A retrospective study of correlation between serum levels of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and post-stroke cognitive impairment / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To quantify any correlation between serum levels of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3-PUFAs) and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI).Methods:The clinical data of 77 patients hospitalized after a first stroke were analyzed. The Minimum Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to divide them into impaired (PSCI) and unimpaired (non-PSCI) cohorts. The serum levels of ω3-PUFAs, α-linolenic acid (ALA), eieosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and dueosahexenoie acid (DHA) were compared between the two groups and correlated with the individuals′ MMSE scores.Results:The average ALA, EPA, DHA and total ω3-PUFAs levels of PSCI group were in most cases significantly lower than those of the non-PSCI group. Spearman correlation analysis showed that serum DHA level was a weak positive predictor of the MMSE scores (R=0.32, P≤0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that low serum DHA level was an independent risk factor for PSCI ( P≤0.01). Conclusions:Cognitively impaired stroke survivors tend to have lower serum ω3-PUFAs levels than those without cognitive impairment. There is a weak positive correlation between serum DHA levels and MMSE scores. Low serum DHA level is an independent risk factor for PSCI. The serum level of ω3-PUFAs is of high value in the auxiliary diagnosis and evaluation of PSCI.

Calidad de la evaluación en estomatología en el período 2014-2021 / Quality of the evaluation in the dental medicine major in the period 2014-2021

Introducción: La ampliación de la matrícula en la carrera de estomatología y la apertura de nuevos escenarios docentes descentralizados han constituido un reto en la formación de los educandos. Con el ejercicio del examen estatal se certifica la competencia de los egresados. Objetivo: Comparar los resultados de la evaluación final de la asignatura Atención integral a la población con los del examen ordinario estatal de la carrera de estomatología en los escenarios docentes descentralizados de Plaza de la Revolución. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva y transversal de los resultados del examen ordinario estatal de la carrera de estomatología en el período 2014-2021, en los escenarios docentes descentralizados de Plaza de La Revolución. Los resultados finales se compararon con la nota final de la asignatura Atención integral a la población. Se trabajó con el universo de los estudiantes (161). Se utilizaron los números enteros y el porcentaje. Resultados: Los resultados de la asignatura Atención integral a la población fueron ligeramente superiores a los obtenidos en la prueba estatal. En ambos predominaron las calificaciones de alto rendimiento, para un 69,5 por ciento y un 57,1 por ciento respectivamente. Conclusiones: La calidad satisfactoria de los resultados docentes de los exámenes finales de Atención integral a la población y el estatal se mantuvieron con una tendencia a la mejoraría de las calificaciones de los últimos tres cursos(AU)

Introduction: An increase in the enrollment acceptance for the dental medicine major and the creation of new decentralized teaching settings have become challenges with respect to the training of students. The state examination certifies the competence of graduates. Objective: To compare the results of the final evaluation corresponding to the subject of Comprehensive Population Care with the results of the first call for the state examination corresponding to the dental medicine major in the context of decentralized teaching settings of Plaza de la Revolución Municipality, Havana, Cuba. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional research was carried out with the results of the first call for the state examination corresponding to the dental medicine major in the period 2014-2021, in the context of decentralized teaching settings of Plaza de La Revolución Municipality. The final results were compared with the final scores corresponding to the subject of Comprehensive Population Care. The universe of students (161) were included. Integer numbers and percentages were used. Results: The results corresponding to the subject of Comprehensive Population Care were slightly higher than the results obtained in the state examination. Both were characterized by predominantly high performance scores, accounting for 69.5 percent and 57.1 percent, respectively. Conclusions: The satisfactory quality of the teaching results corresponding to the final exams for the subject of Comprehensive Population Care and the state examination maintained a tendency of improving scores in the last three academic years(AU)

Posicionamiento conceptual metodológico para el examen estatal en anatomía humana / A conceptual-methodological stance for the state examination of human anatomy

Introducción: El examen estatal en las especialidades médicas cubanas es un garante de calidad en las competencias y el desempeño profesional. Su calidad técnica y metodológica debe ser objeto de perfeccionamiento permanente como acción responsable hacia la excelencia académica. Objetivo: Promover un posicionamiento conceptual metodológico para el perfeccionamiento del examen teórico práctico de la especialidad anatomía humana. Métodos: Se emplearon el analítico sintético, la observación participativa y la revisión documental. Resultados: Se obtuvo una propuesta valorativa en el contexto de la especialización en anatomía humana, con acciones específicas para el perfeccionamiento del examen práctico y teórico de esta especialidad. Conclusiones: Los fundamentos teóricos y prácticos presentados son pertinentes para superar debilidades en los exámenes estatales anteriores, y favorecer en el residente de anatomía humana el desarrollo de un pensamiento holístico durante su proceso de formación, con beneficio de mayores competencias y mejor desempeño docente e investigativo(AU)

Introduction: The state examination in Cuban medical specialties ensure quality in competences and professional performance. Its technical and methodological quality should be subjected to permanent improvement as a responsible action towards academic excellence. Objective: To promote a conceptual-methodological stance for the improvement of the practical-theoretical examination of the Human Anatomy specialty. Methods: The methods of analysis-synthesis, participative observation and documental review were used. Results: An assessment proposal was obtained in the context of the specialization in Human Anatomy, with specific actions for the improvement of the practical and theoretical examination of this specialty. Conclusions: The theoretical and practical foundations presented are pertinent to overcome weaknesses of previous state examinations, as well as to favor, in the Human Anatomy resident, the development of a holistic thinking during her or his training process, with the benefit of greater competences and better teaching and research performance(AU)

Does gender influence P300 latency and mini mental state examination score in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients?

Background: P300 event-related potentials (ERPs) is an electrophysiologic marker of cognitive ability which closely reflects cognitive functions. Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) causes many complications. Diabetes mellitus-induced damage to the central nervous system is a key focus of research. Latest magnetic resonance imaging evidence suggested that the changes in anatomy of brain is more rapidly seen in males than in females. This study was carried out to study the gender variations in P300 latency and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Aim and Objective: To study the influence of gender on MMSE score as well as P300 ERP. Materials and Methods: 30 diagnosed Type 2 Diabetics aged above 40 years, with more than 2 years duration of diabetes were included in this study. MMSE questionnaire was administered to each diabetic and P300 was recorded using RMS EMG EP MARK 2 machine in all the diabetics. Results: The P300 ERP of male diabetics was prolonged significantly with mean ± standard deviation (SD) of (347.01 ± 31.55) whereas female diabetics had a mean ± SD of (318.26 ± 28.22; P = 0.014) and no significant difference was found between the mean MMSE scores of male diabetics (26.06 ± 1.38) and female diabetics (26.13 ± 1.30). Conclusion: The change in P300 ERP is swifter in males when compared with females in the middle to old age. Compared to MMSE, P300 Latency is a sensitive electrophysiological tool for diagnosing early cognitive deterioration in T2DM.

Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with oral paroxetine on cognitive status and activities of daily living in older adult patients with severe depression / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with oral paroxetine in the treatment of older adult patients with severe depression and its effects on the scores of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Activities of Daily Living (ADL).Methods:A total of 192 older adult patients with severe depression who received treatment in Shaoxing 7 th People's Hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 were included in this study. They were randomly assigned to receive either oral paroxetine (control group, n = 96) or rTMS + oral paroxetine (observation group, n = 96). All patients received 1 month of treatment. Clinical efficacy was compared between the two groups. HAMD, MMSE, and ADL scores pre- and post-treatment and the incidence of adverse events during the treatment were compared between the two groups. Results:Total response rate was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group [96.88% (93/96) vs. 89.58% (86/96), χ2 = 4.04, P < 0.05]. HAMD scores post-treatment were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group [(6.43 ± 2.33) points vs. (11.32 ± 2.02) points, t = 15.53, P < 0.05]. MMSE and ADL scores post-treatment in the observation group were (29.13 ± 3.01) points and (71.52 ± 5.32) points, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the control group [(24.65 ± 2.79) points, (69.65 ± 5.17) points, t = 10.69, 2.47, P < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups ( P > 0.05). Conclusion:The combined therapy of rTMS and oral paroxetine is highly effective on severe depression in older adult patients. It can improve cognitive function and the activities of life living.

The relevance of Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) use on demential interdiction exams in judicial proceedings / A importância do Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM) nos exames de interdição demencial em processos judiciais

ABSTRACT Objective To highlight the important role of Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) use on judicial interdiction assessments. Methods On this paper, we present a case in which we have used the Mini mental state examination (MMSE) for screening an initial dementia diagnosis, suggested by clinical and mental state examination. Results The relevance of using a screening test for demencial states on judicial interdictions assessments, as MMSE, in order to provide more objective findings to the court, has been demonstrated. Also, we review the current evidence for using MMSE on this setting and the importance of its use on demential interdiction exams in judicial proceedings. Conclusions Judicial evidence is a critical element in decision making. Judicial interdiction assessment is usually performed by expert psychiatrists. As psychiatric diagnosis relies on clinical history and mental state examination, it is composed of subjective elements, varying also according to the examiner's personal technical orientation and impressions. Neuroimaging exams are helpful on a minority of cases, in which specific findings are present. In such cases, clinical screening questionnaires play an important role - providing objective elements of neuropsychic functioning of an individual, thus limiting the subjective realm of the expert forensic report.

RESUMO Objetivo Destacar a importância do uso do Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM) nas perícias de interdição judicial por demência. Métodos Neste artigo, apresentamos um caso no qual aplicamos o MEEM para rastreamento de demência inicial, cujo diagnóstico foi sugerido por meio de história clínica e exame do estado mental. Resultados Foi demonstrada a importância de usar um teste de rastreamento para demência, no caso o MEEM, nas perícias de interdição por esse diagnóstico, a fim de fornecer elementos mais objetivos ao juízo. Ainda, fornecemos uma revisão das evidências atuais para a aplicação do MEEM nesse contexto, bem como a importância do uso dele nas perícias de interdição por demência. Conclusões A prova pericial é um elemento crítico para a tomada de decisão judicial. A perícia de interdição judicial por demência é usualmente realizada por especialistas em psiquiatria. Como o diagnóstico psiquiátrico baseia-se na história clínica e no exame do estado mental, é composto de elementos subjetivos, variando de acordo com a técnica e impressão individual do examinador. Exames de neuroimagem são úteis em uma minoria de casos, nos quais achados específicos estão presentes. Assim, questionários clínicos para rastreamento de doenças mostram-se importantes, pois fornecem elementos objetivos do funcionamento neuropsíquico do indivíduo, diminuindo o papel da subjetividade no laudo pericial.

Correlation among Three Cognitive Tools in Memory Assessment / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To explore the correlation and characteristics of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test-III (RBMT-III) in evaluating memory ability of patients with brain injuries. Methods:From March, 2016 to February, 2018, 62 patients with brain injuries were evaluated with the Chinese version of MMSE, MoCA and RBMT-III. The correlation among them was analyzed. Results:There was positive correlation among the total scores of MMSE, MoCA and RBMT-III (r = 0.682 to 0.786, P < 0.001), as well as the retrospective memory (r = 0.525 to 0.610, P < 0.001) and long-term memory (r = 0.553 to 0.692, P < 0.001). There was positive correlation between RBMT-III and MMSE in short-term memory (r = 0.337, P = 0.007). The prospective memory of RBMT-III positively correlated with retrospective memory of MMSE and MoCA (r = 0.639, r = 0.585, P < 0.001), and the short-term memory of RBMT-III with long-term memory of MMSE and MoCA (r = 0.454, r = 0.534, P < 0.001). Conclusion:MMSE, MoCA and RBMT-III are consistent in evaluating retrospective memory and long-term memory for patients with brain injuries. RBMT-III and MMSE are consistent in evaluating short-term memory for patients with brain injuries. The memory scores of MMSE and MoCA are helpful to judge the event-based prospective memory in patients with brain injuries, while the scores of long-term memory are helpful to judge short-term memory.

Association between serum non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and cognitive dysfunction after acute ischemic stroke: a cross-sectional study

This study aimed to explore the association between serum non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) and cognitive dysfunction risk in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This cross-sectional study enrolled 583 AIS patients. Biochemical markers and lipid profile were collected after admission. AIS patients were classified into high group (non-HDL-C ≥3.4 mM) and normal group (non-HDL-C <3.4 mM). Mini-Mental State Examination scale (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale (MoCA), Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and Hamilton Depression scale 21 version (HAMD-21) were applied on the third day after admission. Compared with the control group, patients of the high group had higher body mass index and higher frequency of intracranial artery stenosis, and exhibited higher levels of non-HDL-C, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, homocysteine, fasting blood glucose, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (all P<0.05). Compared with the control group, patients of the high group had significantly lower MMSE and MoCA scores (MMSE: 26.01±4.17 vs 23.12±4.73, P<0.001; MoCA: 22.28±5.28 vs 20.25±5.87, P<0.001) and higher scores on the NPI and HAMD-21 (both P<0.001). MMSE (r=-0.306, P<0.001) and MoCA scores (r=-0.251, P<0.001) were negatively associated with non-HDL-C level. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that non-HDL-C level (OR=1.361, 95%CI: 1.059-1.729, P=0.016) was independently associated with the presence of cognitive dysfunction after adjusting for confounding factors. High serum non-HDL-C level might significantly increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction after AIS.

Mini-Mental State Examination in Brazil: An Item Response Theory Analysis / Miniexame do Estado Mental Brasileiro: Análise com Teoria de Resposta ao Item / Miniexamen del Estado Mental Brasileño: Análisis con la Teoría de Respuesta al Ítem

Abstract The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is currently used to the track cognitive status of older adults in Brazil. Studies on its psychometric properties are lacking, especially ones that use Item Response Theory. The objective was to assess the difficulty of the items in a Brazilian version of MMSE using the Rasch model and to identify possible differential item functioning (DIF), considering schooling, age and sex of the sample of Brazilian older adults. This study used the answers of 2.734 older adults to the 30 items of MMSE. It was found that four items in the seven series were the most difficult, and items nine, 13, 22 and 23 were the easiest. The skill of respondents was higher than the items' difficulty level. DIF was observed for schooling, sex and age in, respectively, 27, 18 and 16 items. It is concluded that the use of MMSE in Brazilian older adults should be cautious due to the large number of biased items, mainly due to schooling.

Resumo O Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM) tem sido utilizado para rastrear status cognitivo de idosos brasileiros. Há poucos estudos sobre suas propriedades psicométricas, especialmente com Teoria de Resposta ao Item. Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a dificuldade dos itens de uma versão brasileira do MEEM por meio do modelo de Rasch e identificar possível funcionamento diferencial dos itens (DIF), considerando escolaridade, idade e sexo dos integrantes de amostra de idosos da comunidade. Foram utilizadas as respostas de 2.734 idosos aos 30 itens do MEEM. Constatou-se que quatro itens do sete seriado foram os mais difíceis e os itens nove, 13, 22 e 23, os mais fáceis. O nível de habilidade das pessoas foi maior do que o nível de dificuldade dos itens. Observou-se DIF para escolaridade, sexo e idade, respectivamente 27, 18 e 16 itens. Conclui-se que o uso do MEEM em idosos da comunidade deve ser cauteloso devido ao grande número de itens enviesados, principalmente pela escolaridade.

Resumen El Miniexamen del Estado Mental (MMSE) se ha utilizado para rastrear el estado cognitivo de los ancianos brasileños. Sin embargo, no hay estudios sobre sus propiedades psicométricas, especialmente utilizando la Teoría de Respuesta al Ítem. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la dificultad de los ítems de una versión brasileña del MMSE utilizando el modelo de Rasch, así como identificar el posible funcionamiento diferencial de los ítems (DIF), considerando el nivel de estudios, la edad y el sexo de los ancianos participantes de la muestra. Se utilizaron las respuestas de 2.734 ancianos a los 30 ítems del MMSE. Se evidenció que cuatro ítems de siete series fueron los más difíciles, y los ítems 9, 13, 22 y 23 los más fáciles. El nivel de habilidad de las personas fue más alto que el nivel de dificultad de los ítems. Se observó que el DIF para nivel de estudios, sexo y edad fueron 27, 18 y 16 ítems, respectivamente. Se concluye que el uso del MMSE en los ancianos de la comunidad debe ser cauteloso debido a la gran cantidad de ítems sesgados, principalmente por el nivel de estudios.

Prevalence of Risk Factors for Dementia in Elderly Population in a Tribal Area of Central India – A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Approximately 50 million people worldwide are suffering from dementia, it is the 7th leading cause of death among the elderly. In India, more than 4 million people have some form of dementia 3. According to the World Health Organization, India’s population of those aged over 65, which was 40 million in 1997, is set to increase to 108 million by 2025 and 240 million by 2050.Aim and Objective: The aim of the study was to study the prevalence of risk factors of dementia among the elderly population residing in a tribal area of Central India.Materials and Methods: A door to door cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural/tribal area with a pre-designed case record form that investigated the prevalence of risk factors along with measurement of anthropometry and mini-mental state examination was used to categorize subjects according to their mental status.Results: This study reports high prevalence of risk factors such as hypertension (31.8%), tobacco chewing (25.43%), high waist-hip ratio (24.57%), smoking habit (15.03%), head injury (11%), overweight (9.54%), alcohol intake (9.25%), 71–80 age (9.25%), diabetics (9%), stroke (4.62%), family history of dementia (2.6%), obesity (2.31%), coronary artery disease (CAD) (1.73%), and depression (1.45%).Conclusions: This study highlights a significant burden of undiagnosed cases of hypertension, diabetes, depression, and CAD all of which are important risk factors for dementia in the community, most of them are poorly controlled. There is a need to identify the large pool of undiagnosed cases of the mentioned morbidities by screening and offer early treatment to avoid complications.

acupuncture method for mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture method for mild cognitive impairment in the elderly.@*METHODS@#A total of 96 patients were randomly divided into an observation group, a control group and a waiting group, 32 cases in each group. The patients in the observation group were treated with acupuncture at Baihui (GV 20), Shenting (GV 24), Yintang (GV 29) and Sishencong (EX-HN 1), etc, while the patients in the control group were treated with nonpenetrating sham acupuncture at the same acupoints as the observation group. The treatment was given once every other day, three times a week for 8 weeks. The patients in the waiting group only received health guidance for 8 weeks. Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA) and mini-mental state examination (MMSE) were used before and after 8-week treatment in all three groups. The observation group and the control group were followed up for 2 months and evaluated with MoCA and MMSE.@*RESULTS@#The MoCA scores in the observation group after treatment and during follow-up were higher than before treatment (0.05). The MoCA scores in the control group after treatment and during follow-up were higher than before treatment (0.05). The difference before and after treatment in the observation group was higher than the control group and waiting group (0.05). The MMSE scores after treatment and during follow-up were higher than before treatment in the control group (0.05). The difference before and after treatment the observation group and control group was not significant (>0.05), and those in the two groups were higher than the waiting group (<0.01). The difference between follow-up and before treatment in the observation group was higher than the control group (<0.01), and the difference between follow-up and after treatment was lower than the control group (<0.01).@*CONCLUSION@# acupuncture method could improve cognitive impairment in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment.

Development of a Screening Algorithm for Alzheimer's Disease Using Categorical Fluency and Confrontational Naming Abilities

OBJECTIVE: Declines in naming ability and semantic memory are well-known features of early Alzheimer's disease (AD). We developed a new screening algorithm for AD using two brief language tests : the Categorical Fluency Test (CFT) and 15-item Boston Naming Test (BNT15). METHODS: We administered the CFT, BNT15, and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to 150 AD patients with a Clinical Dementia Rating of 0.5 or 1 and to their age- and gender-matched cognitively normal controls. We developed a composite score for screening AD (LANGuage Composite score, LANG-C) that comprised demographic characteristics, BNT15 subindices, and CFT subindices. We compared the diagnostic accuracies of the LANG-C and MMSE using receiver operating curve analysis. RESULTS: The LANG-C was calculated using the logit of test scores weighted by their coefficients from forward stepwise logistic regression models : logit (case)=12.608−0.107×age+1.111×gender+0.089×education−0.314×HS(1st)−0.362×HS(2nd)+0.455×perseveration+1.329×HFCR(2nd)−0.489×MFCR(1st)−0.565×LFCR(3rd). The area under the curve of the LANG-C for diagnosing AD was good (0.894, 95% confidence interval=0.853–0.926 ; sensitivity=0.787, specificity=0.840), although it was smaller than that of the MMSE. CONCLUSION: The LANG-C, which is easy to automate using PC or smart devices and to deliver widely via internet, can be a good alternative for screening AD to MMSE.

Development and Validation of the Full Version of Story Memory in the Korean-Mini Mental State Examination, 2nd Edition: Expanded Version (K-MMSE-2: EV)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The Korean version of Story Memory (SM) in the Korean-Mini Mental State Examination, 2nd Edition: Expanded Version (K-MMSE-2: EV) was developed. Based on the SM, we additionally developed a full version of SM including delayed recall (DR) and recognition adding to immediate recall (IR). This study aimed to examine the reliabilities and validities of the newly developed SM in the K-MMSE-2: EV and its full version. METHODS: Ninety-five healthy elderly individuals (HE), 90 patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and 53 patients with dementia of the Alzheimer's type (DAT) participated in the study. They were administered the full version of SM with the Seoul Verbal Learning Test-Elderly's version (SVLT-E) and Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT). In addition, the SM was re-administered to 51 participants after a 5-week interval. Two clinical neuropsychologists independently rated the performance of 50 participants. RESULTS: The test-retest reliabilities of the IR, DR, and recognition of the SM were statistically significant. The inter-rater reliabilities (Cohen's kappa) were high (0.87–1.00) for all the measures. The IR, DR, and recognition of SM had significant positive correlations with those of the SVLT-E and RCFT. Significant group differences in IR and DR of SM were found among the HE, aMCI, and DAT groups. The recognition scores were significantly different between the aMCI and DAT groups, but not between the HE and aMCI groups. CONCLUSIONS: The newly developed full version of SM in the K-MMSE-2: EV was proven to be a reliable and valid memory measure for clinical use.

Effects of Low-carbohydrate and High-fat Diet Supplemented with Ketogenic Drink on Cognitive Function and Physical Performance in the Elderly at High Risk for Dementia / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: Reduced glucose utilization in the main parts of the brain involved in memory is a major cause of Alzheimer's disease, in which ketone bodies are used as the only and effective alternative energy source of glucose. This study examined the effects of a low-carbohydrate and high-fat (LCHF) diet supplemented with a ketogenic nutrition drink on cognitive function and physical activity in the elderly at high risk for dementia.METHODS: The participants of this study were 28 healthy elderly aged 60-91 years showing a high risk factor of dementia or whose Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE) score was less than 24 points. Over 3 weeks, the case group was given an LCHF diet with nutrition drinks consisting of a ketone/non-ketone ratio of 1.73:1, whereas the control group consumed well-balanced nutrition drinks while maintaining a normal diet. After 3 weeks, K-MMSE, body composition, urine ketone bodies, and physical ability were all evaluated.RESULTS: Urine ketone bodies of all case group subjects were positive, and K-MMSE score was significantly elevated in the case group only (p=0.021). Weight and BMI were elevated in the control group only (p<0.05). Grip strength was elevated in all subjects (p<0.01), and measurements of gait speed and one leg balance were improved only in the case group (p<0.05).CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that adherence to the LCHF diet supplemented with a ketogenic drink could possibly influence cognitive and physical function in the elderly with a high risk factor for dementia. Further, we confirmed the applicability of this dietary intervention in the elderly based on its lack of any side effects or changes in nutritional status.

Behavioral Memory Assessment for Traumatic Brain Injury Patients with Normal Result in Mini-Mental State Examination / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To observe the performance of the traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients with normal results in Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test-3 (RBMT-3). Methods:From March, 2015 to June, 2018，40 TBI patients with cognitive complaints but normally in MMSE and other 30 healthy persons (controls) were assessed with MoCA and RBMT-3. Results:There were 14 patients sounded normally in MoCA. The scores of MoCA, as well as both the raw score and scale score of RBMT-3, were less in the patients than in the controls (t > 2.822, P < 0.01), especially in the verbal and delayed recall subtests of MoCA (t > 2.790, P < 0.01), and delayed story recall, skill learning instant recall, delayed skills recall (both raw and scale scores) (t > 2.507, P < 0.05), and remember name delay recall and story instant recall (raw score only) (t > 2.018, P < 0.05) of RBMT-3. Conclusion:For TBI patients with cognitive complaints, it is necessary to assesse with both MMSE and MoCA. If there is any memory impairment, RBMT-3 is needed.

Characterization of quantitative EEG in patients with postoperative cognitive dysfunction / 医学研究生学报

Objective Very few studies have been reported on the application of quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) in patients with postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). This study was to investigate the qEEG features of POCD and provide some help for the early detection and diagnosis of the condition. Methods We enrolled 31 postoperative patients treated in our Department of Critical Care Medicine from January 2018 to October 2018. Based on the pre- and post-operative scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), we divided the patients into a POCD (MMSE score >2, n = 11) and a non-POCD control group (MMSE score ≤2, n = 20). Using the brain function instrument, the electrode set according to the standard international 10-20 system and with bipolar longitudinal F3-P3 and F4-P4 four channels, we conducted bedside monitoring for all the patients and calculated the average value of the consecutive clips of 10-min qEEG. Then, we analyzed the amplitude-integrated EEG (aEEG), relative frequency band energy, relative α variability and spectrum entropy, and the correlation of relative frequency band energy and relative α variability with the MMSE scores. Results Compared with the non-POCD controls, the POCD patients showed significant decreases in the total MMSE scores (28.35 ± 1.27 vs 18.91 ± 2.34, P < 0.05), orientation score (9.75 ± 0.44 vs 6.82 ± 1.47, P < 0.05) and memory score (2.90 ± 0.31 vs 2.09 ± 1.04, P < 0.05) as well as in the concentration, calculation, recalling and language scores (all P < 0.05); and the POCD patients also exhibited marked reduction in the left α variability ([22.59 ± 10.98]% vs [14.39 ± 8.25]%, P < 0.05), right α variability ([24.07 ± 9.73]% vs [15.70 ± 9.59]%, P < 0.05), left α frequency band energy ([7.17 ± 4.73] vs [3.83 ± 2.62] μV2, P < 0.05) and right α frequency band energy ([6.94 ± 4.53] vs [3.82 ± 2.51] μV2, P < 0.05). The MMSE scores were found to be negatively correlated with left α variability (r = -0.793, P = 0.004), right α variability (r = -0.835, P = 0.001), left α frequency band energy (r = -0.633, P = 0.037) and right α frequency band energy (r = -0.682, P = 0.021). Conclusion Quantitative EEG of POCD patients is characterized by significantly decreased α variability and α frequency band energy, which may contribute to the early detection and diagnosis of POCD.

Comparison between the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment as a Cognitive Screening Tool in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The number of human immunodeficiency virus-associated neurocognitive disorders has increased, reaching more than 50% of the cases. However, there are currently no substantial data on the screening methods for this disease. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the Mini-Mental State Examination to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients. METHODS: This was an observational study comprising 82 human immunodeficiency virus-positive individuals with and without cognitive complaints. RESULTS: Positive correlation (p<0.001) between the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test scores was observed, but the mean scores revealed that the Mini-Mental State Examination showed worse performance for trails (p<0.001), cube copying (p<0.001), and clock drawing (p<0.001) than the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. CONCLUSIONS: The Mini-Mental State Examination and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment tests should be used concomitantly for the assessment of human immunodeficiency virus-associated neurocognitive disorders, but visuoexecutive and visuospatial dysfunctions are better evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test than the Mini-Mental State Examination.

Clinical Study of Eight Nape Needle Therapy for Mild Cognitive Impairment After Cerebral Stroke / 上海针灸杂志

Objective To observe the therapeutic efficacy of eight nape needle therapy in treating mild cognitive impairment (MCI) after cerebral stroke. Method By following a randomized controlled trial design, 200 eligible patients were randomized into an eight nape needle group and a medication group by the random number table, with 100 cases in each group. The patients all received basic medications, while the eight nape needle group was additionally intervened by acupuncture at the eight nape acupoints including Fengchi (GB20), Fengfu (GV16), Dazhui (GV14) and Xiangsihua points (Extra), and the medication group additionally received oral administration of nimodipine. The intervention lasted eight weeks, followed by a three-month follow-up. Before and after treatment, the two groups of patients were evaluated by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Barthel Index (BI). Result Respectively at four-week and eight-week treatment and the follow-up, the scores of MMSE, MoCA and BI showed improvements compared with the corresponding baseline (P<0.01, P<0.05);compared with the medication group, the eight nape needle group was superior to the medication group comparing the MMSE score at each time point after treatment (P<0.01, P<0.05); there were no significant differences in the MoCA and BI scores between the two groups at four-week treatment (P>0.05), but the differences were significant at eight-week treatment and the follow-up (P<0.01). Conclusion Eight nape needle therapy can effectively improve the cognitive function in patients with MCI after cerebral stroke.

Desempenho cognitivo através do mini-exame do estado mental na distrofia muscular de Duchenne / Cognitive performance by mini mental state examination in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

OBJETIVO: A distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD) é frequentemente associada à deficiência intelectual (DI) e ao prejuízo de funções superiores como leitura, raciocínio, lógica, e memória. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o desempenho cognitivo de pacientes com DMD através do Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM), um teste simples e rápido, usado como primeiro rastreio intelectual, principalmente quando baterias psicométricas complexas, dependentes de psicólogos especializados, não estão disponíveis. MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo observacional de trinta e quatro meninos com DMD, com idades entre 8 e 22 anos, separados em dois grupos de acordo com a presença de DI moderada-grave, conforme a definição clínica do funcionamento adaptativo do Manual Estatístico e Diagnóstico de Desordens Mentais 5º edição (DSM-5). Foram avaliados a pontuação no MEEM, marcos do desenvolvimento, independência nas atividades de vida cotidiana e capacidade de alfabetização. RESULTADOS: Os marcos motores e de linguagem estavam atrasados (16 meses), e a média no MEEM foi 21, ponto de corte mais baixo do que verificado em pares da mesma idade. O grupo com DI moderada-grave apresentou uma média de 12 no MEEM, e os subtestes de orientação, atenção e cálculo e linguagem foram os que demonstraram piores desempenhos. O ponto de corte de maior acurácia para distinguir DI moderada-grave nos pacientes com DMD foi 21. CONCLUSÃO: O MEEM apresentou adequada sensibilidade (100%) e especificidade (90%) para o ponto de corte de 21, revelando-se um bom método de triagem cognitiva para DI moderada-grave na DMD.

BACKGROUND: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is often associated with intellectual disability (ID) and with impairment of higher mental functions as reading, learning, logical thinking and memory. The goal of this study was evaluate the cognitive performance of DMD patients by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), first bedside screening test, widely used in pediatrics, when neuropsychologic batteries, dependent on specialized psychologists, are not easily available in public health system. METHODS: An observational study of thirty-four boys with DMD, aged 8-22 years, was performed, spliting this group into two sub-groups, according to the presence of moderate-severe, defined by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) adaptative functioning clinical criteria. The MMSE scores, developmental milestones, independence in daily life activities and literacy skills were evaluated. RESULTS: Motor and language milestones were reached with 16 months, later than usual and mean on MMSE was 21, lower than in healthy pairs. In assessment by groups, patients with moderate-severe intellectual disability presented a performance in total MMSE (12) and orientation, attention/calculation and language MMSE subtests lower than patients without ID. The most accurate cutoff value on MMSE to distinguish moderate-severe intellectual disability in DMD patients was 21. CONCLUSION: This study has shown adequate sensitivity and specificity of the MMSE for detection of moderate-severe intellectual disability, with almost 100% sensitivity and 90% specificity for cutoff values of 21 points in DMD.

A cross-sectional study on behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in elderly and its impact on quality of life in a tertiary care hospital

Background: Historically, the word dementia was derived from Latin word ‘dementatus’, which means ‘out of one’s mind’. There were 24.3 million people with dementia in the world and 4.6 million are being added every year. Present study was done to evaluate the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in elderly patients and its impact on their quality of life.Methods: It was a hospital based descriptive, cross-sectional study. 100 cognitively impaired patients in the age group of 60 years and above were enrolled. The socio-demographic profile, severity of dementia on MMSE; behavioral disturbances on BPSD; psychiatric illness on NPI; agitation on CMAI and their impact on quality of life, and disability were assessed on WHOQOL-Bref and WHO DAS 2.0 scales, respectively.Results: Out of 110 patients that were screened, 100 participated in the study (response rate 91%). Majority of subjects (53%) were illiterate and belongs to rural background (57%). Mean dementia severity score was 17.01±4.439 SD which was of mild to moderate level. Overall mean age was 68.16±8.16 SD and negatively related (r= -0.652; F=27.044, p<0.001) but weakly associated to severity of dementia. There was a statistically significant increase in the NPI scores with increase in dementia severity (Item score F=91.754, p<0.001 and distress score F=81.647, p<0.001). There was significant increase in agitation/aggression (CMAI) with an increase in severity of dementia. BPSD on NPI item score was weakly related (r=0.757) and caused increase in disability but decrease in quality of life. Dementia severity as per MMSE score was negatively related to WHO DAS disability (r= -0.863), BPSD on NPI item (r= -0.797) and agitation/aggression on CMAI (r= -0.587). WHOQOL-Bref decreases with increase in severity of dementia and disability.Conclusions: Dementia severity was of mild to moderate level and it increased with age. Most common psychiatric symptom was agitation/aggression (76%) and least common was hallucinations (12%). BPSD causes significant decrease in quality of life and an increase in severity of disability.