Meningioma Meningotelial cerebeloso complicado con absceso único a Nocardia / Meningioma Meningotelial cerebellar complicated with unique abscess to Nocardia

La presentación de abscesos cerebrales relacionados a meningiomas es muy poco frecuente. Usualmente son causados por bacterias comunes, siendo la Nocardia un agente etiológico excepcional. Presentamos la primera descripción en Paraguay de un absceso cerebral a Nocardia Spp asociado a meningioma en un paciente inmunocomprometido por consumo prolongado de corticoides (dexametasona).

The presentation of cerebral abscesses related to meningiomas is very rare. They are usually caused by common bacteria, nocardia being an exceptional etiological agent. We present the first description in Paraguay of a cerebral abscess to Nocardia spp associated meningioma in an immunocompromised patient for prolonged corticosteroid consumption (dexamethasone).

Aristoteles and the anatomy of the nervous system (Nota Histórica) / Aristoteles e a anatomia do sistema nervoso (Historical Note)

Aristoteles was probably the first anatomist in the modern sense of this term. He wrote on human anatomy relying on the external aspects, and the lacking data on internal structures were generalized through the study of lower animals. The different body regions were described according to a precise topography, and his contribution to the development of anatomy was extensive, as he correctly described many organs and introduced new terms to indicate anatomical structures. Regarding the nervous system, he identified the brain and the two hemispheres, the cerebellum, and the spinal cord. The brain coverings, the meninges, were identified, a tougher external, and a delicate internal, and the related blood vessels. He described the bony casing, the skull and part of its bones and sutures, as well as the vertebral column formed by distinct holed vertebrae. The sensory organs were also defined, but he overlooked the presence of nerves, confusing such structures with vessels, tendons, ducts, among other similar structures. Additionally, he explained the functions of the brain, to which he attributed an important role, despite his cardiocentric standpoint. More than twenty and three centuries have elapsed since Aristoteles began his biological investigation, and his work was and continues to be admired, despite the inaccuracies that were pointed out by later authors. Evidently, knowledge on anatomy of the nervous system before Aristoteles was very scant, thus, it must be recognized that the pioneer anatomical studies he performed may be seen as fundamental, leaving a solid ground for future research on anatomy.

Aristóteles foi provavelmente o primeiro anatomista no sentido moderno deste termo. Escreveu sobre anatomia humana baseado nos aspectos externos, e os dados em falta sobre as estruturas internas eram generalizados através do estudo de animais inferiores. As diversas regiões do corpo foram descritas de acordo a uma topografia precisa e sua contribuição para o desenvolvimento da anatomia foi extensa, considerando que ele descreveu corretamente muitos órgãos e introduziu novos termos para indicar estruturas anatômicas. Considerando o sistema nervoso, identificou o cérebro e os dois hemisférios, o cerebelo e a medula. As coberturas cerebrais, as meninges, foram identificadas, uma externa resistente, e uma delicada interna, e os vasos sanguíneos relacionados. Descreveu o invólucro ósseo, o crânio e parte de seus ossos e suturas, assim como a coluna vertebral formada por vértebras perfuradas distintas. Os órgãos sensoriais também foram descritos, mas a presença de nervos foi ignorada, confundindo tais estruturas com vasos, tendões, dutos, entre outras estruturas similares. Adicionalmente, descreveu funções do cérebro, ao qual atribuiu um papel importante, apesar do seu ponto de vista cardiocêntrico. Mais de vinte e três séculos decorreram desde que Aristóteles começou suas investigações biológicas, e sua obra foi e continua sendo admirada, apesar das imperfeições apontadas por autores que se seguiram. Evidentemente, o conhecimento da anatomia do sistema nervoso antes de Aristóteles era muito escasso, assim, deve ser reconhecido que os estudos anatômicos pioneiros que ele realizou podem ser vistos como fundamentais, deixando solo firme para pesquisas futuras sobre anatomia.

Infarto cerebral en mujer joven con la enfermedad por el coronavirus del 2019 y sin factores de riesgo cardiovasculares: reporte de caso / Acute stroke in young woman with coronavirus disease 19 and no cardiovascular risk factor: case report

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: La COVID-19 se acompaña de eventos tromboembólicos venosos y arteriales en pacientes con historia de hipertensión y aterosclerosis. Se reporta el caso de una paciente joven y sin factores de riesgo cardiovascular que adquirió la infección por el SARS-COV2 y luego presentó un accidente cerebrovascular isquémico. CASO: Paciente de 44 años hospitalizada por la covid-19 en tratamiento protocolario con anticoagulación, esteroide y oxígeno suplementario. Al día 7 del inicio de los síntomas respiratorios presentó infarto cerebral por trombosis de arteria carótida derecha, arteria cerebral media derecha e izquierda y edema cerebral hemisférico derecho, tras lo cual fue diagnosticada con muerte encefálica. El estudio vascular no documentó una etiología diferente a la covid-19. DISCUSIÓN: Se plantea que la infección condiciona un estado inflamatorio sistémico, endotelialitis, ulceración de placas ateroscleróticas preexistentes e hipercoagulabilidad. Lo anterior facilita la aparición de trombosis vascular. Es frecuente encontrar elevación de reactantes de fase aguda y de los productos del metabolismo de la fibrina. El accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) isquémico se ha descrito en el 1 al 5 % de los pacientes con la covid-19. En pacientes con factores de riesgo cardiovascular, durante las primeras 2 semanas desde el inicio de los síntomas respiratorios, el compromiso isquémico suele afectar a múltiples territorios vasculares. CONCLUSIÓN: La covid-19 por sí sola es un factor de riesgo para trombosis arterial secundaria a la inflamación sistémica y estados de hipercoagulabilidad, por lo que debe ser tenida en cuenta en el estudio de ACV isquémico en pacientes jóvenes.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: It is known that COVID-19 is associated with venous and arterial thromboembolic events in patients with history of hypertension and atherosclerosis. Herein, it is presented a case of a young woman without known cardiovascular risk, who was infected by SARS-COV 2 and then an ischemic stroke. CASE: 44 years-old woman with moderate COVID-19 in protocolary treatment with anticoagulants, steroid and oxygen. In the seventh day since symptoms onset, she presented acute ischemic stroke due to acute thrombosis of right carotid artery, and right and left medial cerebral arteries, then rapidly developed malignant cerebral edema and brain death. Vascular study failed to report and etiology other than COVID-19. DISCUSSION: It is suggested that the infection produces a systemic inflammatory state, endothelialitis, ulceration of preexisting atherosclerotic plaques, and hypercoagulability that facilitate thrombosis. Ischemic stroke is described in 1 to 5% of COVID-19, it is common to find an elevation of acute phase reactants and products of fibrin metabolism. Multiple vascular territories are usually compromised in patients with known cardiovascular risk factors and 12 days after the onset of symptoms. CONCLUSION: COVID-19 by itself is a risk factor for arterial thrombosis secondary to systemic infection and hypercoagulability states and it should be taken into account in the study of ischemic stroke in young patients.

Lesión cerebral post paro cardiaco: aspectos médicos, éticos y legales / Brain injury after cardiac arrest: Medical, ethical and legal issues disorder

RESUMEN Los sobrevivientes de la reanimación cardiopulmonar posterior a un paro cardiaco pueden tener un amplio rango de desenlaces y van desde recuperación neurológica completa, estado de vigilia sin respuesta, compromiso cognoscitivo diverso o la muerte. La lesión del tejido cerebral se presenta inmediatamente después del paro cardíaco, durante la reanimación y al retornar la circulación espontánea. La severidad y duración de la noxa isquémica determinarán el devenir neurológico. El examen clínico es el punto de partida en el abordaje multimodal del neuropronóstico. Se debe complementar con electroencefalograma, potenciales evocados somatosensoriales, neuroimágenes y biomar-cadores séricos. Entre un 10 a 15% de los pacientes con lesión cerebral posterior al paro cardiaco evolucionan hacia muerte por criterios neurológicos y son potenciales candidatos a la donación de órganos. Un retiro temprano de las terapias de sostenimiento de vida puede malograr la posibilidad de un potencial donante de órganos. Se puede estimar de manera temprana qué pacientes tienen mayor riesgo de evolucionar a muerte por criterios neurológicos. El neurólogo tiene un papel protagónico en el manejo de pacientes con lesión cerebral post paro cardiaco y sus decisiones tienen implicaciones éticas y legales.

ABSTRACT People who survive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) after cardiac arrest, have a wide range of outcomes including complete neurological recovery, coma, compromised cognitive function and death. Injury of the brain parenchyma starts immediately after a cardiac arrest, during CPR and return of spontaneous circulation. The severity of the ischemic injury will define the neurological outcome. The first step needed to determine a neurological prognosis is the clinical exam, with the help of electroencephalography, somatosensory evoked potentials, neuroimaging, and serum biomarkers. Between 10 and 15% of patients with brain injury after a cardiac arrest, develop brain death and become potential candidates for organ donation. A premature withdrawal of vital support can hamper the possibility of organ donation. The patients with higher risk of developing brain death can be identified early based on neurological criteria. The neurologist has a major role in the approach of patients with brain injury after cardiac arrest and the decision making with legal and ethical consequences.

Tumor de Pott y absceso cerebral secundario a sinusitis aguda de foco dentario en paciente pediátrico

El tumor de Pott es una entidad rara, definida como un absceso subperióstico asociado a osteomielitis del hueso frontal. Suele presentarse como complicación de sinusitis aguda o crónica del seno frontal, y se describe con mayor incidencia en población pediátrica, siendo una complicación grave por su alta morbimortalidad. Se presenta a un paciente pediátrico con tumor de Pott y absceso cerebral posterior a una sinusitis aguda de foco odontogénico, en la que los pilares de tratamiento son drenaje quirúrgico precoz y antibioticoterapia prolongada. Se describe la clínica, manejo médico-quirúrgico y seguimiento posterior, ya que, en ausencia de antecedentes, se debe buscar dirigida- mente enfermedad periodontal y realizar un estudio de inmunodeficiencia primaria.

Pott's tumor is a rare entity, defined as a subperiosteal abscess associated with osteomyelitis of the frontal bone. It usually presents as a complication of acute or chronic sinusitis of the frontal sinus and it is described with a higher incidence in the pediatric population, being a serious complication due to its high morbidity and mortality. We present a pediatric patient with Pott's tumor and brain abscess after acute sinusitis of odontogenic focus, in which the pillars of treatment are an early surgical drainage and prolonged antibiotic therapy. The clinic, medical-surgical management and subsequent follow-up are described, since in the absence of antecedents, periodontal disease should be sought directly and a study of primary immunodeficiency performed.

Comparison between selective head cooling and whole-body cooling in neonatal therapeutic hypothermia / Comparação entre resfriamento seletivo da cabeça e resfriamento de corpo inteiro na hipotermia terapêutica neonatal

INTRODUCTION: Experimental evidence, as well as improved clinical studies of the reduction of brain injury and, improves the neurological outcome, in newborns with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) occurring in therapeutic hypothermia (TH). OBJECTIVE: To verify the potential of hypothermic hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) therapy in neonatal asphyxia, based on literature data, comparing the benefits between selective head cooling (SHC) and whole-body cooling (WBC), see that the use of TH as a standard treatment in newborns with moderate or severe HIE has been adopted. METHODS: A search was performed in the PubMed and SciELO databases of human studies, using the keywords "Therapeutic Hypothermia", "Induced Hypothermia", and "Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy", "Selective cooling of the head", "Total body cooling" and its variables. RESULTS: Eleven articles were selected to compose the review, after detailed reading. There is a consensus, that the reduction of the risk of death or disability at 18 months of life in neonates with moderate to severe HIE, occurs to TH through the techniques of WBC or SHC. It was found in the studies that there is no difference in terms of adverse effects between the two methods. As for radiological changes, such as hypoxic-ischemic injuries and the incidence of seizures after cooling, they are more frequent with SHC. CONCLUSION: Both WBC and SHC demonstrated neuroprotective properties, although WBC provides a broader area of brain protection. However, no significant differences were found between the methods in terms of adverse effects and beneficial short or long-term results.

INTRODUÇÃO: Evidências experimentais, assim como estudos clínicos, sugerem a redução da lesão cerebral e melhora do desfecho neurológico, em recém-nascidos com encefalopatia isquêmica hipóxica (EHI) submetidos à hipotermia terapêutica (HT). OBJETIVO: Verificar a potencialidade da terapia hipotérmica de encefalopatia hipóxico-isquêmica (EHI) na asfixia neonatal, com base em dados da literatura, comparando os benefícios entre o resfriamento seletivo da cabeça (RSC) e o resfriamento de corpo inteiro (RCI), visto que o uso de hipotermia terapêutica (HT) como tratamento padrão em recém-nascidos com EHI moderada ou grave tem sido amplamente adotada. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados PubMed e SciELO de estudos em humanos, utilizando-se as palavras-chave "Therapeutic Hypothermia", "Induced Hypothermia", "Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy", "selective head cooling", "whole body cooling" e suas respectivas variáveis. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 11 artigos para compor a revisão, após leitura detalhada. É consenso, a redução do risco de morte ou incapacidade aos 18 meses de vida nos neonatos com EHI moderado a grave, submetidos à HT através das técnicas de RCI ou RSC. Constatou-se diante dos estudos que não há diferença em termos de efeitos adversos entre os dois métodos. Quanto às alterações radiológicas, as lesões hipóxico-isquêmicas e incidência de convulsões após o resfriamento são mais frequentes com o RSC. CONCLUSÃO: Tanto RCI quanto o RSC demonstraram propriedades neuroprotetoras, embora o RCI proporcione uma área de proteção cerebral mais ampla. No entanto, não foram constatadas diferenças significativas entre os métodos quanto a efeitos adversos e a resultados benéficos em curto e longo prazo.

Potential relationship between Tourette syndrome and gut microbiome

Abstract Objective: In this article, the author aims to discuss and review the relationship between gut microbiota and Tourette syndrome, and whether the change in gut microbiota can affect the severity of Tourette syndrome. Sources: Literature from PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure was mainly reviewed. Both original studies and review articles were discussed. The articles were required to be published as of May 2022. Summary of the findings: Current studies on the gut microbiome have found that the gut microbiome and brain seem to interact. It is named the brain-gut-axis. The relationship between the brain-gut axis and neurological and psychiatric disorders has been a topic of intense interest. Tourette syndrome is a chronic neurological disease that seriously affects the quality of life of children, and there appears to be an increase in Ruminococcaceae and Bacteroides in the gut of patients with Tourette syndrome. After clinical observation and animal experiments, there appear to be particular gut microbiota changes in Tourette syndrome. It provides a new possible idea for the treatment of Tourette syndrome. Probiotics and fecal microbial transplantation have been tried to treat Tourette syndrome, especially Tourette syndrome which is not sensitive to drugs, and some results have been achieved. Conclusions: The relationship between gut microbiota and Tourette syndrome and how to alleviate Tourette syndrome by improving gut microbiota are new topics, more in-depth and larger sample size research is still needed.

Relationship between platelet indices and red cell distribution width and short-term mortality in traumatic brain injury with 30-day mortality

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at investigating whether there is a relationship between 7- or 30-day mortality and mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio, or red cell distribution width in patients with traumatic brain injury. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed intensive care unit patients with traumatic brain injury. We recorded patients' ages; genders; diagnoses; Glasgow Coma Scale scores; length of intensive care unit stay (in days); mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio, and red cell distribution width values upon hospital admission; and health on the 7th and 30th days of their stays. RESULTS: We analyzed data from 110 patients. Of these, 84 (76.4%) were male and 26 (23.6%) were female. On the 7- and 30-day mortality evaluations, compared to the living patients, the deceased patients had a significantly higher median age and a significantly lower median Glasgow Coma Scale. Thus, increased age and lower Glasgow Coma Scale scores were associated with increased 7- and 30-day mortality rates. mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width values were similar in living and deceased patients. platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio values were lower in deceased patients, but this difference was not statistically significant. Within 30 days after traumatic brain injury, deceased patients' red cell distribution width values were significantly elevated in deceased patients compared to those of living patients. CONCLUSION: Mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, and platelet count-to-total lymphocyte count ratio values were not associated with 7- and 30-day mortality, whereas only elevated red cell distribution width was associated with 30-day mortality.

Streptococcus constellatus causing concomitant extra and intracranial abscesses complicated with sagittal sinus thrombosis

ABSTRACT Streptococcus constellatus is a gram-positive coccus member of the Streptococcus anginosus group (SAG). It can be found in the oral flora, and may cause abscess more commonly in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and heart. Brain abscesses are severe neurological infections with high mortality rates. Streptococcus species other than S. pneumoniae are rare causes of brain abscesses. This case report highlights a severe case of extra and intracranial abscesses due to S. constellatus in an immunocompetent host

Study of karyotype and constitutive heterochromatin of Mansonia spp. (Diptera: Culicidae) in the area surrounding the Jirau Hydroelectric Dam, Rondônia, Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: Mansonia mosquitoes transmit arboviruses to humans. This study describes the karyotypes and C-banding of Mansonia humeralis, Mansonia titillans, Mansonia pseudotitillans, and Mansonia indubitans. Methods: From the 202 larvae, the brain ganglia were dissected (n=120) for the preparation of slides. Twenty slides with well-distended chromosomes for each species (10 for karyotyping and 10 for C-banding) were selected for further study. Results: The haploid genome and the average lengths of the chromosomal arms differed in relation to the centromere between species, and intraspecific differences also occurred in the distribution of the C-bands. Conclusions: These results are useful for better understanding of the chromosomal variability of Mansonia mosquitoes.

Reporte de dos casos de neuro-paracoccidiomicosis / Report of two cases of neuro-paracoccidiomycosis

La paracoccidiodomicosis es la micosis sistémica más frecuente en América Latina. La afectación del sistema nervioso central (SNC) está descrita en un 10-27%. El objetivo es presentar dos pacientes del sexo masculino con neuroparacoccidiodomicosis internados en el Departamento de Medicina Interna del Hospital Nacional, uno en el año 2017 y el otro en el 2021. Ambos pacientes presentaron síntomas neurológicos con mejoría de las lesiones con anfotericina B. Los granulomas cerebrales de PCM pueden tener comportamiento pseudotumoral. La regresión de las lesiones fue completa con anfotericina B y trimetoprin sulfametoxasol en el primer caso y anfotericina B e itraconazol en el segundo caso.

Paracoccidioidomycosis is the most common systemic mycosis in Latin America. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is described in 10-27%. The objective is to present two male patients with neuroparacoccidioidomycosis admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine of the National Hospital, one in 2017 and the other in 2021. Both patients presented neurological symptoms with improvement of the lesions with amphotericin B. The granulomas brain cells of PCM may have pseudotumor behavior. Regression of the lesions was complete with amphotericin B and trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole in the first case and amphotericin B and itraconazole in the second case.

Morphology of the brain base arteries of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

This study aimed to describe the brain base arteries of the Myrmecophaga tridactyla using ten cadavers of adults from this species, including five male and five female specimens. The arterial vascular bed was perfused via the thoracic aorta with a dyed natural latex solution, and the animals were fixed and preserved with a 10% formaldehyde buffered solution. The encephala were removed, and their vessels dissected. Basilar artery formation occurred by anastomosis of the thick ventral spinal artery with vertebral arteries. The basilar artery formed two arterial islands and gave bulbar and pontine branches, and cranial, middle, and caudal cerebellar arteries and ended by forking into its terminal branches, the caudal communicating arteries. The blood supply of the encephalon derived solely from the vertebrobasilar system, and the arterial circle of the brain was closed caudally and rostrally. The absence of participation of internal carotid arteries in encephalon irrigation, the island formations by the basilar artery, and the fusiform shape of the arterial circle of the brain are peculiar characteristics of the vascular anatomy of the brain base of M. tridactyla.

Evaluation of microRNA let-7b-3p expression levels in methamphetamine abuse

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to identify a microRNA expression signature that could be used to distinguish methamphetamine from control samples. We also utilized the existing bioinformatics tools in order to predict the candidate microRNAs that could play potential key roles in regulating drug addiction-related genes. METHODS: Methamphetamine samples from 21 ventral tegmental area and 21 nucleus accumbens samples and their control regions were obtained from the Council of Forensic Medicine (Istanbul). Quantitative analysis of let-7b-3p was studied using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student's t-test. The receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 20.0). RESULTS: Our quantitative reverse transcription PCR results revealed that let-7b-3p was significantly overexpressed in brain tissues of the methamphetamine-user group. Let-7b-3p had significant power to discriminate methamphetamine from control samples in the ventral tegmental area (AUC; 0.922) and nucleus accumbens (AUC; 0.899) regions. CONCLUSION: We have shown for the first time in the literature the differential expression of let-7b-3p in samples from methamphetamine-addicted individuals. We suggest that let-7b-3p could be a powerful marker for the diagnosis of methamphetamine addiction. Our results showed that differentially expressed let-7b-3p in methamphetamine users could be used as a diagnostic and therapeutic marker.

A case report of brain abscess caused by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

ABSTRACT The treatment of infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-Kp) strains is difficult due to the limited antimicrobial options and high mortality. There are many reports on intracranial infections caused by CR-Kp, but only a few on brain abscesses caused by CR-Kp. Here, we present a case of brain abscess caused by CR-Kp successfully treated with combined antibiotics. A 26-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital due to high fever and headache. His past medical history includes a surgical intervention due to an acute subdural hematoma, performed at an external healthcare center. After the current diagnosis of cerebral abscess, he underwent two surgeries. During the procedure, multiple cerebral abscesses were drained and capsulotomies were performed under ultrasound guidance. The combination of meropenem and vancomycin was started. The contents of the abscesses were sent to the microbiology and pathology laboratory. On the 3 rd day of treatment, the medical team was informed that CR-Kp grew in an abscess culture. The patient's treatment was changed to meropenem + colistin + tigecycline. The patient developed electrolyte disturbances during the follow-up and this was considered an adverse effect of colistin. On the 41 st day of treatment, colistin was discontinued, fosfomycin was added, and meropenem and tigecycline were maintained. Treatment was discontinued on the 68 th day, when the patient was discharged. The general condition of the patient, who has been followed up for two years, is satisfactory. The treatment of CR-Kp infections should be individualized, and the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antibiotics should be considered in each case.

Hematoma cerebral intraparenquimatoso e intraventricular por cocaína: reporte de un caso

Introducción: La cocaína es una de las sustancias psicoactivas más consumidas mundialmente. Es altamente adictiva y puede producir cuadros graves por su consumo, esporádico o habitual o, por su abstinencia, a nivel sistémico y neurológico. La exposición aguda a esta sustancia desencadena manifestaciones psiquiátricas inmediatas, como cambios en el afecto o conducta: sensación de irritabilidad, hiperactividad, ansiedad, desasosiego, euforia o psicosis. Esta sintomatología contrasta con inducción en ciertos casos de depresión, aislamiento o tristeza con la cronificación en su consumo. Además de los diversos efectos sensoperceptuales descritos, la sustancia puede generar daños neurológicos y/o cardiovasculares graves, como trastornos del ritmo cardíaco, arritmias malignas, emergencias hipertensivas, síndromes coronarios y enfermedades cerebrovasculares. Métodos: Presentamos el caso de un paciente quien ingresó al Hospital Universitario del Valle, en la ciudad de Santiago de Cali, departamento del Valle del Cauca, en Colombia, por un cuadro neurológico que permitía sospechar origen central. Este paciente no tenía factores de riesgo cardiovasculares, pero sí antecedentes de síndrome de Guillain Barré y de consumo de cocaína desde su adolescencia. Resultados: Al mencionado paciente se le realizaron múltiples estudios, destacándose los imagenológicos (tomografía, resonancia y angiorresonancia magnética de cerebro) y la estrategia invasiva de angiografía cerebral, en la cual logró documentarse que las manifestaciones neurológicas del paciente obedecían a una enfermedad cerebrovascular hemorrágica severa secundaria al consumo de cocaína. Conclusiones: Siempre indagar en pacientes con sangrados intraparenquimatosos el consumo de psicoactivos, en especial la cocaína, por su efecto lesivo sobre la vasculatura cerebral.

Introduction: Cocaine is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances worldwide. It is highly addictive and can produce serious systemic and neurological symptoms due to sporadic or habitual use or withdrawal. Acute exposure to this substance triggers immediate psychiatric manifestations such as changes in affect or behavior: feelings of irritability, hyperactivity, anxiety, restlessness, euphoria or psychosis; this symptomatology contrasts with induction in certain cases of depression, isolation or sadness with the chronification of its consumption. In addition to the various sensory-perceptual effects described, the substance can cause serious neurological and/or cardiovascular damage, such as heart rhythm disorders, malignant arrhythmias, hypertensive emergencies, coronary syndromes and cerebrovascular diseases. Methods: We present the case of a patient who was admitted to the Hospital Universitario del Valle, in the city of Santiago de Cali, department of Valle del Cauca, in Colombia, for a neurological condition that suggested a central origin. This patient had no cardiovascular risk factors, but had a history of Guillain Barré syndrome and cocaine use since adolescence. Results: The aforementioned patient underwent multiple studies, highlighting the imaging studies (CT, MRI and MRA of the brain) and the invasive strategy of cerebral angiography, in which it was possible to document that the patient's neurological manifestations were due to severe hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease secondary to cocaine consumption. Conclusions: Always inquire in patients with intraparenchymal bleeds the consumption of psychoactives, especially cocaine, for its injurious effects on the cerebral vasculature.

Tratamiento quirúrgico en estado epiléptico super refractario relacionado con malformación arterio venosa

Introducción: Las malformaciones arteriovenosas cerebrales (MAV) son un conjunto anormal de arterias y venas dilatadas del cerebro y caracterizadas por la pérdida de la organización vascular con una derivación arteriovenosa anormal. La probabilidad de ruptura de una MAV es baja, pudiendo causar déficit hasta en el 45% de los pacientes. La epilepsia puede asociarse con MAV siendo raro el estado epiléptico. La evolución a estado epiléptico refractario o estado epiléptico super refractario (EESR) es excepcional. Se presenta paciente con epilepsia asociada a MAV, con embolización y posterior complicación que evoluciona a EESR, donde se logró una resolución favorable con cirugía. Caso clínico: Paciente masculino de 70 años, con MAV temporal derecha no rota y epilepsia, libre de crisis desde el diagnóstico de ambas condiciones. Se realizó embolización logrando exclusión, pero con evolución a EESR. Tras estudio se realiza resección de MAV y resección parcial de zona de inicio de actividad epileptógena parieto-temporal. Además, se realizó una desconexión de región fronto-parietal central donde había evidencia de propagación de la actividad epiléptica. Paciente logra salir de estado crítico, con recuperación de conciencia y normalización de electroencefalogramas posquirúrgicos. A los 2 años evoluciona con epilepsia controlada (Engel IIa). Discusión y conclusiones: El abordaje quirúrgico es una opción en EESR y debe plantearse en un tiempo precoz de evolución (1-2 semanas). La cirugía se realizó para controlar EESR y fue una intervención exitosa. Esta estrategia puede lograr un cambio dramático en el pronóstico. La cirugía resectiva está indicada cuando hay evidencia etiológica en imágenes y focalidad eléctrica consistente en los estudios.

Introduction: Brain Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM) are an abnormal set of dilated arteries and veins within the brain and are characterized by loss of vascular organization with an abnormal arteriovenous shunt. The probability of AVM rupture is low, but it can cause deficits in up to 45% ofpatients. Epilepsy could be associated with AVM, and status epilepticus is rare. The evolution to refractory status epilepticus or super refractory status epilepticus (SRSE) is very rare. The objective is to present a patient with epilepsy associated with non-ruptured AVM, treated with embolization and a subsequent complication that evolves into SRSE, in which a favorable resolution was achieved after surgery Clinical case: 70-year-old male, with a diagnosis of non-ruptured right temporal AVM and epilepsy, who has been seizure free since the diagnosis, is reported. Embolization of the AVM was performed, achieving total exclusion, after the procedure presented seizures that evolved into SRSE. After investigation, an AVM resection and partial resection of the ictal onset zone on the right parieto-temporal region was performed, including a disconnection of the central fronto-parietal region, where there was evidence of propagation of ictal activity. Patient recovered from the critical condition after surgery, and also presented electrographic normalization. After 2 years, the epilepsy is well controlled (Engel IIa). Discussion and conclusions: The surgical approach is an option in SRSE, and it should be proposed early on, within a reasonable time of evolution (1-2 weeks). The active approach in this case, where the surgery was done for SRSE control, was a successful intervention. Especially when the features are consistent -there is etiological evidence in imaging and electrical focality in studies- there can be a dramatic change in the prognosis.

Comparative study of the distribution and expression of Neuroglobin and Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in the adult and young Yak Brain / Estudo comparativo da distribuição e expressão de neuroglobina e fator-1α indutível por hipóxia em adultos e jovens iaques (Yak Brain)

Abstract Background The brain is an organ that serves as the center of the nervous system in all vertebrate and most invertebrate animals. Aim The study examined the expression of Neuroglobin (Ngb) and Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (Hif-1α) in adult and young yak brain tissues, and provided researchers with meaningful insight into the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of this mammal. Method The study employed immunohistochemistry (IHC), quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and Western blot (WB) to obtain the results. Results Ngb and Hif-1α were significantly (P<0.05) expressed in the cerebellar cortex, piriform lobe, medulla, and corpus callosum of the adult yak while in the young yak brain tissues, the protein expressions were significantly found in the white matter of the cerebellum, pineal gland, corpus callosum, and cerebellar cortex. The Ngb and Hif-1α expression showed similarities and differences. This may have resulted from similar animal species, source of nutrition, age factors, brain size, emotional activities, and communication. The findings documented that Ngb and Hif-1α are commonly expressed in various adult and young yak brain tissues. Multiple roles in the brain tissues of the adult and young yaks are involved in the expression and distribution and are proposed to play a significant role in the adaptation of the yak to the high altitude environment. Conclusion This study provides meaningful data to understand the adaptive mechanism to hypoxia and recommended researchers to expand on the adaptive mechanism and brain tissues that are not recorded.

Resumo Contexto O cérebro é um órgão que funciona como o centro do sistema nervoso em todos os animais vertebrados e na maioria dos invertebrados. Objetivo O estudo examinou a expressão de neuroglobina (Ngb) e fator-1α indutível por hipóxia (Hif-1α) em tecidos cerebrais de iaques adultos e jovens e forneceu aos pesquisadores uma visão significativa da anatomia, fisiologia e bioquímica desse mamífero. Método O estudo utilizou imuno-histoquímica (IHC), PCR quantitativo em tempo real (qRT-PCR) e western blot (WB) para a obtenção dos resultados. Resultados Ngb e Hif-1α foram significativamente (P < 0,05) expressos no córtex cerebelar, lobo piriforme, medula e corpo caloso do iaque adulto, enquanto nos tecidos cerebrais do iaque jovem as expressões proteicas foram encontradas significativamente na substância branca do cerebelo, glândula pineal, corpo caloso e córtex cerebelar. A expressão de Ngb e Hif-1α apresentou semelhanças e diferenças. Isso pode ter resultado de espécies animais semelhantes, fonte de nutrição, fatores de idade, tamanho do cérebro, atividades emocionais e comunicação. Os resultados documentaram que o Ngb e o Hif-1α são comumente expressos em vários tecidos cerebrais de iaques adultos e jovens. Múltiplos papéis nos tecidos cerebrais de iaques adultos e jovens estão envolvidos na expressão e distribuição e são propostos para desempenhar um papel significativo na adaptação do iaque ao ambiente de alta altitude. Conclusão Este estudo fornece dados significativos para compreender o mecanismo adaptativo à hipóxia e recomendou que os pesquisadores expandissem o mecanismo adaptativo e os tecidos cerebrais que não foram registrados.

The inhibitory effect of Cannabis Sativa L. and Morus nigra L. against lipid peroxidation in goat liver and brain homogenates / O efeito inibitório de Cannabis Sativa L. e Morus nigra L. contra a peroxidação lipídica em homogenatos de fígado e cérebro de cabra

Abstract The present study was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential and inhibitory effect ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra against lipid peroxidation in goat brain and liver homogenates. The formation of free radicals, highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is a normal metabolic process for cellular signaling and countering the antigens. However, they may cause serious damage if they produced at amplified tolls. In addition, metabolic disorders also serve as sources of these reactive species. Although the issue can be addressed through supplements and other phytochemicals. In this study, two plant species were evaluated for their biological potential by employing a spectrum of antioxidant assays. The antioxidant activity was performed by lipid peroxidation assay. The water extract prepared from leaves of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra showed significant (P<0.05) inhibition as compared to control i.e., 522.6±0.06 and 659.97±0.03 µg/mL against iron-induced lipid peroxidation in goat brain homogenate while the inhibitions were 273.54±0.04 and 309.18±0.05 µg/mL against nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation of the brain. The iron and nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation was also significantly inhibited by leaf extracts of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra in liver homogenates such as 230.63±0.52 and 326.91±0.01 µg/mL (iron-induced) while 300.47±0.07 and 300.47±0.07 µg/mL (nitroprusside induced), respectively. The extracts of Cannabis sativa extract showed promising activity (96.04±0.060%) against DPPH radicals while Morus nigra showed a moderate activity (34.11±0.120%). The results suggest that different accessions ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra are a potential source of antioxidants and have a therapeutic effect against disease induced by oxidative stress and hence can be used for novel drug discovery and development.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial antioxidante e o efeito inibitório de Cannabis sativa e Morus nigra contra a peroxidação lipídica em homogenatos de cérebro e fígado de cabras. A formação de radicais livres, espécies altamente reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e espécies reativas de nitrogênio (RNS), é um processo metabólico normal para sinalização celular e combate aos antígenos. No entanto, eles podem causar sérios danos se forem produzidos em portagens ampliadas. Além disso, distúrbios metabólicos também servem como fontes dessas espécies reativas, embora o problema possa ser resolvido por meio de suplementos e outros fitoquímicos. Neste estudo, duas espécies de plantas foram avaliadas quanto ao seu potencial biológico, empregando um espectro de ensaios antioxidantes. A atividade antioxidante foi realizada por ensaio de peroxidação lipídica. O extrato de água preparado a partir de folhas de Cannabis sativa e Morus nigra mostrou inibição significativa (P < 0,05) em comparação com o controle, ou seja, 522,6 ± 0,06 e 659,97 ± 0,03 µg / mL contra peroxidação lipídica induzida por ferro em homogenato de cérebro de cabra, enquanto as inibições foram 273,54 ± 0,04 e 309,18 ± 0,05 µg / mL contra a peroxidação lipídica do cérebro induzida por nitroprussiato. A peroxidação lipídica induzida por ferro e nitroprussiato também foi significativamente inibida por extratos de folhas de Cannabis sativa e Morus nigra em homogenatos de fígado, como 230,63 ± 0,52 e 326,91 ± 0,01 µg / mL (induzida por ferro), enquanto 300,47 ± 0,07 e 300,47 ± 0,07 µg / mL (induzida por nitroprussiato), respectivamente. Os extratos do extrato de Cannabis sativa apresentaram atividade promissora (96,04 ± 0,060%) contra os radicais DPPH enquanto Morus nigra apresentou atividade moderada (34,11 ± 0,120%). Os resultados sugerem que diferentes acessos de Cannabis sativa e Morus nigra são uma fonte potencial de antioxidantes e têm efeito terapêutico contra doenças induzidas por estresse oxidativo e, portanto, podem ser usados ​​para a descoberta e desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos.

Astragaloside IV alleviates stroke-triggered early brain injury by modulating neuroinflammation and ferroptosis via the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

ABSTRACT Purpose: Stroke is an acute cerebrovascular disease. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an active ingredient extracted from Astragalus membranaceus with an established therapeutic effect on central nervous system diseases. This study examined the neuroprotective properties and possible mechanisms of AS-IV in stroke-triggered early brain injury (EBI) in a rat transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. Methods: The neurological scores and brain water content were analyzed. 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining was utilized to determine the infarct volume, neuroinflammatory cytokine levels, and ferroptosis-related genes and proteins, and neuronal damage and molecular mechanisms were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dutp nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, western blotting, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: AS-IV administration decreased the infarct volume, brain edema, neurological deficits, and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and NF-κB, increased the levels of SLC7A11 and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), decreased lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and prevented neuronal ferroptosis. Meanwhile, AS-IV triggered the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and alleviated ferroptosis due to the induction of stroke. Conclusions: Hence, the findings of this research illustrate that AS-IV administration can improve delayed ischemic neurological deficits and decrease neuronal death by modulating nuroinflammation and ferroptosis via the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

A Case of Successful Cognitive Rehabilitation in the Chronic Stage of Right Middle Cerebral Artery Territory Infarction：The Application of Guidance on Internal Methods, Including Time Pressure Management / The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

Few reports have yet investigated adequate cognitive rehabilitation for patients with chronic cognitive disorder. In this report, we describe a case of cognitive rehabilitation 10 months after onset of cerebral infarction in the right middle cerebral artery region, resulting in a good outcome. The patient was a 44-year-old right-handed male, with primary symptoms of inattention and left hemispatial neglect. The patient had not undergone any neuropsychological evaluations or cognitive rehabilitation until 10 months after disease onset. After 30 days of both direct attention training and metacognitive strategy training, including time pressure management, improvement of his cognitive disorder was achieved. The teaching of internal methods to improve metacognition with a high level of evidence was effective even 10 months after onset. Furthermore, it is important for therapists who provide cognitive rehabilitation using metacognitive strategy training to understand patients' remaining functions based on neuropsychological assessment, and to consider and teach compensatory methods so that they can be effectively used by patients in situations of daily life.