal findings of VEMPs in patients with PD. (2) Methods: Up to 14 February 2022, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to evaluate VEMPs in patients with PD in comparison with respective controls. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022311103). (3) Results: A total of 15 studies were finally included in our meta-analysis. The absence rates of VEMPs in patients with PD were significantly higher than those of control groups (cVEMP: OR = 6.77; oVEMP: OR = 13.9; mVEMP: OR = 7.52). A delayed P13 latency, a decreased peak-to-peak amplitude, and an increased AAR of cVEMP, and a delayed oVEMP P15 latency were also found in patients with PD. (4) Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicates abnormal VEMP findings in patients with PD, revealing the dysfunction of the brainstem in PD. VEMP tests, especially cVEMP tests, could be a helpful method for the early detection of PD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)

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13 pages, 1217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Differences in the Psychopathology of Obesity: How Relevant Is the Role of Binge Eating Behaviors?

by Chiara Di Natale, Lorenza Lucidi, Chiara Montemitro, Mauro Pettorruso, Rebecca Collevecchio, Lucia Di Caprio, Luana Giampietro, Liberato Aceto, Giovanni Martinotti and Massimo di Giannantonio

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070955 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1410

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a condition that affects humans both physically and mentally. Moreover, many psychopathological conditions can be observed in obese patients that may threaten the positive outcomes of bariatric surgery. Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the main psychopathological [...] Read more.

Background: Obesity is a condition that affects humans both physically and mentally. Moreover, many psychopathological conditions can be observed in obese patients that may threaten the positive outcomes of bariatric surgery. Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the main psychopathological correlates of obese candidates for bariatric surgery, with particular attention on the relationship between psychopathology and gender. Methods: In total, 273 candidates for bariatric surgery for obesity underwent a psychiatric evaluation using a compilation of psychometric scales: the Revised Symptom Checklist 90-R (SCL-90-R), the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), the Binge Eating Scale (BES), the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) and the Obesity-Related Well-Being (ORWELL 97). The sample was divided on the basis of gender and binge eating disorder (BED) severity. Comparisons between the groups were performed using an analysis of variance model (ANOVA) or a Pearson’s chi-squared test. Further, we also divided our sample into a severe binge eating group (score > 27), a mild to moderate group (18 < score < 26) and a low/no symptoms group (score < 17). Results: Male and female subjects showed different results for the BES, with higher scores reported among women (17.50 ± 9.59) compared to men (14.08 ± 8.64). Women also showed higher scores across most of the SCL-90-R domains and worse outcomes in terms of quality of life. Both women and men in the severe binge eating group reported higher scores for the SCL-90-R. Conclusion: The symptoms of BED, along with body image dissatisfaction (BID), are among the most important to investigate for candidates for bariatric surgery in order to improve the surgery outcomes. Level of evidence: Level III as the evidence came from a cohort analytic study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric Diseases)

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11 pages, 817 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developmental Eye Movement (DEM) and King-Devick (K-D) Performance in Multiple Sclerosis

by Amparo Gil-Casas, David P. Piñero-Llorens and Ainhoa Molina-Martín

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070954 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1433

Abstract

Eye movement disorders have been reported in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) as saccadic disturbances. Several methods have been described for the assessment of saccades, including the K-D and DEM tests. The performance of these tests also involves attention, language, and other brain [...] Read more.

Eye movement disorders have been reported in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) as saccadic disturbances. Several methods have been described for the assessment of saccades, including the K-D and DEM tests. The performance of these tests also involves attention, language, and other brain areas which have been reported to be altered in MS patients. The aim of the study was to determine how developmental eye movement (DEM) and King-Devick (K-D) tests are affected in MS-patients. It was also to analyze whether a resolved episode of optic neuritis (ON) has a negative influence. Subjects with MS showed worse outcomes (higher times) in DEM test (72 (26) s and a K-D test (56 (22) s compared to healthy subjects (64 (7) s and 55 (11) s, respectively). However, a previous ON episode did not worsen the MS-times of DEM (80 (33) s or of K-D (62 (33) s. Horizontal saccades with the DEM showed differences between subjects with MS (with and without ON) and healthy ones (p < 0.05), whereas no such differences were found in the vertical saccades. According to the DEM instructions, MS patients would present heterogeneous oculomotor and non-visual disturbances. Regarding the K-D test, only the third card (the most complex one) showed differences (p < 0.05) between groups. These tests can capture impairment of attention, language, and other areas that correlate with suboptimal brain function in addition to the oculomotor dysfunctions present in subjects with MS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)

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11 pages, 1253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perturbation-Induced Protective Arm Responses: Effect of Age, Perturbation-Intensity, and Relationship with Stepping Stability: A Pilot Study

by Woohyoung Jeon, Shuaijie Wang, Tanvi Bhatt and Kelly P. Westlake

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070953 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1268

Abstract

During balance recovery from slip perturbations, forward flexion (elevation) of the arms serves to counterbalance the posteriorly displaced center of mass (CoM). We aimed to investigate whether aging affects modulation of arm responses to various intensities of unpredictable slip perturbations and whether arm [...] Read more.

During balance recovery from slip perturbations, forward flexion (elevation) of the arms serves to counterbalance the posteriorly displaced center of mass (CoM). We aimed to investigate whether aging affects modulation of arm responses to various intensities of unpredictable slip perturbations and whether arm responses are related to compensatory stepping stability. Ten healthy young adults and ten healthy older adults participated. Participants were asked to react naturally to three randomly administered levels of slip-like surface perturbations (intensity 1 (7.75 m/s²), intensity 2 (12.00 m/s²) and intensity 3 (16.75 m/s²), which occurred by means of forward acceleration of the treadmill belt while standing. Kinematic data were collected using a motion capture system. Outcomes included arm elevation displacement, velocity, and margin of stability (MoS) of compensatory stepping. The results reveal no modulation of arm elevation velocity in older adults from perturbation intensity 1 to 2, whereas younger adults demonstrated progressive increases from intensity 1 to 2 to 3. At intensity 3, older adults demonstrated reduced maximal arm elevation velocity compared to younger adults (p = 0.02). The results in both groups combined reveal a positive correlation between maximal arm elevation velocity and first compensatory step MoS at intensity 3 (p = 0.01). Together, these findings indicate age-related decreases in arm response modulation and the association of arm elevation response with protective stepping stability, suggesting that fall prevention interventions may benefit from an emphasis on arm elevation velocity control in response to greater perturbation intensities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensory and Motor Neuroscience)

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13 pages, 1544 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

PS-NPs Induced Neurotoxic Effects in SHSY-5Y Cells via Autophagy Activation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

by Qisheng Tang, Tianwen Li, Kezhu Chen, Xiangyang Deng, Quan Zhang, Hailiang Tang, Zhifeng Shi, Tongming Zhu and Jianhong Zhu

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070952 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2602

Abstract

Polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) are organic pollutants that are widely detected in the environment and organisms, posing potential threats to both ecosystems and human health. PS-NPs have been proven to penetrate the blood–brain barrier and increase the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. However, information relating [...] Read more.

Polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) are organic pollutants that are widely detected in the environment and organisms, posing potential threats to both ecosystems and human health. PS-NPs have been proven to penetrate the blood–brain barrier and increase the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. However, information relating to the pathogenic molecular mechanism is still unclear. This study investigated the neurotoxicity and regulatory mechanisms of PS-NPs in human neuroblastoma SHSY-5Y cells. The results show that PS-NPs caused obvious mitochondrial damages, as evidenced by inhibited cell proliferation, increased lactate dehydrogenase release, stimulated oxidative stress responses, elevated Ca²⁺ level and apoptosis, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and adenosine triphosphate levels. The increased release of cytochrome c and the overexpression of apoptosis-related proteins apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (Apaf-1), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3 (caspase-3), and caspase-9 indicate the activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. In addition, the upregulation of autophagy markers light chain 3-II (LC3-II), Beclin-1, and autophagy-related protein (Atg) 5/12/16L suggests that PS-NPs could promote autophagy in SHSY-5Y cells. The RNA interference of Beclin-1 confirms the regulatory role of autophagy in PS-NP-induced neurotoxicity. The administration of antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) significantly attenuated the cytotoxicity and autophagy activation induced by PS-NP exposure. Generally, PS-NPs could induce neurotoxicity in SHSY-5Y cells via autophagy activation and mitochondria dysfunction, which was modulated by mitochondrial oxidative stress. Mitochondrial damages caused by oxidative stress could potentially be involved in the pathological mechanisms for PS-NP-induced neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis Study of Glioma: From Glioma Stem Cells, Genomic Tags, to Rodent Models)

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14 pages, 1228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Tight Glucose Control and Poor Pre-Injury Stair Climbing Capacity May Predict Postoperative Delirium: A Secondary Analysis

by Kaixi Liu, Yanan Song, Yi Yuan, Zhengqian Li, Xiaoxiao Wang, Wenchao Zhang, Yue Li, Xinning Mi, Dengyang Han, Yulan Rong, Xiangyang Guo and Geng Wang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070951 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

(1) Background: Previous evidence demonstrates that tight glycemic control and good physical function could reduce the risk of delirium. This study aimed to investigate whether the occurrence of postoperative delirium (POD) in older hip fracture surgery patients is associated with preoperative glycemic control [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Previous evidence demonstrates that tight glycemic control and good physical function could reduce the risk of delirium. This study aimed to investigate whether the occurrence of postoperative delirium (POD) in older hip fracture surgery patients is associated with preoperative glycemic control factors or pre-injury physical performance. (2) Methods: Three-hundred and nine individuals aged over 65 years and scheduled for hip fracture surgery were included at a single center. Glycemic control factors and pre-injury physical performance were assessed preoperatively. The presence of delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method on postoperative hospitalization days. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models and a risk prediction model of POD were established. (3) Results: Among the 309 patients, 52 (16.83%) experienced POD during the hospital stay. The numbers of pre-injury physical performance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients were significantly different in the POD and non-POD groups. The multivariable model showed that development of delirium was significantly explained by preoperative fasting blood glucose (FBG) (OR 0.804, p = 0.004), stair climbing (OR 0.709, p = 0.003), T2DM (odds ratio (OR) 3.654, p = 0.001), and age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) (OR 1.270, p = 0.038). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the risk prediction model including those covariates was 0.770. (4) Conclusions: More older T2DM patients develop POD after hip fracture surgery than patients without T2DM. A simple assessment of preoperative FBG and pre-injury stair climbing capacity may identify those at high risk for the development of POD. Higher preoperative FBG and good pre-injury stair climbing capacity are protective factors for POD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Study on Postoperative Delirium)

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11 pages, 1520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Retrospective Evaluation to Assess Reliability of Electrophysiological Methods for Diagnosis of Hearing Loss in Infants

by Marco Mandalà, Luca Mazzocchin, Bryan Kevin Ward, Francesca Viberti, Ilaria Bindi, Lorenzo Salerni, Giacomo Colletti, Liliana Colletti and Vittorio Colletti

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070950 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1890

Abstract

Background: An electrophysiological investigation with auditory brainstem response (ABR), round window electrocochleography (RW-ECoG), and electrical-ABR (E-ABR) was performed in children with suspected hearing loss with the purpose of early diagnosis and treatment. The effectiveness of the electrophysiological measures as diagnostic tools was assessed [...] Read more.

Background: An electrophysiological investigation with auditory brainstem response (ABR), round window electrocochleography (RW-ECoG), and electrical-ABR (E-ABR) was performed in children with suspected hearing loss with the purpose of early diagnosis and treatment. The effectiveness of the electrophysiological measures as diagnostic tools was assessed in this study. Methods: In this retrospective case series with chart review, 790 children below 3 years of age with suspected profound hearing loss were tested with impedance audiometry and underwent electrophysiological investigation (ABR, RW-ECoG, and E-ABR). All implanted cases underwent pure-tone audiometry (PTA) of the non-implanted ear at least 5 years after surgery for a long-term assessment of the reliability of the protocol. Results: Two hundred and fourteen children showed bilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss. In 56 children with either ABR thresholds between 70 and 90 dB nHL or no response, RW-ECoG showed thresholds below 70 dB nHL. In the 21 infants with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss receiving a unilateral cochlear implant, no statistically significant differences were found in auditory thresholds in the non-implanted ear between electrophysiological measures and PTA at the last follow-up (p > 0.05). Eight implanted children showed residual hearing below 2000 Hz worse than 100 dB nHL and 2 children showed pantonal residual hearing worse than 100 dB nHL (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The audiological evaluation of infants with a comprehensive protocol is highly reliable. RW-ECoG provided a better definition of hearing thresholds, while E-ABR added useful information in cases of auditory nerve deficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electrocochleography)

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16 pages, 2560 KiB

Open AccessReview

Magnetic Resonance Planimetry in the Differential Diagnosis between Parkinson’s Disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

by Andrea Quattrone, Maurizio Morelli, Maria G. Bianco, Jolanda Buonocore, Alessia Sarica, Maria Eugenia Caligiuri, Federica Aracri, Camilla Calomino, Marida De Maria, Maria Grazia Vaccaro, Vera Gramigna, Antonio Augimeri, Basilio Vescio and Aldo Quattrone

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070949 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5056

Abstract

The clinical differential diagnosis between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is often challenging. The description of milder PSP phenotypes strongly resembling PD, such as PSP-Parkinsonism, further increased the diagnostic challenge and the need for reliable neuroimaging biomarkers to enhance the [...] Read more.

The clinical differential diagnosis between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is often challenging. The description of milder PSP phenotypes strongly resembling PD, such as PSP-Parkinsonism, further increased the diagnostic challenge and the need for reliable neuroimaging biomarkers to enhance the diagnostic certainty. This review aims to summarize the contribution of a relatively simple and widely available imaging technique such as MR planimetry in the differential diagnosis between PD and PSP, focusing on the recent advancements in this field. The development of accurate MR planimetric biomarkers, together with the implementation of automated algorithms, led to robust and objective measures for the differential diagnosis of PSP and PD at the individual level. Evidence from longitudinal studies also suggests a role of MR planimetry in predicting the development of the PSP clinical signs, allowing to identify PSP patients before they meet diagnostic criteria when their clinical phenotype can be indistinguishable from PD. Finally, promising evidence exists on the possible association between MR planimetric measures and the underlying pathology, with important implications for trials with new disease-modifying target therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Hot Topics in Parkinson’s Disease: State of the Art and Future Perspectives)

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10 pages, 985 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Prevalence of Dizziness and Vertigo in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review

by George Korres, Dimitrios K. Kitsos, Diego Kaski, Anthi Tsogka, Sotirios Giannopoulos, Vasileios Giannopapas, Giorgos Sideris, Giorgos Tyrellis and Konstantine Voumvourakis

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070948 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5401

Abstract

Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 include symptoms of vertigo and dizziness, which is rather unsurprising, since SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism may inflict a broad spectrum of neuropathic effects. The widespread nature of central and peripheral audiovestibular pathways suggests that there may be several probable pathophysiological mechanisms. [...] Read more.

Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 include symptoms of vertigo and dizziness, which is rather unsurprising, since SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism may inflict a broad spectrum of neuropathic effects. The widespread nature of central and peripheral audiovestibular pathways suggests that there may be several probable pathophysiological mechanisms. The cytokine storm, CNS infiltration of the virus through ACE 2 receptors, and other systemic factors can be responsible for the significant number of COVID-19 patients reported to experience symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. In this paper, we present a systematic review of clinical studies reporting the detection of dizziness and vertigo as clinical manifestations of COVID-19 and discuss their etiopathogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vestibular Neurology)

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14 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Nocturnal Autonomic Activity in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Preliminary Study

by Germán Prados, Elena Miró, M. Pilar Martínez, Ana I. Sánchez, Vincent Pichot, Marta Medina-Casado and Florian Chouchou

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070947 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1929

Abstract

Objective: fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, insomnia and autonomic alterations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is regarded as a promising treatment in fibromyalgia, but its impact on autonomic function remains uncertain. In this research, we studied the effect [...] Read more.

Objective: fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, insomnia and autonomic alterations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is regarded as a promising treatment in fibromyalgia, but its impact on autonomic function remains uncertain. In this research, we studied the effect of CBT on autonomic functions in fibromyalgia. Methods: Twenty-five participants underwent overnight polysomnographic recordings before and after CBT programs focused on pain (CBT-P) or a hybrid modality focused on pain and insomnia (CBT-C). Sleep quality, daily pain, depression and anxiety were assessed by self-reported questionnaires. We analyzed heart rate variability (HRV) using high-frequency power (HF) as a marker for parasympathetic activity, and low-frequency power (LF) and the LF/HF ratio as relative sympathetic markers during wakefulness and at each sleep stage. Results: After treatment, 14 patients (/25, 58.0%) reported improvement in their sleep: 6 in the CBT-P condition (/12, 50%), and 8 in the CBT-C condition (/13, 61.5%). We found that, regardless of the type of CBT, patients who reported improvement in sleep quality (n = 14, 58%) had an increase in HF during stages N2 (p < 0.05) and N3 (p < 0.05). These changes were related to improvement in sleep quality (N2, r = −0.43, p = 0.033) but not to pain, depression or anxiety. Conclusions: This study showed an improvement in parasympathetic cardiac control during non-rapid-eye-movement sleep following CBT in fibromyalgia participants who reported better sleep after this therapy. CBT may have a cardio-protective effect and HRV could be used as a sleep monitoring tool in fibromyalgia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sleep Disorders and Brain Function)

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16 pages, 1165 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Gender Differences in the Instructor Presence Effect in Video Lectures: An Eye-Tracking Study

by Yuyang Zhang and Jing Yang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070946 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4109

Abstract

The instructor’s presence on the screen has become a popular feature in the video lectures of online learning and has drawn increasing research interest. Studies on the instructor presence effect of video lectures mainly focused on the features of the instructor, and few [...] Read more.

The instructor’s presence on the screen has become a popular feature in the video lectures of online learning and has drawn increasing research interest. Studies on the instructor presence effect of video lectures mainly focused on the features of the instructor, and few have taken learners’ differences, such as gender, into consideration. The current study examined whether male and female learners differed in their learning performance and eye movement features when learning video lectures with and without the instructor’s presence. All participants (N = 64) were asked to watch three different types of video lectures: audio-video without instructor presence (AV), picture-video with instructor presence (PV), and video-video with instructor presence (VV). They watched nine videos, three of each condition, and completed a reading comprehension test after each video. Their eye movement data were simultaneously collected when they watched these videos. Results showed that learners gained better outcomes after watching the videos with a talking instructor (VV) than those with the instructor’s picture (PV) or without the instructor (AV). This finding suggests that the dynamic presence of the instructor in video lectures could enhance learning through increased social presence and agency. Gender differences were found in their attention allocation, but not behavioral learning performance. When watching the videos with a talking instructor (VV), female learners dwelt longer on the instructor, while males transited more between the instructor and the text. Our results highlight the value of instructor presence in video lectures and call for more comprehensive explorations of gender differences in online learning outcomes and attention distribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Imaging and Cognitive Neuroscience in Human Performance, Learning and Training)

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23 pages, 3518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mediation of Sinusoidal Network Oscillations in the Locus Coeruleus of Newborn Rat Slices by Pharmacologically Distinct AMPA and KA Receptors

by Bijal Rawal and Klaus Ballanyi

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070945 - 19 Jul 2022

Viewed by 1316

Abstract

Brain control by locus coeruleus (LC) neurons involves afferent glutamate (Glu) inputs. In newborns, LC Glu receptors and responses may be sparse due to immaturity of the brain circuits providing such input. However, we reported, using newborn rat brain slices, that Glu and [...] Read more.

Brain control by locus coeruleus (LC) neurons involves afferent glutamate (Glu) inputs. In newborns, LC Glu receptors and responses may be sparse due to immaturity of the brain circuits providing such input. However, we reported, using newborn rat brain slices, that Glu and its ionotropic receptor (iGluR) agonist NMDA transform spontaneous local field potential (LFP) rhythm. Here, we studied whether α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic-acid (AMPA) and kainate (KA) iGluR subtypes also transform the LFP pattern. AMPA (0.25–0.5 µM) and KA (0.5–2.5 µM) merged ~0.2 s-lasting bell-shaped LFP events occurring at ~1 Hz into ~40% shorter and ~4-fold faster spindle-shaped and more regular sinusoidal oscillations. The AMPA/KA effects were associated with a 3.1/4.3-fold accelerated phase-locked single neuron spiking due to 4.0/4.2 mV depolarization while spike jitter decreased to 64/42% of the control, respectively. Raising extracellular K⁺ from 3 to 9 mM increased the LFP rate 1.4-fold or elicited slower multipeak events. A blockade of Cl⁻-mediated inhibition with gabazine (5 μM) plus strychnine (10 μM) affected neither the control rhythm nor AMPA/KA oscillations. GYKI-53655 (25 μM) blocked AMPA (but not KA) oscillations whereas UBP-302 (25 μM) blocked KA (but not AMPA) oscillations. Our findings revealed that AMPA and KA evoke a similar novel neural network discharge pattern transformation type by acting on pharmacologically distinct AMPAR and KA receptors. This shows that already the neonatal LC can generate oscillatory network behaviors that may be important, for example, for responses to opioids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Understanding the Functional Connectivity of the Locus Coeruleus)

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17 pages, 420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers and Facilitators to Conversation: A Qualitative Exploration of the Experiences of People with Parkinson’s and Their Close Communication Partners

by Karen Wylie, Hayley M. Carrier, Andreas M. Loftus, Ramishka Thilakaratne and Naomi Cocks

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070944 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2041

Abstract

Conversations are an important part of our daily lives, enabling us to interact with others and participate in a range of activities. For people with Parkinson’s, conversation can be challenging when communication is impacted. This qualitative exploratory study investigated the experiences of people [...] Read more.

Conversations are an important part of our daily lives, enabling us to interact with others and participate in a range of activities. For people with Parkinson’s, conversation can be challenging when communication is impacted. This qualitative exploratory study investigated the experiences of people with Parkinson’s and their close communication partners in conversations. The study explored influences on conversational participation, considering perceived barriers and facilitators to participation in conversation for people with Parkinson’s. Interviews were conducted with eight dyads, with participants interviewed both jointly and separately (24 interviews). Five themes revealed that conversation appears to be influenced not only by the communication skills of the person with Parkinson’s, but also by factors associated with the communication partner, the complex nature of conversations, the communication environment, and the impact of experience in shaping participation in conversation. Specific barriers and facilitators to conversational participation were identified. This study offers important insight into the lived experience of people with Parkinson’s affected by communication difficulties. The findings support the notion that it is more than simply the communication skills of the person with Parkinson’s that influence conversations. It is important that other factors influencing conversational success should be included in interventions supporting communication for people with Parkinson’s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Research on Communication and Swallowing Difficulties Associated with Neurodegenerative Disease)

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12 pages, 3067 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Efficacy of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation for Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Shu Zhou and Yan Fang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070943 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2435

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder, with 30–40% of OCD patients being unresponsive to adequate trials of anti-OCD drugs and cognitive behavior therapy. The aim of this paper is to investigate the efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on treating refractory OCD. [...] Read more.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder, with 30–40% of OCD patients being unresponsive to adequate trials of anti-OCD drugs and cognitive behavior therapy. The aim of this paper is to investigate the efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on treating refractory OCD. With PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, and Cochrane Library used on 15 February 2022, 24 randomized controlled trials involving 663 patients were included. According to this analysis, NIBS including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), theta-burst stimulation (TBS), and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), had a moderate effect on the reduction of Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) scores (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.26–0.81; p < 0.01). In the subgroup analysis, rTMS seemed to produce a better therapeutic effect (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.38–1.08; p < 0.01). Moreover, excitatory (SMD = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.24–2.01; p = 0.01) and inhibitory (SMD = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.26–1.36; p < 0.01) stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) both alleviated OCD symptoms. In the secondary outcome of clinical response rates, NIBS treatment led to an increase in response rates (RR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.57–3.25; p < 0.01). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric Diseases)

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8 pages, 1342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution Indices of Magnetic Susceptibility Values in the Primary Motor Cortex Enable to Classify Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

by Mauro Costagli, Graziella Donatelli, Paolo Cecchi, Paolo Bosco, Gianmichele Migaleddu, Gabriele Siciliano and Mirco Cosottini

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070942 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1867

Abstract

Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) can measure iron concentration increase in the primary motor cortex (M1) of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, such alteration is confined to only specific regions interested by upper motor neuron pathology; therefore, mean QSM values in the [...] Read more.

Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) can measure iron concentration increase in the primary motor cortex (M1) of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, such alteration is confined to only specific regions interested by upper motor neuron pathology; therefore, mean QSM values in the entire M1 have limited diagnostic accuracy in discriminating between ALS patients and control subjects. This study investigates the diagnostic accuracy of a broader set of M1 QSM distribution indices in classifying ALS patients and controls. Mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis of M1 QSM values were used either individually or as combined predictors in support vector machines. The classification performance was compared to that obtained by the radiological assessment of T2* signal hypo-intensity of M1 in susceptibility-weighted MRI. The least informative index for the classification of ALS patients and controls was the subject’s mean QSM value in M1. The highest diagnostic performance was obtained when all the distribution indices of positive QSM values in M1 were considered, which yielded a diagnostic accuracy of 0.90, with sensitivity = 0.89 and specificity = 1. The radiological assessment of M1 yielded a diagnostic accuracy of 0.79, with sensitivity = 0.76 and specificity = 0.90. The joint evaluation of QSM distribution indices could support the clinical examination in ALS diagnosis and patient monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Neuroimaging Approaches for Brain Disorders)

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16 pages, 2100 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Patent Foramen Ovale and Migraine: Associated Mechanisms and Perspectives from MRI Evidence

by Wenfei Cao, Yinbo Shen, Jiaqi Zhong, Zhenhong Chen, Nizhuan Wang and Jiajun Yang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070941 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3415

Abstract

Migraine is a common neurological disease with a still-unclear etiology and pathogenesis. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a kind of congenital heart disease that leads to a right-to-left shunt (RLS). Although previous studies have shown that PFO has an effect on migraine, a [...] Read more.

Migraine is a common neurological disease with a still-unclear etiology and pathogenesis. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a kind of congenital heart disease that leads to a right-to-left shunt (RLS). Although previous studies have shown that PFO has an effect on migraine, a clear conclusion about the link between PFO and migraine is lacking. We first summarized the PFO potential mechanisms associated with migraine, including microembolus-triggered cortical spreading depression (CSD), the vasoactive substance hypothesis, impaired cerebral autoregulation (CA), and a common genetic basis. Further, we analyzed the changes in brain structure and function in migraine patients and migraine patients with PFO. We found that in migraine patients with PFO, the presence of PFO may affect the structure of the cerebral cortex and the integrity of white matter, which is mainly locked in subcortical, deep white matter, and posterior circulation, and may lead to changes in brain function, such as cerebellum and colliculus, which are involved in the processing and transmission of pain. In summary, this paper provides neuroimaging evidence and new insights into the correlation between PFO and migraine, which will help to clarify the etiology and pathogenesis of migraine, and aid in the diagnosis and treatment of migraine in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Migraine and Neurological Disorders)

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15 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prognostic Significance of Blood-Based Baseline Biomarkers in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Literature Review of Available Studies on Treatment Response

by Theano Gkesoglou, Stavroula I. Bargiota, Eleni Iordanidou, Miltiadis Vasiliadis, Vasilios-Panteleimon Bozikas and Agorastos Agorastos

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070940 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2482

Abstract

Major depressive disorder is a leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. While there are several options for antidepressant treatment, only about 40–60% of patients respond to initial monotherapy, while 30–40% of patients may [...] Read more.

Major depressive disorder is a leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. While there are several options for antidepressant treatment, only about 40–60% of patients respond to initial monotherapy, while 30–40% of patients may even show resistance to treatment. This article offers a narrative review of those studies evaluating the predictive properties of various blood-based baseline biomarkers regarding treatment responses to the pharmacological, stimulation, or behavioral treatment of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Our results show that overall, there is only a very limited number of studies assessing baseline peripheral biomarkers regarding treatment response in TRD. Although there is some evidence for the predictive significance of particular biomarkers (e.g., IL-6, CRP, BDNF), the majority of the results are either single-study reports or studies with conflicting results. This may contribute to the wide variety of treatment protocols and different TRD definition criteria, the small number of patients included, and the existence of different biological phenotypes of the disorder used within the various studies. Taken together, there does not yet appear to be any specific baseline peripheral biomarker with sufficient discriminative predictive validity that can be used in the routine clinical practice of TRD. The discovery of new biomarkers and the better clinical characterization of known biomarkers could support the better classification and staging of TRD, the development of personalized treatment algorithms with higher rates of remission and fewer side effects, and the development of new precision drugs for specific subgroups of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Biomarkers in Neuropsychiatric Disorders)

13 pages, 2666 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality of Life and Mental Health Status in Recovered COVID-19 Subjects at Two Years after Infection in Taizhou, China: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

by Juan Pan, Kai Zhou, Jing Wang, Yufen Zheng, Die Yu, Haixin Kang, Yanjie Zhang, Shuotao Peng, Tao-Hsin Tung and Bo Shen

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070939 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1447

Abstract

According to previous studies, mental status in 1-year COVID-19 survivors might range from 6–43%. Longer-term psychological consequences in recovered COVID-19 subjects are unknown, so we analyzed longer-term quality of life and mental status in recovered COVID-19 subjects at 2 years after infection. Among [...] Read more.

According to previous studies, mental status in 1-year COVID-19 survivors might range from 6–43%. Longer-term psychological consequences in recovered COVID-19 subjects are unknown, so we analyzed longer-term quality of life and mental status in recovered COVID-19 subjects at 2 years after infection. Among 144 recovered COVID-19 subjects in the Taizhou region, 73 and 45 completed face-to-face follow-ups at the first year and second year after infection, respectively, with a 61.7% follow-up rate. The questionnaire, which was administered at both follow-ups, included questions about quality of life, psychological health, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to the differences of each scale between the first and second year. Among the 45 people who completed both follow-up visits, the incidence of psychological problems was 4.4% (2/45) in the first year, and no new psychological abnormalities were observed in the second year. Quality of life improved, while the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) scores did not improve over time. The incidence of mental disorders was lower than those in previous studies. Multidisciplinary management for COVID-19 in this study hospital may have reduced the frequency to a certain extent. However, among those with mental health problems, such problems may exist for a long time, and long-term attention should be given to the psychological status of recovered COVID-19 subjects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuropsychology)

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12 pages, 667 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Prediction of Mechanical Thrombectomy Outcome for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Using Machine Learning

by Yixing Hu, Tongtong Yang, Juan Zhang, Xixi Wang, Xiaoli Cui, Nihong Chen, Junshan Zhou, Fuping Jiang, Junrong Zhu and Jianjun Zou

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070938 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1954

Abstract

The unfavorable outcome of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with large vessel occlusion (LVO) is related to clinical factors at multiple time points. However, predictive models used for dynamically predicting unfavorable outcomes using clinically relevant preoperative and postoperative time point variables have not been [...] Read more.

The unfavorable outcome of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with large vessel occlusion (LVO) is related to clinical factors at multiple time points. However, predictive models used for dynamically predicting unfavorable outcomes using clinically relevant preoperative and postoperative time point variables have not been developed. Our goal was to develop a machine learning (ML) model for the dynamic prediction of unfavorable outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed patients with AIS who underwent a consecutive mechanical thrombectomy (MT) from three centers in China between January 2014 and December 2018. Based on the eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithm, we used clinical characteristics on admission (“Admission” Model) and additional variables regarding intraoperative management and the postoperative National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score (“24-Hour” Model, “3-Day” Model and “Discharge” Model). The outcome was an unfavorable outcome at the three-month mark (modified Rankin scale, mRS 3–6: unfavorable). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and Brier scores were the main evaluating indexes. The unfavorable outcome at the three-month mark was observed in 156 (62.0%) of 238 patients. These four models had a high accuracy in the range of 75.0% to 87.5% and had a good discrimination with AUC in the range of 0.824 to 0.945 on the testing set. The Brier scores of the four models ranged from 0.122 to 0.083 and showed a good predictive ability on the testing set. This is the first dynamic, preoperative and postoperative predictive model constructed for AIS patients who underwent MT, which is more accurate than the previous prediction model. The preoperative model could be used to predict the clinical outcome before MT and support the decision to perform MT, and the postoperative models would further improve the predictive accuracy of the clinical outcome after MT and timely adjust therapeutic strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics)

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9 pages, 2623 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of 3D Visual Discomfort Based on Dynamic Functional Connectivity Analysis with HMM in EEG

by Zhiying Long, Lu Liu, Xuefeng Yuan, Yawen Zheng, Yantong Niu and Li Yao

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070937 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1771

Abstract

Stereoscopic displays can induce visual discomfort despite their wide application. Electroencephalography (EEG) technology has been applied to assess 3D visual discomfort, because it can capture brain activities with high temporal resolution. Previous studies explored the frequency and temporal features relevant to visual discomfort [...] Read more.

Stereoscopic displays can induce visual discomfort despite their wide application. Electroencephalography (EEG) technology has been applied to assess 3D visual discomfort, because it can capture brain activities with high temporal resolution. Previous studies explored the frequency and temporal features relevant to visual discomfort in EEG data. Recently, it was demonstrated that functional connectivity between brain regions fluctuates with time. However, the relationship between 3D visual discomfort and dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) remains unknown. Although HMM showed advantages over the sliding window method in capturing the temporal fluctuations of DFC at a single time point in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, it is unclear whether HMM works well in revealing the time-varying functional connectivity of EEG data. In this study, the hidden Markov model (HMM) was introduced to DFC analysis of EEG data for the first time and was used to investigate the DFC features that can be used to assess 3D visual discomfort. The results indicated that state 2, with strong connections between electrodes, occurred more frequently in the early period, whereas state 4, with overall weak connections between electrodes, occurred more frequently in the late period for both visual comfort and discomfort stimuli. Moreover, the 3D visual discomfort stimuli caused subjects to stay in state 4 more frequently, especially in the later period, in contrast to the 3D visual comfort stimuli. The results suggest that the increasing occurrence of state 4 was possibly related to visual discomfort and that the occurrence frequency of state 4 may be used to assess visual discomfort. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in EEG Brain Dynamics)

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14 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of Treatment Outcome Predictors in Deep Brain Stimulation for Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

by Hanyang Ruan, Yang Wang, Zheqin Li, Geya Tong and Zhen Wang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070936 - 17 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2112

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating mental disorder. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising approach for refractory OCD patients. Research aiming at treatment outcome prediction is vital to provide optimized treatments for different patients. The primary purpose of this systematic [...] Read more.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating mental disorder. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising approach for refractory OCD patients. Research aiming at treatment outcome prediction is vital to provide optimized treatments for different patients. The primary purpose of this systematic review was to collect and synthesize studies on outcome prediction of OCD patients with DBS implantations in recent years. This systematic review (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022335585) followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis) guidelines. The search was conducted using three different databases with the following search terms related to OCD and DBS. We identified a total of 3814 articles, and 17 studies were included in our review. A specific tract confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was predictable for DBS outcome regardless of implant targets, but inconsistencies still exist. Current studies showed various ways of successful treatment prediction. However, considering the heterogeneous results, we hope that future studies will use larger cohorts and more precise approaches for predictors and establish more personalized ways of DBS surgeries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Approaches for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and the Study of Related Pathogenesis)

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15 pages, 693 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of the RDoC Framework to Predict Alcohol Use and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Early Adolescents in the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study

by Laika D. Aguinaldo, Clarisa Coronado, Diego A. Gomes, Kelly E. Courtney and Joanna Jacobus

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070935 - 17 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2501

Abstract

Alcohol use confers risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (ideation, attempt) in early adolescents. The Research Domain Criteria provides a framework for examination of multidimensional and modifiable risk factors. We examined distinct latent profiles based on patterns of positive valence (reward responsivity) and [...] Read more.

Alcohol use confers risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (ideation, attempt) in early adolescents. The Research Domain Criteria provides a framework for examination of multidimensional and modifiable risk factors. We examined distinct latent profiles based on patterns of positive valence (reward responsivity) and cognitive systems (neurocognition) from the ABCD Study (age 9–10, N = 10,414) at baseline enrollment. Longitudinal associations were determined between baseline positive valence and cognitive profiles and group classification (alcohol use, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, or their co-occurrence) two-years after initial assessment (ages 11–12). Three unique profiles of positive valence, cognition, alcohol use, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors were identified. Two baseline profiles predicted alcohol use and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, two-years after initial assessment. Low positive valence with high cognition (but low impulsivity) predicted alcohol use (OR = 1.414, p< 0.001), while high positive valence with low cognition (but high impulsivity) predicted suicidal thoughts and behaviors (OR = 1.25, p = 0.038), compared to average positive valence and cognition. Unique profiles of positive valence and cognitive systems among 9–12-year-olds may be predictive of alcohol use and suicidal thoughts and behaviors over a two-year period. Findings underscore the potential for trajectory research on positive valence and cognitive profiles to enhance prevention for early-adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Substance Use Disorders in Child Psychiatry: Latest Research in Risk, Prevention and Treatment)

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25 pages, 3174 KiB

Open AccessReview

Real-World Implementation of Precision Psychiatry: A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators

by Helen Baldwin, Lion Loebel-Davidsohn, Dominic Oliver, Gonzalo Salazar de Pablo, Daniel Stahl, Heleen Riper and Paolo Fusar-Poli

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070934 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2787

Abstract

Background: Despite significant research progress surrounding precision medicine in psychiatry, there has been little tangible impact upon real-world clinical care. Objective: To identify barriers and facilitators affecting the real-world implementation of precision psychiatry. Method: A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature search of primary research studies, [...] Read more.

Background: Despite significant research progress surrounding precision medicine in psychiatry, there has been little tangible impact upon real-world clinical care. Objective: To identify barriers and facilitators affecting the real-world implementation of precision psychiatry. Method: A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature search of primary research studies, conducted in the Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO and OpenGrey databases. We included a qualitative data synthesis structured according to the ‘Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research’ (CFIR) key constructs. Results: Of 93,886 records screened, 28 studies were suitable for inclusion. The included studies reported 38 barriers and facilitators attributed to the CFIR constructs. Commonly reported barriers included: potential psychological harm to the service user (n = 11), cost and time investments (n = 9), potential economic and occupational harm to the service user (n = 8), poor accuracy and utility of the model (n = 8), and poor perceived competence in precision medicine amongst staff (n = 7). The most highly reported facilitator was the availability of adequate competence and skills training for staff (n = 7). Conclusions: Psychiatry faces widespread challenges in the implementation of precision medicine methods. Innovative solutions are required at the level of the individual and the wider system to fulfil the translational gap and impact real-world care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric Diseases)

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10 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessStudy Protocol

The Efficacy and Safety of Deep Brain Stimulation of Combined Anterior Limb of Internal Capsule and Nucleus Accumbens (ALIC/NAcc-DBS) for Treatment-Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Protocol of a Multicenter, Randomized, and Double-Blinded Study

by Tingting Xu, Yuan Gao, Bin Li, Jiaxin Jiang, Huirong Guo, Xianzhi Liu, Hongxing Huang, Yuqi Cheng, Hualin Yu, Jie Hu, Xi Wu, Wei Wang and Zhen Wang

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070933 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Backgrounds: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging and promising therapeutic approach for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The most common DBS targets include the anterior limb of internal capsule (ALIC) and nucleus accumbens (NAcc). This protocol aims to explore the efficacy and safety [...] Read more.

Backgrounds: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging and promising therapeutic approach for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The most common DBS targets include the anterior limb of internal capsule (ALIC) and nucleus accumbens (NAcc). This protocol aims to explore the efficacy and safety of the combined ALIC- and NAcc-DBS for treatment-refractory OCD. Methods: We will recruit 64 patients with refractory OCD from six centers, randomly allocate them to active and sham-stimulation groups through a three-month double-blind phase, then enter a three-month open-label phase. In the open-label stage, both groups experience real stimulation. Outcome measures: The primary outcome will be the efficacy and safety of combined ALIC- and NAcc-DBS, determined by treatment response rate between the active and sham-stimulation groups at the double-blind stage and spontaneously reported adverse events. The secondary outcomes are comparisons of change in Y–BOCS, CGI, HAMD, and HAMA scores at the third and sixth months compared to baseline between the active and sham-control groups, as well as the scores of the third month minus the sixth month between the two groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Approaches for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and the Study of Related Pathogenesis)

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13 pages, 1079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Repetitive Neuromuscular Magnetic Stimulation for Pediatric Headache Disorders: Muscular Effects and Factors Affecting Level of Response

by Corinna Börner, Jacob Staisch, Magdalena Lang, Ari Hauser, Iris Hannibal, Kristina Huß, Birgit Klose, Matthias F. Lechner, Nico Sollmann, Florian Heinen, Mirjam N. Landgraf and Michaela V. Bonfert

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070932 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1843

Abstract

Repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (rNMS) for pediatric headache disorders is feasible, safe, and alleviates headache symptoms. This study assesses muscular effects and factors affecting response to rNMS. A retrospective chart review included children with headaches receiving six rNMS sessions targeting the upper trapezius [...] Read more.

Repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (rNMS) for pediatric headache disorders is feasible, safe, and alleviates headache symptoms. This study assesses muscular effects and factors affecting response to rNMS. A retrospective chart review included children with headaches receiving six rNMS sessions targeting the upper trapezius muscles. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were measured before and after rNMS, and at 3-month follow-up (FU). Mean headache frequency, duration, and intensity within the last 3 months were documented. In 20 patients (14.1 ± 2.7 years), PPT significantly increased from pre- to post-treatment (p < 0.001) sustaining until FU. PPT changes significantly differed between primary headache and post-traumatic headache (PTH) (p = 0.019–0.026). Change in headache frequency was significantly higher in patients with than without neck pain (p = 0.032). A total of 60% of patients with neck pain responded to rNMS (≥25%), while 20% of patients without neck pain responded (p = 0.048). 60% of patients receiving rNMS twice a week were responders, while 33% of patients receiving rNMS less or more frequently responded to treatment, respectively. Alleviation of muscular hyperalgesia was demonstrated sustaining for 3 months, which was emphasized in PTH. The rNMS sessions may positively modulate headache symptoms regardless of headache diagnosis. Patients with neck pain profit explicitly well. Two rNMS sessions per week led to the highest reduction in headache frequency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuroscience of Pain)

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11 pages, 497 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Gaze-Contingent Eye-Tracking Training in Brain Disorders: A Systematic Review

by Laura Carelli, Federica Solca, Sofia Tagini, Silvia Torre, Federico Verde, Nicola Ticozzi, Roberta Ferrucci, Gabriella Pravettoni, Edoardo Nicolò Aiello, Vincenzo Silani and Barbara Poletti

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070931 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2676

Abstract

Eye movement abnormalities in association with cognitive and emotional deficits have been described in neurological, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric disorders. Eye-Tracking (ET) techniques could therefore enhance cognitive interventions by contingently providing feedback to patients. Since no consensus has been reached thus far on this [...] Read more.

Eye movement abnormalities in association with cognitive and emotional deficits have been described in neurological, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric disorders. Eye-Tracking (ET) techniques could therefore enhance cognitive interventions by contingently providing feedback to patients. Since no consensus has been reached thus far on this approach, this study aimed at systematically reviewing the current evidence. This review was performed and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Records were searched for in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus (1990–2021) through the following string: (‘Eye Tracking’ OR ‘Eye-Tracking’ OR ‘Oculomotor’) AND (‘Neuropsychol*’ OR ‘Cognitive’) AND (‘Rehabilitation’ OR ‘Training’ OR ‘Stimulation’). Study outcomes were thematically classified and qualitatively synthesized. A structured quality assessment was performed. A total of 24 articles were included, addressing neurodevelopmental (preterm infants and children with autism spectrum disorder, Rett syndrome, or ADHD; N = 14), psychiatric (mood and anxiety disorders or alcohol dependence; N = 7), and neurological conditions (stroke; N = 3). Overall, ET gaze-contingent training proved to be effective in improving cognitive and emotional alterations. However, population heterogeneity limits the generalizability of results. ET gaze-contingent protocols allow researchers to directly and dynamically train attentional functions; together with the recruitment of implicit, “bottom-up” strategies, these protocols are promising and possibly integrable with traditional cognitive approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neuropsychology)

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26 pages, 1413 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Native Listeners’ Use of Information in Parsing Ambiguous Casual Speech

by Natasha Warner, Dan Brenner, Benjamin V. Tucker and Mirjam Ernestus

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070930 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1649

Abstract

In conversational speech, phones and entire syllables are often missing. This can make “he’s” and “he was” homophonous, realized for example as [ɨz]. Similarly, “you’re” and “you were” can both be realized as [jɚ], [ɨ], etc. We investigated what types of information native [...] Read more.

In conversational speech, phones and entire syllables are often missing. This can make “he’s” and “he was” homophonous, realized for example as [ɨz]. Similarly, “you’re” and “you were” can both be realized as [jɚ], [ɨ], etc. We investigated what types of information native listeners use to perceive such verb tenses. Possible types included acoustic cues in the phrase (e.g., in “he was”), the rate of the surrounding speech, and syntactic and semantic information in the utterance, such as the presence of time adverbs such as “yesterday” or other tensed verbs. We extracted utterances such as “So they’re gonna have like a random roommate” and “And he was like, ‘What’s wrong?!’” from recordings of spontaneous conversations. We presented parts of these utterances to listeners, in either a written or auditory modality, to determine which types of information facilitated listeners’ comprehension. Listeners rely primarily on acoustic cues in or near the target words rather than meaning and syntactic information in the context. While that information also improves comprehension in some conditions, the acoustic cues in the target itself are strong enough to reverse the percept that listeners gain from all other information together. Acoustic cues override other information in comprehending reduced productions in conversational speech. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Auditory and Phonetic Processes in Speech Perception)

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32 pages, 1607 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Evidence of Neuroplastic Changes after Transcranial Magnetic, Electric, and Deep Brain Stimulation

by Julius Kricheldorff, Katharina Göke, Maximilian Kiebs, Florian H. Kasten, Christoph S. Herrmann, Karsten Witt and Rene Hurlemann

Brain Sci. 2022, 12(7), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12070929 - 15 Jul 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5341

Abstract

Electric and magnetic stimulation of the human brain can be used to excite or inhibit neurons. Numerous methods have been designed over the years for this purpose with various advantages and disadvantages that are the topic of this review. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) [...] Read more.

Electric and magnetic stimulation of the human brain can be used to excite or inhibit neurons. Numerous methods have been designed over the years for this purpose with various advantages and disadvantages that are the topic of this review. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is the most direct and focal application of electric impulses to brain tissue. Electrodes are placed in the brain in order to modulate neural activity and to correct parameters of pathological oscillation in brain circuits such as their amplitude or frequency. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive alternative with the stimulator generating a magnetic field in a coil over the scalp that induces an electric field in the brain which, in turn, interacts with ongoing brain activity. Depending upon stimulation parameters, excitation and inhibition can be achieved. Transcranial electric stimulation (tES) applies electric fields to the scalp that spread along the skull in order to reach the brain, thus, limiting current strength to avoid skin sensations and cranial muscle pain. Therefore, tES can only modulate brain activity and is considered subthreshold, i.e., it does not directly elicit neuronal action potentials. In this review, we collect hints for neuroplastic changes such as modulation of behavior, the electric activity of the brain, or the evolution of clinical signs and symptoms in response to stimulation. Possible mechanisms are discussed, and future paradigms are suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Stimulation and Neuroplasticity—Series II)

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