Diabetes, hemoglobin A1c, and cognitive performance in older adults: is there any impact of frailty? Evidence from the ELSI-Brazil study

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between diabetes and cognitive performance in a nationally representative study in Brazil. We also aimed to investigate the interaction between frailty and diabetes on cognitive performance. A cross-sectional analysis of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) baseline data that included adults aged 50 years and older was conducted. Linear regression models were used to study the association between diabetes and cognitive performance. A total of 8,149 participants were included, and a subgroup analysis was performed in 1,768 with hemoglobin A1c data. Diabetes and hemoglobin A1c levels were not associated with cognitive performance. Interaction of hemoglobin A1c levels with frailty status was found on global cognitive z-score (P-value for interaction=0.038). These results suggested an association between higher hemoglobin A1c levels and lower cognitive performance only in non-frail participants. Additionally, undiagnosed diabetes with higher hemoglobin A1c levels was associated with both poor global cognitive (β=-0.36; 95%CI: -0.62; -0.10, P=0.008) and semantic verbal fluency performance (β=-0.47; 95%CI: -0.73; -0.21, P=0.001). In conclusion, higher hemoglobin A1c levels were associated with lower cognitive performance among non-frail participants. Higher hemoglobin A1c levels without a previous diagnosis of diabetes were also related to poor cognitive performance. Future longitudinal analyses of the ELSI-Brazil study will provide further information on the role of frailty in the association of diabetes and glycemic control with cognitive decline.

Serum autophagy-related gene 5 level in stroke patients: correlation with CD4+ T cells and cognition impairment during a 3-year follow-up

Abstract Autophagy-related gene (ATG) 5 regulates blood lipids, chronic inflammation, CD4+ T-cell differentiation, and neuronal death and is involved in post-stroke cognitive impairment. This study aimed to explore the correlation of serum ATG5 with CD4+ T cells and cognition impairment in stroke patients. Peripheral blood was collected from 180 stroke patients for serum ATG5 and T helper (Th) 1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T (Treg) cell detection via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and flow cytometry. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale was completed at enrollment, year (Y)1, Y2, and Y3 in stroke patients. Serum ATG5 was also measured in 50 healthy controls (HCs). Serum ATG5 was elevated in stroke patients compared to HCs (P<0.001) and was positively correlated to Th2 cells (P=0.022), Th17 cells (P<0.001), and Th17/Treg ratio (P<0.001) in stroke patients but not correlated with Th1 cells, Th1/Th2 ratio, or Treg cells (all P>0.050). Serum ATG5 (P=0.037), Th1 cells (P=0.022), Th17 cells (P=0.002), and Th17/Treg ratio (P=0.018) were elevated in stroke patients with MMSE score-identified cognition impairment vs those without cognition impairment, whereas Th2 cells, Th1/Th2 ratio, and Treg cells were not different between them (all P>0.050). Importantly, serum ATG5 was negatively linked with MMSE score at enrollment (P=0.004), Y1 (P=0.002), Y2 (P=0.014), and Y3 (P=0.001); moreover, it was positively related to 2-year (P=0.024) and 3-year (P=0.012) MMSE score decline in stroke patients. Serum ATG5 was positively correlated with Th2 and Th17 cells and estimated cognitive function decline in stroke patients.

Ayuno intermitente y restricción calórica como tratamiento coadyuvante en enfermedad de Alzheimer y esclerosis múltiple / Intermittent Fasting and Caloric Restriction as an Adjunctive Treatment in Alzheimer's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis

Las enfermedades de Alzheimer y esclerosis múltiple son neurodegenerativas, con tratamientos complejos y de costos elevados, orientados a disminuir la progresión de la sintomatología. Sin embargo, a causa de la falta de terapias adecuadas y de los posibles efectos adversos ocasionados por tratamientos de primera línea, es necesario implementar mejores abordajes terapéuticos complementarios que no produzcan mayores efectos secundarios y mejoren la sintomatología de dichas patologías. La restricción calórica y el ayuno intermitente han demostrado ser estrategias novedosas y beneficiosas en enfermedades neurodegenerativas, a través de mecanismos inmunitarios, metabólicos y fisiológicos. Con el objetivo de determinar el uso del ayuno intermitente y la restricción calórica como tratamiento coadyuvante en esclerosis múltiple y enfermedad de Alzheimer, se realizó una revisión narrativa de artículos originales en revistas científicas, en idiomas inglés y español, de 2018 a 2022. El uso de la restricción calórica y ayuno intermitente han generado cambios positivos produciendo disminución de estados proinflamatorios, estrés oxidativo y envejecimiento. Se consideran abordajes que modulan la progresión de la enfermedad y mejoran la función cognitiva por vías de señalización de monofosfato de adenosina cinasa, factor de crecimiento similar a la insulina y la enzima sirtuina, generando un efecto neuroprotector.

Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis are neurodegenerative disorders with expensive and complex treatments aimed at reducing the progression of symptoms. However, due to the lack of adequate therapies and the possible adverse effects caused by first-line treatments, it's necessary to implement better complementary therapeutic approaches that do not produce major side effects and improve symptoms. Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have been shown to be novel and beneficial strategies in neurodegenerative diseases, through immune, metabolic, and physiological mechanisms. To determine the use of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction as a new treatment in multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease, a narrative review of original articles in both national and international scientific journals, in English and Spanish languages with no greater obsolescence than five years. The use of caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have generated positive changes, producing a decrease in pro-inflammatory states, oxidative stress, and aging. Approaches that modulate disease progression and improve cognitive function of adenosine monophosphate kinase, insulin-like growth factor, and sirtuin enzyme pathways are considered, generating a neuroprotective effect.

Prevalence and influencing factors analysis of the polycystic ovary syndrome among female college students in Fuzhou City， Jiangxi Province / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome （PCOS） among female college students at a university in Fuzhou City， Jiangxi Province， and to facilitate early detection and intervention of PCOS. MethodsUsing a stratified sampling method， a total of 450 female freshmen were randomly selected for PCOS screening. A self-designed questionnaire was used for data collection， covering menstrual status， high androgen signs， lifestyle， dietary habits， and awareness of PCOS. Sample t test and χ2 test were used to compare the basic information and dietary habits between PCOS and non-PCOS cases. The correlation between various indicators and the prevalence of PCOS was analyzed by a logistic regression model. ResultsA total of 12 PCOS cases were identified， with a prevalence rate of 2.99%. PCOS cases exhibited statistically significant differences compared to non-PCOS cases in terms of waist-to-hip ratio， waist circumference， abdominal obesity， the proportion of overweight or obese individuals， and a preference for sweet food （all P<0.05）. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between preference for sweet food and the occurrence of PCOS （OR=4.858， 95%CI=1.199‒19.675，P=0.027）， as well as a significant correlation with PCOS accompanied by abdominal obesity （OR=7.083， 95%CI=0.773‒64.937， P=0.048）. Among the female college students surveyed， 37.90% had never heard of PCOS， 51.62% were only familiar with the name of the disease， and 10.47% had attempted to search for PCOS-related information. ConclusionThe prevalence of PCOS among female college students should not be overlooked and unhealthy dietary habits may be a crucial factor contributing to the occurrence of PCOS during this period. Early screening for PCOS during puberty is crucial.

Progress in researches for perampanel in the treatment of comorbidities of epilepsy / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

Sleep disorder, migraine, cognitive and behavioral disorders, anxiety and depression are common comorbidities of epilepsy. The comorbidity rate of epilepsy patients is eight times that of the general population, which affects the prognosis and quality of life of epilepsy patients. Perampanel (PER), as a third-generation antiseizure medication, has shown promising clinical research and application in the treatment of comorbidities in epilepsy. PER can improve the total sleep time, sleep latency and sleep efficiency of patients with epilepsy comorbid sleep disorder. PER also shows good efficacy in reducing seizure and migraine attacks of patients with epilepsy comorbid migraine. Meanwhile, the impact of PER on overall cognitive characteristics is neutral, with no systematic cognitive deterioration or improvement, but behavioral changes are one of the most common adverse events related to PER. For patients with comorbid anxiety and depression, PER does not exacerbate the anxiety and depression of epilepsy patients, and the severity of anxiety and depression in some patients will improve. This article will review the mechanism of action and clinical treatment research progress of PER on comorbidities of epilepsy.

Effect of galvanic vestibular stimulation on stroke patients with lateropulsion / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of galvanic vestibular stimulation on stroke patients with lateropulsion. MethodsFrom February to October, 2023, 30 stroke patients with lateropulsion in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were divided into control group (n = 15) and experimental group (n = 15) randomly. The control group received routine rehabilitation and sham galvanic vestibular stimulation, and the experimental group received routine rehabilitation and true galvanic vestibular stimulation, for two weeks. They were assessed with Scale for Contraversive Pushing (SCP), subjective visual vertical (SVV), Line Cancellation Test (LCT), Star Cancellation Test (SCT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Holden Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) and Barthel Index (BI) before and after treatment. ResultsAll the indexes improved in both groups after intervention (|t| > 2.461, Z > 3.000, P < 0.05), except the SVV orientation, SVV certainty and SCT in the control group; while the SCP, SVV certainty, LCT and FAC were better in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 2.189, Z = -2.862, P < 0.05), and the differences before and after intervention were better in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 2.382, P < 0.05), except LCT. SCP was correlated with SVV orientation, SVV certainty, SCT, BBS, BI and FAC (|r| > 0.381, P < 0.05). ConclusionGalvanic vestibular stimulation can improve the lateropulsion, balance, walking function and activities of daily living in stroke patients, which may be related to improvement for spatial cognitive function, especially vertical perception.

Impact of subjective vertical perception impairment on function in stroke patients: a retrospective study / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the impact of subjective vertical perception impairment after stroke on visuospatial cognition, balance, walking and activities of daily living, to investigate the mediating role of visuospatial cognition and lateropulsion. MethodsFrom February to December, 2023, 96 stroke patients were selected from the Rehabilitation Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. They were divided into vertical perception impairment group (n = 53) and non-vertical perception impairment group (n = 43). They were assessed with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), the Scale for Contraversive Pushing (SCP), Burke Lateropulsion Scale (BLS), Line Bisection Test (LBT), Line Cancellation Test (LCT), Star Cancellation Test (SCT), Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Holden Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC) and Barthel Index (BI). ResultsScores of SVV orientation, SVV uncertainty, NIHSS, SCT, SCP, BLS, BBS, FAC and BI were worse in the vertical perception impairment group than in the non-vertical perception impairment group (|t| > 2.414, Z = -3.481, P < 0.05). Scores of SVV were correlated with SCT, BLS and BBS (|r| ≥ 0.273, P < 0.05). After controlling for age and gender, SVV orientation score did not directly impact BBS score (β = -0.011, P = 0.920). However, it exerted a partial mediating effect through BLS (effect = -0.173, 95%CI -0.278 to -0.076) and a chain-mediated effect through SCT and BLS (effect = -0.073, 95%CI -0.137 to -0.027), impacting BBS score. ConclusionSubjective vertical perception impairment results in poorer visuospatial cognition, balance, walking and activities of daily living in stroke patients. This influence on balance function is mediated through the mediating effects of visuospatial cognition and lateropulsion.

Effect and Mechanism of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate on Learning and Memory Abilities of Epileptic Rats / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate （EGCG） on learning and memory abilities of amygdala electrical kindling-induced epilepsy in rats and its mechanism. MethodMale SD rats were randomly divided into the normal group， model group， intervention group （model+25 mg·kg-1 EGCG）， and EGCG group （25 mg·kg-1 EGCG）. Rats in the EGCG group were only given EGCG intraperitoneal injection， those in the normal group were only given electrode implantation， and those in the other experimental groups were given amygdala electrical kindling stimulation to establish a chronic kindling epilepsy model. EGCG was injected intraperitoneally daily before electrical stimulation. Twenty-four hours after the last electrical stimulation， the escape latency and percentage of target quadrant were recorded by the Morris water maze. Twenty-four hours after the behavioral test， rats in each group were sacrificed by decapitation. The number of hippocampal neurons was observed by Nissl staining. The thickness of postsynaptic density in the hippocampus， synaptic cleft， length of active zone and the curvature of synaptic interface were observed by transmission electron microscopy （TEM）. The expressions of synapse-related proteins synaptotagmin （Syt）， postsynaptic density-95 （PSD-95） and Kalirin-7 in the hippocampus were examined by Western blot. ResultCompared with those in the normal group， the escape latency was significantly prolonged （P<0.05， P<0.01） and the target quadrant ratio was significantly decreased in the model group （P<0.05）. The number of hippocampus neurons decreased significantly （P<0.01）. The synaptic cleft of the hippocampus was widened significantly， and the length of active zone and the thickness of postsynaptic density were significantly decreased （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The expressions of synapse-related proteins Syt， PSD-95 and Kalirin-7 in the hippocampus were significantly decreased （P<0.05，P<0.01）. Compared with those in the model group， the escape latency was significantly shortened and the percentage of target quadrant was significantly increased in the intervention group （P<0.05， P<0，01）. The number of hippocampal neurons significantly increased （P<0.01）. The synaptic cleft of the hippocampus was significantly shortened， and the length of active zone and postsynaptic density were significantly increased （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The expressions of synaptic related proteins Syt， PSD-95 and Kalirin-7 were significantly increased （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionEGCG can effectively improve cognitive dysfunction after epilepsy. Its protective effect may be achieved by protecting the ultrastructure of hippocampal synapses and regulating the expressions of synapse-related proteins Syt， PSD-95 and Kalirin-7.

Study of discrepancy in subjective and objective cognitive function in patients with depressive disorder / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundThere exist differences in the subjective and objective cognitive functions of patients with depressive disorder， ane there are limited research on influencing factors of such phenomenon currently. ObjectiveTo explore the differences in subjective and objective cognitive function in patients with depressive disorder as well as influencing factors， and to provide references for further understanding of cognitive impairment in patients with depressive disorder. MethodsA total of 77 patients with depressive disorder who received outpatient or inpatient treatment in the Fourth People's Hospital of Chengdu from January 13， 2022 to December 11， 2023 were selected for the study. These patients also met the diagnostic criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders， fifth edition（DSM-5）. Various tools were employed to assess patients in this study： Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale （MADRS） for the depressive symptoms， Perceived Deficits Questionnaire for Depression （PDQ-D） and Chinese Version of Brief Neurocognitive Test Battery （C-BCT） for the subjective and objective cognitive function， Sheehan Disability Scale （SDS） for the social function， and Clinical Global Impression-Severity of Illness（CGI-SI） for the severity of patient's condition. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation of subjective and objective cognitive function and their differences with age， years of education， MADRS total score， SDS total score， and CGI-SI score. Multiple linear regression was used to explore the influencing factors of the differences between subjective and objective cognitive function. ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference in the total PDQ-D scores and the difference of subjective and objective cognitive function （D value） between depressive patients with and without medication （t=-4.228， -2.392， P<0.05 or 0.01）. There was no statistically significant correlation in subjective and objective cognitive function in patients with depressive disorder （r=-0.148， P>0.05）. Negative correlations can be observed between the PDQ-D total score and age or years of education （r=-0.333， -0.369， P<0.01）. The PDQ-D total score was positively correlated with MADRS total score， SDS total score and CGI-SI score （r=0.487， 0.637， 0.434， P<0.01）. D value was negatively correlated with age and years of education （r=-0.411， -0.362， P<0.01）， while positively correlated with MADRS total score， SDS total score and CGI-SI score （r=0.259， 0.468， 0.299， P<0.05 or 0.01）. Age （β=-0.328， P<0.01） and SDS total score （β=0.409， P<0.01） were two predictive factors for D value. ConclusionThe difference between subjective and objective cognitive function among patients with depressive disorder is related to several factors including age， years of education， severity of symptoms and impairment of social function. ［Funded by Surface Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China （number， 62173069）； Technological Innovation 2030-Major Project of "Brain Science and Brain-Like Research" （number， 2022ZD0211700）； Key R&D Support Program and Major Application Demonstration Project of Chengdu Science and Technology Bureau （number， 2022-YF09-00023-SN）］

Cognitive assessment in preterms by Bayley-III: development in the first year and associated factors / Avaliação cognitiva em crianças pré-termo usando Bayley-III: desenvolvimento no primeiro ano de vida e fatores associados

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the cognitive development of preterm infants at six and 12 months of corrected age and the associations with perinatal and socioeconomic factors. Methods: Cognitive development of 40 infants (20 preterm and 20 full-term) at six and 12 months of age was evaluated using the Bayley-III scale. Correlations between cognitive outcome and associated factors were assessed using Spearman correlation. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis with covariance was applied to identify changes on cognitive score between six and 12 months. Results: Bayley-III cognitive score in preterm group was significantly lower than in full-term group at both six and 12 months of age. Birth weight correlated with cognitive performance at six months and head circumference at birth at 12 months, in full-terms infants. The occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis was inversely associated with cognitive score in preterms at 12 months. An increase in cognitive score was observed between six and 12 months in both groups, but the gain was more pronounced in preterms. Conclusions: These findings suggest some cognitive recovery capacity in the first year despite the restrictions imposed by premature birth and emphasize the importance of early interventions in this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o desenvolvimento cognitivo de crianças pré-termo aos seis e 12 meses de idade corrigida e as associações com fatores perinatais e socioeconômicos. Métodos: O desenvolvimento cognitivo de 40 crianças (20 pré-termo e 20 a termo) foi avaliado aos seis e 12 meses de idade, utilizando a escala Bayley-III. Correlações entre resultados cognitivos e fatores associados foram avaliadas pelo teste de correlação de Spearman. A análise de regressão linear múltipla stepwise com covariância foi aplicada para identificar mudanças na pontuação cognitiva entre seis e 12 meses. Resultados: O escore cognitivo no grupo pré-termo foi significativamente menor que no grupo a termo aos seis e 12 meses. O peso ao nascer foi diretamente associado com o desempenho cognitivo aos seis meses e perímetro cefálico ao nascimento aos 12 meses, nas crianças a termo. A ocorrência de enterocolite necrosante foi inversamente associada ao desempenho cognitivo em pré-termos, aos 12 meses. Verificou-se aumento na pontuação cognitiva entre seis e 12 meses nos dois grupos, porém mais pronunciado no pré-termo. Conclusões: O estudo sugere que crianças pré-termo apresentam alguma capacidade de recuperação cognitiva no primeiro ano, apesar das restrições impostas pelo nascimento prematuro, e enfatizam a importância de acompanhamento dessa população desde os primeiros meses de vida.

Remote activities of cognitive stimulation for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review / Atividades de estímulo cognitivo remoto em idosos durante a pandemia da COVID-19: revisão sistemática / Actividades de estimulación cognitiva remota en ancianos durante la pandemia de COVID-19: revisión sistemática

Abstract: Cognitive stimulation activities for older adults are generally carried out in face-to-face workshops. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, these activities and consultations became remote due to social isolation, enabling care to continue safely. This study aims to analyze the remote cognitive stimulation and/or telerehabilitation activities for older people that were carried out as an intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a systematic review study with five selected articles, conducted according to the PRISMA statement methodology. Among the main results, the feasibility and acceptance of remote cognitive stimulation activities using technologies during the pandemic stand out, reflecting on future and expanded use for different realities and cultures. the studies reviewed also indicate the stabilization and improvement of the cognitive state and of depressive and anxious feelings, as well as the maintenance of independence of these participants, with an increase in scores on scales applied before and after the interventions. In conclusion, the activities carried out in cognitive stimulation and/or telerehabilitation therapies for older adults as an intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic had an average of 47 participants; the technologies used for the activities were tablet and personal computer; pre-installed programs were the most used strategy; and the interventions lasted from 1 to 3 months, with activities 2 to 3 times per week. The reinvention of techniques aimed at stimulating and rehabilitating the cognitive health of the older adults, via technologies as a strategy to replace or complement face-to-face activities, promotes the cognitive and mental health and independence of the older population.

Resumo: As atividades de estímulo cognitivo em idosos são geralmente realizadas por meio de oficinas presenciais; porém durante a pandemia da COVID-19, com o isolamento social, as atividades e consultas passaram a ser remotas para não interromper os cuidados. O objetivo deste estudo é analisar as atividades de estímulo cognitivo remoto e/ou telerreabilitação em idosos como intervenção durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Esta é uma revisão sistemática de cinco artigos selecionados, conduzida segundo a metodologia PRISMA. Os principais resultados incluem a viabilidade e aceitação de atividades de estímulo cognitivo remoto utilizando tecnologias durante a pandemia, refletindo em uso futuro e ampliado para diferentes realidades e culturas. Estudos também apontam para a estabilização e melhoria do estado cognitivo, dos sentimentos de depressão e ansiedade e da manutenção da independência desses participantes, com aumento nas pontuações nas escalas aplicadas depois das intervenções. Conclui-se que as atividades realizadas em terapias de estímulo cognitivo e/ou telerreabilitação em idosos como intervenção durante a pandemia da COVID-19 tiveram em média 47 participantes, os dispositivos tecnológicos utilizados foram o tablet e o computador, os programas pré-instalados foram a estratégia mais utilizada, com duração da intervenção de 1 a 3 meses e atividades realizadas 2 a 3 vezes por semana. A reinvenção de técnicas que visam estimular e reabilitar a saúde cognitiva dos idosos, incluindo o uso de tecnologias como estratégia para substituir ou complementar as atividades presenciais, promove a saúde cognitiva e mental e a independência dos idosos.

Resumen: Las actividades de estimulación cognitiva en ancianos generalmente se realizan mediante talleres presenciales; pero, durante la pandemia de COVID-19, con el aislamiento social, las actividades y consultas se volvieron remotas para no interrumpir los cuidados. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar las actividades de estimulación cognitiva remota o telerrehabilitación en ancianos como intervención durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Se trata de una revisión sistemática de cinco artículos seleccionados, realizada según la metodología PRISMA. Los principales resultados incluyen la viabilidad y aceptación de actividades de estimulación cognitiva remota utilizando tecnologías durante la pandemia, lo que refleja un uso futuro y ampliado para diferentes realidades y culturas. Los estudios también apuntan a la estabilización y mejora del estado cognitivo, de los sentimientos de depresión y ansiedad y de la conservación de la independencia de estos participantes, con un aumento en las puntuaciones en las escalas aplicadas tras las intervenciones. Se concluye que las actividades realizadas en terapias de estimulación cognitiva o telerrehabilitación en ancianos como intervención durante la pandemia de COVID-19 tuvieron un promedio de 47 participantes, los dispositivos tecnológicos utilizados fueron la tableta y la computadora, los programas preinstalados fueron la estrategia más utilizada, con una duración de la intervención de 1 a 3 meses y actividades realizadas de 2 a 3 veces por semana. La reinvención de técnicas que tienen como objetivo estimular y rehabilitar la salud cognitiva de los ancianos, incluido el uso de tecnologías como estrategia para reemplazar o complementar las actividades presenciales, promueve la salud cognitiva y mental y la independencia de los ancianos.

Long COVID: neurological manifestations - an updated narrative review / COVID longa: manifestações neurológicas - uma revisão narrativa atualizada

ABSTRACT. Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus can lead to neurological symptoms in the acute phase and in the Long COVID phase. These symptoms usually involve cognition, sleep, smell disorders, psychiatric manifestations, headache and others. This condition is more commonly described in young adults and women. This symptomatology can follow severe or mild cases of the disease. The importance of this issue resides in the high prevalence of neurological symptoms in the Long COVID phase, which entails significant morbidity in this population. In addition, such a condition is associated with high health care costs, with some estimates hovering around 3.7 trillion US dollars. In this review, we will sequentially describe the current knowledge about the most prevalent neurological symptoms in Long COVID, as well as their pathophysiology and possible biomarkers.

RESUMO. A infecção pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2 pode levar a sintomas neurológicos na fase aguda e na fase de COVID longa. Esses sintomas geralmente envolvem cognição, sono, distúrbios do olfato, manifestações psiquiátricas, dor de cabeça e outros. Esta condição é mais comumente descrita em adultos jovens e mulheres. A sintomatologia pode acompanhar casos graves ou leves da doença. A importância desta questão reside na elevada prevalência de sintomas neurológicos na fase de COVID longa, o que acarreta morbilidade significativa nesta população. Além disso, tal condição está associada a elevados custos de cuidados de saúde, com algumas estimativas em torno de 3,7 trilhões de dólares americanos. Nesta revisão, descrevemos sequencialmente o conhecimento atual sobre os sintomas neurológicos mais prevalentes na COVID longa, bem como sua fisiopatologia e possíveis biomarcadores.

Brain insulin resistance and Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review / Resistência insulínica cerebral e a doença de Alzheimer: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT. The disability of cells to react to insulin, causing glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia, is referred to as insulin resistance. This clinical condition, which has been well-researched in organs such as adipose tissue, muscle, and liver, has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD) when it occurs in the brain. Objective: The authors aimed to gather data from the current literature on brain insulin resistance (BIR) and its likely repercussions on neurodegenerative disorders, more specifically AD, through a systematic review. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in multiple medical databases, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), and PubMed®, employing the descriptors: "insulin resistance", "brain insulin resistance", "Alzheimer's disease", "neurodegeneration", and "cognition". The authors focused their search on English-language studies published between 2000 and 2023 that investigated the influence of BIR on neurodegenerative disorders or offered insights into BIR's underlying mechanisms. Seventeen studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected. Results: The results indicate that BIR is a phenomenon observed in a variety of neurodegenerative disorders, including AD. Studies suggest that impaired glucose utilization and uptake, reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and synaptic plasticity changes caused by BIR are linked to cognitive problems. However, conflicting results were observed regarding the association between AD and BIR, with some studies suggesting no association. Conclusion: Based on the evaluated studies, it can be concluded that the association between AD and BIR remains inconclusive, and additional research is needed to elucidate this relationship.

RESUMO. A incapacidade das células de reagir à insulina, ocasionando intolerância à glicose e hiperglicemia, é chamada de resistência à insulina. Essa condição clínica, que tem sido bem pesquisada em órgãos como tecido adiposo, músculo e fígado, tem sido associada às doenças neurodegenerativas como a doença de Alzheimer (DA) quando ocorre no cérebro. Objetivo: O objetivo dos autores foi reunir os dados da literatura atual sobre a resistência insulínica cerebral (RIC) e sua provável repercussão em doenças neurodegenerativas, mais especificamente na DA, por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura. Métodos: Foi realizada uma pesquisa abrangente em vários bancos de dados médicos, incluindo o Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline) e PubMed, empregando os descritores: "resistência à insulina", "resistência insulínica cerebral", "doença de Alzheimer", "neurodegeneração" e "cognição". Os autores concentraram sua busca em estudos no idioma inglês publicados entre 2000 e 2023 que investigaram a influência da RIC em distúrbios neurodegenerativos ou ofereceram insights sobre os mecanismos subjacentes da RIC. Dezessete estudos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão foram selecionados. Resultados: Os resultados demonstram que a RIC é um fenômeno observado em uma variedade de doenças neurodegenerativas, incluindo a DA. Estudos sugerem que a utilização e captação prejudicadas de glicose, a produção reduzida de trifosfato de adenosina (ATP) e as alterações na plasticidade sinápticas causadas pela RIC estão ligadas a problemas cognitivos. No entanto, foram observados resultados conflitantes com relação à associação entre DA e RIC, com alguns estudos sugerindo nenhuma associação. Conclusão: Com base nos estudos avaliados, pode-se concluir que a associação entre DA e RIC ainda é inconclusiva, e pesquisas adicionais são necessárias para elucidar essa relação.

Frailty and functional status among older adults with cognitive impairment: data from the second wave of the FIBRA study / Fragilidade e funcionalidade entre idosos com alterações cognitivas: dados da segunda onda do estudo FIBRA

ABSTRACT. Frailty is defined as a recognizable state of increased vulnerability resulting from age-associated decline of function in various physiological systems, such that the ability to deal with acute or everyday stressors is compromised. Objective: The aim of the study was to characterize the sample of older adults with cognitive impairment, according to the frailty status indirectly assessed by family members, other clinical and sociodemographic variables; and to assess the overlap of clinical conditions evaluated in this sample with cognitive impairment. Methods: Data were extracted from the follow-up database of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study (2016-2017). The sample consisted of 130 elderly people with cognitive impairment assessed by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). The scores for the Clinical Dementia Scale (CDR), Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia and Functional Activities Questionnaire were described. Frailty was indirectly measured through questions answered by family members about the five criteria that compose the frailty phenotype. Results: The sample consisted mostly of older women (n=91) with a mean age of 82.4 (SD=5.3) years, mean schooling of 3.3 years (SD=3.07), widowed (47.7%) and who lived with children and/or grandchildren (68%). More than half had multimorbidity (74.90%), 39.5% had depression symptoms suggestive of major depression, 57% had impaired functionality, 49.3% were frail, 37.6% pre-frail, and 13.10% robust. Conclusion: Among older adults with cognitive impairment, frailty and functional limitations are common.

RESUMO. A fragilidade é definida como um estado reconhecível de vulnerabilidade aumentada resultante do declínio da função associado à idade em vários sistemas fisiológicos, de modo que a capacidade de lidar com estressores agudos ou cotidianos fica comprometida. Objetivo: Caracterizar uma amostra de pessoas idosas com comprometimento cognitivo, segundo o estado de fragilidade, avaliado de forma indireta por familiares, assim como outras variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas; e avaliar a sobreposição das condições clínicas avaliadas nesta amostra com o comprometimento cognitivo. Métodos: Os dados foram extraídos do banco de dados de acompanhamento do estudo Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros (FIBRA - 2016-2017). A amostra foi composta por 130 idosos com comprometimento cognitivo avaliado pelo Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM). Foram descritos os escores da Escala Clínica de Demência (CDR), da Escala Cornell de Depressão em Demência e do Questionário de Atividades Funcionais. A fragilidade foi mensurada indiretamente por meio de questões respondidas junto aos familiares sobre os cinco critérios que compõem o fenótipo de fragilidade. Resultados: A amostra foi composta em sua maioria por mulheres idosas (n=91) com idade média de 82,4 (DP=5,3) anos, escolaridade média de 3,3 anos (DP=3,07), viúvas (47,7%) e que viviam com filhos e/ou netos (68%). Mais da metade apresentava multimorbidade (74,90%), 39,5% apresentavam sintomas depressivos sugestivos de depressão maior, 57% tinham funcionalidade prejudicada, 49,3% eram frágeis, 37,6% pré-frágeis e 13,10% robustos. Conclusão: Entre idosos com alterações cognitivas, é comum a co-ocorrência de fragilidade e de limitações funcionais.

Occupational complexity of paid work and housework, and its impact on the cognitive performance in community dwelling older adults, preliminary results / Complexidade ocupacional do trabalho remunerado e o trabalho doméstico e seu impacto no desempenho cognitivo de idosos residentes na comunidade, resultados preliminares

ABSTRACT Work and activity could be an important source of cognitive enrichment. Activities that are more challenging concerning the cognitive functions that are put into practice are associated with lower risk of cognitive decline in old age. Objective: The present study aimed to assess the impact of occupational complexity and household tasks in three cognitive domains (verbal episodic memory, language, and executive functions) in older adults residing within the community. Methods: A trail analysis was executed, using the structural equations procedure in 120 participants assessed with main lifetime occupational activity and household tasks questionnaire, as well as a neuropsychological assessment battery for memory, language, and executive functions. Results: The regression weights analysis indicated that complexity in household chores showed moderate effects on executive functions (β=0.19; p=0.027) and that occupational complexity of paid work showed effects on memory (β=0.26; p=0.008), language (β=0.38; p<0.001), and executive functions (β=0.55; p<0.001). Conclusion: Paid work promotes cognitive reserve, contrary to household activities which seem to have a moderate impact on cognition. Differences in activity complexity not only impact people´s economic and social status and possibilities but can also determine different courses of aging and cognitive risk.

RESUMO Trabalho e atividade podem ser importantes fontes de enriquecimento cognitivo. Atividades que são mais desafiadoras quanto às funções cognitivas postas em prática se associam a menor risco de declínio cognitivo em idade avançada. Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo é avaliar o impacto da complexidade ocupacional e das tarefas domésticas em três domínio cognitivos (memória episódica verbal, linguagem e funções executivas) em idosos residentes na comunidade. Métodos: Foi realizada uma análise de trilha com o uso de procedimento de equações estruturais em 120 participantes, avaliados por meio de: questionário das principais atividades ocupacionais e tarefas domésticas da vida, bem como bateria de avaliação neuropsicológica para memória, linguagem e funções executivas. Resultados: A análise dos pesos de regressou mostrou que a complexidade nas tarefas domésticas apresenta efeitos moderados nas funções executivas (β=0,19; p=0,027) e que a complexidade ocupacional do trabalho remunerado teve efeitos sobre a memória (β=0,26; p=0,008), linguagem (β=0,38; p<0,001) e funções executivas (β=0,55; p<0,001). Conclusão: O trabalho remunerado promove a reserva cognitiva, em contraste com as atividades domésticas, que parecem ter impacto moderado na cognição. As diferenças na complexidade das atividades não apenas impactam o status econômico e social e as possibilidades das pessoas, mas também podem determinar diferentes cursos de envelhecimento e risco cognitivo.

Funções neuropsicológicas de escolares na reabertura das escolas brasileiras na pandemia da Covid-19 / The neuropsychological functions of schoolchildren after the reopening of brazilian schools during the Covid-19 pandemic

RESUMO Objetivo O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar as funções neuropsicológicas de estudantes de uma escola pública do Distrito Federal (Brasil), matriculadas 1º e 2º ano de Ensino Fundamental na reabertura das escolas públicas na pandemia da COVID-19 e a influência dos fatores familiares e contextuais sobre o desempenho dessas habilidades. Métodos Participaram 117 estudantes, bem como seus responsáveis. As crianças foram avaliadas presencialmente por meio do Instrumento de Avaliação Neuropsicológica Breve Infantil (NEUPSILIN-Inf). Os pais/responsáveis responderam remotamente ao Inventário de Recursos do Ambiente Familiar e as questões para classificação socioeconômica e de escolaridade materna. Resultado Os dados apontam alta prevalência de crianças em fase de alfabetização que apresentam alerta ou déficit das funções de orientação, memória, linguagem, habilidades visuoespaciais, habilidades aritméticas e fluência verbal. Ainda, as atividades previsíveis que sinalizam algum grau de estabilidade na vida familiar são preditoras do desempenho das crianças na habilidade de orientação e os recursos que promovem processos proximais refletem significativamente no desempenho em linguagem. Os resultados sugerem que crianças inseridas em família com estimativas da renda domiciliar abaixo de um salário mínimo apresentam piores desempenhos do controle inibitório. Conclusão Foram apresentados e discutidos os impactos das alterações das habilidades neuropsicológicas para o aprendizado das crianças, destacando a necessidade de intervenções imediatas e direcionadas para essas funções. Foram considerados os fatores contextuais que apresentaram influência sobre o desempenho das habilidades neuropsicológicas.

ABSTRACT Purpose The objective of this study was analyzed the neuropsychological functions of students from a public school in Brazil, enrolled in the 1st and 2nd year of Elementary School at the time of the reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and to access the influence of family and contextual information on the performance of these skills. Methods 117 students participated in the study, as well as their parents or guardians. The children were evaluated in person using the Brief Child Neuropsychological Assessment Instrument (NEUPSILIN-Inf). The parents/guardians answered remotely the Inventory of Resources of the Family Environment and questions about socioeconomic classification and maternal education. Results The data showed a high prevalence of children who had problems or deficits in the functions of orientation, memory, language, visuospatial skills, arithmetic skills and verbal fluency. Furthermore, predictable activities that signal some degree of stability in family life are predictors of children's performance in orientation skills and resources that promote proximal processes significantly reflect on language performance. The results suggest that children included in families with a household income below one Brazilian minimum monthly salary presented poorer inhibitory control performances. Conclusion The impact of changes in neuropsychological skills in children's learning were presented and discussed, highlighting the need for immediate and targeted intervention of these functions. Contextual factors that influenced the performance of neuropsychological skills were also considered.

La relación entre afecto y cognición: perspectivas teóricas afecto y cognición / A relação entre afeto e cognição: perspectivas teóricas / The relation between affection and cognition: theoretical perspectives

O presente artigo pretende apresentar a relação entre afetividade e cognição nas perspectivas teóricas de Jean Piaget, da neurociência e de Lev Vygotsky. Na perspectiva teórica de Piaget, confere ênfase aos conceitos de interesse e assimilação. Já na perspectiva teórica da neurociência, a ênfase é colocada nas bases biológicas da aprendizagem. Ademais, problematiza o lugar da perspectiva histórico-cultural de Vygotsky, enfatizando os conceitos de significado e sentido no contexto conceitual da relação entre afeto e cognição. A partir do recorte feito, apresenta algumas possíveis contribuições de tais leituras dentro do tema trabalhado concernentes à relação entre afeto e cognição. Argumenta ainda que embora comportem diferenças, as três perspectivas explicitam a importância do afeto para a cognição. Nessa direção, conclui pela relevância das contribuições dadas pelas leituras de Piaget, Vygotsky e da neurociência. As fontes utilizadas são da literatura disponível sobre o tema.

En el presente artículo se pretende presentar la relación entre afectividad y cognición en las perspectivas teóricas de Jean Piaget, de la neurociencia y de Lev Vygotsky. En la perspectiva teórica de Piaget, confiere énfasis a los conceptos de interés y asimilación. En la perspectiva teórica de la neurociencia, el énfasis está colocado en las bases biológicas del aprendizaje. Además, problematiza el lugar de la perspectiva histórico-cultural de Vygotsky, enfatizando los conceptos de significado y sentido en el contexto conceptual de la relación entre afecto y cognición. A partir del recorte, presenta algunas posibles contribuciones de tales lecturas dentro del tema estudiado concernientes a la relación entre afecto y cognición. Argumenta que, aunque comporten diferencias, las tres perspectivas explicitan la importancia del afecto para la cognición. En esa dirección, se concluye por la relevancia de las contribuciones dadas por las lecturas de Piaget, Vygotsky y de la neurociencia. Las fuentes utilizadas son de la literatura disponible sobre el tema.

This article aims to present the relation between affection and cognition from the Jean Piaget, neuroscience and Lev Vygotsky's theoretical perspectives. From Piaget's theoretical perspective, it emphasizes the concepts of interest and assimilation. From the neuroscience theoretical perspective, emphasis is placed on the biological bases of learning. Furthermore, it problematizes the place of Vygotsky's historical-cultural perspective, emphasizing the concepts of meaning and sense in the conceptual context of the relation between affection and cognition. Based on the selection made, it presents some possible contributions of such readings within the theme discussed regarding the relation between affect and cognition. It also argues that although they have differences, the three perspectives explain the importance of affect for cognition. In this direction, it concludes that the contributions made by reading Piaget, Vygotsky and neuroscience are relevant. The sources used are from the available literature about the topic.

Indicators of Quality of Life According to Self-Efficacy, Physical Activity and Cognition among Elderly People Attending Open Universities for the Elderly in Southern Brazil

Introduction: Quality of life is a multifaceted construct that depends on the person's subjective perception; however, some studies have shown self-efficacy and cognition with possible indicators of this positive perception of quality of life in people. Objective: Examined prediction of Quality of Life (QL) and its domains according to self-efficacy, physical activity (PA) and cognition among elderly people attending public Open Universities for the elderly in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Method: Cross-sectional descriptive correlational study with a sample of 277 elderly. Questionnaires used: Sociodemographic, WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-OLD, IPAQ, General Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination. Statistical: Descriptive and inferential analysis (correlation and multiple linear regression), significancep < .05. Results: The mean age was 67.60 (SD=6.65). Self-efficacy was related to QOL and to all domains. PA correlated with general QOL and the Psychological and Social domains. Cognition was correlated with general QOL and five other domains (Physical, Psychological, Social, Environmental, Sensory functioning, Past/Present/ Future Activities). Self-efficacy, PA and Cognition can explain 10% of the general QOL, and 14% of the Environmental domain. The specific QOL and its domains had 10% of explanation. Conclusion: QOL can be explained by the constructs self-efficacy, cognition and PA.

Introducción: La calidad de vida es un constructo multifacético que depende de la percepción subjetiva de la persona; sin embargo, algunos estudios han demostrado que la autoeficacia y la cognición son posibles indicadores de esta percepción positiva de la calidad de vida en las personas. Objetivo: se examinó la predicción de la calidad de vida (CV) y sus dominios según la autoeficacia, la actividad física (AF) y la cognición entre ancianos que asisten a Universidad Abierta para Adultos Mayores en el Estado de Paraná, Brasil. Método: estudio transversal descriptivo correlacional con una muestra de 277 ancianos. Cuestionarios utilizados: sociodemográfico, WHOQOL-BREF y WHOQOL-OLD, IPAQ, Escala de Autoeficacia Percibida General y Examen Cognitivo de Addenbrooke. Estadística: análisis descriptivo e inferencial (correlación y regresión lineal múltiple), significancia p < .05. Resultados: la edad media fue de 67.60 (DE=6.65). La autoeficacia se relacionó con la calidad de vida y con todos los dominios. AF se correlacionó con la CV general y los dominios psicológico y social. La cognición se correlacionó con la calidad de vida general y otros cinco dominios (funcionamiento físico, psicológico, social, ambiental, sensorial, actividades pasadas/presentes/futuras). Autoeficacia, AF y cognición pueden explicar el 10% de la CV general y el 14% del dominio ambiental. La CV específica y sus dominios tuvieron 10% de explicación. Conclusión: la CV puede ser explicada por los constructos autoeficacia, cognición y AF.

Rural-urban disparities in fruit and vegetable consumption and cognitive performance in Brazil

Objectives: Rural residents are exposed to many risk factors for poor diet quality, such as low socioeconomic status and food insecurity. However, the differences between urban and rural residents regarding the association of fruit and vegetable consumption with cognitive performance have not been explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of fruit and vegetable consumption with cognitive performance in urban and rural areas in a nationally representative sample of Brazilian older adults. Methods: The sample included 9,412 adults aged 50 years or older from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde dos Idosos Brasileiros [ELSI]). The association between consumption of fruits and vegetables and cognitive performance was evaluated using linear regression. Results: In 8,158 participants (mean age 61.6 ± 9.3 years, 54% women, 44% White, and 15% from rural areas), the mean frequency of fruit and vegetable consumption was 2.0 ± 1.3 times a day. Higher intake of fruits and vegetables was associated with better memory (β = 0.031, 95%CI 0.014-0.049), verbal fluency (β = 0.030, 95%CI 0.004-0.056), and global cognition (β = 0.035, 95%CI 0.015-0.055) performance in urban, but not rural residents (p for interaction = 0.036). Conclusion: Higher frequency of fruit and vegetable intake was associated with better cognitive performance in urban, but not in rural areas in Brazil.

Efectos de la modalidad de presentación de un mensaje de educación entretenimiento de prevención del VIH

Introducción: Se presentan los resultados de un estudio experimental para contrastar el efecto de la modalidad de presentación de un mensaje de educación-entretenimiento (escrito versus audiovisual) en los procesos cognitivos de recepción, en función de la necesidad de cognición. Método: Participaron 109 hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH), distribuidos aleatoriamente en dos condiciones experimentales (mensaje escrito versus mensaje audiovisual). Resultados: Se encontró que la necesidad de cognición moderó el efecto de la modalidad del mensaje sobre la elaboración cognitiva (el mensaje escrito incrementaba la elaboración cognitiva en participantes con baja necesidad de cognición) y sobre la contraargumentación (el formato escrito generó menor contraargumentación en participantes con alta necesidad de cognición), pero no sobre la reactancia. Conclusiones: La efectividad de un mensaje de educación-entretenimiento está determinada tanto por las características del mensaje (la modalidad de presentación) como por las diferencias individuales de las personas (la necesidad de cognición). De manera particular, la necesidad de cognición es una variable relevante para comprender los procesos cognitivos de recepción (la elaboración cognitiva y la contraargumentación) que desempeñan un papel fundamental en el estudio de la persuasión narrativa.

Introduction: This article presents the results of an experimental study that sought to contrast the effect of the entertainment education message (written versus audiovisual) on the cognitive processes of reception, as a function of the need for cognition. Method: 109 MSM participated, randomly distributed, in two experimental conditions (written versus audiovisual message). Results: We found that the need for cognition moderated the effect of message modality on cognitive elaboration and in contra-argumentation, but not on reactance. Data shows that written message increased cognitive elaboration in participants with low need for cognition and generated less contra-argumentation in participants with a higher need for cognition. Conclusions: The effectiveness of an entertainment-education message is determined by both the characteristics of the message (the modality of presentation) and the individual differences of people (the need for cognition). In particular, the need for cognition is a relevant variable for understanding the cognitive processes of reception (cognitive elaboration and contra-argumentation) that play a fundamental role in the study of narrative persuasion.