Neurological Diseases: Prevention, Diagnostics, Treatment and Rehabilitation

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Research".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 2 December 2025 | Viewed by 4549

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Bioengineering, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iași, Romania
Interests: hydro-thermotherapy; genetics; physiology; stroke; neurological diseases

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Guest Editor
Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: rehabilitation; gerontology; geriatrics; neurological diseases

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to announce a Special Issue on “Neurological Diseases: Prevention, Diagnostics, Treatment and Rehabilitation” in the journal Life. This Special Issue aims to gather cutting-edge research on innovative prevention strategies, advanced treatment methodologies, and comprehensive rehabilitation approaches for neurological diseases. The focus will be on interdisciplinary research, including artificial intelligence applications, cellular and molecular therapies, and novel therapeutic interventions that can significantly impact patient outcomes. We invite researchers to contribute original research articles, reviews, and case studies that address various aspects of neurological disease management.

Dr. Constantin Munteanu
Prof. Dr. Gelu Onose
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • neurological diseases
  • stroke prevention
  • stroke treatment
  • rehabilitation
  • artificial intelligence
  • cellular therapy
  • molecular therapy
  • interdisciplinary approaches
  • therapeutic interventions

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 697 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Global Cognition and Executive Functions Through Water-Based Exercise in Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Sutaya Meekum, Kornanong Yuenyongchaiwat, Nongnuch Luangpon, Piyapa Keawutan and Patcharee Kooncumchoo
Life 2025, 15(3), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030420 - 7 Mar 2025
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Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a slight cognitive decline with the ability to perform normal activities in daily life and an increased risk of dementia. Land-based exercise enhances cognitive abilities, but combining cognitive and physical interventions offers greater benefits in MCI. Water-based exercise [...] Read more.
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a slight cognitive decline with the ability to perform normal activities in daily life and an increased risk of dementia. Land-based exercise enhances cognitive abilities, but combining cognitive and physical interventions offers greater benefits in MCI. Water-based exercise is a low-impact activity that minimizes joint strain and reduces injury risk. This study investigated the effects of water-based exercise with or without cognitive training on cognition in older adults with MCI. Thirty-seven participants aged 65 years or older with MCI were randomly assigned to two groups: water-based exercise (W; n = 18) and water-based exercise combined with cognitive training (W-COG; n = 19). Both groups performed 60 min water-based aerobic sessions 3 days per week for 12 weeks. Cognitive assessments were conducted at baseline and after 12 weeks. Post-intervention, 77.77% of the W group and 89% of the W-COG group had improved their cognitive ability. Both groups showed significant improvements in their global cognition (p < 0.001, p < 0.001) and visuospatial ability (p < 0.01 for W, p < 0.05 for W-COG), respectively. In addition, cognitive flexibility and shifting abilities improved only in the W-COG group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that water-based exercise combined with cognitive training enhances cognitive functions more effectively than exercise alone in older adults with MCI. Full article
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14 pages, 1719 KiB  
Article
The Role of IL-6 and TNF-Alpha Biomarkers in Predicting Disability Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
by Ciprian-Ionuț Băcilă, Maria-Gabriela Vlădoiu, Mădălina Văleanu, Doru-Florian-Cornel Moga and Pia-Manuela Pumnea
Life 2025, 15(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15010047 - 2 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1258
Abstract
Introduction: Inflammatory biomarkers, including Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), play a significant role in influencing stroke outcomes, particularly in the progression of post-stroke disability. While numerous studies have suggested a correlation between elevated levels of these cytokines and poor functional recovery, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Inflammatory biomarkers, including Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), play a significant role in influencing stroke outcomes, particularly in the progression of post-stroke disability. While numerous studies have suggested a correlation between elevated levels of these cytokines and poor functional recovery, further investigation is needed to understand their prognostic value in acute ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study on 56 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke, evaluating IL-6 and TNF-alpha levels on days 1 and 7 post symptom onset. Stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and functional outcomes were measured with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the association between biomarker levels and stroke severity and recovery. Results: Our study demonstrated that elevated levels of IL-6 and TNF-alpha on both days 1 and 7 were significantly correlated with greater stroke severity and poorer functional outcomes, as indicated by higher NIHSS and mRS scores. These findings are consistent with broader research indicating strong associations between inflammatory cytokines and post-stroke disability, further reinforcing their relevance as prognostic indicators. Conclusions: IL-6 and TNF-alpha are promising biomarkers for predicting stroke severity and functional recovery in acute ischemic stroke. Monitoring these cytokines in the early stages of stroke could aid in identifying patients at higher risk for long-term disability, potentially guiding personalized therapeutic strategies. Further research into anti-inflammatory therapies targeting these cytokines may improve stroke rehabilitation and outcomes. Full article
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12 pages, 249 KiB  
Article
Operative Factors Associated with Severe Hypotension in the Postoperative Setting in Patients with Carotid Artery Endarterectomy
by Mircea Robu, Irina-Maria Margarint, Ovidiu Stiru, Andreea Raluca Hanganu, Bogdan Radulescu, Vlad Ichim, Gabriel-Petre Gorecki, Miruna Guzu, Claudia Mazilu, Vlad Anton Iliescu and Horatiu Moldovan
Life 2024, 14(11), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111435 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1036
Abstract
Background: Carotid endarterectomy is a recognized method for preventing stroke for both symptomatic and asymptomatic hemodynamically carotid artery stenosis. Hemodynamic depression is more frequently associated with carotid artery stenting, while postoperative hypertension and cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome are known frequent complications after carotid endarterectomy. [...] Read more.
Background: Carotid endarterectomy is a recognized method for preventing stroke for both symptomatic and asymptomatic hemodynamically carotid artery stenosis. Hemodynamic depression is more frequently associated with carotid artery stenting, while postoperative hypertension and cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome are known frequent complications after carotid endarterectomy. Severe hypotension after carotid revascularization is associated with a higher risk of perioperative stroke, myocardial infarction, and death, with limited data existing regarding risk factors. This study aims to investigate intraoperative risk factors for severe hypotension after carotid endarterectomy. Methods: A total of 160 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy were included in this study. Patients with other cardiac conditions that required concomitant cardiac surgery, patients with incomplete medical records, and patients considered high risk for surgery were excluded. Results: The incidence of severe hypotension was 30.6%. Patients with severe hypotension after carotid endarterectomy had a higher incidence of diabetes, moderate mitral valve regurgitation, a history of percutaneous coronary intervention, and higher operative times. Using logistic regression, temporary shunt insertion was independently associated with severe postoperative hypotension (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.09–4.71, p = 0.029). Conclusions: This result favors the selective shunting strategy when performing carotid endarterectomies, especially for those patients with comorbidities predisposing to postoperative complications. Full article

Review

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27 pages, 540 KiB  
Review
Efficacy of Neurorehabilitation Approaches in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: A Comprehensive Review
by Diana Andrei, Alexandra Laura Mederle, Laura Andreea Ghenciu, Claudia Borza and Alexandra Corina Faur
Life 2025, 15(3), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030503 - 20 Mar 2025
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Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health issue, causing long-term disabilities and imposing considerable socioeconomic and healthcare challenges. While advancements in acute care have improved survival rates, the demand for effective neurorehabilitation is increasing. This narrative review explores the evidence on [...] Read more.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health issue, causing long-term disabilities and imposing considerable socioeconomic and healthcare challenges. While advancements in acute care have improved survival rates, the demand for effective neurorehabilitation is increasing. This narrative review explores the evidence on neurorehabilitation strategies for TBI, focusing on interventions targeting cognitive, motor, and psychological recovery. A total of 32 studies were included and categorized into six approaches: non-invasive brain stimulation, virtual reality (VR), computer-based training, telerehabilitation, robot-assisted therapy (RAT), and mixed approaches. Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), showed variable effectiveness in improving cognitive outcomes. VR-based therapies enhanced attention and executive functions, while RAT, such as Lokomat and exoskeletons, improved gait symmetry and functional mobility. Computer-assisted programs demonstrated benefits in rehabilitating social cognition and executive functions. Telerehabilitation and telephone-based treatments provided short-term gains but lacked sustained effects. Overall, cognitive improvements were better described and represented, while several motor improvements lacked consistency. Despite the promising results, significant gaps remain, including heterogeneity in methodologies, small sample sizes, and limited long-term outcome data. Full article
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