Journal Description
Brain Sciences
Brain Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on neuroscience published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PSYNDEX, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 12.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.0 (2023)
Latest Articles
Effect of Aerobic Exercise versus Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation on Cognitive Function in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080771 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2024
Abstract
Objective: In this study, we investigated the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) and exercise on cognition in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Methods: A literature search was performed using the Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science. The time interval used
[...] Read more.
Objective: In this study, we investigated the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) and exercise on cognition in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Methods: A literature search was performed using the Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science. The time interval used for database construction was up to February 2024; the collected trials were subsequently screened, and the data were extracted. Results: We identified 12 studies with 208 pwMS treated with noninvasive brain stimulation. Seven of the twelve studies concluded that NIBS was effective in improving reaction time, attention and processing speed. Additionally, 26 articles investigated the effect of various types of exercise on cognition among 708 pwMS. Twelve studies used aerobic exercise only, three studies used resistance only, one used yoga, and ten studies used mixed forms of exercise, such as Pilates, resistance and Frenkel coordination. Aerobic exercise was effective in improving at least one cognitive domain in ten studies. Resistance exercise was found to improve cognition in three studies. Yoga failed to show any improvement in one study. Conclusions: NIBS might be an effective intervention for cognition improvement among pwMS. Aerobic exercise and combined forms of exercise are the most frequently investigated and applied and found to be effective. Further studies are needed, especially for resistance, balance and stretching exercises.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Health in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis)
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Open AccessPerspective
Real-Time Analysis of Neuronal Cell Cultures for CNS Drug Discovery
by
Millicent T. Akere, Kelsee K. Zajac, James D. Bretz, Anvitha R. Madhavaram, Austin C. Horton and Isaac T. Schiefer
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080770 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2024
Abstract
The ability to screen for agents that can promote the development and/or maintenance of neuronal networks creates opportunities for the discovery of novel agents for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Over the past 10 years, advances in robotics, artificial intelligence,
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The ability to screen for agents that can promote the development and/or maintenance of neuronal networks creates opportunities for the discovery of novel agents for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Over the past 10 years, advances in robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning have paved the way for the improved implementation of live-cell imaging systems for drug discovery. These instruments have revolutionized our ability to quickly and accurately acquire large standardized datasets when studying complex cellular phenomena in real-time. This is particularly useful in the field of neuroscience because real-time analysis can allow efficient monitoring of the development, maturation, and conservation of neuronal networks by measuring neurite length. Unfortunately, due to the relative infancy of this type of analysis, standard practices for data acquisition and processing are lacking, and there is no standardized format for reporting the vast quantities of data generated by live-cell imaging systems. This paper reviews the current state of live-cell imaging instruments, with a focus on the most commonly used equipment (IncuCyte systems). We provide an in-depth analysis of the experimental conditions reported in publications utilizing these systems, particularly with regard to studying neurite outgrowth. This analysis sheds light on trends and patterns that will enhance the use of live-cell imaging instruments in CNS drug discovery.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience)
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Open AccessReview
Substance-Induced Psychiatric Disorders, Epigenetic and Microbiome Alterations, and Potential for Therapeutic Interventions
by
Shabnam Nohesara, Hamid Mostafavi Abdolmaleky and Sam Thiagalingam
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080769 - 30 Jul 2024
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex biopsychosocial diseases that cause neurocognitive deficits and neurological impairments by altering the gene expression in reward-related brain areas. Repeated drug use gives rise to alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the expression of microRNAs in several
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Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex biopsychosocial diseases that cause neurocognitive deficits and neurological impairments by altering the gene expression in reward-related brain areas. Repeated drug use gives rise to alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the expression of microRNAs in several brain areas that may be associated with the development of psychotic symptoms. The first section of this review discusses how substance use contributes to the development of psychotic symptoms via epigenetic alterations. Then, we present more evidence about the link between SUDs and brain epigenetic alterations. The next section presents associations between paternal and maternal exposure to substances and epigenetic alterations in the brains of offspring and the role of maternal diet in preventing substance-induced neurological impairments. Then, we introduce potential therapeutic agents/approaches such as methyl-rich diets to modify epigenetic alterations for alleviating psychotic symptoms or depression in SUDs. Next, we discuss how substance use–gut microbiome interactions contribute to the development of neurological impairments through epigenetic alterations and how gut microbiome-derived metabolites may become new therapeutics for normalizing epigenetic aberrations. Finally, we address possible challenges and future perspectives for alleviating psychotic symptoms and depression in patients with SUDs by modulating diets, the epigenome, and gut microbiome.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Psychiatric Disorder Psychopharmacology)
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Open AccessArticle
A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Relationships between Supine Proprioception Assessments and Upright Functional Mobility
by
Rachel F. Bellisle, Brian T. Peters, Lars Oddsson, Scott J. Wood and Timothy R. Macaulay
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080768 - 30 Jul 2024
Abstract
Long-duration bedrest impairs upright postural and locomotor control, prompting the need for assessment tools to predict the effects of deconditioning on post-bedrest outcome measures. We developed a tilt board mounted vertically with a horizontal air-bearing sled as a potential supine assessment tool for
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Long-duration bedrest impairs upright postural and locomotor control, prompting the need for assessment tools to predict the effects of deconditioning on post-bedrest outcome measures. We developed a tilt board mounted vertically with a horizontal air-bearing sled as a potential supine assessment tool for a future bedrest study. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the association between supine proprioceptive assessments on the tilt board and upright functional mobility. Seventeen healthy participants completed variations of a supine tilt board task and an upright functional mobility task (FMT), which is an established obstacle avoidance course. During the supine tasks, participants lay on the air-bearing sled with axial loading toward the tilt board. Participants tilted the board to capture virtual targets on an overhead monitor during 30 s trials. The tasks included two dynamic tasks (i.e., double-leg stance matching mediolateral tilt targets over ±3° or ±9° ranges) and two static tasks (i.e., single-leg stance maintaining a central target position). The performances during the dynamic tasks were significantly correlated with the FMT time to completion. The dominant-leg static task performance showed a moderate trend with the FMT time to completion. The results indicate that supine proprioceptive assessments may be associated with upright ambulation performance, and thus, support the proposed application in bedrest studies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensory and Motor Neuroscience)
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Open AccessArticle
Investigating the Effects of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation on Cortical Oscillations and Network Dynamics
by
Sandeep Kumar Agnihotri and Jiang Cai
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080767 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Transcranial electrical brain stimulation techniques like transcranial direct current (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current (tACS) have emerged as potential tools for treating neurological diseases by modulating cortical excitability. These techniques deliver small electric currents to the brain non-invasively through electrodes on the scalp.
[...] Read more.
Transcranial electrical brain stimulation techniques like transcranial direct current (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current (tACS) have emerged as potential tools for treating neurological diseases by modulating cortical excitability. These techniques deliver small electric currents to the brain non-invasively through electrodes on the scalp. tDCS uses constant direct current which weakly alters the membrane voltage of cortical neurons, while tACS utilizes alternating current to target and enhance cortical oscillations, though the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood more specifically. To elucidate how tACS perturbs endogenous network dynamics, we simulated spiking neuron network models. We identified distinct roles of the depolarizing and hyperpolarizing phases in driving network activity towards and away from the strong nonlinearity provided by pyramidal neurons. Exploring resonance effects, we found matching tACS frequency to the network’s endogenous resonance frequency creates greater entrainment. Based on this, we developed an algorithm to determine the network’s endogenous frequency, phase, and amplitude, then deliver optimized tACS to entrain network oscillations. Together, these computational results provide mechanistic insight into the effects of tACS on network dynamics and could inform future closed-loop tACS systems that dynamically tune stimulation parameters to ongoing brain activity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurotechnology and Neuroimaging)
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Open AccessArticle
ASD-GANNet: A Generative Adversarial Network-Inspired Deep Learning Approach for the Classification of Autism Brain Disorder
by
Naseer Ahmed Khan and Xuequn Shang
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080766 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
The classification of a pre-processed fMRI dataset using functional connectivity (FC)-based features is considered a challenging task because of the set of high-dimensional FC features and the small dataset size. To tackle this specific set of FC high-dimensional features and a small-sized dataset,
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The classification of a pre-processed fMRI dataset using functional connectivity (FC)-based features is considered a challenging task because of the set of high-dimensional FC features and the small dataset size. To tackle this specific set of FC high-dimensional features and a small-sized dataset, we propose here a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (cGAN)-based dataset augmenter to first train the cGAN on computed connectivity features of NYU dataset and use the trained cGAN to generate synthetic connectivity features per category. After obtaining a sufficient number of connectivity features per category, a Multi-Head attention mechanism is used as a head for the classification. We name our proposed approach “ASD-GANNet”, which is end-to-end and does not require hand-crafted features, as the Multi-Head attention mechanism focuses on the features that are more relevant. Moreover, we compare our results with the six available state-of-the-art techniques from the literature. Our proposed approach results using the “NYU” site as a training set for generating a cGAN-based synthetic dataset are promising. We achieve an overall 10-fold cross-validation-based accuracy of 82%, sensitivity of 82%, and specificity of 81%, outperforming available state-of-the art approaches. A sitewise comparison of our proposed approach also outperforms the available state-of-the-art, as out of the 17 sites, our proposed approach has better results in the 10 sites.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics)
Open AccessArticle
Prior Engagement in Physical Activity Correlates with Enhanced Quality of Life Perceptions among Older Adults during COVID-19 Lockdown
by
Gian Mario Migliaccio, Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzales, Goce Kalcev, Elisa Cantone, Marcello Nonnis, Antonio Urban, Sonia Marchegiani, Samantha Pinna, Massimo Tusconi, Diego Primavera and Mauro Giovanni Carta
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080765 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate whether prior engagement in a physical exercise program correlated with enhanced perceptions of quality-of-life components among older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Methods: The cohort comprised elderly individuals (aged ≥ 65 years) who had previously
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Background: This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate whether prior engagement in a physical exercise program correlated with enhanced perceptions of quality-of-life components among older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Methods: The cohort comprised elderly individuals (aged ≥ 65 years) who had previously partaken in a 12-week randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of a mixed aerobic–anaerobic, moderate-intensity exercise program. Participants’ health-related quality of life was assessed using the Short Form Health Survey-12 item (SF-12) at the beginning of the initial trial and, again, one year later during the COVID-19 lockdown. In the exercise group, 44 participants were included, while the control group consisted of 49 participants, with computer-based, double-blind randomization conducted in Cagliari, Italy. The differences in scores for each SF-12 item between the two groups from T0 to T1 were compared using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed on average by age (exercise group vs. control group 72.20 ± 4.78 vs. 72.91 ± 4.77; F = 0.513, p = 0.476). A decrease from T0 to T1 towards a better score on the SF-12 was observed in the exercise group compared to the control group in item 1 (F = 67.463, p < 0.0001); in item 5 (F = 4.319, p = 0.041); item 8 (F = 4.269, p = 0.041); item 9 (F = 10.761, p = 0.001); item 10 (F = 170.433, p < 0.001); and item 11 (F = 4.075, p = 0.046). Conclusions: The results suggest that participation in a moderate physical exercise program one year prior may have equipped older adults with better coping mechanisms to navigate the stress and isolation imposed by the COVID-19 lockdown, as reflected by their enhanced scores on quality-of-life components pertaining to mental well-being. Exercise may confer a protective effect against the adverse psychological impacts of stressful events like the pandemic, even among older adults with chronic conditions. This study underscores the potential benefits of exercise interventions for promoting quality of life and preventing mood disorders in the elderly population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Cognitive Training on Executive Function and Cognition)
Open AccessReview
Unravelling the Acute, Chronic and Steroid-Refractory Management of High-Grade Neurological Immune-Related Adverse Events: A Call to Action
by
Antonio Malvaso, Pierpaolo Giglio, Luca Diamanti, Matteo Gastaldi, Elisa Vegezzi, Andrea Pace, Paola Bini and Enrico Marchioni
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080764 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Rare side effects of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are known as neurological immune-related adverse events (n-irAEs). Typically, n-irAEs affect the peripheral nervous system, primarily presenting as myositis, polyradiculoneuropathy, or cranial neuropathy. Less commonly, they impact the central nervous system, resulting in encephalitis, meningitis, or
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Rare side effects of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are known as neurological immune-related adverse events (n-irAEs). Typically, n-irAEs affect the peripheral nervous system, primarily presenting as myositis, polyradiculoneuropathy, or cranial neuropathy. Less commonly, they impact the central nervous system, resulting in encephalitis, meningitis, or myelitis. High-grade n-irAEs managing and recognizing remains challenging, considering the risk of mortality and long-term disability. To date, strong scientific data are lacking to support the management of high-grade clinical forms. We performed a systematic literature search, selecting all articles describing high-grade steroid-resistance n-irAEs. and we reported them in a practical review. Specifically, current recommendations advise stopping ICI use and beginning corticosteroid treatment. Our findings highlighted that in steroid-resistant n-irAEs, it should be recommended to quickly escalate to plasma exchange (PLEX) and/or intravenously immunoglobulins (IVIg), usually in association with other immunosuppressants. Furthermore, newer evidence supports the use of drugs that may specifically block inflammation without reducing the anti-tumour effect of ICIs. In this practical review, we provide new evidence regarding the therapeutic approach of high-grade n-irAEs, particularly in steroid-resistant cases. We would also stress the importance of informing the scientific community of the discrepancy between current guidelines and clinical evidence in these rare forms of pathology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurotoxicities from Cancer Immunotherapies)
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Open AccessReview
The Arterial Anatomy of the Cerebellum—A Comprehensive Review
by
Malwina Błaszczyk, Kajetan Ochwat, Sandra Necka, Maria Kwiecińska, Patryk Ostrowski, Michał Bonczar, Andrzej Żytkowski, Jerzy Walocha, Jerzy Mituś and Mateusz Koziej
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080763 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
The cerebellum, a major feature of the hindbrain, lies posterior to the pons and medulla and inferior to the posterior part of the cerebrum. It lies beneath the tentorium cerebelli in the posterior cranial fossa and consists of two lateral hemispheres connected by
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The cerebellum, a major feature of the hindbrain, lies posterior to the pons and medulla and inferior to the posterior part of the cerebrum. It lies beneath the tentorium cerebelli in the posterior cranial fossa and consists of two lateral hemispheres connected by the vermis. The cerebellum is primarily supplied by three arteries originating from the vertebrobasilar system: the superior cerebellar artery (SCA), the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA), and the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA). However, variations of the cerebellar arteries may occur, such as duplication of the SCA, SCA creating a common trunk with the posterior cerebral artery, triplication of the AICA, and agenesis of PICA, amongst others. Knowledge of the arterial anatomy of the cerebellum is crucial, as inadequate blood supply to this region can result in diminished motor functioning, significantly impacting the quality of life for patients. The present study demonstrated the importance of adequate anatomical knowledge of the arteries supplying the cerebellum. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched to gather articles on the anatomical characteristics and variations of the arterial supply of the cerebellum. It is the most comprehensive and up-to-date review available in the literature. The possible variations of these vessels may be clinically silent or present with clinical symptoms such as neurovascular compression syndromes of the cranial nerves and aneurysms. With a comprehensive understanding of the cerebellar arterial system, physicians can enhance their diagnostic and treatment capabilities, ultimately leading to more effective management of cerebellar vascular-related issues and other neurological deficits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Neuroanatomy: Recent Updates and Future Perspectives)
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Open AccessArticle
BOLD Cerebrovascular Reactivity and NOVA Quantitative MR Angiography in Adult Patients with Moyamoya Vasculopathy Undergoing Cerebral Bypass Surgery
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Loris Garbani Nerini, Jacopo Bellomo, Lara Maria Höbner, Vittorio Stumpo, Elisa Colombo, Christiaan Hendrik Bas van Niftrik, Tilman Schubert, Zsolt Kulcsár, Susanne Wegener, Andreas Luft, Luca Regli, Jorn Fierstra, Martina Sebök and Giuseppe Esposito
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080762 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Revascularization surgery for the symptomatic hemisphere with hemodynamic impairment is effective for Moyamoya vasculopathy patients. However, careful patient selection is crucial and ideally supported by advanced quantitative hemodynamic imaging. Recently, blood oxygenation level-dependent cerebrovascular reactivity (BOLD-CVR) and quantitative magnetic resonance angiography with non-invasive
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Revascularization surgery for the symptomatic hemisphere with hemodynamic impairment is effective for Moyamoya vasculopathy patients. However, careful patient selection is crucial and ideally supported by advanced quantitative hemodynamic imaging. Recently, blood oxygenation level-dependent cerebrovascular reactivity (BOLD-CVR) and quantitative magnetic resonance angiography with non-invasive optimal vessel analysis (qMRA-NOVA) have gained prominence in assessing these patients. This study aims to present the results of BOLD-CVR and qMRA-NOVA imaging along with the changes in cerebral hemodynamics and flow status following flow augmentation with superficial temporal artery–middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass in our Moyamoya vasculopathy patient cohort. Symptomatic patients with Moyamoya vasculopathy treated at the Clinical Neuroscience Center of the University Hospital Zurich who underwent hemodynamic and flow imaging (BOLD-CVR and qMRA-NOVA) before and after bypass were included in the analysis. Reduced hemispheric volume flow rates, as well as impaired BOLD-CVR, were measured in all 12 patients with Moyamoya vasculopathy before STA-MCA bypass surgery. Following the surgical procedure, post-operative BOLD-CVR demonstrated a non-significant increase in BOLD-CVR values within the revascularized, symptomatic middle cerebral artery territory and cerebral hemisphere. The results of the statistical tests should be viewed as indicative due to the small sample size. Additionally, post-operative qMRA-NOVA revealed a significant improvement in the hemispheric volume flow rate of the affected hemisphere due to the additional bypass flow rate. Our findings affirm the presence of hemodynamic and flow impairments in the symptomatic hemisphere of the Moyamoya vasculopathy patients. Bypass surgery proves effective in improving both BOLD-CVR impairment and the hemispheric volume flow rate in our patient cohort.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Latest Exploration of Cerebrovascular Diseases: From Preclinical Research to Treatment)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Intramedullary Metastases to Conus Medullaris: A Review of the Literature with a Case Illustration
by
Serdar Kaya, Fred C. Lam, Mary Ann Stevenson, Rouzbeh Motiei-Langroudi and Ekkehard M. Kasper
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080761 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Intramedullary metastases to the conus medullaris spinalis (IMCM) pose a rare problem in neurosurgical oncology and are usually encountered as a complicated clinical scenario in the setting of advanced systemic malignancy with poor overall survival. Despite the progress in interdisciplinary oncological care,
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Introduction: Intramedullary metastases to the conus medullaris spinalis (IMCM) pose a rare problem in neurosurgical oncology and are usually encountered as a complicated clinical scenario in the setting of advanced systemic malignancy with poor overall survival. Despite the progress in interdisciplinary oncological care, their management remains complicated. Research Question: We performed a PRISMA-guided literature search to achieve a pooled analysis of all previously reported IMCM cases that contained detailed clinical data on this problem to investigate the currently employed management options and respective outcomes. We obtained a clinical vignette and performed a comprehensive narrative review of IMCM management. Materials and Methods: The PubMed/MEDLINE/Google Scholar, Cochrane and Embase databases were systematically searched according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. All relevant publications retrieved were subjected to full-text analysis in detail and pertinent information was extracted. Results: The most common systemic primary tumor site as the origin of IMCM was the lung, followed by the breast. Overall, the pooled median survival was 6 months (range 0.5–36 months). Patients who received both surgery and radiation therapy had the longest overall survival (OS) (mean 9.9 months) and those who received no oncological treatment (neither surgery nor adjuvant therapy) had the shortest OS (mean 3.6 months). In cases where surgical resection was performed as part of the treatment plan for metastases, those with partial tumor resection had a more favorable neurological outcome than patients who underwent aggressive gross total resection. Conclusions: Based on the results of our analysis, we find that diligent microsurgical resection (subtotal or total) followed by radiation therapy appears as an effective and suitable treatment in select patients with IMCM. When surgery is not feasible as part of the treatment algorithm, radiation therapy alone (conventional or radiosurgery) also appears to be a suitable treatment option that confers a benefit to the patient.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neuro-oncology)
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Open AccessReview
Physiological Biomarkers of Upper Motor Neuron Dysfunction in ALS
by
Aicee Dawn Calma, Mehdi van den Bos, Nathan Pavey, Cláudia Santos Silva, Parvathi Menon and Steve Vucic
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080760 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Upper motor neuron (UMN) dysfunction is an important feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for the diagnosis and understanding of pathogenesis. The identification of UMN signs forms the basis of ALS diagnosis, although may be difficult to discern, especially in the setting of
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Upper motor neuron (UMN) dysfunction is an important feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for the diagnosis and understanding of pathogenesis. The identification of UMN signs forms the basis of ALS diagnosis, although may be difficult to discern, especially in the setting of severe muscle weakness. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) techniques have yielded objective physiological biomarkers of UMN dysfunction in ALS, enabling the interrogation of cortical and subcortical neuronal networks with diagnostic, pathophysiological, and prognostic implications. Transcranial magnetic stimulation techniques have provided pertinent pathogenic insights and yielded novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Cortical hyperexcitability, as heralded by a reduction in short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and an increase in short interval intracortical facilitation (SICF), has been associated with lower motor neuron degeneration, patterns of disease evolution, as well as the development of specific ALS clinical features including the split hand phenomenon. Reduction in SICI has also emerged as a potential diagnostic aid in ALS. More recently, physiological distinct inhibitory and facilitatory cortical interneuronal circuits have been identified, which have been shown to contribute to ALS pathogenesis. The triple stimulation technique (TST) was shown to enhance the diagnostic utility of conventional TMS measures in detecting UMN dysfunction. Resting-state EEG is a novel neurophysiological technique developed for directly interrogating cortical neuronal networks in ALS, that have yielded potentially useful physiological biomarkers of UMN dysfunction. The present review discusses physiological biomarkers of UMN dysfunction in ALS, encompassing conventional and novel TMS techniques developed to interrogate the functional integrity of the corticomotoneuronal system, focusing on pathogenic, diagnostic, and prognostic utility.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Recent Considerations for Diagnosis, Pathogenesis and Therapy)
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Open AccessArticle
Integrating Machine Learning with Robotic Rehabilitation May Support Prediction of Recovery of the Upper Limb Motor Function in Stroke Survivors
by
Sara Quattrocelli, Emanuele Francesco Russo, Maria Teresa Gatta, Serena Filoni, Raffaello Pellegrino, Leonardo Cangelmi, Daniela Cardone, Arcangelo Merla and David Perpetuini
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080759 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
Motor impairment is a common issue in stroke patients, often affecting the upper limbs. To this standpoint, robotic neurorehabilitation has shown to be highly effective for motor function recovery. Notably, Machine learning (ML) may be a powerful technique able to identify the optimal
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Motor impairment is a common issue in stroke patients, often affecting the upper limbs. To this standpoint, robotic neurorehabilitation has shown to be highly effective for motor function recovery. Notably, Machine learning (ML) may be a powerful technique able to identify the optimal kind and intensity of rehabilitation treatments to maximize the outcomes. This retrospective observational research aims to assess the efficacy of robotic devices in facilitating the functional rehabilitation of upper limbs in stroke patients through ML models. Specifically, clinical scales, such as the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (A-D) (FMA), the Frenchay Arm Test (FAT), and the Barthel Index (BI), were used to assess the patients’ condition before and after robotic therapy. The values of these scales were predicted based on the patients’ clinical and demographic data obtained before the treatment. The findings showed that ML models have high accuracy in predicting the FMA, FAT, and BI, with R-squared (R2) values of 0.79, 0.57, and 0.74, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that integrating ML into robotic therapy may have the capacity to establish a personalized and streamlined clinical practice, leading to significant improvements in patients’ quality of life and the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurorehabilitation)
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Open AccessRetraction
RETRACTED: Abou-Donia et al. Using Plasma Autoantibodies of Central Nervous System Proteins to Distinguish Veterans with Gulf War Illness from Healthy and Symptomatic Controls. Brain Sci. 2020, 10, 610
by
Mohamed B. Abou-Donia, Elizabeth S. Lapadula, Maxine H. Krengel, Emily Quinn, Jessica LeClair, Joseph Massaro, Lisa A. Conboy, Efi Kokkotou, Maria Abreu, Nancy G. Klimas, Daniel D. Nguyen and Kimberly Sullivan
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080758 - 29 Jul 2024
Abstract
The Brain Sciences Editorial Office retracts the article “Using Plasma Autoantibodies of Central Nervous System Proteins to Distinguish Veterans with Gulf War Illness from Healthy and Symptomatic Controls” [...]
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Dorsal Anterior Cingulate Cortex Coordinates Contextual Mental Imagery for Single-Beat Manipulation during Rhythmic Sensorimotor Synchronization
by
Maho Uemura, Yoshitada Katagiri, Emiko Imai, Yasuhiro Kawahara, Yoshitaka Otani, Tomoko Ichinose, Katsuhiko Kondo and Hisatomo Kowa
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080757 - 28 Jul 2024
Abstract
Flexible pulse-by-pulse regulation of sensorimotor synchronization is crucial for voluntarily showing rhythmic behaviors synchronously with external cueing; however, the underpinning neurophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) plays a key role by coordinating both proactive and reactive
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Flexible pulse-by-pulse regulation of sensorimotor synchronization is crucial for voluntarily showing rhythmic behaviors synchronously with external cueing; however, the underpinning neurophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) plays a key role by coordinating both proactive and reactive motor outcomes based on contextual mental imagery. To test our hypothesis, a missing-oddball task in finger-tapping paradigms was conducted in 33 healthy young volunteers. The dynamic properties of the dACC were evaluated by event-related deep-brain activity (ER-DBA), supported by event-related potential (ERP) analysis and behavioral evaluation based on signal detection theory. We found that ER-DBA activation/deactivation reflected a strategic choice of motor control modality in accordance with mental imagery. Reverse ERP traces, as omission responses, confirmed that the imagery was contextual. We found that mental imagery was updated only by environmental changes via perceptual evidence and response-based abductive reasoning. Moreover, stable on-pulse tapping was achievable by maintaining proactive control while creating an imagery of syncopated rhythms from simple beat trains, whereas accuracy was degraded with frequent erroneous tapping for missing pulses. We conclude that the dACC voluntarily regulates rhythmic sensorimotor synchronization by utilizing contextual mental imagery based on experience and by creating novel rhythms.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue EEG and Event-Related Potentials)
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Open AccessArticle
High Neural Efficiency in Unconscious Perceptual Processing among Table Tennis Athletes: An Event-Related Potential Study
by
Jilong Shi, Haojie Huang, Fatima A. Nasrallah and Anmin Li
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080756 - 27 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: Neural efficiency refers to the brain’s ability to function with reduced resource expenditure while maintaining high performance levels. Previous research has demonstrated that table tennis athletes have greater neural efficiency at the conscious level. However, it is unknown whether they exhibit greater
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Background: Neural efficiency refers to the brain’s ability to function with reduced resource expenditure while maintaining high performance levels. Previous research has demonstrated that table tennis athletes have greater neural efficiency at the conscious level. However, it is unknown whether they exhibit greater neural efficiency at the unconscious level. Therefore, this study aims to investigate unconscious perceptual processing and neural efficiency in elite table tennis athletes through tasks involving the judgment of spin serves. Methods: Fifty healthy, right-handed individuals participated in this study, including 25 elite table tennis athletes and 25 control participants without professional training experience. To evaluate the unconscious perceptual characteristics of both groups, we used a combination of masked priming paradigm and event-related potential techniques. Results: The behavioral results reveal that, compared to the control group, the table tennis athletes displayed reduced reaction times (p < 0.001) and increased priming effects (p < 0.001) under unconscious conditions. The electrophysiological findings indicated that both groups elicited N1, N2, and P2 components. Notably, compared to the control group, the table tennis athletes exhibited significantly lower amplitude responses at the occipital lobe electrodes PO3, POz, PO4, O1, Oz, and O2 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: These results further support the neural efficiency hypothesis, indicating that prolonged professional training enhances athletes’ capacities for specialized unconscious cognitive processing.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Assessment and Training of Perceptual-Motor Performance)
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Open AccessArticle
A Novel Battery to Assess “Cool” and “Hot” Executive Functions: Sensitivity to Age Differences in Middle Childhood
by
Laura Fernández-García, Jessica Phillips-Silver and María Teresa Daza González
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080755 - 27 Jul 2024
Abstract
The main goal of the current work was to assess the age sensitivity of a novel battery of cool and hot Executive Function (EF) tasks developed for the middle childhood period: the Executive Brain Battery (EBB). To this end, we carried out a
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The main goal of the current work was to assess the age sensitivity of a novel battery of cool and hot Executive Function (EF) tasks developed for the middle childhood period: the Executive Brain Battery (EBB). To this end, we carried out a first study in which the EBB was administered to six age groups ranging from 6 to 11. Additionally, in a second study, we compared children at the end of middle childhood (age 11 years) and adult performance in the EBB. Results showed that tasks included in the EBB were suitable for all age groups, with more age-related changes being found in cool than hot EF tasks. Moreover, at the end of middle childhood, children reach an adult-like performance in most of these cool and hot tasks. The present findings extend previous research suggesting that cool and hot EFs exhibit different patterns of age-related growth in middle childhood. Additionally, the EEB could become a useful tool for research on EFs during middle childhood that could be adapted for a wide range of populations.
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(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Neuroscience)
Open AccessSystematic Review
Is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Effective for Cognitive Dysfunction in Substance Use Disorders? A Systematic Review
by
Xinbi Zhang, Mingming Huang, Ying Yu, Xiaoke Zhong, Shengyu Dai, Yuanfu Dai and Changhao Jiang
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080754 - 27 Jul 2024
Abstract
Patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) often suffer from cognitive dysfunction (CD), affecting their quality of life and daily functioning. Current treatments, including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, have limited efficacy and notable side effects. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive technique that modulates
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Patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) often suffer from cognitive dysfunction (CD), affecting their quality of life and daily functioning. Current treatments, including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, have limited efficacy and notable side effects. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive technique that modulates cortical activity, shows promise in improving cognitive function with minimal side effects and low cost, and could potentially serve as a valuable adjunct to existing therapies. This systematic review aims to evaluate the literature on the effectiveness of tDCS for CD in SUD patients to inform clinical practice and future research. Following PRISMA guidelines, the review includes studies that used tDCS for SUD-related CD. The criteria for inclusion encompassed participants aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of SUD, the use of tDCS (either conventional or high-definition), control groups receiving sham stimulation or no intervention, and cognitive outcome measures for substance-related cognitive function using validated tools. Databases searched were Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and PsycINFO, with specific keywords. Twenty-two studies met the criteria, suggesting tDCS can improve cognitive functions in SUD patients, though results varied. Effectiveness may depend on the brain area targeted, stimulation parameters, task requirements, and individual differences. tDCS shows potential in treating SUD-related CD, but further research is needed to optimize stimulation protocols and address study variability. Future studies should use functional magnetic resonance imaging to explore the brain mechanisms by which tDCS improves cognitive function in SUDs and focus on larger, long-term trials to confirm efficacy and refine tDCS treatment parameters.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Based Methods in Neurological Diseases: New Advances and Perspectives)
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Open AccessArticle
Neural Substrates for Early Data Reduction in Fast Vision: A Psychophysical Investigation
by
Serena Castellotti and Maria Michela Del Viva
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080753 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
To ensure survival, the visual system must rapidly extract the most important elements from a large stream of information. This necessity clashes with the computational limitations of the human brain, so a strong early data reduction is required to efficiently process information in
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To ensure survival, the visual system must rapidly extract the most important elements from a large stream of information. This necessity clashes with the computational limitations of the human brain, so a strong early data reduction is required to efficiently process information in fast vision. A theoretical early vision model, recently developed to preserve maximum information using minimal computational resources, allows efficient image data reduction by extracting simplified sketches containing only optimally informative, salient features. Here, we investigate the neural substrates of this mechanism for optimal encoding of information, possibly located in early visual structures. We adopted a flicker adaptation paradigm, which has been demonstrated to specifically impair the contrast sensitivity of the magnocellular pathway. We compared flicker-induced contrast threshold changes in three different tasks. The results indicate that, after adapting to a uniform flickering field, thresholds for image discrimination using briefly presented sketches increase. Similar threshold elevations occur for motion discrimination, a task typically targeting the magnocellular system. Instead, contrast thresholds for orientation discrimination, a task typically targeting the parvocellular system, do not change with flicker adaptation. The computation performed by this early data reduction mechanism seems thus consistent with magnocellular processing.
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(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral Neuroscience)
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Open AccessArticle
Neural Dynamics of Processing Inflectional Morphology: An fMRI Study on Korean Inflected Verbs
by
Joonwoo Kim, Sangyub Kim and Kichun Nam
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(8), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14080752 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to elucidate the neural mechanisms underpinning the visual recognition of morphologically complex verbs in Korean, a morphologically rich, agglutinative language with inherent polymorphemic characteristics. In an fMRI experiment with a lexical decision paradigm, we investigated whether verb inflection types
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The present study aimed to elucidate the neural mechanisms underpinning the visual recognition of morphologically complex verbs in Korean, a morphologically rich, agglutinative language with inherent polymorphemic characteristics. In an fMRI experiment with a lexical decision paradigm, we investigated whether verb inflection types (base, regular, and irregular) are processed through separate mechanisms or a single system. Furthermore, we explored the semantic influence in processing inflectional morphology by manipulating the semantic ambiguity (homonymous vs. unambiguous) of inflected verbs. The results showed equivalent activation levels in the left inferior frontal gyrus for both regular and irregular verbs, challenging the dichotomy between the two. Graded effects of verb regularity were observed in the occipitotemporal regions, with regular inflections eliciting increased activation in the fusiform and lingual gyri. In the middle occipital gyrus, homonyms showed decreased activation relative to that of unambiguous words, specifically for base and irregular forms. Furthermore, the angular gyrus exhibited significant modulation with all verb types, indicating a semantic influence during morphological processing. These findings support single-system theories and the connectionist framework, challenging the assumptions of purely orthographic morphological decomposition and dual-mechanism accounts. Furthermore, they provide evidence for a semantic influence during morphological processing, with differential reliance on semantic activation for regular and irregular inflections.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuropsychology of Reading)
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