Effect of spiritual practices on higher brain functions, psychological health, and stress response

Background: Spiritual beliefs include the relationship to a superior being and recognition of a sense that there is something greater than myself. Psychological health is not just absence of mental disorder but a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his/her own abilities, can cope up with normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his/her community. Aims and Objectives: The present study was designed to analyze the impact of spiritual practices on memory, cognitive functions, psychological health, adjustment level, and stress response. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in two phases on 150 subjects. In the first phase of study, subjects were divided into low, average and high spirituality groups on the basis of spirituality scores. Each group was required to perform memory test, stroop test along-with assessment of psychological health, and adjustment level. Their basal level of stress parameters was recorded. A stressor was introduced and stress parameters were again assessed. Subjects were asked to perform spiritual practices for 1 month duration and the parameters were again assessed. ANOVA and post hoc tests were used for inter group comparison. Student’s t-test was used to analyze data between baseline values and post spirituality values for various parameters. Results: On comparison of parameters in low, average and high spirituality groups, significant and non-significant results were obtained at baseline level and after 1 month practice of spirituality. Conclusion: Spiritual practices have positive effect on parameters studied.

Comprometimentos cognitivos na Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1: revisão integrativa / Cognitive impairments in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: integrative review / Deficiencias cognitivas en la Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1: revisión integradora

This review verified cognitive domains affected by type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and the instruments used for its assessment. We performed a search in three databases using the descriptors "type 1 diabetes" AND "cognitive dysfunction". Only six of the 120 articles found met the criteria for inclusion in the review. The anal-ysis of these articles indicates that the main cognitive functions compromised by T1DM are attention, visual attention, verbal memory, immediate and late recovery, and psychomotor speed. Among the selected articles, we found that the most used instruments were the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Wechsler scales (WMS-III and WMS-RC), the Trail Making Test, The Grooved Pegboard, and substitution (letter-symbol, digit-symbol). Due to the different impairments found, we suggest the importance of standardizing a battery of cognitive assessments and greater efforts to understand the functional impairments resulting from dam-age to cognition in individuals with T1DM

Esta revisão verificou os domínios cognitivos afetados pela diabetes mellitus tipo 1 (type 1 diabetes mellitus [T1DM]). Realizamos busca em três bases de dados, utilizando os descritores "type 1 diabetes" AND "cognitive dysfunction". Apenas seis dos 120 artigos encontrados cumpriram critérios para inclusão na revisão. A análise desses artigos indica que as principais funções cognitivas comprometidas pela T1DM são atenção, atenção vi-sual, memória verbal, recuperação imediata e tardia e velocidade psicomotora. Nos artigos selecionados, veri-ficamos que os instrumentos mais utilizados foram o Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), as escalas Wechs-ler (WMS-III e WMS-RC), o Teste de Trilhas, The Grooved Pegboard e substituição (letra-símbolo, dígito-símbolo). Em virtude dos diferentes comprometimentos encontrados, sugerimos a importância da padronização de uma bateria de avaliações cognitivas e maiores esforços na compreensão dos prejuízos funcionais decorrentes dos danos à cognição em indivíduos com T1DM.

Esta revisión analizó los dominios cognitivos afectados por la diabetes mellitus tipo 1 (type 1 diabetes mellitus [T1DM]) y los instrumentos utilizados para su evaluación. Se realizó una búsqueda en tres bases de datos, utili-zando los descriptores "type 1 diabetes" AND "cognitive dysfunction". Solo seis de los 120 artículos encontra-dos cumplieron los criterios para su inclusión en la revisión. El análisis de estos artículos indica que las principa-les funciones cognitivas comprometidas por la TDM1 son la atención, la atención visual, la memoria verbal, la recuperación inmediata y tardía y la velocidad psicomotora. Entre los artículos seleccionados, encontramos que los instrumentos más utilizados fueron la Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), las escalas Wechsler (WMS-III y WMS-RC), la Prueba de Rastro, The Grooved Pegboard y la sustitución (letra-símbolo, dígito-símbo-lo). Debido a las diferentes deficiencias encontradas, sugerimos la importancia de estandarizar una batería de evaluaciones cognitivas y mayores esfuerzos para comprender las deficiencias funcionales que resultan del daño a la cognición en personas con TDM1.

Influencia de la actividad física en los procesos cognitivos / Influence of physical activity on cognitive processes

Introducción: Las bases del comportamiento humano y la capacidad de interacción con todo lo que está a su alrededor están fundamentadas en los mecanismos cognitivos. Profundizar en el estudio de los efectos de la actividad física sobre el rendimiento de los mismos posee gran relevancia. Objetivo: Describir la influencia de la actividad física en las funciones y habilidades cognitivas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de revisión bibliográfica en las bases de datos Web of Science, Scopus, Dialnet, PubMed, ERIC, SPORTDiscus y PsycINFO. Luego de aplicar criterios de inclusión/exclusión, fueron seleccionados 62 artículos. Desarrollo: Como respuesta al ejercicio físico, mejora el funcionamiento del metabolismo neuronal y mitocondrial a través de la regulación de vías vasculares, metabólicas e inflamatorias. La actividad física influye positivamente en la plasticidad sináptica, lo cual mejora la función visoespacial, la velocidad de procesamiento, la resolución de problemas, el rendimiento académico, la atención sostenida y la función ejecutiva. Conclusiones: La actividad física influye positivamente en el funcionamiento cerebral y, por tanto, en los procesos cognitivos. Una condición física óptima, así como niveles moderados y vigorosos de actividad física, tienen un impacto favorable en las funciones cognitivas(AU)

Introduction: The bases of human behavior and the ability to interact with the environment are based on cognitive mechanisms. Deepening the study of the effects of physical activity on their performance is highly relevant. Objective: To describe the influence of physical activity on cognitive functions and skills. Methods: A literature review was conducted in the databases Web of Science, Scopus, Dialnet, PubMed, ERIC, SPORTDiscus and PsycINFO. Once the inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied, 62 articles were selected. Development: As a response to physical exercise, it improves the functioning of neuronal and mitochondrial metabolism through the regulation of vascular, metabolic, and inflammatory pathways. Physical activity has positive influence on synaptic plasticity, which improves visuospatial function, processing speed, solution of problems, academic performance, sustained attention, and executive function. Conclusions: Physical activity positively influences brain functioning and cognitive processes. Optimum physical condition, as well as moderate and vigorous levels of physical activity, have a favorable impact on cognitive functions(AU)

Comparación del rendimiento de pruebas cognitivas en pacientes con Enfermedad de Parkinson con y sin estimulación cerebral profunda / Comparison of the performance of cognitive tests in Parkinson Disease patients with and without Deep Brain Stimulation

Resumen Los pacientes diagnosticados con Enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) presentan alteraciones motoras concomitantes a otras alteraciones de tipo cognitivo, conductual o emocional. Una de las alternativas al tratamiento farmacológico es la estimulación cerebral profunda (ECP). Existen reportes de alteraciones en el rendimiento de tareas cognitivas tras procedimiento de ECP, lo que podría sugerir que el procedimiento es responsable de estos cambios cognitivos. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar los resultados del rendimiento en pruebas cognitivas de pacientes con EP de dos grupos (con ECP y sin ECP). Se recolectaron los resultados de 47 pacientes (n = 16 ECP; n = 31 sin ECP) durante los años de 2011 hasta 2015. Dentro de las funciones y variables evaluadas se encuentran: categorización visual, flexibilidad cognitiva, solución de problemas, atención selectiva, velocidad de procesamiento, inhibición conductual y calidad de vida. En general, no se encontraron diferencias significativas entre los grupos en las funciones evaluadas. En el grupo de participantes con ECP, se encontró mayor cantidad de correlaciones entre las pruebas de semejanzas y las de dígitos inversos, listas de palabras, búsqueda de símbolos y las subpruebas del Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. Así mismo, en los pacientes con ECP se presentó una percepción menor de calidad de vida asociada al tiempo de la enfermedad en comparación con el grupo sin ECP. En conclusión, estos resultados son congruentes con estudios similares de evaluación neuropsicológica y se discute el papel del tratamiento de estimulación en los pacientes, los cuales no siempre tienen un impacto positivo sobre la calidad de vida percibida.

Abstract Patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease show motor alterations together to cognitive, behavioral, and emotional disturbances. An alternative treatment to the exclusive pharmacological medication is the Deep Brain Stimulation procedure (DBS). Some studies have shown altered behavioral patterns after DBS device implantation, suggesting a relationship between a particular performance in cognitive tests derived from the DBS procedure. Our study aimed to compare the performance of cognitive tests in Parkinson's disease patients with and without DBS. Results were analyzed from 47 patients (n = 16 DBS; n = 31 without DBS) in a range since 2011 to 2015. Functions tested were visual categorization, cognitive flexibility, problem solutions, selective attention, cognitive processing speed, behavioral inhibition, and quality of life. In general, there are non-significative differences between groups in functions tested. However, correlations were found depending on the group (DBS or without DBS patients), with more positive correlations inside the DBS group between the similarity test and inversed digits, list of words, symbol search and the sub-test of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. In addition, the DBS group showed a low perception of the quality of life associated with the disorder´s time compared to the without DBS group. In conclusion, these results are congruent with similar studies of neuropsychological evaluation, and the role of treatment is discussed below the perception of the quality of life.

Características neuropsiquiátricas de menores trabajadores y no trabajadores pertenecientes a una Institución Educativa en Colombia / Neuropsychiatric characteristics of working and non-working minors belonging to an Educational Institution in Colombia / Características neuropsiquiátricas de menores trabalhadores e não trabalhadores pertencentes a uma Instituição Educativa na Colômbia

Objetivo: determinar las funciones cognitivas afectadas en un grupo menores trabajadores y la diferencia en el perfil neuropsiquiátrico de estos respecto a un grupo de menores no trabajadores. Metodología: investigación de diseño no experimental, de tipo transversal, prospectivo y analítico con un muestreo aleatorio simple. Resultados: el trabajo infantil no afecta todas las funciones cognitivas. Los puntajes obtenidos en las pruebas de habilidades gráficas, percepción táctil, percepción auditiva, memoria de evocación visual, lenguaje de repetición, lenguaje de comprensión, habilidades espaciales y atención auditiva estaban en rangos normales para ambos grupos. Sin embargo, los puntajes en las pruebas de construcción con palillos, memoria de codificación visual, percepción visual, memoria de evocación auditiva, lenguaje expresivo, atención visual, habilidades conceptuales, fluidez verbal y fluidez gráfica se encuentran por debajo de lo esperado para ambos grupos. Conclusión: las dificultades que presentan tanto el grupo de menores trabajadores como el de no trabajadores se podrían explicar por las condiciones de vida de la población, lo que suscita la hipótesis de que la pobreza y la escasez en la estimulación ambiental afectan el desarrollo cognitivo tanto como el trabajo infantil.

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the cognitive functions affected in a group of working minors and the difference in their neuropsychiatric profile as compared to that of a group of non-working minors. Methodology: non-experimental, cross-sectional, prospective and analytical design with a simple random sampling. Results: It was observed that child labor does not affect all cognitive functions. The scores obtained in the graphic skills, tactile perception, auditory perception, visual evocation memory, repetition language, comprehension language, spatial skills and auditory attention tests are in normal ranges for both groups. However, the scores on the stick construction, visual coding memory, visual perception, auditory evocation memory, expressive language, visual attention, conceptual skills, verbal fluency, and graphic fluency tests are lower than expected for both groups. Conclusion: The difficulties presented by both the group of working minors and nonworking minors could be explained by the conditions of the population, which raises the hypothesis that the conditions of poverty and scarcity in the environmental stimulation to which children are exposed in non-working minors affect cognitive development as much as child labor.

Objetivo: determinar as funções cognitivas afetadas num grupo menores trabalhadorese a diferença no perfil neuropsiquiátrico destes com respeito a um grupo de menores não trabalhadores. Metodologia: investigação de desenho não experimental, de tipo transversal, prospectivo e analítico com uma amostragem aleatório simples. Resultados: o trabalho infantil não afeta todas as funções cognitivas. As pontuações obtidas nas provas de habilidades gráficas, percepção táctil, percepção auditiva, memóriade evocação visual, linguagem de repetição, linguagem de compreensão, habilidades espaciais e atenção auditiva estavam em faixas normais para ambos os grupos. Embora, as pontuações nas provas de construção com pauzinhos, memória de codificação visual, percepção visual, memória de evocação auditiva, linguagem expressivo, atenção visual, habilidades conceptuais, fluidez verbal e fluidez gráfica se encontram por debaixo do esperado para ambos os grupos. Conclusão: as dificuldades que apresentam tanto no grupo de menores trabalhadores quanto no de não trabalhadores se poderiam explicar pelas condições de vida da população, o que suscita a hipótese de que a pobreza e a escassez na estimulação ambiental afetam o desenvolvimento cognitivo tanto como o trabalho infantil.

La epilepsia mioclónica juvenil y las disfunciones neurocognitivas y ejecutivas asociadas / Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and associated neurocognitive and executive dysfunctions

Resumen La epilepsia mioclónica juvenil (EMJ) es un trastorno benigno con buena respuesta a la medicación antiepiléptica. Evaluaciones neuropsicológicas revelaron trastornos cognitivos leves. El objetivo de este estudio es determinar el desempeño cognitivo y síntomas anímicos de la EMJ comparados con controles normales. Se evaluaron en forma prospectiva 30 pacientes con EMJ y 29 controles pareados por edad, género, y escolaridad. Se analizaron las características clínicas de la EMJ. Se administró una batería cognitiva completa, un cuestionario auto-administrado de dificultades ejecutivas (DEX), un inventario de depresión validado para epilepsia NDDI-E, escala de depresión de Beck (BDI), escala de ansiedad (GAD-7) y escala de riesgo de suicidio (MINI). Sin diferencias significativas en edad y escolaridad ent re EMJ y controles. Tiempo medio de evolución de la enfermedad, 18 años. El 53% presentó tres tipos de crisis, mioclonías, ausencias y convulsiones tónico-clónicas generalizadas. Hubo diferencias significativas con mayores fallas en atención, funciones ejecutivas, un puntaje significativamente mayor en el DEX en pacientes con EMJ. Se encontró un mayor puntaje en el NDDI-E, BDI y GAD-7 en EMJ. No se hallaron diferencias en el riesgo de suicidio respecto a controles. El estudio confirma que la EMJ presenta mayores fallas en el funcionamiento atencional y las habilidades ejecutivas relacionadas con la flexibilidad e inhibición, siendo en la mayoría de los casos los pacientes conscientes de sus dificultades. Conocer estas dificultades permitirá un mejor abordaje terapéutico, y mejorar síntomas muchas veces desestimados.

Abstract Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is a benign disorder with a good response to antiepileptic drugs. Neurop sychological evaluations revealed mild cognitive deficits. The objective of this study is to determine the cognitive profile and mood symptoms in JME compared to normal controls. 30 patients with JME and 29 controls matched for age, gender, and education level were prospectively evaluated. The clinical characteristics were analysed. They were given a complete cognitive battery, a self-administered questionnaire of executive difficulties (DEX), the Neurological Disorders Depression Inventory for Epilepsy (NDDI-E), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and suicide risk scale (MINI). No significant differences in age and education were observed between JME and controls. Average time of evolution of the disease 18 years, 53% have three types of seizures: myoclonic, absence seizures and tonic-clonic seizures. Significant differences were found with greater failures in attention, executive function, a significantly higher score values in DEX in JME subjects. A higher score was found in the NDDI-E; BDI and GAD-7. No differences were found in the risk of suicide with respect to controls. The study confirms that JME presents greater failures in attentional functioning and executive skills related to flexibility and inhibition, with patients being aware of their difficulties in most cases. Knowing these difficulties would allow a better therapeutic approach to improve symptoms usually dismissed.

Hijos de mujeres con trasplante renal: factores de riesgo en el embarazo, estilos de crianza y funciones cognoscitivas / Children of women with kidney transplantation: risk factors in pregnancy, parenting styles and cognitive functions

Las mujeres con trasplante renal (TR) suelen cursar un embarazo de alto riesgo, pues son más susceptibles a presentar complicaciones médicas. Aunado a este hecho pueden presentar alteraciones en su estado emocional y psicológico durante y después del embarazo, lo que impactaría directamente en el estilo de crianza y desarrollo posterior del niño. Se desconoce cómo son los estilos de crianza en los hijos de las mujeres con TR y el posible impacto en su funcionamiento cognoscitivo. El presente trabajo tuvo dos objetivos: 1) determinar si existían diferencias en los estilos de crianza y las funciones cognoscitivas de los hijos de mujeres con trasplante renal en comparación con los hijos de mujeres sanas y 2) identificar la asociación entre las variables asociadas al riesgo en el embarazo y los estilos de crianza con las funciones cognoscitivas. Para ello fueron reclutados de diversos centros de trasplantes 23 niños (9 casos y 14 controles) de 7-15 años con sus respectivas madres a quienes se evaluó mediante el WISC-IV y el cuestionario CRPBI. Las madres fueron evaluadas con el cuestionario BRIEF, el cuestionario PCRI-M y el BDI-II. Se realizó un diseño transversal con alcance correlacional. No se encontraron diferencias entre el grupo caso y control en los estilos de crianza ni en las funciones cognoscitivas. Sin embargo, sí se encontró asociación entre los estilos de crianza y las funciones cognoscitivas. Un estilo en el que predomine la comunicación y la disciplina se asocia con mejores resultados cognoscitivos y conductuales.

Pregnancy in Kidney Transplant (KT) recipients is usually considered of high risk. KT recipients are susceptible to have obstetric complications. Studies report that KT recipients are at higher risk of experiencing distress during and after pregnancy, situation that may have an impact in parenting styles and child's development. Characteristics of parenting styles in KT recipients' offspring and its possible impact in cognitive functions remain unknown. The aims of the study were: 1) to determine if there are differences in parenting styles and cognitive functions among KT recipients' offspring and healthy women's offspring, and 2) to identify associations between high risk pregnancy variables, parenting styles and cognitive functions. Twenty-three children (9 cases and 14 controls) aged 8-15 years and their mothers were assessed with the (WISC-V) and the CRPBI. Mothers were asked to complete BRIEF, PCRI-M, BDI-II and a socioeconomic status instrument. A transversal correlational design was performed. No differences were found between case and control group in parenting styles or cognitive functions. However, an association between parenting styles and cognitive functions was found. Being raised with communication and discipline is associated with increased cognitive results.

Evaluation of cognitive functions in diabetic patients

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia. In this study, authors investigated cognitive functions in the diabetes and control group with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Authors analyzed the association of cognitive status with age, sex, duration of diabetes, insulin use and HbA1c in diabetic patients.Methods: Fifty patients with diabetes diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 70 who applied to this Diabetes and General Internal Medicine Clinics between January 2017 and September 2017 were included. Fifty patients with nondiabetes diagnosed with similar age and demographic characteristics were included in the control group. MMSE was applied to both groups. In the diabetic group, cognitive functions were investigated in relation with age, gender, duration of diabetes, insulin usage and HbA1c.Results: The MMSE score in diabetic patients was lower than the control group (p<0.05). In addition, cognitive impairment in diabetic patients was associated with duration of diabetes and HbA1c level. There wasn't significant difference was found between cognitive impairment and age, sex, insulin use.Conclusions: Diabetes Mellitus is a risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia with many possible mechanisms. In the routine, there is no screening for cognitive impairment and dementia in diabetic patients; but if authors detect early cognitive impairment, authors can prevent cognitive impairment progression to dementia with medical treatment and cognitive exercises.

Relación entre actividades recreativas declaradas y capacidades cognitivas y funcionales en adultos mayores / Relation between declared recreational activities and cognitive and functional abilities in older adults

Introducción: El proceso de transición demográfica que atraviesan actualmente Argentina y otros países latinoamericanos, trae consecuencias múltiples en diversas facetas de la sociedad. Uno de los aspectos sociales en que este fenómeno tiene especial incidencia es en la salud pública. Objetivo: Describir la relación que existe entre el tipo de actividad recreativa que realizan los adultos mayores y sus capacidades cognoscitivas y funcionales. Métodos: La muestra estuvo conformada por 50 personas (11 hombres y 39 mujeres), mayores de 60 años que no presentaban diagnóstico psiquiátrico. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó el test Neuropsi, la subescala Actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria del test Mongil de actividades de la vida diaria y una entrevista semidirigida para conocer las actividades recreativas que la persona decía realizar. Resultados: Se encontró una correlación positiva entre la cantidad de actividades recreativas que la persona decía realizar y la puntuación en el test neuropsicológico. También se encontraron correlaciones entre la cantidad de actividades recreativas y la capacidad funcional, presentando una mayor correlación las actividades de tipo manual, esporádicas y grupales. Además, varias actividades recreativas específicas (como hacer yoga o leer) correlacionaron con funciones cognitivas específicas. Conclusiones: Las correlaciones encontradas entre las actividades recreativas y las capacidades cognitivas y funcionales de los adultos mayores pueden tener su explicación en mecanismos de plasticidad neuronal, como lo es el incremento a largo plazo de esas capacidades. Esto hace de las actividades recreativas un recurso potencial para los programas de estimulación, debido a su variedad y contenido motivacional/emocional que pueden favorecer esos mecanismos(AU)

Introduction: The process of demographic transition currently faced by Argentina and other Latin American countries brings multiple consequences in various facets of society. One of the social aspects where this phenomenon has a special incidence is in public health. Objective: To describe the relation between the type of recreational activities that older adults do and their cognitive and functional abilities. Methods: The sample consisted of 50 people (11 men and 39 women), over 60 years old who had no psychiatric diagnosis. For data collection were used the Neuropsi Test, the Instrumental Activities of daily life´s subscale of the Mongil test and a semi-directed interview to know what recreational activities the person said to perform. Results: It was found a positive correlation between the amount of recreational activities that the person said to perform and the score in the neuropsychological test. Correlations were also found between the amount of recreational activities and functional capacity, presenting a greater correlation the manual sporadic and group type activities. In addition, several specific recreational activities (such as yoga or reading) were correlated with specific cognitive functions. Conclusions: The correlations found between recreational activities and cognitive and functional abilities of older adults can be explained by mechanisms of neuronal plasticity, as it is long-term increase of those abilities. This makes recreational activities a potential resource for stimulation programs due to their variety and motivational/emotional content that can favor those mechanisms(AU)

Relationship among hypoxia, sleep and cognitive functions / Relación entre hipoxia, sueño y funciones cognitivas

The scientific literature shows that the reduced oxygen supply (O2) induced by acute or chronic exposure to high altitudes stimulates the organism to adapt to new physiological and psychological conditions imposed by hypoxia. Sleep can suffer partial fragmentation due to exposure to high altitudes, and these changes can be responsible for impaired cognitive functions. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between hypoxia, sleep and cognitive functions. We conducted a literature review in the period from 1978 to 2020. In that way, we concluded that hypoxia can impair sleep patterns and, consequently, cognitive functions, including memory, attention, executive functions, decision making and reaction time.

La literatura científica muestra que el suministro reducido de oxígeno (O2 ) inducido por aumentos agudos o crónicos en la altitud estimula al organismo a adaptarse a las nuevas condiciones fisiológicas y psicológicas impuestas por la hipoxia. El sueño puede sufrir fragmentación parcial debido a la exposición a grandes altitudes, y estos cambios pueden ser responsables de las funciones cognitivas deterioradas. Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo explorar la relación entre la hipoxia, el sueño y las funciones cognitivas. Realizamos una revisión de la literatura en el período de 1978 a 2020. Por lo tanto, se concluye que la hipoxia puede empeorar el patrón de sueño y, en consecuencia, el funcionamiento cognitivo, incluida la memoria, la atención, las funciones ejecutivas, la toma de decisiones y tiempo de reacción.

Serum magnesium levels in attention deficit hyperactive disorder in 6-17 years age group: a study in tertiary care center

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood and one of among the most prevalent chronic health conditions affecting school-age children. Magnesium is a crucial mineral and appropriate levels in the body are essential for normal cognitive function and mental health. Seventy-two to 96% of those diagnosed with ADHD have been found to be significantly deficient in magnesium. Studies have shown that in these patients, supplementation with magnesium improves attention and working memory and decreases anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation. Objective of the study was to measure the serum levels of magnesium in children with attention deficit hyperactive disorder and to assess the relation between serum Magnesium levels and Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).Methods: The study was conducted at Niloufer Institute of Child Health, which is tertiary care referral hospital and a teaching institute, affiliated under the esteemed Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad. Ethical committee clearance was taken before conducting the study, 50 cases of ADHD are selected from the outpatient department of the Psychiatry clinic for children and adolescents. And 50 controls are also selected for this study. Serum magnesium levels are assessed in both groups.Results: In ADHD group children with serum Magnesium level <1.5 meq/L are 24% whereas in control group it is 6%. When subgroups were analyzed, 25% of hyperactive ADHD group, 18.75% of inattentive ADHD group and 27.27% of combined ADHD group had serum magnesium levels of less than 1.5 meq/l.Conclusions: The study suggest that there is deficiency of magnesium in ADHD children when compared to healthy controls. Further, the study also recommends that further research is needed to help to identify the etiology, impact, and possible therapeutic implications of magnesium status in ADHD.

Physical functions, physical activity, and cognitive functions in community-dwelling older people with driving cessation: the Nakagawa Study / 体力科学

This study aimed to examine characteristics of physical functions, physical activity, and cognitive functions among community-dwelling older people who stopped driving automobiles. Participants were 589 community-dwelling older people (age: 65–89, 71.4 ± 5.1 years; 403 men, 186 women). The participants underwent nine physical assessments—hand grip strength, knee extension strength, timed up-and-go test, chair stand, one leg standing with open eyes, functional reach, vertical jump, preferred gait speed, maximal gait speed—and were evaluated for physical activity; and five cognitive assessments—the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Logical Memory I and II (WMS-R LM-I, LM-II) subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised; and Trail Making Test A and B (TMT-A, TMT-B). They were divided into current driver (379 men, 169 women) and driving cessation (24 men, 17 women) groups. Among men, the driving cessation group had poorer vertical jump, TMT-A, and TMT-B results, while women had poorer hand grip strength, one leg standing with open eyes, WMS-R LM-II, and LM-II results, and longer inactivity time, compared with the current driver group and adjusted for covariates (P < 0.05 for all). The findings suggest driving cessation among community-dwelling older people is significantly associated with poorer physical functions, physical activity, and cognitive functions compared with those in current drivers.

Exercício da atenção e resolução de problemas em atividades cotidianas da infância / Exercise for attention and problem solving in the daily activities of childhood / Ejercicio de atención y resolución de problemas en las actividades cotidianas de la infância

Este trabalho investiga a relação entre as atividades cotidianas desempenhadas na infância e as funções cognitivas de resolução de problemas e de atenção. Dentre as atividades cotidianas, analisaram-se a leitura, a prática de esportes, o acesso ao computador e a interação com games. Para tanto, aplicou-se um questionário organizado em três partes, contemplando dados do perfil das crianças, o registro da frequência das atividades cotidianas consideradas e a avaliação da presença de comportamentos tomados como indicadores do desempenho da capacidade de resolução de problema e de atenção. O questionário foi respondido pelos responsáveis das crianças, considerando sua percepção. Analisaram-se os resultados de uma amostra de 162 crianças na faixa etária de 6 a 11. Os resultados indicaram a associação entre a leitura e a atenção, e entre o acesso ao computador e o jogar games com a capacidade de resolução de problemas. (AU)

This study investigates the relation between the daily activities performed in childhood and the cognitive functions of problem solving and attention. Among daily activities, reading, sports practice, computer access, and interaction with games were analyzed. Therefore, a questionnaire was organized in three parts, including data on the children's profile, the record of the frequency of the daily activities and the evaluation of the presence of behaviors taken as indicators of problem solving and attention performance. The questionnaire was answered by the children's guardians, considering their perception. We analyzed data results from a sample of 162 children aged 6-11. The results revealed the association between reading and attention, and between computer access and playing games with problem-solving ability. (AU)

Este trabajo investiga la relación entre las actividades diarias desempeñadas en la infancia y las funciones cognitivas de resolución de problemas y de atención. Entre las actividades diarias, se analizaron: lectura, práctica de deportes, acceso a computador e interacción con juegos. Para verificar si hay asociaciones significativas se aplicó un cuestionario organizado en tres partes, 1) contempla los datos de perfil de los niños,2) el registro de frecuencia de las actividades diarias consideradas y 3) evaluación de la presencia de comportamientos, tomados como indicadores del desempeño de la capacidad de resolución de problemas y de atención. El cuestionario fue respondido por los responsables de los niños, teniendo en cuenta su percepción. Se analizaron las respuestas de una muestra de 162 niños con edades entre 6 a 11 años. Los resultados indicaron la asociación entre lectura y atención y entre acceso al computador y juegos con capacidades de resolución de problemas. (AU)

Proposta de um protocolo de treino e seu efeito nas funções cognitivas em idosas depressivas / Proposal for a training protocol and its effect on cognitive functions on elderly depressions

Os objetivos deste estudo foram descrever uma proposta do protocolo de treinamento aeróbio intervalado de moderada intensidade e verificar o seu efeito nas funções cognitivas em idosas com o diagnóstico de depressão maior. Trata-se de um protocolo pré-experimental conduzido com 11 idosas, com idade entre 60 e 77 anos (67 ±5,4 anos), clinicamente diagnosticadas com depressão. Foram avaliadas as funções executivas, atenção complexa, habilidades de navegação espacial e desempenho funcional em condições de dupla-tarefa. O protocolo de treino foi constituído por 20 minutos de atividades de coordenação motora, tanto de membros superiores quanto inferiores de forma simultânea, 30 minutos de treinamento aeróbio intervalado e 10 minutos de volta a calma com alongamentos, durante nove semanas de treinamento. A análise estatística empregada foi o teste t para amostras dependentes e a análise do tamanho de efeito. Observou-se 75% de adesão das idosas na intervenção proposta. Em relação à depressão, identificou-se que 54,5% das idosas apresentaram remissão dos sintomas após o programa de treinamento. Conforme os dados pré- e pós-intervenção, observou-se uma redução estatisticamente significativa no tempo médio despendido na realização dos testes de Stroop 1 (20,09 ± 5,07 x 16,27 ± 4,03; p = 0,024; TE = 0,84), de Stroop 3 (34,27 ± 8,39 x 28,36 ± 5,10; p = 0,032; TE=0,88) e de dupla tarefa visuoespacial (10,55 ± 2,07 x 9,45 ± 1,44; p = 0,006; TE = 0,63). O presente estudo verificou um efeito positivo no desempenho das tarefas de atenção, função executiva e dupla tarefa visuoespacial após uma estratégia de treinamento, baseada no exercício aeróbio intervalado de moderada intensidade de nove semanas, em idosas com depressão....(AU)

The objectives of this study were to describe a proposal of the protocol of moderate intensity interval aerobic training and to verify its effect on the cognitive functions in the elderly with the diagnosis of major depression. It is a protocol and pre-experimental study conducted with 11 elderly women, aged 60-77 years (67 ± 5.4 years), clinically diagnosed with depression. Executive functions, complex attention, spatial navigation skills and functional performance were evaluated in dual-task conditions. The training protocol consisted of 20 minutes of motor coordination activities, both upper and lower limbs simultaneously, 30 minutes of aerobic interval training and 10 minutes of calm back with stretches during 24 training sessions. The statistical analysis employed was the t-test for dependent samples and the effect size analysis. A 75% adherence of the elderly was observed in the proposed intervention. Regardingdepression, it was identified that 54.5% of the elderly had remission of symptoms after the training program. According to the pre- and post-intervention data, a statistically significant reduction in the mean time spent on the Stroop 1 tests (20.09 ± 5.07 x 16.27 ± 4.03; p = 0.024; TE = 0.84), Stroop 3 (34.27 ± 8.39 x 28.36 ± 5.10, p = 0.032, TE = 0.88) and dual visuospatial task (10.55 ± 2.07 x 9.45 ± 1.44, p = 0.006, TE = 0.63). The present study verified a positive effect on the performance of tasks of attention, executive function and dual visuospatial task after a training strategy, based on 24-session moderate intensity interval aerobic exercise in elderly women with depression....(AU)

Cognitive functions in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

ABSTRACT Objective There is controversy regarding cognitive function in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This study is aimed at the assessment of cognitive functions in children with CAH, and their relation to hydrocortisone (HC) therapy and testosterone levels. Subjects and methods Thirty children with CAH due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency were compared with twenty age- and sex-matched healthy controls. HC daily and cumulative doses were calculated, the socioeconomic standard was assessed, and free testosterone was measured. Cognitive function assessment was performed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale - Revised for Children and Adults (WISC), the Benton Visual Retention Test, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Results The mean age (SD) of patients was 10.22 (3.17) years [11 males (36.7%), 19 females (63.3%)]. Mean (SD) HC dose was 15.78 (4.36) mg/m 2 /day. Mean (SD) cumulative HC dose 44,689. 9 (26,892.02) mg. Patients had significantly lower scores in all domains of the WISC test, performed significantly worse in some components of the Benton Visual Retention Test, as well as in the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. There was no significant difference in cognitive performance when patients were subdivided according to daily HC dose (< 10, 10 - 15, > 15 mg/m 2 /day). A positive correlation existed between cumulative HC dose and worse results of the Benton test. No correlation existed between free testosterone and any of the three tests. Conclusion Patients with CAH are at risk of some cognitive impairment. Hydrocortisone therapy may be implicated. This study highlights the need to assess cognitive functions in CAH.

High-Throughput Automatic Training System for Spatial Working Memory in Free-Moving Mice / 神经科学通报·英文版

Efficient behavioral assays are crucial for understanding the neural mechanisms of cognitive functions. Here, we designed a high-throughput automatic training system for spatial cognition (HASS) for free-moving mice. Mice were trained to return to the home arm and remain there during a delay period. Software was designed to enable automatic training in all its phases, including habituation, shaping, and learning. Using this system, we trained mice to successfully perform a spatially delayed nonmatch to sample task, which tested spatial cognition, working memory, and decision making. Performance depended on the delay duration, which is a hallmark of working memory tasks. The HASS enabled a human operator to train more than six mice simultaneously with minimal intervention, therefore greatly enhancing experimental efficiency and minimizing stress to the mice. Combined with the optogenetic method and neurophysiological techniques, the HASS will be useful in deciphering the neural circuitry underlying spatial cognition.

Combined Measures of Psychomotor and Cognitive Alterations as a Potential Hallmark for Bipolar Depression

OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to examine whether specific features of psychomotor retardation (PMR) and cognitive functioning established different profiles in unipolar (UD) and bipolar depression (BD).METHODS: Two groups of age-matched patients with UD (n=54) and BD (n=20) completed the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS/60), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA/30), and the Salpêtrière Retardation Rating Scale (SRRS/60). We analyzed the group effect and then performed intra-group analyses.RESULTS: The BD patients have higher SRRS score, and lower MoCA score than UD despite no difference on the level of depression between UD and BD. Our results show that PMR can be predicted by the level of depression in UD and by the cognitive alteration and onset of disease in BD.CONCLUSION: PMR is a relevant marker of depression. Our results highlight the importance of concomitant evaluation of psychomotor and cognitive functions in the distinction of UD and BD symptoms.

Funcionamiento cognitivo, autonomía e independencia del adulto mayor institucionalizado / Cognitive function, and independence of autonomy elderly institutionalized

RESUMEN Introducción: En el envejecimiento se puede producir un deterioro de las capacidades físicas y mentales que conduzcan a dependencia y minusvalía; y esto suele ser más frecuente en el anciano institucionalizado. Objetivo: Determinar funcionamiento cognitivo, autonomía e independencia del adulto mayor institucionalizado. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo cuantitativo de corte trasversal, realizado en el Asilo Sagrado Corazón de Jesús entre los meses de septiembre a noviembre del 2015. El universo está constituido por 62 adultos mayores institucionalizados, la muestra de 37 que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Instrumentos utilizados Minimental State Examination, Escala de Valoración de la Autonomía para el Autocuidado y Escala de Autonomía para las actividades básicas de la vida diaria -Barthel. Se procesó la información mediante estadística descriptiva. Resultados: El 51,20 por ciento fueron mujeres, 48,80 por ciento hombres. 88,23 por ciento entre 71 a 90 años. 32,40 por ciento presentaron deterioro cognitivo grave, 24,20 por ciento deterioro moderado y 27,00 por ciento sin deterioro. En la realización de actividades de la vida diaria 76,70 por ciento tenían autonomía total, 5,10 por ciento eran dependientes. 40,50 por ciento fueron independientes, 2,70 por ciento presentó dependencia leve y 13,50 por ciento entre dependencia severa y total. Conclusiones: Los adultos mayores en su mayoría son autónomos e independientes en las actividades básicas de la vida diaria, no siendo así la funcionalidad cognitiva que presento mayor deterioro(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: In the aging there is a deterioration of the capabilities physical and mental that lead to dependency and disability This problems tends to be more frequent in the elderly institutionalized. Objective: To determine the cognitive functions, autonomy and independence of the institutionalized elderly. Methods: A descriptive study of quantitative crosscut, held at the Asilo Sagrado Corazon de Jesus between the months of September and November of 2015. The sample group consist of 62 institutionalized elderly, of which 37 meet the self-reliance requirement. Among the tools used to evaluate and the Minimental State Examination, Rating Scale for Self-Care Autonomy, and Autonomy Scale for basic activities of daily living -Barthel. This information was processed using descriptive statistics. Results: 51.20 percent were women, 48.80 percent men. 88.23 percent between 71-90 years. 32.40 percent had severe cognitive impairment, 24.20 percent had moderate impairment and 27.00 percent had no deterioration. In carrying out daily activities, 76.70 percent had full autonomy, 5.10 percent were dependent, 40.50 percent had been independent, 2.70 percent had mild dependence and 13.50 percent between severe and total dependence. Conclusions: Older adults are mostly self-reliant and independent in basic activities of daily life since cognitive functioning is not mostly affected(AU)

Funciones cognitivas y terapia electroconvulsiva en pacientes psiquiátricos con enfermedad afectiva / Cognitive functions and electroconvulsive therapy in affective psychiatric patients / Funções cognitivas e terapia eletroconvulsiva em pacientes psiquiátricos com doenças afetiva

Objetivo: la terapia electroconvulsiva (TEC) se ha considerado un tratamiento seguro y eficaz para episodios de depresión mayor, para episodios maníacos y otros trastornos psiquiátricos serios. El estudio describe los efectos cognitivos de la TEC en pacientes referidos para tratamiento a una clínica privada. Metodología: estudio descriptivo del tipo de serie de casos. En cada participante se realizó una evaluación basal antes del inicio de la TEC y otras dos (una a la semana y otra a los seis meses) después de terminado el ciclo de tratamientos, para describir el efecto de la TEC frontotemporal bilateral en la función neurocognitiva mediante el cambio, desde el estado basal hasta la evaluación final en los dominios de memoria, velocidad psicomotora, tiempo de reacción, atención compleja y flexibilidad cognoscitiva, así como en la función cognoscitiva global; y determinar su seguridad por el reporte de eventos adversos. La evaluación cognitiva se realizó con una batería de pruebas neuropsicológicas y la severidad de la enfermedad psiquiátrica se evaluó con la escala Clinical Global Impression Severity (CGI-S). Se incluyeron seis pacientes remitidos para tratamiento durante el periodo de seis meses. Resultados: no se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las medianas de las evaluaciones de CGI-S, ni de la función cognitiva global, así como de ninguno de los dominios evaluados. Conclusiones: la TEC no produjo cambios en las funciones cognitivas analizadas en los seis pacientes estudiados.

Objective: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been considered a safe and effective treatment for depression, manic episodes, and other serious psychiatric conditions. Its main reported side effect has been cognitive impairment. This study describes the cognitive effects of ECT in psychiatric patients referred for treatment at a private clinic. Methodology: Descriptive case series study. A baseline assessment conducted before starting ECT, and another two (at one week and at six months) after completing the treatment cycle were used to describe the effects of frontotemporal bilateral ECT on neurocognitive function in terms of the change from the baseline to the final assessment in the domains of memory, psychomotor speed, reaction time, complex attention, and cognitive flexibility, as well as global cognitive function, as well as to determine ECT's safety by reporting adverse events. Cognitive assessment was conducted with a neuropsychological test battery and severity of psychiatric illness with the Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale (CGI-S). Six patients referred for treatment during six months were included. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed between the medians of the evaluations of CGI-S scale, global cognitive function or any of the domains evaluated. Conclusions: ECT did not produce changes in the cognitive functions assessed in the six studied patients.

Objetivo: a terapia eletroconvulsiva (TEC) se há considerado um tratamento seguro e eficaz para episódios de depressão maior, para episódios maníacos e outros transtornos psiquiátricos sérios. O estudo descreve os efeitos cognitivos da TEC em pacientes referidos para tratamento a uma clínica privada. Metodologia: estudo descritivo do tipo de série de casos. Em cada participante se realizou uma avaliação basal antes do início da TEC e outras dois (uma em uma semana e outra aos seis meses) depois de terminado o ciclo de tratamentos, para descrever o efeito da TEC frontotemporal bilateral na função neurocognitiva mediante a mudança, desde o estado basal até a avaliação final nos domínios de memória, velocidade psicomotora, tempo de reação, atenção complexa e flexibilidade cognoscitiva, assim como na função cognoscitiva global; e determinar sua segurança pelo reporte de eventos adversos. A avaliação cognitiva se realizou com uma bateria de provas neuropsicológicas e a severidade da doença psiquiátrica se avaliou com a escala Clinical Global Impression Severity (CGI-S). Se incluíram seis pacientes remitidos para tratamento durante o período de seis meses. Resultados: não se observaram diferencias estatisticamente significativas entre as média das avaliações de CGI-S, nem da função cognitiva global, assim como de nenhum dos domínios avaliados. Conclusões: a TEC não produziu mudanças nas funções cognitivas analisadas nos seis pacientes estudados.

Investigation of distinctive characteristics of children with specific learning disorder and borderline intellectual functioning

Abstract Background Borderline intelligence function (BIF) and specific learning disorder (SLD) are common diagnoses in children who are brought up for learning problems and school failure. Objective The aim of our study was to determine whether there were distinctive aspects of cognitive testing routinely used in evaluating SLD and BIF and investigate emotion regulation skills and minor neurologic symptoms. Method Sixty children (30 SLD and 30 BIF) who are currently attending primary school are selected for study. Visual Aural Digit Span Test - Form B, Gessel Figure Drawing Test, Bender Gestalt Visual Motor Perception Test, WISC-R, Emotion Regulation Scale (ERS) and Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES) was administered. Results There was no statistically significant difference between groups in cognitive tests. The emotional regulation ability measured by the emotional regulation subscale was better in the SLD group than the BIF group (p = 0.014). In the NES, sensory integration (p = 0.008), motor coordination (p = 0.047) and other (p < 0.001) subscales showed higher scores in the BIF group. Discussion It has been shown that cognitive tests don't have distinguishing features in the evaluation of SLD and BIF. Emotion regulation subscale score of ERS and sensory integration, motor coordination, and total scores of NES can be used in both discrimination of groups.