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Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases
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Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases

A topical collection in Neurology International (ISSN 2035-8377).

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Editors

Dr. Vasileios Siokas

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
1. Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
2. School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
Interests: neurosciences; neurology; neurogenetics; molecular neurology; neurodegeneration; neurorehabilitation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Efthimios Dardiotis

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Larisa, Greece
Interests: degenerative neurological diseases; neurorehabilitation; neuroscience; neurology; genetics association studies; genetic epidemiological studies

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

‘Neurodegeneration’ refers to a condition where neuronal cells slowly lose their functional potential and, ultimately, die. The term ‘neurodegenerative disorders’ is an umbrella term, encompassing a multitude of diseases that have a wide variety of phenotypes, depending on the neurons that degenerate each time. These various patterns of degeneration also stem from different pathophysiological mechanisms. For example, Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of pathologic amyloid and leads to dementia, while Parkinson’s disease is characterized by dopaminergic neuron loss, and predominantly leads to extrapyramidal symptoms. In principle, neurodegenerative disorders are particularly hard to tackle, and only symptomatic treatments are available—and not for all of the diseases. Considering they affect a significant proportion of the population, finding an effective treatment is crucial.

Neurodegenerative disorders have long captivated the interest of neuroscientists and significant advances in unraveling the mechanisms behind each neurodegenerative disorder have been noted. For instance, the role of the endoplasmic reticulum has slowly started being understood, and this can open up new therapeutic avenues. Furthermore, genetic components, epigenetic alterations, and environmental risk factors have been incriminated in their manifestation, and their combination can help identify individuals at risk. For instance, the deregulation of specific microRNA molecules can create a unique ‘signature’ for each disorder, and possibly lead to an earlier diagnosis. Therapy-wise, the optimizing of older symptomatic treatments has been fruitful in many cases, but disease-modifying therapies are still lacking and many are still under trial. These therapies include immunotherapies, enzyme inhibitors or activators, chaperone proteins, and antioxidative compounds, while gene treatments for hereditary disorders have also attracted attention. Finally, non-invasive brain stimulation also seems to hold much promise. As such, highlighting the newest research results and collecting the available evidence are now more important than ever.

This Topical Collection aims to cover the newest advancements in the field of neurodegeneration, and invites authors to contribute original studies, reviews, meta-analyses and related case reports regarding epidemiology, genetics, risk factors, diagnosis, management and prognosis assessment of neurodegenerative diseases. All article types are welcome.

Dr. Vasileios Siokas
Dr. Efthimios Dardiotis
Collection Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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

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

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • neurodegenerative disorders
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • motor neuron disease
  • neurodegeneration

Published Papers (21 papers)

Download All Papers

2023

Jump to: 2022

15 pages, 861 KiB  
Review
Targeting Neutrophil Extracellular Traps for Stroke Prognosis: A Promising Path
by Eirini Liaptsi, Ermis Merkouris, Efthymia Polatidou, Dimitrios Tsiptsios, Aimilios Gkantzios, Christos Kokkotis, Foivos Petridis, Foteini Christidi, Stella Karatzetzou, Christos Karaoglanis, Anna-Maria Tsagkalidi, Nikolaos Chouliaras, Konstantinos Tsamakis, Maria Protopapa, Dimitrios Pantazis-Pergaminelis, Panagiotis Skendros, Nikolaos Aggelousis and Konstantinos Vadikolias
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(4), 1212-1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15040076 - 28 Sep 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1025
Abstract
Stroke has become the first cause of functional disability and one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Therefore, it is of crucial importance to develop accurate biomarkers to assess stroke risk and prognosis. Emerging evidence suggests that neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) levels [...] Read more.
Stroke has become the first cause of functional disability and one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Therefore, it is of crucial importance to develop accurate biomarkers to assess stroke risk and prognosis. Emerging evidence suggests that neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) levels may serve as a valuable biomarker to predict stroke occurrence and functional outcome. NETs are known to create a procoagulant state by serving as a scaffold for tissue factor (TF) and platelets inducing thrombosis by activating coagulation pathways and endothelium. A literature search was conducted in two databases (MEDLINE and Scopus) to trace all relevant studies published between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2022, addressing the potential utility of NETs as a stroke biomarker. Only full-text articles in English were included. The current review includes thirty-three papers. Elevated NET levels in plasma and thrombi seem to be associated with increased mortality and worse functional outcomes in stroke, with all acute ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage included. Additionally, higher NET levels seem to correlate with worse outcomes after recanalization therapies and are more frequently found in strokes of cardioembolic or cryptogenic origin. Additionally, total neutrophil count in plasma seems also to correlate with stroke severity. Overall, NETs may be a promising predictive tool to assess stroke severity, functional outcome, and response to recanalization therapies. Full article
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11 pages, 1194 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Analysis of Symmetry Indices for Spatiotemporal Gait Features in Early Parkinson’s Disease
by Erasmia Giannakou, Styliani Fotiadou, Vassilios Gourgoulis, Georgios Mavrommatis and Nikolaos Aggelousis
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(3), 1129-1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030070 - 07 Sep 2023
Viewed by 993
Abstract
This study compared the five most commonly used equations for calculating gait symmetry in discrete variables among Parkinson’s disease patients. Twelve patients (five women and seven men) performed ten consecutive gait trials on a 10 m walkway. Gait data were collected using eight [...] Read more.
This study compared the five most commonly used equations for calculating gait symmetry in discrete variables among Parkinson’s disease patients. Twelve patients (five women and seven men) performed ten consecutive gait trials on a 10 m walkway. Gait data were collected using eight optoelectronic cameras (100 fr/s). The analysis focused on various spatiotemporal parameters, including cadence, step time, stride time, single support, double support, walking speed, step length, stride length, step width, and foot angle. Five symmetry indices were calculated for each trial rather than averaging the ten recorded trials. The variability in and reliability of each symmetry equation were assessed using the coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. Additionally, Bland–Altman plots were produced to visualize the agreement between each pair of methods for each spatiotemporal parameter. The results revealed that the symmetry ratio method exhibited lower variability and higher reliability compared with the other four indices across all spatiotemporal gait parameters. However, it was found that the reliability of a single trial was generally poor, regardless of the symmetry calculation formula used. Therefore, we recommend basing measurements of gait asymmetry in Parkinson’s disease on multiple trials. Full article
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8 pages, 2704 KiB  
Brief Report
Serum GDF-15 Levels in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, and Multiple System Atrophy
by Noriyuki Miyaue, Hayato Yabe and Masahiro Nagai
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(3), 1044-1051; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030066 - 30 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1001
Abstract
Serum growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) levels are elevated in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and may help differentiate these patients from healthy individuals. We aimed to clarify whether serum GDF-15 levels can help differentiate PD from atypical parkinsonian syndromes and determine the [...] Read more.
Serum growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) levels are elevated in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and may help differentiate these patients from healthy individuals. We aimed to clarify whether serum GDF-15 levels can help differentiate PD from atypical parkinsonian syndromes and determine the association between serum GDF-15 levels and clinical parameters. We prospectively enrolled 46, 15, and 12 patients with PD, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and multiple system atrophy (MSA), respectively. The serum GDF-15 level in patients with PD (1394.67 ± 558.46 pg/mL) did not differ significantly from that in patients with PSP (1491.27 ± 620.78 pg/mL; p = 0.573) but was significantly higher than that in patients with MSA (978.42 ± 334.66 pg/mL; p = 0.017). Serum GDF-15 levels were positively correlated with age in patients with PD (r = 0.458; p = 0.001); PSP (r = 0.565; p = 0.028); and MSA (r = 0.708; p = 0.010). After accounting for age differences, serum GDF-15 levels did not differ significantly between patients with PD and MSA (p = 0.114). Thus, age has a strong influence on serum GDF-15 levels, which may not differ significantly between patients with PD and atypical parkinsonian syndromes such as PSP and MSA. Full article
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13 pages, 870 KiB  
Review
In Search of a Function for the N6-Methyladenosine in Epitranscriptome, Autophagy and Neurodegenerative Diseases
by Naoko Suga, Yuka Ikeda, Sayuri Yoshikawa, Kurumi Taniguchi, Haruka Sawamura and Satoru Matsuda
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(3), 967-979; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030062 - 10 Aug 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2038
Abstract
Changes in epitranscriptome with N6-methyladenine (m6A) modification could be involved in the development of multiple diseases, which might be a prevalent modification of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in eukaryotes. The m6A modification might be performed through the action of methyltransferases, demethylases, and methylation-binding proteins. [...] Read more.
Changes in epitranscriptome with N6-methyladenine (m6A) modification could be involved in the development of multiple diseases, which might be a prevalent modification of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in eukaryotes. The m6A modification might be performed through the action of methyltransferases, demethylases, and methylation-binding proteins. Importantly, the m6A methylation may be associated with various neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), depression, aging-related diseases, and/or aging itself. In addition, the m6A methylation might functionally regulate the eukaryotic transcriptome by influencing the splicing, export, subcellular localization, translation, stability, and decay of mRNAs. Neurodegenerative diseases may possess a wide variety of phenotypes, depending on the neurons that degenerate on occasion. Interestingly, an increasing amount of evidence has indicated that m6A modification could modulate the expression of autophagy-related genes and promote autophagy in neuronal cells. Oxidative stresses such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) could stimulate the m6A RNA methylation, which may also be related to the regulation of autophagy and/or the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Both m6A modification and autophagy could also play critical roles in regulating the health condition of neurons. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the m6A and autophagy relationship in human diseases may benefit in developing therapeutic strategies in the future. This paper reviews advances in the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of m6A modification in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases and/or aging, discussing the possible therapeutic procedures related to mechanisms of m6A RNA methylation and autophagy. Full article
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13 pages, 2841 KiB  
Article
Modified TPP-MoS2 QD Blend as a Bio-Functional Model for Normalizing Microglial Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease
by Ohoud A. Alomari, Safaa Qusti, Maha Balgoon, Fadwa Aljoud, Khalid A. Alamry and Mahmoud A. Hussein
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(3), 954-966; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030061 - 08 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1355
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease of old age. Accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and mitochondrial dysfunction results in chronic microglial activation, which enhances neuroinflammation and promotes neurodegeneration. Microglia are resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord which play [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease of old age. Accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and mitochondrial dysfunction results in chronic microglial activation, which enhances neuroinflammation and promotes neurodegeneration. Microglia are resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord which play an important role in maintaining brain homeostasis through a variety of phenotypes, including the pro-inflammatory phenotype and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. However, persistently activated microglial cells generate reactive species and neurotoxic mediators. Therefore, inhibitors of microglial activation are seen to have promise in AD control. The modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend is a mitochondrion-targeted nanomaterial that exhibits cytoprotective activities and antioxidant properties through scavenging free radicals. In the present study, the cell viability and cytotoxicity of the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend on microglial cells stimulated by Aβ were investigated. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were also assessed. In addition, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and arginase-1 (Arg-I) were measured in the presence or absence of the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend on an immortalized microglia cells activated by accumulation of Aβ. We found that the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend was biocompatible and nontoxic at specific concentrations. Furthermore, the modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend significantly reduced the release of free radicals and improved the mitochondrial function through the upregulation of MMP in a dose-dependent manner on microglial cells treated with Aβ. In addition, pre-treatment of microglia with the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend at concentrations of 25 and 50 μg/mL prior to Aβ stimulation significantly inhibited the release and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS. Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory cytokines TGF-β and Arg-I were activated. These findings suggest that the modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend reduced oxidative stress, inflammation and improved the mitochondrial function in the immortalized microglial cells (IMG) activated by Aβ. Overall, our research shows that the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend has therapeutic promise for managing AD and can impact microglia polarization. Full article
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10 pages, 287 KiB  
Review
Ketamine Evolving Clinical Roles and Potential Effects with Cognitive, Motor and Driving Ability
by Amber N. Edinoff, Saveen Sall, Colby B. Koontz, Ajah K. Williams, DeMarcus Drumgo, Aya Mouhaffel, Elyse M. Cornett, Kevin S. Murnane and Alan D. Kaye
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 352-361; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010023 - 03 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1912
Abstract
While driving under the influence of drugs, drivers are more likely to be involved in and cause more accidents than drivers who do not drive under the influence. Ketamine is derived from phencyclidine and acts as a noncompetitive antagonist and allosteric modulator of [...] Read more.
While driving under the influence of drugs, drivers are more likely to be involved in and cause more accidents than drivers who do not drive under the influence. Ketamine is derived from phencyclidine and acts as a noncompetitive antagonist and allosteric modulator of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Ketamine has been used to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders, with the most notable being treatment-resistant depression. With the rise of at-home ketamine treatment companies, the safety of unsupervised administration remains under evaluation. A study with ketamine and a ketamine-like medication, rapasitnel, showed that those who were given ketamine experienced more sleepiness and had decreased self-reported motivation and confidence in their driving abilities. Moreover, there seem to be significant differences in the acute versus persistent effects of ketamine, as well as the anesthetic versus subanesthetic doses, both in terms of effects and outcomes. These divergent effects complicate the clinical uses of ketamine, specifically involving driving, drowsiness, and cognitive abilities. This review aims to describe not only the various clinical uses of ketamine but also the potentially detrimental effects of driving under the influence, which should be understood to help with counseling the patients who use these substances, both for their well-being and to protect public safety. Full article
14 pages, 310 KiB  
Review
Transcranial Stimulation for the Treatment of Stimulant Use Disorder
by Amber N. Edinoff, Saveen Sall, T. Dean Roberts, Henry H. Tomlinson, Lenise G. Soileau III, Eric D. Jackson, Kevin S. Murnane, Danielle M. Wenger, Elyse M. Cornett, Jaime Toms, Deepak Kumbhare, Adam M. Kaye and Alan D. Kaye
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 325-338; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010021 - 27 Feb 2023
Viewed by 2108
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of stimulant use disorder (StUD) involving methamphetamine and cocaine has been a growing healthcare concern in the United States. Cocaine usage is associated with atherosclerosis, systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and arrhythmias. Furthermore, approximately one of every four MIs is cocaine-induced [...] Read more.
The increasing prevalence of stimulant use disorder (StUD) involving methamphetamine and cocaine has been a growing healthcare concern in the United States. Cocaine usage is associated with atherosclerosis, systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and arrhythmias. Furthermore, approximately one of every four MIs is cocaine-induced among patients aged 18 to 45. Methamphetamine use has been associated with nerve terminal damage in the dopaminergic system resulting in impaired motor function, cognitive decline, and co-morbid psychiatric disorders. Current treatment options for StUD are extremely limited, and there are currently no FDA-approved pharmacotherapies. Behavioral interventions are considered first-line treatment; however, in a recent meta-analysis comparing behavioral treatment options for cocaine, contingency management programs provided the only significant reduction in use. Current evidence points to the potential of various neuromodulation techniques as the next best modality in treating StUD. The most promising evidence thus far has been transcranial magnetic stimulation which several studies have shown to reduce risk factors associated with relapse. Another more invasive neuromodulation technique being studied is deep-brain stimulation, which has shown promising results in its ability to modulate reward circuits to treat addiction. Results showing the impact of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in the treatment of StUD are limited by the lack of studies conducted and the limited understanding of the neurological involvement driving addiction-based diseases such as StUD. Future studies should seek to provide data on consumption-reducing effects rather than craving evaluations. Full article
16 pages, 1771 KiB  
Review
Preclinical Research on Focused Ultrasound-Mediated Blood–Brain Barrier Opening for Neurological Disorders: A Review
by Chanho Kong and Won Seok Chang
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 285-300; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010018 - 14 Feb 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2596
Abstract
Several therapeutic agents for neurological disorders are usually not delivered to the brain owing to the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), a special structure present in the central nervous system (CNS). Focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with microbubbles can reversibly and temporarily open [...] Read more.
Several therapeutic agents for neurological disorders are usually not delivered to the brain owing to the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), a special structure present in the central nervous system (CNS). Focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with microbubbles can reversibly and temporarily open the BBB, enabling the application of various therapeutic agents in patients with neurological disorders. In the past 20 years, many preclinical studies on drug delivery through FUS-mediated BBB opening have been conducted, and the use of this method in clinical applications has recently gained popularity. As the clinical application of FUS-mediated BBB opening expands, it is crucial to understand the molecular and cellular effects of FUS-induced microenvironmental changes in the brain so that the efficacy of treatment can be ensured, and new treatment strategies established. This review describes the latest research trends in FUS-mediated BBB opening, including the biological effects and applications in representative neurological disorders, and suggests future directions. Full article
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12 pages, 1127 KiB  
Article
Migraine Disability Improvement during Treatment with Galcanezumab in Patients with Chronic and High Frequency Episodic Migraine
by Francesca Schiano di Cola, Marco Bolchini, Salvatore Caratozzolo, Giulia Ceccardi, Matteo Cortinovis, Paolo Liberini, Renata Rao and Alessandro Padovani
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 273-284; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010017 - 13 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1486
Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the migraine outcome, in particular migraine disability, in chronic (CM) and high frequency episodic migraine (HFEM) patients in treatment with galcanezumab. Methods: The present study was conducted at the Headache Centre of Spedali [...] Read more.
Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the migraine outcome, in particular migraine disability, in chronic (CM) and high frequency episodic migraine (HFEM) patients in treatment with galcanezumab. Methods: The present study was conducted at the Headache Centre of Spedali Civili of Brescia. Patients were treated with galcanezumab 120 mg monthly. Clinical and demographical information were collected at the baseline (T0). Data about outcome, analgesics consumption and disability (MIDAS and HIT-6 scores) were collected quarterly. Results: Fifty-four consecutive patients were enrolled. Thirty-seven patients had a diagnosis of CM, 17 of HFEM. During treatment, patients reported a significant reduction in terms of mean headache/migraine days (p < 0.001), the attacks’ pain intensity (p = 0.001) and monthly consumed analgesics (p < 0.001). The MIDAS and HIT-6 scores also documented a significant improvement (p < 0.001). At the baseline, all patients documented a severe degree of disability (MIDAS score ≥ 21). Following six months of treatment, only 29.2% of patients still documented a MIDAS score ≥ 21, with one third of patients documenting little or no disability. A > 50% MIDAS reduction, compared to baseline, was observed in up to 94.6% of patients, following the first three months of treatment. A similar outcome was found for HIT-6 scores. A significant positive correlation was found between headache days and MIDAS at T3 and T6 (T6 > T3), but not baseline. Discussion: Monthly prophylactic treatment with galcanezumab was found to be effective in both CM and HFEM, especially in reducing migraine burden and disability. Full article
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26 pages, 419 KiB  
Review
Thwarting Alzheimer’s Disease through Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Hope for the Future
by Vijaya Laxmi Govindugari, Sowmya Golla, S. Deepak Mohan Reddy, Alisha Chunduri, Lakshmayya S. V. Nunna, Jahanavi Madasu, Vishwanutha Shamshabad, Mounica Bandela and Vidyani Suryadevara
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 162-187; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010013 - 28 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2720
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that slowly disintegrates memory and thinking skills. Age is known to be the major risk factor in AD, but there are several nonmodifiable and modifiable causes. The nonmodifiable risk factors such as family history, high cholesterol, [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that slowly disintegrates memory and thinking skills. Age is known to be the major risk factor in AD, but there are several nonmodifiable and modifiable causes. The nonmodifiable risk factors such as family history, high cholesterol, head injuries, gender, pollution, and genetic aberrations are reported to expediate disease progression. The modifiable risk factors of AD that may help prevent or delay the onset of AD in liable people, which this review focuses on, includes lifestyle, diet, substance use, lack of physical and mental activity, social life, sleep, among other causes. We also discuss how mitigating underlying conditions such as hearing loss and cardiovascular complications could be beneficial in preventing cognitive decline. As the current medications can only treat the manifestations of AD and not the underlying process, healthy lifestyle choices associated with modifiable factors is the best alternative strategy to combat the disease. Full article
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22 pages, 735 KiB  
Review
Narrative Review Concerning the Clinical Spectrum of Ophthalmological Impairments in Parkinson’s Disease
by Alina Zorina Stuparu, Sanda Jurja, Alexandru Floris Stuparu and Any Axelerad
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 140-161; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010012 - 26 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1662
Abstract
Ophthalmic non-motor impairments are common in Parkinson’s disease patients, from the onset of the neurodegenerative disease and even prior to the development of motor symptoms. This is a very crucial component of the potential for early detection of this disease, even in its [...] Read more.
Ophthalmic non-motor impairments are common in Parkinson’s disease patients, from the onset of the neurodegenerative disease and even prior to the development of motor symptoms. This is a very crucial component of the potential for early detection of this disease, even in its earliest stages. Since the ophthalmological disease is extensive and impacts all extraocular and intraocular components of the optical analyzer, a competent assessment of it would be beneficial for the patients. Because the retina is an extension of the nervous system and has the same embryonic genesis as the central nervous system, it is helpful to investigate the retinal changes in Parkinson’s disease in order to hypothesize insights that may also be applicable to the brain. As a consequence, the detection of these symptoms and signs may improve the medical evaluation of PD and predict the illness’ prognosis. Another valuable aspect of this pathology is the fact that the ophthalmological damage contributes significantly to the decrease in the quality of life of patients with Parkinson’s disease. We provide an overview of the most significant ophthalmologic impairments associated with Parkinson’s disease. These results certainly constitute a large number of the prevalent visual impairments experienced by PD patients. Full article
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21 pages, 5956 KiB  
Article
Inflammation and Treatment-Resistant Depression from Clinical to Animal Study: A Possible Link?
by Lara F. Almutabagani, Raghad A. Almanqour, Jawza F. Alsabhan, Abdulaziz M. Alhossan, Maha A. Alamin, Haya M. Alrajeh, Asma S. Alonazi, Ahmed M. El-Malky and Nouf M. Alrasheed
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 100-120; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010009 - 16 Jan 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2126
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and inflammation in humans and experimental models. For the human study, a retrospective cohort study was conducted with 206 participants; half were on antidepressants for major depressive disorder. The [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and inflammation in humans and experimental models. For the human study, a retrospective cohort study was conducted with 206 participants; half were on antidepressants for major depressive disorder. The patients were divided into healthy and depressed groups. Inflammation was assessed based on the values of the main inflammatory biomarkers (CRP, WBC and ESR). For the animal experiments, 35 adult male Wistar rats were assigned to stressed and non-stressed groups. Inflammation and stress were induced using lipopolysaccharide and chronic unpredictable mild stress. A 10 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection of fluoxetine (FLX), a known antidepressant, was simultaneously administered daily for 4 weeks. Behavioral tests were performed. The plasma levels of inflammatory and stress biomarkers were measured and were significantly higher in the stressed and non-responsive groups in both studies. This study provides evidence of the link between inflammation and TRD. We further observed a possible link via the Phosphorylated Janus Kinase 2 and Phosphorylated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (P-JAK2/P-STAT3) signaling pathway and found that chronic stress and high inflammation hinder the antidepressant effects of FLX. Thus, non-response to antidepressants could be mitigated by treating inflammation to improve the antidepressant effect in patients with TRD. Full article
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Graphical abstract

2022

Jump to: 2023

12 pages, 288 KiB  
Review
Cognitive Rehabilitation in Schizophrenia-Associated Cognitive Impairment: A Review
by Elli Zoupa, Olympia Bogiatzidou, Vasileios Siokas, Ioannis Liampas, Georgios Tzeferakos, Venetsanos Mavreas, Stelios Stylianidis and Efthimios Dardiotis
Neurol. Int. 2023, 15(1), 12-23; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15010002 - 29 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2156
Abstract
Patients suffering from schizophrenia often experience cognitive disturbances. Cognitive rehabilitation—computerized or non-computerized—is widely known as an alternative way to enhance cognitive functioning in patients with schizophrenia. The aim of the present review was to examine the role of cognitive rehabilitation (both computerized and [...] Read more.
Patients suffering from schizophrenia often experience cognitive disturbances. Cognitive rehabilitation—computerized or non-computerized—is widely known as an alternative way to enhance cognitive functioning in patients with schizophrenia. The aim of the present review was to examine the role of cognitive rehabilitation (both computerized and non-computerized) for the alleviation of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia patients. Fourteen relative studies were examined and included in the present review. The results revealed that both computerized and non-computerized cognitive rehabilitation could enhance cognitive functioning and more specifically memory, attention, executive functioning, processing speed and in a few cases, even non-cognitive impairments, such as other schizophrenia symptoms. The present results support the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation in schizophrenia patients, regardless of whether it is computerized or non-computerized. As the randomized control trials (RCTs) are limited in number, there is urgent need for more RCTs and longitudinal studies combining different kinds of interventions, as well as systematic reviews and meta-analyses, in order to further investigate and confirm the current results. Full article
6 pages, 1007 KiB  
Case Report
Anti-MOG Positive Bilateral Optic Neuritis and Brainstem Encephalitis Secondary to COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report
by Zisis Tsouris, Antonios Provatas, Christos Bakirtzis, Athina-Maria Aloizou, Vasileios Siokas, Vana Tsimourtou, Nikolaos Grigoriadis, Georgios M. Hadjigeorgiou and Efthimios Dardiotis
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(4), 991-996; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14040078 - 30 Nov 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2012
Abstract
(1) Introduction: There have been numerous reports on the neuroinvasive competence of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we present a case with anti-MOG positive bilateral optic neuritis and brainstem encephalitis secondary to COVID-19 infection. Additionally, we present a review of the current literature regarding the manifestation [...] Read more.
(1) Introduction: There have been numerous reports on the neuroinvasive competence of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we present a case with anti-MOG positive bilateral optic neuritis and brainstem encephalitis secondary to COVID-19 infection. Additionally, we present a review of the current literature regarding the manifestation of anti-MOG positive optic neuritis as well as anti-MOG positive encephalitis after COVID-19 infection. (2) Case Report: A 59-year-old female patient, with a recent history of COVID-19 infection, presented a progressive reduction of visual acuity and bilateral retrobulbar pain for the last 20 days. An ophthalmological examination revealed a decreased visual acuity (counting fingers) and a bilateral papilledema. An MRI scan of the brain revealed a mild thickening of the bilateral optic nerves and high-intensity lesions in the medial and right lateral pons. A high titer of IgG and IgM antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in serum and antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (anti-MOG) in serum and CSF were revealed. The diagnosis of anti-MOG brainstem encephalitis and optic neuritis was set. (3) Conclusions: The history of COVID-19 infection should raise awareness about these autoimmune and infection-triggered diseases, such as anti-MOG antibody disease. Full article
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10 pages, 1675 KiB  
Review
Lights on for Autism: Exploring Photobiomodulation as an Effective Therapeutic Option
by Catherine Hamilton, Ann Liebert, Vincent Pang, Pierre Magistretti and John Mitrofanis
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(4), 884-893; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14040071 - 27 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6525
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that starts in childhood and continues into adulthood. The core characteristics include difficulties with social interaction and communication, together with restricted and repetitive behaviours. There are a number of key abnormalities of brain structure and function that trigger [...] Read more.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that starts in childhood and continues into adulthood. The core characteristics include difficulties with social interaction and communication, together with restricted and repetitive behaviours. There are a number of key abnormalities of brain structure and function that trigger these behavioural patterns, including an imbalance of functional connectivity and synaptic transmission, neuronal death, gliosis and inflammation. In addition, autism has been linked to alterations in the gut microbiome. Unfortunately, as it stands, there are few treatment options available for patients. In this mini-review, we consider the effectiveness of a potential new treatment for autism, known as photobiomodulation, the therapeutic use of red to near infrared light on body tissues. This treatment has been shown in a range of pathological conditions-to improve the key changes that characterise autism, including the functional connectivity and survival patterns of neurones, the patterns of gliosis and inflammation and the composition of the microbiome. We highlight the idea that photobiomodulation may form an ideal treatment option for autism, one that is certainly worthy of further investigation. Full article
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11 pages, 1189 KiB  
Systematic Review
Erdheim–Chester Disease with Isolated CNS Involvement: A Systematic Review of the Literature
by Anam Haque, Carlos A. Pérez, Thejasvi A. Reddy and Rajesh K. Gupta
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(3), 716-726; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14030060 - 05 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2189
Abstract
Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare, sporadic, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis that can have various presentations and higher mortality in patients presenting with neurological symptoms. We performed a systematic review to investigate and chronicle the frequency of neurological manifestations, imaging findings, treatments, and outcomes [...] Read more.
Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare, sporadic, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis that can have various presentations and higher mortality in patients presenting with neurological symptoms. We performed a systematic review to investigate and chronicle the frequency of neurological manifestations, imaging findings, treatments, and outcomes in published ECD patients presenting with neurological symptoms. A PubMed literature search was conducted for articles (published between January 1980 and June 2021) on ECD cases presenting with neurological manifestations. We analyzed the data of 40 patients, including our patient. Cranial neuropathies and ataxia were the most frequent clinical manifestations. A total of 50% of the symptomatic ECD CNS lesions were intraparenchymal and nearly 33% of patients died due to the disease itself or complications. CNS involvement may be the only manifestation of ECD and sometimes may require a repeat biopsy with IHC testing for excellent treatment outcomes. Full article
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5 pages, 1191 KiB  
Case Report
A Patient with Erdheim-Chester Disease Limited to Central Nervous System
by Rajesh K. Gupta, Anam Haque, Thejasvi A. Reddy and Carlos A. Pérez
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(3), 678-682; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14030056 - 26 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1753
Abstract
Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare, sporadic, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis, a multisystem disorder, which has higher mortality when presented with CNS involvement. We report a 46-year-old woman who has ECD with exclusive CNS involvement. She presented with intracranial hemorrhage and had a poor [...] Read more.
Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare, sporadic, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis, a multisystem disorder, which has higher mortality when presented with CNS involvement. We report a 46-year-old woman who has ECD with exclusive CNS involvement. She presented with intracranial hemorrhage and had a poor response to corticosteroid and interferon. She required multiple debulking procedures and eventually responded well to cobimetinib. She has not had any other organ involvement thus far. This report highlights that CNS involvement may be the only manifestation of ECD and sometimes may require a repeat biopsy with IHC testing for excellent treatment outcomes. Full article
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10 pages, 1785 KiB  
Case Report
Relevance of Medullary Vein Sign in Neurosarcoidosis
by Richard Liberio, Emily Kramer, Anza B. Memon, Ryan Reinbeau, Parissa Feizi, Joe Joseph, Janet Wu and Shitiz Sriwastava
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(3), 638-647; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14030052 - 14 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2083
Abstract
Background: Central nervous system involvement is uncommon in patients with sarcoidosis. It remains a diagnostic challenge for clinicians, as there is a broad differential diagnosis that matches the presenting neurological signs. Often, the imaging findings also overlap with other disease entities. One understudied [...] Read more.
Background: Central nervous system involvement is uncommon in patients with sarcoidosis. It remains a diagnostic challenge for clinicians, as there is a broad differential diagnosis that matches the presenting neurological signs. Often, the imaging findings also overlap with other disease entities. One understudied finding in patients with neurosarcoidosis is the presence of medullary vein engorgement on SWI imaging, termed the “medullary vein sign”, which has been postulated to be a specific sign for neurosarcoidosis. This study aims to provide an understanding of the diagnostic potential of the medullary vein sign. Methods: Thirty-two patients who presented with neurologic signs concerning for possible neurosarcoidosis were analyzed retrospectively for the presence of the medullary vein sign. Results: Out of these cases, 7 cases of definitive neurosarcoidosis cases were found based on other imaging signs, biopsy and CSF analysis; the remaining were classified into groups as possible (16), probable (5) and (4) cases of other infectious meningoencephalitis including 2 cases of autoimmune encephalitis. Seven patients among all of these cases were found to have the medullary vein sign on imaging, with five cases with confirmed and two cases from possible neurosarcoidosis. The sensitivity of the medullary vein sign in this study was 71.4%, and the specificity was 92.3%. Discussion: The benefits of improving diagnostic criteria for neurosarcoidosis include more rapid diagnosis leading to more prompt treatment, less exposure to potentially harmful antibiotics or antifungals, and less long-term neurological effects. Our results support that the medullary vein sign will potentially fill in the diagnostic gaps that have challenged the timely diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis. Conclusions: Our findings support that the medullary vein sign has a high specificity and should be included in the diagnostic criteria for neurosarcoidosis. Full article
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10 pages, 288 KiB  
Brief Report
Self-Awareness of Cognitive Efficiency, Cognitive Status, Insight, and Financial Capacity in Patients with Mild AD, aMCI, and Healthy Controls: An Intriguing Liaison with Clinical Implications?
by Vaitsa Giannouli and Magdalini Tsolaki
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(3), 628-637; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14030051 - 30 Jul 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1992
Abstract
Objectives: This study compares objective measures of cognitive performance with subjective perception of specific performance on neuropsychological tests examining basic cognitive domains, including, for the first time, financial capacity. Additionally, differences in assessment between single- and multiple-domain aMCI, mild AD, and healthy elderly [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study compares objective measures of cognitive performance with subjective perception of specific performance on neuropsychological tests examining basic cognitive domains, including, for the first time, financial capacity. Additionally, differences in assessment between single- and multiple-domain aMCI, mild AD, and healthy elderly regarding insight are examined. Methods: Participants completed a number of neuropsychological tests and the Legal Capacity for Property Law Transactions Assessment Scale (LCPLTAS). After every test, participants were asked to complete the Clinical Insight Rating scale (CIR) and to self-evaluate their performance by comparing it to what they considered as average for people of their age and educational level. Results: These preliminary findings show significant differences in the self-assessment patterns of the four groups in measures of verbal memory, visuospatial perception and memory, executive functions, tests of attention, and financial capacity. Mild AD expressed the highest overestimations, followed by single- and multiple-domain aMCI as well as controls. Accuracy of self-report is not uniform across groups and functional areas. Conclusions: Unawareness of memory deficits in both MCI subtypes is contradictory to subjective memory complaints as being an important component for clinical diagnosis. Financial capacity is overestimated in MCI and mild AD, a finding that has a plethora of clinical and legal implications. Full article
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Graphical abstract

11 pages, 465 KiB  
Article
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Five-Word Test for Mild Cognitive Impairment Due to Alzheimer’s Disease
by Chiara Fornari, Francesco Mori, Nicola Zoppi, Ilenia Libri, Chiara Silvestri, Maura Cosseddu, Rosanna Turrone, Matteo Maffi, Salvatore Caratozzolo, Barbara Borroni, Alessandro Padovani and Alberto Benussi
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(2), 357-367; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14020029 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2418
Abstract
New diagnostic methods have been developed for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with the primary purpose of intercepting the transition-phase (mild cognitive impairment, MCI) between normal aging and dementia. We aimed to explore whether the five-word test (FWT) and the mini-mental [...] Read more.
New diagnostic methods have been developed for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with the primary purpose of intercepting the transition-phase (mild cognitive impairment, MCI) between normal aging and dementia. We aimed to explore whether the five-word test (FWT) and the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) are predictive for the early diagnosis of MCI due to AD (AD-MCI). We computed ROC analyses to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of MMSE and FWT in predicting abnormal CSF (t-Tau, p-Tau181, Aβ1–42) and amyloid-PET biomarkers. AD-MCI patients showed lower MMSE and FWT scores (all p < 0.001) than non-AD-MCI. The best predictor of amyloid plaques’ presence at amyloid-PET imaging was the encoding sub-score of the FWT (AUC = 0.84). Both FWT and MMSE had low/moderate accuracy for the detection of pathological CSF Aβ42, t-Tau and p-Tau181 values, with higher accuracy for the t-Tau/Aβ1–42 ratio. In conclusion, the FWT, as a single-domain cognitive screening test, seems to be prompt and moderately accurate tool for the identification of an underlying AD neuropathological process in patients with MCI, supporting the importance of associating biomarkers evaluation in the work-up of patients with dementing neurodegenerative disorders. Full article
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1 pages, 169 KiB  
Editorial
Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases
by Vasileios Siokas and Efthimios Dardiotis
Neurol. Int. 2022, 14(2), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14020027 - 28 Mar 2022
Viewed by 1603
Abstract
A multitude of diseases presenting a wide variety of phenotypic appearances are included in neurodegenerative disorders [...] Full article
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