Brain Sciences

2 pages, 136 KiB

Open AccessRetraction

RETRACTED: Erira et al. Differential Regulation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/PTEN Pathway between Low- and High-Grade Gliomas. Brain Sci. 2021, 11, 1655

by Alveiro Erira, Fernando Velandia, José Penagos, Camilo Zubieta and Gonzalo Arboleda

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060660 - 19 Jun 2025

Abstract

The Journal retracts the article “Differential Regulation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/PTEN Pathway between Low- and High-Grade Gliomas” [...] Full article

11 pages, 3146 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kyphoplasty as a Treatment Option for Traumatic Burst Fractures: A Case Series Evaluating Patient Outcomes and Functional Benefits

by Anoop S. Chinthala, Barnabas Obeng-Gyasi, Trenton A. Line, Matthew K. Tobin, Gordon Mao and Bradley N. Bohnstedt

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060659 - 19 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive approaches for spinal fractures aiming to reduce pain, increase mobilization, and prevent further vertebral height loss. Their efficacy in treating burst fractures has been questioned due to fragment mobility and concerns for cement leakage. We aim [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive approaches for spinal fractures aiming to reduce pain, increase mobilization, and prevent further vertebral height loss. Their efficacy in treating burst fractures has been questioned due to fragment mobility and concerns for cement leakage. We aim to report outcomes in patients who underwent kyphoplasty for spinal burst fractures. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients with burst fractures treated from 2018 to 2023. Those who underwent kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty and had follow-up imaging were included. Clinical characteristics and follow-up outcomes were obtained through chart review. The primary outcome was the need for surgical intervention after kyphoplasty. Results: We identified ten patients (mean age 67.9 years, range 36–93 years) with burst fractures who underwent kyphoplasty/vertebroplasty. Six received kyphoplasty/vertebroplasty within 1 week of injury and four between 1 and 4 months post-injury. Nine patients had a TLICS score of 2, and one had a TLICS score of 5. Kyphoplasty/vertebroplasty was performed for pain management in seven patients and significant/worsening vertebral height loss in three patients. At follow-up, 70% of patients reported an improvement in pain and 75% of patients reported improved mobility. One patient experienced progression of an L2 burst fracture but improved with conservative management. No patient required additional surgical fixation. Conclusions: In this series of ten patients with spinal burst fractures, standalone kyphoplasty was a safe and effective treatment. Our findings suggest kyphoplasty may be a viable treatment option for select spinal traumatic burst fractures, offering potential pain relief and mobility improvement in the short term. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Spinal Surgery: Surgical Optimization and Technological Innovation)

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19 pages, 1222 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effectiveness of Pain Neuroscience Education in Physical Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Andrea Sánchez-Robalino, Hugo Sinchi-Sinchi and Andrés Ramírez

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060658 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Pain neuroscience education (PNE), when combined with physical therapy interventions, has been recognized as an effective strategy for improving pain management and reducing disability in individuals with chronic pain. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness [...] Read more.

Background: Pain neuroscience education (PNE), when combined with physical therapy interventions, has been recognized as an effective strategy for improving pain management and reducing disability in individuals with chronic pain. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PNE in combination with rehabilitation modalities, with a focus on pain reduction and functional improvement. Methods: A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in Cochrane, PsycInfo, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify randomized clinical trials examining the effects of combining PNE with physical therapy. Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Data extraction focused on demographic and methodological characteristics, as well as outcomes related to pain and disability. Results: The findings indicate that PNE combined with physical therapy significantly reduces pain intensity and enhances functionality. The mean pain score decreased from 5.89 (pre-intervention) to 3.03 (post-intervention), with similar improvements observed in disability outcomes. However, heterogeneity among studies—attributable to sociocultural and methodological differences—suggests the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. Conclusions: The integration of PNE with physical therapy appears to be an effective approach for reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in patients with chronic pain. Nevertheless, further research is recommended to address existing heterogeneity and to refine standardized intervention protocols. Full article

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

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Graphical abstract

62 pages, 1422 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Neural Correlates of Chewing Gum—A Neuroimaging Review of Its Effects on Brain Activity

by James Chmiel and Agnieszka Malinowska

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060657 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Chewing gum is a widespread, seemingly mundane behaviour that has been linked to diverse benefits such as improved cognitive performance, reduced stress, and enhanced alertness. While animal and human research indicate that mastication engages extensive sensorimotor networks and may also modulate higher-order [...] Read more.

Introduction: Chewing gum is a widespread, seemingly mundane behaviour that has been linked to diverse benefits such as improved cognitive performance, reduced stress, and enhanced alertness. While animal and human research indicate that mastication engages extensive sensorimotor networks and may also modulate higher-order cognitive and emotional processes, questions remain about the specific neural mechanisms involved. This review combines findings from neuroimaging studies—including fMRI, fNIRS, and EEG—that investigate how chewing gum alters brain activity in humans. Methods: Using a targeted search strategy, we screened the major databases (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, and Cochrane) from January 1980 to March 2025 for clinical studies published in English. Eligible studies explicitly measured brain activity during gum chewing using EEG, fNIRS, or fMRI. Results: After a title/abstract screening and a full-text review, thirty-two studies met the inclusion criteria for this review: 15 utilising fMRI, 10 using fNIRS, 2 using both fNIRS and EEG, and 5 employing EEG. Overall, the fMRI investigations consistently reported strong activation in bilateral motor and somatosensory cortices, the supplementary motor area, the insula, the cerebellum, and the thalamus, during gum chewing, with several studies also noting involvement of higher-order prefrontal and cingulate regions, particularly under stress conditions or when participants chewed flavoured gum. The fNIRS findings indicated that chewing gum increased oxygenated haemoglobin in the prefrontal cortex, reflecting heightened cortical blood flow; these effects were often amplified when the gum was flavoured or when participants were exposed to stressful stimuli, suggesting that both sensory and emotional variables can influence chewing-related cortical responses. Finally, the EEG studies documented transient increases in alpha and beta wave power during gum chewing, particularly when flavoured gum was used, and reported short-lived enhancements in vigilance or alertness, which tended to subside soon after participants ceased chewing. Conclusions: Neuroimaging data indicate that chewing gum reliably engages broad sensorimotor circuits while also influencing regions tied to attention, stress regulation, and possibly memory. Although these effects are often short-lived, the range of outcomes—from changes in cortical oxygenation to shifts in EEG power—underscores chewing gum’s capacity to modulate brain function beyond simple oral motor control. However, at this time, the neural changes associated with gum chewing cannot be directly linked to the positive behavioural and functional outcomes observed in studies that measure these effects without the use of neuroimaging techniques. Future research should address longer-term impacts, refine methods to isolate flavour or stress variables, and explore potential therapeutic applications for mastication-based interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Network Connectivity Analysis in Neuroscience)

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14 pages, 439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trajectories of Emotional Exhaustion and Their Contribution to Depression: Optimism as a Buffer in Young People

by Martha Cruz-Soto, Emmanuel Said Baeza-Torres, Luis Castañeda Pelaez, Jesús Rojas Jaimes and Jorge Palacios-Delgado

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060656 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: In Mexico, depression is one of the main mental health problems, with university students being particularly susceptible. Recent studies have explored the relationship between emotional factors and depression in young people. Our study investigates whether optimism buffers the indirect relationship between burnout, [...] Read more.

Background: In Mexico, depression is one of the main mental health problems, with university students being particularly susceptible. Recent studies have explored the relationship between emotional factors and depression in young people. Our study investigates whether optimism buffers the indirect relationship between burnout, stress and coping in mitigating the negative effects on depressive symptoms in young university students. We hypothesized that optimism would moderate the negative impacts of stress and emotional exhaustion on depression. Methods: In total, 497 students of a university in Mexico participated (63% female and 36.6% male), ranging in age from 18 to 29. Students completed screenings for depression, emotional scales and optimism measures. Results: Emotional exhaustion and stress are direct predictors of depression. Although coping strategies did not have a direct effect, optimism mediated the relationship between stress and depression. Conclusions: These findings suggest that promoting optimism in university students could be an effective strategy to reduce depressive symptoms, especially in the context of socioemotional vulnerability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Psychopathology and Developmental Trajectories)

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11 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Glutathione, Retinol and α- and γ-Tocopherols Concentrations Between Children with and Without Epilepsy: A Single-Center Case–Control Study

by Izabela Szołtysek-Bołdys, Wioleta Zielińska-Danch, Łucja Gajowska, Ilona Kopyta and Beata Sarecka-Hujar

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060655 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Long-term treatment with anti-seizure medications (ASMs) may reduce antioxidant levels, which consequently impairs the brain’s ability to counteract oxidative damage. This study aimed to assess the concentrations of selected antioxidants (i.e., glutathione, retinol, [...] Read more.

Background: Oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Long-term treatment with anti-seizure medications (ASMs) may reduce antioxidant levels, which consequently impairs the brain’s ability to counteract oxidative damage. This study aimed to assess the concentrations of selected antioxidants (i.e., glutathione, retinol, and α- and γ-tocopherols) in children with epilepsy treated with polytherapy. Methods: The study included 21 children with epilepsy treated with ≥2 ASMs for at least 6 months (mean age 7.1 ± 4.4 years) and 23 control children without epilepsy (mean age 7.4 ± 3.9 years). Both groups were recruited at the Department of Pediatric Neurology, the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice (Poland). The concentrations of glutathione, retinol, and α- and γ-tocopherols were determined in blood serum by HPLC. The antioxidant levels were compared between sex and age subgroups of individuals with epilepsy. Results: In the group of individuals with epilepsy, the percentage of females was 38% and in the control group it was 30%. There were no differences in antioxidant levels between female and male individuals with epilepsy, nor between younger epileptic children (0–6 years) and older children (>6 years). Individuals with epilepsy had significantly lower glutathione levels than the control group (1.5 ± 0.3 µmol/L vs. 2.4 ± 1.2 µmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001). In turn, the ratios of both α-tocopherol/glutathione and γ-tocopherol/glutathione were higher in individuals with epilepsy than in the control group (p = 0.042 and p = 0.004, respectively). Individuals with epilepsy taking ASM combinations other than valproic acid (VPA) and levetiracetam (LEV) had a lower level of both retinol and glutathione than individuals on VPA and LEV treatment (for retinol 0.44 ± 0.13 µmol/L vs. 0.6 ± 0.1 µmol/L, respectively, p = 0.047, and for glutathione 1.3 ± 0.3 µmol/L vs. 1.8 ± 0.3 µmol/L, respectively, p = 0.003). In the individuals with epilepsy, the level of α-tocopherol decreased with age (r = −0.505, p = 0.019). In turn, in the control group, the levels of retinol and γ-tocopherol increased with age (r = 0.573, p = 0.004 and r = 0.461, p = 0.027, respectively). Conclusions: Glutathione levels significantly differed between children with and without epilepsy. The concentration of α-tocopherol decreased with age in pediatric individuals with epilepsy. The levels of both retinol and glutathione were higher in individuals with epilepsy taking VPA and LEV treatment compared to individuals on ASMs combination other than VPA and LEV. Full article

38 pages, 1158 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Updated and Comprehensive Review Exploring the Gut–Brain Axis in Neurodegenerative Disorders and Neurotraumas: Implications for Therapeutic Strategies

by Ahmed Hasan, Sarah Adriana Scuderi, Anna Paola Capra, Domenico Giosa, Andrea Bonomo, Alessio Ardizzone and Emanuela Esposito

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060654 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

The gut–brain axis (GBA) refers to the biochemical bidirectional communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gastrointestinal tract, linking brain and gut functions. It comprises a complex network of interactions involving the endocrine, immune, autonomic, and enteric nervous systems. The balance [...] Read more.

The gut–brain axis (GBA) refers to the biochemical bidirectional communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gastrointestinal tract, linking brain and gut functions. It comprises a complex network of interactions involving the endocrine, immune, autonomic, and enteric nervous systems. The balance of this bidirectional pathway depends on the composition of the gut microbiome and its metabolites. While the causes of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) vary, the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in their development and prognosis. NDDs are often associated with an inflammation-related gut microbiome. However, restoring balance to the gut microbiome and reducing inflammation may have therapeutic benefits. In particular, introducing short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, key metabolites that support gut homeostasis, can help counteract the inflammatory microbiome. This strong pathological link between the gut and NDDs underscores the gut–brain axis (GBA) as a promising target for therapeutic intervention. This review, by scrutinizing the more recent original research articles published in PubMed (MEDLINE) database, emphasizes the emerging notion that GBA is an equally important pathological marker for neurological movement disorders, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease and neurotraumatic disorders such as traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. Additionally, the GBA presents a promising therapeutic target for managing these diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Gut–Brain Axis: Exploring the Interactions Between the Microbiota and the Nervous System)

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15 pages, 1434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Multisensory Integration in Clinical Settings: Comparing an Established Laboratory Method with a Novel Digital Health App

by Valerie Nunez, James Gordon, Mooyeon Oh-Park, Jessica Silvers, Tanya Verghese, Vance Zemon and Jeannette R. Mahoney

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060653 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Recent research has correlated an inability to integrate sensory information with several adverse clinical outcomes, including slow gait, poor balance, and falls. For this reason, a digital health iPhone app (CatchU^® v3.1.2) has been strategically designed to bring the measurement of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Recent research has correlated an inability to integrate sensory information with several adverse clinical outcomes, including slow gait, poor balance, and falls. For this reason, a digital health iPhone app (CatchU^® v3.1.2) has been strategically designed to bring the measurement of visual–somatosensory integration into clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to determine whether CatchU could reliably capture the phenomenon of multisensory integration compared to a validated piece of laboratory apparatus (“tristimulator”). Methods: Using both the established tristimulator and CatchU, 50 participants (76.5 ± 6.2 years of age, 60% female) completed a simple reaction time test in response to visual, somatosensory, and combined visual–somatosensory stimulation. A reaction time cumulative distribution frequency (CDF) curve was calculated for each stimulus condition, and together these were used to calculate the CDF difference function (the multisensory visual–somatosensory CDF minus a magnitude-limited sum of the unisensory visual and somatosensory CDFs). From this, the magnitude of visual–somatosensory integration (VSI) was obtained. Results: CatchU captured multisensory integration in both average reaction times and the CDF difference function. It also produced a similar magnitude of VSI and showed no systematic bias compared to the laboratory stimulator. Additionally, CatchU responses were significantly less variable than responses recorded using the tristimulator. Conclusions: Despite using different forms of stimulation and different methods to record responses, these results reveal that CatchU can be used to produce the same inferences as laboratory apparatus. This confirms the ability of CatchU to reliably capture VSI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Multisensory Integration: Predicting Age-Related Clinical Outcomes)

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15 pages, 306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Cognitive Reserve Could Protect from Dementia? An Analysis of Everyday Activities and Social Behaviors During Lifespan

by Francesca Morganti and Ilia Negri

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060652 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: In the last decade, there has been a notable increase in the prevalence of cognitive decline among the elderly population. This phenomenon is further compounded by the concurrent rise in life expectancy, indicating a growing concern for the health and well-being of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: In the last decade, there has been a notable increase in the prevalence of cognitive decline among the elderly population. This phenomenon is further compounded by the concurrent rise in life expectancy, indicating a growing concern for the health and well-being of individuals in this demographic. Dementia has become a disease with a strong social impact, not exclusively limited to its health dimension. It is generally accepted that lifestyle factors and psychological attitudes toward life challenges may serve as protective mechanisms against pathological cognitive decline. The objective of this contribution is to evaluate the impact of lifestyle factors (e.g., physical activity, employment history, nutrition, technology use, etc.), stressors (e.g., illness, rare events, abandonments, home moving, etc.), and sociability (e.g., marriage, active friend network, children proximity, work relationships, etc.) at the onset of pathological cognitive frailty. Methods: In this study, a semi-structured interview was administered to 32 individuals over the age of 65 during their initial neuropsychological evaluation for suspected dementia. Results: Linear regressions with Mini Mental State Examination scores indicated that lifestyle and sociability factors offer a degree of protection against cognitive decline, while stressors were found to be unrelated to this phenomenon. Conclusions: The utilization of contemporary technologies, the possession of a driver’s license, and the maintenance of an active social network have been demonstrated to possess a high degree of predictive value with respect to cognitive reserve in the context of aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)

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16 pages, 2453 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Neuroanatomical Correlates of Visceral Pain: An Activation Likelihood Estimation Meta-Analysis

by Christoph Müller and Hagen Maxeiner

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060651 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Acute visceral pain is among the most common symptoms of patients seeking in-hospital treatment and is related to various thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic diseases. It is characterized by distinguishable sensory qualities and can be described on a sensory-discriminative and affective-motivational level. These [...] Read more.

Background: Acute visceral pain is among the most common symptoms of patients seeking in-hospital treatment and is related to various thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic diseases. It is characterized by distinguishable sensory qualities and can be described on a sensory-discriminative and affective-motivational level. These sensory qualities correlate with the activation of cerebral areas involved in the neuronal processing of visceral pain and can be visualized using functional neuroimaging. Methods: An ALE (activation likelihood estimation) meta-analysis of a total of 21 studies investigating different balloon distention paradigms during either PET or fMRI was performed to demonstrate the neuroanatomical correlates of visceral pain. The ALE meta-analysis was performed using the GingerAle software version 3.0.2 and was displayed with the Mango software 4.1 on an anatomical MNI template. Results: Summarizing studies investigating the functional neuroanatomy of visceral pain, bihemispheric activation of the insula, the thalamus, and clusters involving the right inferior parietal lobe/postcentral gyrus as well as the left postcentral gyrus/parietal inferior lobe were observed. Conclusions: This ALE meta-analysis substantiates the concept of two distinguishable neuroanatomical pathways of visceral pain which are related to either the sensory-discriminative or the affective-motivational dimension of pain processing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy)

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14 pages, 874 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Robotic-Assisted Gait Training Combined with Multimodal Rehabilitation for Functional Recovery in Acute Dermatomyositis: A Case Report

by Wilmer Esparza, Rebeca Benalcazar-Aguilar, Gabriela Moreno-Andrade and Israel Vinueza-Fernández

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060650 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

This case report examines the impact of robotic-assisted therapy (Lokomat) on functional recovery in a 28-year-old male patient with acute dermatomyositis (DM), an autoimmune inflammatory myopathy causing progressive muscle weakness and disability. The patient underwent 21 sessions of robotic therapy combined with physical [...] Read more.

This case report examines the impact of robotic-assisted therapy (Lokomat) on functional recovery in a 28-year-old male patient with acute dermatomyositis (DM), an autoimmune inflammatory myopathy causing progressive muscle weakness and disability. The patient underwent 21 sessions of robotic therapy combined with physical therapy, and occupational therapy over seven weeks. Assessments were conducted at baseline, week 10, and week 21 using standardized measures for balance, muscle strength, and functionality. Results demonstrated significant improvements across all domains: balance scores progressed from severe impairment (4/56 Berg, 0/28 Tinetti) to near-normal function (55/56, 24/28, respectively); muscle strength increased from grade 1/5 to 4/5 (MMT-8) in all tested muscle groups; and functionality improved from moderate dependence (59/126 FIM) to complete independence (126/126). The trunk functionality scores showed remarkable recovery from 12/100 to 100/100 (TCT), indicating restored trunk control. Lokomat-assisted therapy combined with conventional rehabilitation effectively improves proximal weakness and postural instability in DM. Robotic therapy enhances motor learning via repetitive movements and reduces therapist workload. Though limited by a single-case design, this study offers preliminary evidence for robotic rehabilitation in DM, previously unexplored. Controlled studies are needed to standardize protocols and validate results in larger cohorts. Advanced technologies show promise for functional recovery in inflammatory myopathies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Use of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in Neurorehabilitation: From Diagnosis to Treatment)

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35 pages, 994 KiB

Open AccessReview

Understanding the Radiobiology of Central Nervous System Diseases in the Golden Age of Radiosurgery—Does It Matter?

by Fred C. Lam, John Byun, Santosh Guru, Deyaldeen AbuReesh, Yusuke S. Hori, Elham Rahimy, Erqi Liu Pollom, Scott Soltys, David J. Park and Steven D. Chang

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060649 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) deploys image-guidance to deliver multiple beams of highly focused ionizing radiation to tightly conformed anatomical targets, leading to precise dosing of radiation-induced cellular injury and predictable biological responses that can be applied to treat a multitude of central nervous system [...] Read more.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) deploys image-guidance to deliver multiple beams of highly focused ionizing radiation to tightly conformed anatomical targets, leading to precise dosing of radiation-induced cellular injury and predictable biological responses that can be applied to treat a multitude of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Herein we review the principles of CNS radiobiology, comparing differences between SRS and conventional radiation therapy. We then review the radiobiology of SRS as it pertains to the treatment of CNS tumors and vascular malformations and the emerging application of SRS for the treatment of functional and psychiatric neurological disorders. Finally, we look toward the future in combining SRS with other novel technologies to improve treatment outcomes for patients with CNS disorders. Full article

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12 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sleep in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: An Exploratory Investigation of Heart Rate Variability

by M. C. Lopes, S. Roizenblatt, L. M. A. Soster and K. Spruyt

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060648 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Introduction: The monitoring of autonomic nervous balance during childhood remains underexplored. However, heart rate variability (HRV) is widely recognized as a biomarker of health risk across the lifespan. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), a group of chronic inflammatory joint disorders, is associated with persistent [...] Read more.

Introduction: The monitoring of autonomic nervous balance during childhood remains underexplored. However, heart rate variability (HRV) is widely recognized as a biomarker of health risk across the lifespan. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), a group of chronic inflammatory joint disorders, is associated with persistent inflammation and pain, both of which contribute to increased cardiovascular risk, commonly linked to reduced HRV. Among HRV parameters, very-low frequency (VLF) components have been associated with physiological recovery processes. This study aimed to assess HRV during sleep in patients with JIA. Methods: We studied 10 patients with JIA and 10 age-, gender-, and Tanner stage-matched healthy controls. All participants underwent polysomnographic monitoring following an adaptation night in the sleep laboratory. HRV was analyzed using standard time and frequency domain measures over 5 min epochs across all sleep stages. Frequency components were classified into low- and high-frequency bands, and time domain measures included the standard deviation of the beat-to-beat intervals. Group differences in HRV parameters were assessed using nonparametric tests for independent samples, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: JIA exhibited greater sleep disruption than controls, including reduced NREM sleep, longer total sleep time, and increased wake time after sleep onset. HRV analyses in both time and frequency domains revealed significant differences between groups across all stages of sleep. In JIA patients, the standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval during slow wave sleep (SWS) and total power across all sleep stages (p < 0.05) was reduced. In JIA patients, the standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval during slow wave sleep and total power across all sleep stages were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). VLF power was also significantly lower in JIA patients across all sleep stages (p = 0.002), with pronounced reductions during N2 and SWS (p = 0.03 and p = 0.02, respectively). A group effect was observed for total power across all stages, mirroring the VLF findings. Additionally, group differences were detected in LF/HF ratio analyses, although values during N2, SWS, and REM sleep did not differ significantly between groups. Notably, the number of affected joints showed a moderate positive correlation with the parasympathetic HRV parameter. Conclusions: Patients with JIA exhibited sleep disruption and alterations in cardiovascular autonomic functioning during sleep. Reduced HRV across all sleep stages in these patients suggests underlying autonomic nervous dysfunction. Addressing sleep disturbances in patients with chronic pain may serve as an effective strategy for managing their cardiovascular risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Global Sleep and Circadian Health)

23 pages, 862 KiB

Open AccessReview

Shaping the Future of Psychiatric Neurosurgery: From Connectomic Precision to Technological Integration

by Cristina V. Torres Díaz, Marta Navas García, Paloma Pulido Rivas, Mónica Lara Almunia and José Antonio Fernández Alén

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060647 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Psychiatric neurosurgery is undergoing a profound transformation, propelled by advances in neurotechnology, connectomics, and personalized medicine. Once controversial, surgical interventions are now guided by detailed functional brain mapping and precise neuromodulation techniques, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), which offer therapeutic options for [...] Read more.

Psychiatric neurosurgery is undergoing a profound transformation, propelled by advances in neurotechnology, connectomics, and personalized medicine. Once controversial, surgical interventions are now guided by detailed functional brain mapping and precise neuromodulation techniques, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), which offer therapeutic options for patients with severe, treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. This manuscript reviews the current techniques, including lesion-based procedures and DBS, and explores their mechanisms of action, from synaptic plasticity to large-scale network modulation. It highlights recent progress in neuroimaging, connectomic targeting, and artificial intelligence applications for surgical planning and the prediction of treatment responses. Ethical considerations—including informed consent, identity, and long-term follow-up—are critically examined in light of these advances. Furthermore, the growing role of minimally invasive procedures and wearable integrated neurotechnologies is discussed as part of a shift toward dynamic and adaptive interventions. Although still investigational, psychiatric neurosurgery is emerging as a technologically sophisticated field that demands rigorous clinical evaluation, ethical accountability, and an individualized approach to restoring function and autonomy in some of the most disabling mental illnesses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Stimulation for Psychiatric Disorders: Emerging Evidence and New Perspectives—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 1732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pain Hypersensitivity and Increased Urinary Tetrahydrobiopterin Levels in Mice Submitted to High-Fat Diet

by Tuany Eichwald, Débora da Luz Scheffer, Leonardo Barros, Alexandre Solano, Vivian De Souza Menegassi, Ananda Christina Staats Pires, Camila Sartor Spivakoski, Rodrigo A. Da Silva, Joana M. Gaspar, Marcelo Fernando Ronsoni and Alexandra Latini

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060646 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the impact of high-fat-diet(HFD)-induced obesity on pain sensitivity and tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels. The effect of moderate-intensity physical exercise, an anti-inflammatory non-pharmacological intervention, on pain scores was also investigated. Methods: Adult male C57BL/J6 mice were fed standard [...] Read more.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the impact of high-fat-diet(HFD)-induced obesity on pain sensitivity and tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels. The effect of moderate-intensity physical exercise, an anti-inflammatory non-pharmacological intervention, on pain scores was also investigated. Methods: Adult male C57BL/J6 mice were fed standard or an HFD for eight weeks. Their total body weight, food intake, locomotor and motivational behavior, and pain reflexes were measured. A subgroup of animals underwent physical exercise for five days per week over six weeks. Blood was collected for glucose tolerance testing and levels of lactate. Urine samples were collected to measure BH4 levels. Results: We showed that the HFD increased weight gain, epididymal white adipose tissue, and the percentage of body weight as epididymal fat. These anthropometric alterations were characterized by impaired glucose tolerance at four and eight weeks of the dietary intervention. It was also observed that reduced locomotor activity and higher pain scores in the HFD-fed mice were prevented by a physical exercise intervention. The HFD also induced an increase in urinary BH4 levels at four and eight weeks of intervention. Conclusions: The HFD increased scores of chemical and mechanical hyperalgesias, as well as urinary BH4 levels. Urinary BH4 can be proposed as a potential easy-to-access, sensitive, and reliable biomarker of pain development, and a promising target for the control of pain hypersensitivity in obesity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights into Neuroinflammation and Brain Disease)

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19 pages, 966 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sensitivity to Instruction Strategies in Motor Learning Is Predicted by Anterior–Posterior TMS Motor Thresholds

by Michael L. Perrier, Kylee R. Graham, Jessica E. Vander Vaart, W. Richard Staines and Sean K. Meehan

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060645 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: The impact of exogenous explicit knowledge on early motor learning is highly variable and may be influenced by excitability within the procedural sensorimotor network. Recent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies suggest that variability in interneuron recruitment by anterior–posterior (AP) currents is linked [...] Read more.

Background: The impact of exogenous explicit knowledge on early motor learning is highly variable and may be influenced by excitability within the procedural sensorimotor network. Recent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies suggest that variability in interneuron recruitment by anterior–posterior (AP) currents is linked to differences in functional connectivity between premotor and motor regions. Objectives: This study used controllable pulse parameter TMS (cTMS) to assess how AP-sensitive interneuron excitability interacts with explicit knowledge to influence motor learning. Methods: Seventy-two participants were grouped as AP-positive (n = 36) and AP-negative groups (n = 36) based on whether an AP threshold could be obtained before reaching maximal stimulator output. A narrow (30 µs) stimulus was employed to target the longest latency corticospinal inputs selectively. Participants then practiced a continuous visuomotor tracking task and completed a delayed retention test. Half of each group received explicit knowledge of a repeated sequence embedded between random sequences. Random sequence tracking performance assessed general sensorimotor efficiency; repeated sequence performance assessed sequence-specific learning. Results: Both AP₃₀-positive participants, with and without explicit knowledge, and the AP₃₀-negative without explicit knowledge demonstrated similar improvements in sensorimotor efficiency driven by offline consolidation. However, AP₃₀-negative participants given explicit instruction exhibited significantly reduced improvement in sensorimotor efficiency, primarily due to impaired offline consolidation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that individuals with low excitability in long-latency AP-sensitive inputs may be more vulnerable to interference from explicit instruction. The current results highlight the importance of accounting for individual differences in interneuron excitability when developing instructional strategies for motor learning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in Motor Control and Learning)

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17 pages, 1891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Robotic Hand Rehabilitation on Functional Recovery in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Loredana Raciti, Desiree Latella, Gianfranco Raciti, Chiara Sorbera, Mirjam Bonanno, Laura Ciatto, Giuseppe Andronaco, Angelo Quartarone, Giuseppe Di Lorenzo and Rocco Salvatore Calabrò

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060644 - 15 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background/Objective: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor and cognitive impairments that significantly affect quality of life. Robotic-assisted therapies, such as the AMADEO^® system, have shown potential in rehabilitating upper limb function but are underexplored in PD. This study aimed to assess [...] Read more.

Background/Objective: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor and cognitive impairments that significantly affect quality of life. Robotic-assisted therapies, such as the AMADEO^® system, have shown potential in rehabilitating upper limb function but are underexplored in PD. This study aimed to assess the effects of Robotic-Assisted Therapy (RAT) compared to Conventional Physical Therapy (CPT) on cognitive, motor, and functional outcomes in PD patients. Methods: A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted with PD patients allocated to RAT or CPT. Participants were assessed at baseline (T0) and post-intervention (T1) using measures including MoCA, FAB, UPDRS-III, 9-Hole Peg Test, FMA-UE, FIM, and PDQ-39. Statistical analyses included ANCOVA and regression models. Results: RAT led to significant improvements in global cognition (MoCA, p < 0.001) and executive functioning (FAB, p = 0.0002) compared to CPT. Motor function improved, particularly in wrist and hand control (FMA-UE), whereas changes in fine motor dexterity (9-Hole Peg Test) were less consistent and did not reach robust significance. No significant improvements were observed in broader quality of life domains, depressive symptoms, or memory-related cognitive measures. However, quality of life improved significantly in the stigma subdomain of the PDQ-39 (p = 0.0075). Regression analyses showed that baseline motor impairment predicted cognitive outcomes. Conclusions: RAT demonstrated superior cognitive and motor benefits in PD patients compared to CPT. These results support the integration of robotic rehabilitation into PD management. Further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed to validate these findings and assess their sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Neurorehabilitation: Emerging Techniques and Technologies)

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20 pages, 1885 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hypoxia’s Impact on Hippocampal Functional Connectivity: Insights from Resting-State fMRI Studies

by Julia Micaux, Abir Troudi Habibi, Franck Mauconduit and Marion Noulhiane

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 643; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060643 - 14 Jun 2025

Abstract

The hippocampus is one of the brain’s most vulnerable structures to hypoxia, playing a crucial role in memory and spatial navigation. This sensitivity makes it a key region for understanding the effects of hypoxia on brain connectivity. This review examines the effects of [...] Read more.

The hippocampus is one of the brain’s most vulnerable structures to hypoxia, playing a crucial role in memory and spatial navigation. This sensitivity makes it a key region for understanding the effects of hypoxia on brain connectivity. This review examines the effects of both acute and chronic hypoxia on resting-state networks (RSNs) that contribute to hippocampal functional connectivity (FC). Hypoxia, characterized by a reduced oxygen supply to the brain, can result from environmental factors (such as high-altitude exposure) or hypoxia-induced pathological conditions (including obstructive sleep apnea and hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy). The hippocampus’s susceptibility to hypoxic damage significantly impairs brain connectivity. This review examines through rs-fMRI studies how hypoxia alters hippocampal FC, focusing on its effects on RSNs involved in hippocampal functions, and compares acute and chronic hypoxic states. We seek to determine whether distinct or shared patterns of FC changes exist between acute and chronic hypoxia, and how hypoxia indirectly changes hippocampal FC, given the challenges of studying it in isolation. By addressing these questions, this review aims to deepen our understanding of hypoxia-induced changes in hippocampal FC and provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate its effects on cognitive functions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Network Connectivity Analysis in Neuroscience)

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15 pages, 2337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is It About Speech or About Prediction? Testing Between Two Accounts of the Rhythm–Reading Link

by Susana Silva, Ana Rita Batista, Nathércia Lima Torres, José Sousa, Aikaterini Liapi, Styliani Bairami and Vasiliki Folia

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(6), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15060642 - 14 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The mechanisms underlying the positive association between reading and rhythmic skills remain unclear. Our goal was to systematically test between two major explanations: the Temporal Sampling Framework (TSF), which highlights the relation between rhythm and speech encoding, and a competing explanation based [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The mechanisms underlying the positive association between reading and rhythmic skills remain unclear. Our goal was to systematically test between two major explanations: the Temporal Sampling Framework (TSF), which highlights the relation between rhythm and speech encoding, and a competing explanation based on rhythm’s role in enhancing prediction within visual and auditory sequences. Methods: We compared beat versus duration perception for their associations with encoding and sequence learning (prediction-related) tasks, using both visual and auditory sequences. We also compared these associations for Portuguese vs. Greek participants, since Portuguese stress-timed rhythm is more compatible with music-like beats lasting around 500 ms, in contrast to the syllable-timed rhythm of Greek. If rhythm acts via speech encoding, its effects should be more salient in Portuguese. Results: Consistent with the TSF’s predictions, we found a significant association between beat perception and auditory encoding in Portuguese but not in Greek participants. Correlations between time perception and sequence learning in both modalities were either null or insufficiently supported in both groups. Conclusions: Altogether, the evidence supported the TSF-related predictions in detriment of the Rhythm-as-Predictor (RaP) hypothesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurolinguistics)

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