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Background The diagnosis of cognitive disorders in Parkinson disease (PD) can be very challenging. Aiming at establishing uniform and reliable diagnostic procedures, the International Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) commissioned task forces to delineate diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia in PD. Objectives To investigate the applicability of the MDS recommendations for cognitive evaluation in a Brazilian sample of patients with PD with low levels of formal education. Methods A total of 41 patients with PD were subjected to a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation based on tests proposed by the MDS, which included the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (MDRS), the Trail Making Test (TMT) parts A and B, in addition to language and memory skills assessment. Neuropsychiatric and daily functioning features were also evaluated. Spearman correlation analyses were used to evaluate the association between the scores obtained in the cognitive scales and demographic/clinical variables. Results Although none of the participants had a formal diagnosis of dementia, 50% presented some degree of cognitive impairment when considering the results of the MDRS. Of note, a noticeable number of patients was not able to complete the full neuropsychological assessment. The TMT part B was the most difficult task, being completed by only 22 participants (54%). As expected, the greater the educational level, the better the performance on the cognitive tests. Better motor function was also associated with better scores in cognition. Conclusions Adopting strict inclusion/exclusion criteria and a comprehensive clinical evaluation, we found remarkable limitations for the MDS recommendations when individuals with low educational levels are considered. A revision of the current guidelines is necessary considering differences among populations, especially related to formal education.

ABSTRACT: Purpose: To investigate visual-related quality of life (VRQL) and prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms in Brazilian individuals with toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis (TRC). Design: Comparative observational cross-sectional study. The National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (NEI-VFQ-25) and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) were applied to respectively assess VRQL and depression in individuals consecutively seen at a uveitis referral center. Clinical/demographical data were collected. Descriptive/analytic statistics were employed, with P

INTRODUCTION: Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is the most important systemic mycosis in South America. Central nervous system involvement is potentially fatal and can occur in 12.5% of cases. This paper aims to contribute to the literature describing eight cases of neuroparacoccidioidomycosis (NPMC) and compare their characteristics with patients without neurological involvement, to identify unique characteristics of NPCM. METHODS: A cohort of 213 PCM cases was evaluated at the Infectious Diseases Clinic of the University Hospital, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from October 1976 to August 2008. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, therapeutic and follow-up data were registered. RESULTS: Eight patients presented NPCM. The observed NPCM prevalence was 3.8%. One patient presented the subacute form of PCM and the other seven presented the chronic form of the disease. The parenchymatous form of NPCM occurred in all patients. 60% of the patients who proceeded from the north/ northeast region of Minas Gerais State developed NPCM. The neurological involvement of a mother and her son was observed. NPCM patients exhibited demographical and clinical profiles similar to what is described in the literature. When NPCM cases were compared to PCM patients, there were differences in relation to origin and positive PCM family history. CONCLUSIONS: The results corroborate the clinical view that the neurological findings are extremely important in the evaluation of PCM patients. Despite the limitations of this study, the differences in relation to patient's origins and family history point to the need of further studies to determine the susceptibility factors involved in the neurological compromise.

OBJETIVO: Determinar os pontos de melhor sensibilidade e especificidade do Inventário de Depressão de Beck (BDI) e da Escala de Avaliação de Depressão de Hamilton (HAM-D) no diagnóstico de depressão associada à epilepsia. MÉTODOS: Setenta e três pacientes de um centro de referência no tratamento da epilepsia foram submetidos à avaliação neuropsiquiátrica. Foram colhidos dados clínicos e sociodemográficos, sendo utilizados os seguintes instrumentos: entrevista clínica estruturada (MINI-PLUS) para diagnóstico psiquiátrico conforme o DSM-IV, HAM-D e BDI. RESULTADOS: No momento da entrevista, 27,4% dos pacientes estavam deprimidos e 37% preenchiam critérios para diagnóstico de depressão maior ao longo da vida. A análise da curva ROC indicou que o ponto de corte em 16 (> 16) para o BDI (sensibilidade de 94,4%, especificidade de 90,6%) e em 16 (> 16) para a HAM-D (sensibilidade de 95%, especificidade de 75,5%) representou dicotomização ótima entre deprimidos e não deprimidos. Ambos os instrumentos apresentaram um valor preditivo negativo superior a 95%. CONCLUSÃO: A frequência de depressão maior é elevada em pacientes com epilepsia. BDI e a HAM-D podem auxiliar o clínico na identificação da depressão associada à epilepsia, diminuindo seu subdiagnóstico.

A vitamina B12, ou cianocobalamina, desempenha importantes funções metabólicas e neurotróficas. Sua deficiência está associada a distúrbios hematológicos, neurológicos e psiquiátricos. É relatado o caso de uma paciente com depressão refratária ao tratamento com antidepressivos que melhorou somente após a detecção e o tratamento da deficiência de vitamina B12. Esse relato ilustra a importância de o psiquiatra considerar causas secundárias de depressão em casos refratários.

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate potential associations among executive, physical and food functions in the acute phase after stroke. Methods This is a cross-sectional study that evaluated 63 patients admitted to the stroke unit of a public hospital. The exclusion criteria were other neurological and/or psychiatric diagnoses. The tools for evaluation were: Mini-Mental State Examination and Frontal Assessment Battery for cognitive functions; Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score for quantification of brain injury; National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale for neurological impairment; Modified Rankin Scale for functionality, and the Functional Oral Intake Scale for food function. Results The sample comprised 34 men (54%) and 29 women with a mean age of 63.6 years. The Frontal Assessment Battery was significantly associated with the other scales. In multivariate analysis, executive function was independently associated with the Functional Oral Intake Scale. Conclusion Most patients exhibited executive dysfunction that significantly compromised oral intake.

ABSTRACT Background: The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) scale was developed for monitoring early ischemic changes on CT, being associated with clinical outcomes. The ASPECTS can also associate with peripheral biomarkers that reflect the pathophysiological response of the brain to the ischemic stroke. Objective: To investigate the association between peripheral biomarkers with the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) in individuals after ischemic stroke. Methods: Patients over 18 years old with acute ischemic stroke were enrolled in this study. No patient was eligible for thrombolysis. The patients were submitted to non-contrast CT in the first 24 hours of admission, being the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score and clinical and molecular evaluations applied on the same day. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin scale and the Mini-Mental State Examination for clinical evaluation were also applied to all subjects. Plasma levels of BDNF, VCAM-1, VEGF, IL-1β, sTNFRs and adiponectin were determined by ELISA. Results: Worse neurological impairment (NIHSS), cognitive (MEEM) and functional (Rankin) performance was observed in the group with changes in the NCTT. Patients with NCTT changes also exhibited higher levels of IL-1β and adiponectin. In the linear multivariate regression, an adjusted R coefficient of 0.515 was found, indicating adiponectin and NIHSS as independent predictors of ASPECTS. Conclusion: Plasma levels of adiponectin are associated with the ASPECTS scores.

ABSTRACT The interface between epilepsy and religiosity has been a long-standing matter of debate. Epilepsy has affected several religious leaders throughout history. Hyperreligiosity may be observed in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy as a component of the so-called Gastaut-Geschwind syndrome which involves other behavioral and personality traits such as hyposexuality, viscosity, philosophical concerns, sense of personal destiny, hypergraphy, emotionality, and irritability. Saint Paul, the Apostle, probably had temporal lobe epilepsy. He was a genius man of intellectual excellence and refined culture, whose life and writings exerted a decisive influence on Western history. The current paper investigates the elements of Gastaut-Geschwind syndrome in Saint Paul’s life and Epistles and discusses the potential influence of these traits on Pauline theology.

Neuropsychiatric or behavioral symptoms of dementia encompass a series of disorders, such as anxiety, depression, apathy, psychosis, and agitation, all commonly present in individuals living with dementia. While they are not required for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), they are ubiquitously present in all stages of the disease, contributing to negative clinical outcomes, including cognitive decline, functional disability, and caregiver burden. Neuropsychiatric symptoms have been conceptualized not only as risk factors but as clinical markers of decline along the AD spectrum. The concept of “mild behavioral impairment”, the behavioral correlate of mild cognitive impairment, has been proposed within this framework. The first steps in the management of behavioral symptoms in AD involve defining the target and investigating potential causes and/or aggravating factors. Once these factors are addressed, non-pharmacological approaches are preferred as first-line interventions. Following the optimization of anticholinesterase treatments, specific pharmacological approaches (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics) can be considered weighing potential side effects.

IntroductionFour years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the frequency of long-term post-COVID-19 cognitive symptoms is a matter of concern given the impact it may have on the work and quality of life of affected people.ObjectiveTo evaluate the incidence of post-acute COVID-19 cognitive symptoms, as well as the associated risk factors.MethodsRetrospective cohort, including outpatients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 and who were assisted by a public telehealth service provided by the Telehealth Network of Minas Gerais (TNMG), during the acute phase of the disease, between December/2020 and March/2022. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, applied via phone calls, regarding the persistence of COVID-19 symptoms after 12 weeks of the disease. Cognitive symptoms were defined as any of the following: memory loss, problems concentrating, word finding difficulties, and difficulty thinking clearly.ResultsFrom 630 patients who responded to the questionnaire, 23.7% presented cognitive symptoms at 12 weeks after infection. These patients had a higher median age (33 [IQR 25–46] vs. 30 [IQR 24–42] years-old, p = 0.042) with a higher prevalence in the female sex (80.5% vs. 62.2%, p

Abstract Background Parkinsonism is strongly associated with ageing, and many studies have suggested that parkinsonian signs may affect up to half of older adults and is associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. We compared clinical and functional characteristics of oldest-old community-dwelling individuals with parkinsonism (parkinsonian group [PG]) to individuals without parkinsonism (non-parkinsonian group [NPG]. Methods The Pietà study is a population-based study conducted in Caeté, southeast Brazil, involving 607 individuals aged 75 + years submitted to an extensive clinical evaluation. A subset of 65 PG individuals (61.5% women, median age of 82 years) was compared to 542 NPG individuals (64.8% women, median age of 80 years). Results PG individuals had significantly more functional impairment, clinical comorbidities (including number of falls, loss of bladder control and dysphagia) and major depression. Multivariate analysis revealed that older age, higher UPDRSm scores, lower category fluency test (animals/minute) and delayed recall memory scores were associated with PG. This group was also more cognitively impaired, with lower performance than NPG individuals in the Mini-Mental State Examination, category fluency test (animals/minute), clock drawing and in delayed recall (p

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a associação da independência funcional com aspectos clínicos de comprometimento neurológico, a localização e extensão do dano neuronal e os fatores sociodemográficos em pacientes na fase aguda do AVC. Método Estudo analítico de recorte transversal, realizado com 90 pacientes adultos e idosos acometidos por AVC isquêmico, que tiveram admissão no ambiente hospitalar nas primeiras 24 horas após o evento vascular. A coleta dos dados referentes aos aspectos clínicos e fatores sociodemográficos foi realizada pelo prontuário eletrônico e/ou entrevista para descrever o perfil dos pacientes, Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project, Alberta Stroke Programme Early CT Score, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale e a Medida de Independência Funcional. Resultados O comprometimento neurológico, de acordo com a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, foi associado à funcionalidade nas primeiras 24 horas após o AVC. Além disso, a presença de hipertensão arterial, idade, trabalho inativo, tabagismo e extensão do dano neuronal estiveram associados à dependência funcional, mas não permaneceram no modelo final deste estudo. Conclusão A dependência funcional está associada à hipertensão arterial, idade, trabalho inativo, tabagismo, extensão do dano neuronal e grau de comprometimento neurológico nas primeiras 24 horas após o evento vascular. Além disso, um nível mais elevado de comprometimento neurológico foi independentemente associado a níveis aumentados de dependência funcional.

IntroductionMigraine is a common and disabling primary headache, and its pathophysiology is not fully understood. Previous studies have suggested that pain can increase humans’ Resting Energy Expenditure (REE). However, no previous study has investigated whether the REE of individuals with migraine differs from the general population. Therefore, this study aims to assess whether the REE of women with migraine differs from that of women without headaches. We also tested the accuracy of REE predictive formulas in the migraine patients.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involves 131 adult women aged between 18 and 65 years, 83 with migraine and 48 without (controls). We collected clinical, demographic, and anthropometric data. Migraine severity was measured using the Migraine Disability Test and Headache Impact Test, version 6. The REE was measured by indirect calorimetry, and it was compared with the predicted REE calculated by formulas.ResultsPatients with migraine had higher REE when compared to controls (p

Introdução/Objetivos: Estima-se que entre 30-50% das pessoas que vivem com HIV (PVHIV) apresentam apatia. Ter uma opção prática pode facilitar o diagnóstico desta moléstia e propiciar uma abordagem precoce para melhorar a adesão às terapias propostas e seus desfechos clínicos. Assim, este trabalho buscou realizar a tradução, adaptação cultural e validação do instrumento Dimensional Apathy Scale (DAS) para o contexto cultural de pessoas que vivem com HIV (PVHIV) no Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo metodológico, compreendendo quatro etapas: tradução, adaptação cultural, pré-teste e validação. A primeira etapa foi realizada em parceria com o Laboratório Experimental de Tradução da Faculdade de Letras da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Na segunda etapa, as versões original e traduzida foram analisadas por um Comitê de Juízes composto por 6 profissionais. A partir da avaliação obtida foi calculado o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo. Em seguida, foi realizado o pré-teste presencial com participação de 20 PVHIV. Então, realizou-se um encontro interdisciplinar entre pesquisadores e profissionais das áreas da Saúde e Linguística Aplicada para avaliar as sugestões dos pacientes. A cada problema identificado, melhorias foram sugeridas e alterações de cunho semântico, idiomático e cultural realizadas. Por fim, para verificar a confiabilidade do instrumento adaptado culturalmente, este foi aplicado a 80 PVHIV atendidos num centro de referência de Belo Horizonte (MG) em 2 ocasiões com intervalo mínimo de 15 dias entre teste e reteste. O questionário foi aplicado por entrevista pessoalmente (teste) e chamada telefônica (reteste). A confiabilidade foi verificada através do cálculo do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach e a estabilidade foi estimada através do coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI). Resultados: A versão traduzida do instrumento apresentou boa aceitação entre os Juízes, com Índice de Validade de Conteúdo médio de 0,97. A versão em língua portuguesa da DAS (Escala Dimensional de Apatia) apresentou consistência interna aceitável, com alfa de Cronbach igual a 0,727 (IC 95%: 0,632–0,806). O Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse foi 0,888 (IC 95%: 0,823-0,929); o que demonstra a confiabilidade do instrumento. Conclusão: O processo de tradução, adaptação e validação para a língua falada do Brasil gerou um instrumento válido e confiável para ser aplicado em PVHIV para rastreio de apatia.

Background and purpose: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ADRS) due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with muscle fatigue, corticospinal pathways dysfunction, and mortality. High-Definition transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS) may be used to attenuate clinical impairment in these patients. The HD-RECOVERY randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HD-tDCS with respiratory rehabilitation in patients with moderate to severe ARDS due to COVID-19. Methods: Fifty-six critically ill patients were randomized 1:1 to active (n = 28) or sham (n = 28) HD-tDCS (twice a day, 30-min, 3-mA) plus respiratory rehabilitation for up to 10 days or until intensive care unit discharge. The primary outcome was ventilator-free days during the first 28 days, defined as the number of days free from mechanical ventilation. Furthermore, secondary outcomes such as delirium, organ failure, hospital length of stay and adverse effects were investigated. Results: Active HD-tDCS induced more ventilator-free days compared to sham HD-tDCS. Patients in the active group vs in the sham group experienced lower organ dysfunction, delirium, and length of stay rates over time. In addition, positive clinical response was higher in the active vs sham group. There was no significant difference in the prespecified secondary outcomes at 5 days. Adverse events were similar between groups. Conclusions: Among patients with COVID-19 and moderate to severe ARDS, use of active HD-tDCS compared with sham HD-tDCS plus respiratory rehabilitation resulted in a statistically significant increase in the number of ventilator-free days over 28 days. HD-tDCS combined with concurrent rehabilitation therapy is a safe, feasible, potentially add-on intervention, and further trials should examine HD-tDCS efficacy in a larger sample of patients with COVID-19 and severe hypoxemia.

ABSTRACT Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem worldwide. Although TBI is common in developing countries, there are few epidemiological studies. Objective: To investigate the sociodemographic and clinical features of patients with TBI at the Hospital João XXIII, a public reference center for trauma in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, and to systematically review the available literature on TBI in Brazil. Methods: Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected from electronic medical records for the entire month of July 2016. The literature on epidemiology of TBI in Brazil was systematically reviewed using MeSH/DeCS descriptors in the PubMed and Lilacs databases. Results: Most patients admitted with TBI were male and under 60 years of age. Mild TBI was the most prevalent form and the most common cause of TBI was falls. A Glasgow Coma Scale score below 12, neuroimaging changes on computer tomography, and presence of any medical conditions were significantly associated with longer hospital stay. Brazilian studies showed that TBI affected mainly men and young adults. In addition, mild TBI was the most common TBI severity reported and the most common causes were motor vehicle accidents and falls. Conclusions: Overall, the profile of TBI in this center reflects the data from other Brazilian studies.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a cognição socioemocional e as funções executivas em pacientes com Transtorno Depressivo Maior unipolar. A amostra incluiu 22 pacientes entre 36 e 93 anos de idade (M = 59,32; DP = 12,89) e 23 indivíduos controles entre 30 e 81 anos de idade (M = 63,00; DP = 13,56). Além de dados demográficos, foram avaliados sintomas de ansiedade e de depressão, empatia, teoria da mente, reconhecimento de emoções, controle inibitório, flexibilidade cognitiva e fluência verbal. Não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os grupos quanto à idade e à escolaridade. Os pacientes apresentaram significativamente mais ansiedade, depressão e angústia pessoal do que os controles. Indivíduos com sintomas depressivos mais graves apresentaram menor velocidade de processamento.

Abstract Different data suggest that microglia may participate in the drug addiction process as these cells respond to neurochemical changes induced by the administration of these substances. In order to study the role of microglia in drug abuse, Swiss mice aged 8–9 weeks were treated with the CSF1R inhibitor PLX3397 (40 mg/kg, p.o.) and submitted to behavioral sensitization or conditioned place preference (CPP) induced by cocaine (15 mg/kg, i.p.). Thereafter, brains were used to evaluate the effects of CSF1R inhibition and cocaine administration on morphological, biochemical and molecular changes. CSF1R inhibition attenuated behavioral sensitization, reduced the number of Iba-1+ cells and increased ramification and lengths of the branches in the remaining microglia. Additionally, both cocaine and PLX3397 increased the cell body to total cell size ratio of Iba-1+ cells, as well as CD68+ and GFAP+ stained areas, suggesting an activated pattern of the glial cells. Besides, CSF1R inhibition increased CX3CL1 levels in the striatum, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, as well as reduced CX3CR1 expression in the hippocampus. In this region, cocaine also reduced BDNF levels, an effect that was enhanced by CSF1R inhibition. In summary, our results suggest that microglia participate in the behavioral and molecular changes induced by cocaine. This study contributes to the understanding of the role of microglia in cocaine addiction.

ABSTRACT. The co-occurrence of post-stroke behavioral disorders and cognitive impairment has been extensively investigated. However, studies usually do not include social cognition among the assessed cognitive domains. Objective: To investigate the potential association between facial emotion recognition, a measure of social cognition, and behavioral and cognitive symptoms in the subacute phase of ischemic stroke. Methods: Patients admitted to a Stroke Unit with ischemic stroke were followed up to 60 days. At this time point, they were evaluated with the following tools: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB); Visual Memory Test of the Brief Cognitive Battery (VMT); Phonemic Verbal Fluency (F-A-S Test); Digit Span; Facial Emotion Recognition Test (FERT) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A control group composed of 21 healthy individuals also underwent the same evaluation. Results: Eighteen patients with ischemic stroke were enrolled in this study. They had similar age, sex and schooling years compared to controls. Depression symptoms and episodic memory deficits were significantly more frequent in patients compared to controls. The recognition of sadness expression positively correlated with the levels of anxiety and depression, while and the recognition of fear expression negatively correlated with depression in the stroke group. Conclusions: After an ischemic stroke, patients exhibit impairment in social cognition skills, specifically facial emotion recognition, in association with behavioral symptoms.

Summary: Background & Aims: The better equation to predict resting metabolic rate (pRMR) to use for overweight individuals mainly after weight loss is unclear. This study aimed to identify the best equation to pRMR in overweight adult women before and after a nutritional intervention aiming to lose weight. Methods: Thirty overweight adult women were enrolled in this study. Subjects underwent 6-month energy-restricted diet intervention. Anthropometrics and body composition measures were evaluated. Nine equations that are widely used to pRMR were performed based on anthropometric and body composition parameters. Measured RMR (mRMR) was obtained by indirect calorimetry. A new equation to predict resting metabolic rate (npRMR) was also developed by multiple regression analysis based on anthropometric and body composition variables. The validity of the equations was investigated through comparisons, accuracy, and agreement tests. Results: Before the nutrition intervention, only the Mifflin equation was similar to mRMR, with a mean difference of 12kcal and 83% of accuracy. The mean weight loss was 4.2% after 6 months. Following weight loss, only the Owen equation was similar to mRMR, with a mean difference of −33 kcal. However, this equation showed low accuracy (63%). All the others equations showed reduction of accuracy, increase of bias and overestimation of RMR. A npRMR was calculated, and this showed a lower mean difference to mRMR with 70% of accuracy. Conclusions: Out of the nine resting metabolic rate equations evaluated only the Mifflin equation was similar to mRMR before intervention. Interestingly, after weight loss none of the assessed equations were reliable to pRMR. Based on that we propose a new equation that showed greater accuracy and lower mean difference when compared with mRMR.

Introduction: Neurological manifestations have been associated with a poorer prognosis in COVID-19. However, data regarding their incidence according to sex and age groups is still lacking. Methods: This retrospective multicentric cohort collected data from 39 Brazilian hospitals from 17 cities, from adult COVID-19 admitted from March 2020 to January 2022. Neurological manifestations presented at hospital admission were assessed according to incidence by sex and age group. Results: From 13,603 COVID-19 patients, median age was 60 years old and 53.0% were men. Women were more likely to present with headaches (22.4% vs. 17.7%, p

Background: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most serious manifestation of rheumatic fever, which may also affect the brain. The current study assessed the prevalence of neuropsychiatric manifestations in patients with RHD, including clinical features associated with basal ganglia motor dysfunction (BGMD). Methods: We conducted neurologic and psychiatric assessments in consecutive patients with RHD referred to a tertiary center for heart valve diseases. Echocardiography was performed to assess the pattern of valvular involvement and RHD severity. Validated questionnaires for the evaluation of cognition, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) were applied. BGMD was clinically defined by the presence of hyperkinetic movement disorders. Results: Fifty patients with age of 43.2 ± 10.8 years, 84% female, were included. Mitral valve was affected in 47 patients (94%), and 21 of them (42%) also had aortic valve involvement. Chorea (22%), chronic tics (18%), OCS (48%), major depression (34%), generalized anxiety disorder (54%), cognitive complaints (66%), migraine (52%) and seizures (18%) were frequently reported. The factors associated with BGMD were age (p = 0.018), major depression (p = 0.013), and Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive (Y-BOCS) score (p = 0.011). The severity of heart disease was not associated with BGMD. Conclusions: Neuropsychiatric manifestations are frequent in RHD patients, which may persist up to three decades after acute rheumatic fever. Age, major depression and severity of OCS were independently associated with BGMD. These manifestations deserve a close attention of clinicians and researchers dealing with adult patients with RHD.

Abstract Background Excessive stress and anxiety can impair learning. The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is a valuable tool to assess and promote the acquisition of clinical skills. However, significant OSCE-related stress and anxiety are frequently reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between physiological stress, self-reported levels of anxiety due to an OSCE, self-efficacy, and the meanings that physical therapy students attribute to their experience with the exam. Design Concurrent mixed methods study. Methods A total of 32 students took part in this study. All were enrolled in the third semester of a 10-semester Physical Therapy Bachelor Program. Salivary cortisol levels, self-reported anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI) were measured before the OSCE. Exam scores and self-efficacy ratings were also recorded. Correlations between variables were tested with the Pearson correlation, with ɑ at 0.05. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the personal perspectives of students. Thematic analysis was used to investigate emergent themes. Results Trait anxiety scores were significantly higher than normative values (p 49) state anxiety (37.5%) and trait anxiety (65.6%). Salivary cortisol was not associated anxiety (p > 0.05). Neither stress nor anxiety correlated with OSCE scores. A moderate and significant direct correlation was found for self-efficacy scores and OSCE scores (r = 0.475, p = 0.007). Students reported that confidence had a calming effect and led to better self-perceived performance. They also reported that the OSCE can provide meaningful learning experiences despite being stressful. Conclusions A high proportion of our students reported a stable/lingering negative affect. However, neither stress nor anxiety related to OSCE scores. Students’ confidence in their capabilities was correlated with their performance. Their subjective reports suggest that self-confidence may have protected them from the negative effects of stress and anxiety on academic performance.

ABSTRACT Despite substantial progress toward its control, Chagas disease continues to be a major public health problem in Latin America and has become a global health concern. The disease affects approximately 6 million people, of whom 20-40% will develop cardiomyopathy over the years after the initial Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Chagas cardiomyopathy is the most serious and frequent manifestation of Chagas disease. Clinical manifestations vary widely according to the severity of myocardial dysfunction, ranging from asymptomatic to severe forms, including dilated cardiomyopathy with heart failure, arrhythmias, thromboembolism events, and sudden death. Chagas disease is a risk factor for stroke regardless of the severity of cardiomyopathy, which is a leading cause of chronic disability. Classically, stroke etiology in patients with Chagas disease is thought to be cardioembolic and related to apical aneurysm, mural thrombus, and atrial arrhythmias. Although most strokes are thromboembolic, other etiologies have been observed. Small vessel disease, atherosclerosis, and cryptogenic diseases have been reported in patients with Chagas disease and stroke. The potential mechanisms involved in non-embolic strokes include the presence of associated risk factors, pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic disease states, and endothelial dysfunction. However, the contribution of each mechanism to stroke in Chagas disease remains unclear. The review aims to provide an overview of stroke in Chagas disease, highlighting the main pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical presentation, approaches for prevention, and unanswered questions regarding treatment strategies.

ABSTRACT Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Cognition is not routinely assessed in patients with MS though they frequently have cognitive complaints or dysfunction. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the cognitive status of patients with MS with age, sex, and schooling matched controls and to evaluate the potential influence of clinical parameters on cognition. Methods: A total of 35 patients with MS (mean±SD age 37.9 years±11.44, M/F: 12/23) and 33 healthy controls (mean±SD age 38.8 years±12.6, M/F: 12/21) were enrolled in this study. All subjects underwent a structured clinical assessment and the cognitive tools are as follows: Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Digit Span, and Verbal Fluency Tests (letters F, A, and S and animal category). Psychopathology was assessed with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used for patients. Results: Patients performed worse than controls in almost all tests, with approximately 70% of patients presenting cognitive impairment. The most affected cognitive domain was episodic memory (45.7%), followed by verbal fluency (42.8%) and information processing speed (22.8%). SDMT was inversely correlated with disease severity, as assessed by the EDSS. Depression did not influence cognitive performance in this cohort. Conclusions: Cognitive dysfunction is common among patients with MS. While motor impairment was associated with information processing speed, depression did not influence cognitive performance.

Background: Cognitive and functional decline are common problems in older adults, especially in those 75+ years old. Currently, there is no specific plasma biomarker able to predict this decline in healthy old-age people. Machine learning (ML) is a subarea of artificial intelligence (AI), which can be used to predict outcomes Aim: This study aimed to evaluate routine laboratory variables able to predict cognitive and functional impairment, using ML algorithms, in a cohort aged 75+ years, in a one-year follow-up study. Method: One hundred and thirty-two older adults aged 75+ years were selected through a community-health public program or from long-term-care institutions. Their functional and cognitive performances were evaluated at baseline and one year later using a functional activities questionnaire, Mini-Mental State Examination, and the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery. Routine laboratory tests were performed at baseline. ML algorithms—random forest, support vector machine (SVM), and XGBoost—were applied in order to describe the best model able to predict cognitive and functional decline using routine tests as features. Results: The random forest model showed better accuracy than other algorithms and included triglycerides, glucose, hematocrit, red cell distribution width (RDW), albumin, hemoglobin, globulin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), creatinine, lymphocyte, erythrocyte, platelet/leucocyte (PLR), and neutrophil/leucocyte (NLR) ratios, and alanine transaminase (ALT), leukocyte, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), cortisol, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and eosinophil as features to predict cognitive decline (accuracy = 0.79). For functional decline, the most important features were platelet, PLR and NLR, hemoglobin, globulin, cortisol, RDW, glucose, basophil, B12 vitamin, creatinine, GGT, ALT, aspartate transferase (AST), eosinophil, hematocrit, erythrocyte, triglycerides, HDL-c, and monocyte (accuracy = 0.92). Conclusions: Routine laboratory variables could be applied to predict cognitive and functional decline in oldest-old populations using ML algorithms.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar as propriedades psicométricas do questionário WHOQOL-HIV Bref em pessoas com HIV/AIDS. Método: O instrumento foi aplicado a 226 pessoas com HIV/AIDS do Norte de Minas Gerais. As propriedades psicométricas foram avaliadas pela validade de construto, análise da confiabilidade e validade de critério. Resultados: O modelo com seis domínios apresentou ajustamento aceitável (χ2/gl= 1,77, p

ABSTRACT Although some studies have investigated the role of nutritional intervention on migraine, they had focused on triggers or on weight change and, to the best of our knowledge, none studied diet quality. Objective To investigate whether nutritional intervention focused on improving diet quality and healthy weight can promote improvement in clinical parameters of women with migraine. Methods Non-controlled and non-randomized intervention study conducted for 90 days. Women received an individualized diet meal plan and nutritional orientation according to their nutritional diagnosis. Anthropometric, clinical and nutritional data were measured once a month. Diet energy content and macronutrients were evaluated using 24-hour dietary recall. Diet quality was assessed through the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index–Revised (BHEI-R). The Migraine Disability Assessment and Headache Impact Test version 6 were used to assess the severity of migraine, and the Beck Depression Inventory evaluated depressive symptoms. Results Fifty-two women aged 44.0 ± 13.0 years were enrolled. Anthropometric characteristics, energy, macronutrients and fiber intake did not change after intervention. However, the BHEI-R scores improved after 60 and 90 days of intervention. Concurrent to this, the Beck Depression Inventory scores and Headache Impact Test scores decreased after 60 and 90 days, respectively. The change in the BHEI-R score was negatively correlated with the migraine severity as assessed by the Headache Impact Test at the end of the intervention. Conclusions We concluded that the management of diet quality may be a good strategy for improving migraine severity, regardless of the nutritional status and weight change.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoriasis and obesity are somewhat related to a low-grade systemic inflammatory response. OBJECTIVES: To determine leptin and adiponectin levels in psoriasis patients compared to control patients matched for weight. METHODS: A case-control study was performed, evaluating 113 psoriasis patients and 41 controls with other dermatologic diseases. RESULTS: The prevalence of obesity was 33% in cases and 21.9% in controls. All evaluated comorbidities were more prevalent among cases. When stratified by weight, the comorbidities were more frequent in overweight patients. We found no correlation between being overweight (p=0.25), leptin (p=0.18) or adiponectin (p=0.762) levels and psoriasis severity. When overweight cases and controls were compared, we found differences in the adiponectin values (p= 0.04). The overweight cases had lower adiponectin levels than the overweight controls. We found no differences in the leptin dosage between cases and controls. The overweight cases had higher leptin values than the normal weight cases (p

Abstract Background The phenocopy syndrome of behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (phFTD) refers to patients presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms mimicking the behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), but lacking frontotemporal atrophy/hypometabolism on neuroimaging and not evolving to dementia during the follow-up. It is important to recognize phFTD for clinical and research purposes. Objective The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of the available literature on phFTD taking into account its clinical, cognitive, imaging, genetic, and pathological features. Methods and results We searched for the following terms in two electronic databases (PubMed and Scopus): “frontotemporal dementia and slowly progressive,” “frontotemporal dementia and phenocopy,” “frontotemporal dementia and non-progressive,” “frontotemporal dementia and benign progression,” and “frontotemporal dementia and benign.” We did not include review articles. Papers had to be written in English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish. Overall, 235 studies were retrieved in the initial search. A total of 31 studies composed the final selection, comprising 292 patients. Patients with phFTD are predominantly male and have no major cognitive deficits, with globally preserved executive functions and episodic memory. Some cases (n = 7) of slowly progressive FTD have been associated with C9orf72 genetic expansion. There are only four reports of phFTD neuropathological data, with two patients with no neurodegenerative findings and two with frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin-positive inclusions. Conclusion The neurobiological underpinnings of phFTD remain unknown. It is controversial whether phFTD belongs to the FTD spectrum. Studies with biomarkers and pathological data are needed to solve the phFTD conundrum.

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers are of great relevance in clinical research, especially after the AT(N) framework. They enable early diagnosis, disease staging and research with new promising drugs, monitoring therapeutic response. However, the high cost and low availability of the most well-known methods limits their use in low and medium-income countries. In this context, Millipore xMap® Luminex may be a cost-effective alternative. In our study, using INNOTEST® as reference, we assess the diagnostic accuracy of Millipore xMap® and propose a cutoff point for AD.Methods: We performed lumbar puncture of seven older individuals with clinically defined AD, 17 with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and 11 without objective cognitive impairment-control group (CG). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers concentrations for aB42, p-Tau, and t-Tau were measured by INNOTEST® and Millipore xMap®, and then the techniques were compared to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the new test and to define a cutoff.Results: INNOTEST® and Millipore xMap® measurements showed all correlations >0.8 for the same biomarker, except for t-Tau that was 0.66. Millipore xMap® measurements showed a robust accuracy for all biomarkers, with AUC higher than 0.808 (t-Tau), and the best for Aβ42 (AUC = 0.952). The most accurate cutoffs were found at 1012.98 pg/ml (Aβ42), 64.54 pg/ml (p-tau), 3251.81 pg/ml (t-tau), 3.370 (t-Tau/Aβ42), and 0.059 (p-Tau/Aβ42).Conclusion: Given its good accuracy and cost-effectiveness, Milliplex xMap® tests seems a reliable and promising tool, especially for low and middle-income countries.

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an arbovirus belonging to Flaviviridae family that emerged as a global health threat due to its association with microcephaly and other severe neurological complications, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS). ZIKV disease has been linked to neuroinflammation and neuronal cell death. Neurodegenerative processes may be exacerbated by metabolites produced by the kynurenine pathway, an important pathway for the degradation of tryptophan, which induces neuronal dysfunction due to enhanced excitotoxicity. Here, we exploited the hypothesis that ZIKV-induced neurodegeneration can be rescued by blocking a target enzyme of the kynurenine pathway, the Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1). RT-PCR analysis showed increased levels of IDO-1 RNA expression in undifferentiated primary neurons isolated from wild type (WT) mice infected by ZIKV ex vivo, as well as in the brain of ZIKV-infected A129 mice. Pharmacological inhibition of IDO-1 enzyme with 1-methyl-D-tryptophan (1-MT), in both in vitro and in vivo systems, led to significant reduction of ZIKV-induced neuronal death without interfering with the ability of ZIKV to replicate in those cells. Furthermore, in vivo analyses using both genetically modified mice (IDO-/- mice) and A129 mice treated with 1-MT resulted in reduced microgliosis, astrogliosis and Caspase-3 positive cells in the brain of ZIKV-infected A129 mice. Interestingly, increased levels of CCL5 and CXCL-1 chemokines were found in the brain of 1-MT treated-mice. Together, our data indicate that IDO-1 blockade provides a neuroprotective effect against ZIKV-induced neurodegeneration, and this is amenable to inhibition by pharmacological treatment.

IntroductionAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Despite the extensive research, its pathophysiology remains largely unelucidated. Currently, more attention is being given to the disease’s vascular and inflammatory aspects. In this context, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) emerges as a credible player in AD pathogenesis. The RAS has multiple physiological functions, conducted by its two opposing axes: the classical, led by Angiotensin II (Ang II), and the alternative, driven by Angiotensin-(1–7) [Ang-(1–7)]. These peptides were shown to interact with AD pathology in animal studies, but evidence from humans is scarce. Only 20 studies dosed RAS molecules in AD patients’ bloodstream, none of which assessed both axes simultaneously. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional, case-control exploratory study to compare plasma levels of Ang II and Ang-(1–7) in AD patients vs. age-matched controls. Within each group, we searched for correlations between RAS biomarkers and measures from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).MethodsWe evaluated patients with AD (n = 14) and aged-matched controls (n = 14). Plasma Ang II and Ang-(1–7) were dosed using ELISA. Brain MRI was performed in a 3 Tesla scan, and a three-dimensional T1-weighted volumetric sequence was obtained. Images were then processed by FreeSurfer to calculate: (1) white matter hypointensities (WMH) volume; (2) volumes of hippocampus, medial temporal cortex, and precuneus. Statistical analyses used non-parametrical tests (Mann-Whitney and Spearman).ResultsAng-(1–7) levels in plasma were significantly lower in the AD patients than in controls [median (25th–75th percentiles)]: AD [101.5 (62.43–126.4)] vs. controls [209.3 (72–419.1)], p = 0.014. There was no significant difference in circulating Ang II. In the AD patients, but not in controls, there was a positive and significant correlation between Ang-(1–7) values and WMH volumes (Spearman’s rho = 0.56, p = 0.038). Ang-(1–7) did not correlate with cortical volumes in AD or in controls. Ang II did not correlate with any MRI variable in none of the groups.ConclusionIf confirmed, our results strengthen the hypothesis that RAS alternative axis is downregulated in AD, and points to a possible interaction between Ang-(1–7) and cerebrovascular lesions in AD.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which primarily targets the human respiratory system and may lead to severe pneumonia and ultimately death. Mortality rate is particurlarly high among people beyond the sixth decade of life with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The discovery that the SARS-CoV-2 uses the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) component ACE2 as a receptor to invade host epithelial cells and cause organs damage resulted in a debate regarding the role of ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) therapies during COVID-19 pandemic. Some authors proposed the discontinuation of ACEIs and ARBs for cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases, while expert opinions have discouraged that due to limited empirical evidence of their negative effect on COVID-19 outcomes, and that withdrawing treatment may contribute to clinical decompensation in high-risk patients. Moreover, as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are associated with neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, especially among older adults, a critical appraisal of the potential positive effects of ACEIs and ARBs is highly needed. Herein, we aim to discuss the conundrum of ACEIs and ARBs use in high-risk patients for COVID-19, and their potential protective role on the development and/or progression of geriatric neuropsychiatric disorders.

Abstract Introduction: Neurological soft signs (NSS) have been considered one of the target features and a potential endophenotype for schizophrenia. The present study aimed to characterize NSS in a sample of patients with chronic schizophrenia and to compare them with healthy control individuals. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the presence of NSS in a sample of stable patients (n = 24) diagnosed with schizophrenia according to DSM-IV criteria, recruited at the Schizophrenia Outpatient Clinic of Instituto Raul Soares, Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Assessment was made with the Brief Motor Scale (BMS), and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) were evaluated with the Simpson-Angus Scale (SAS) and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS). A control group (n = 21) was also submitted to the same battery of tests. Results: We observed a significant difference in relation to BMS and SAS scores (p < 0.0001), revealing that individuals with schizophrenia present more NSS and EPS than healthy ones. BMS total scores correlated positively with SAS scores (r = 0.495, p = 0.014), but not with AIMS scores, indicating that NSS could be influenced by the intensity of EPS. Nevertheless, we observed that this relationship remained only for motor coordination tasks (r = 0.550, p = 0.005), while motor sequencing tasks were not influenced by EPS (r = 0.313, p = 0.136). Conclusion: The results suggest that NSS are more frequent in patients with schizophrenia and that motor sequencing tasks could be more specific to the syndrome.

Abstract Background The development of a vaccine for the prevention of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) still represents a significant unmet medical need. A human vaccine can be found if one takes into consideration that many people living in endemic areas of disease are infected but do not develop active VL, including those subjects with subclinical or asymptomatic infection. Methods In this study, a phage display was used to select phage-exposed peptides that were specific to immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies from asymptomatic and symptomatic VL patients, separating them from non-infected subjects. Phage clones presenting valid peptide sequences were selected and used as stimuli of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from both patients’ groups and controls. Those with higher interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)/interleukin (IL)-10 ratios were further selected for vaccination tests. Results Among 17 evaluated clones, two were selected, B1 and D11, and used to immunize BALB/c mice in an attempt to further validate their in vivo protective efficacy against Leishmania infantum infection. Both clones induced partial protection against the parasite challenge, which was evidenced by the reduction of parasitism in the evaluated organs, a process mediated by a specific T helper (Th)1 immune response. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to use a rational strategy based on in vitro stimulation of human PBMCs with selected phage-displayed clones to obtain new immunogens against VL.

Abstract The SARS‐CoV‐2 global pandemic will disproportionately impact countries with weak economies and vulnerable populations including people with dementia. Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACs) are burdened with unstable economic development, fragile health systems, massive economic disparities, and a high prevalence of dementia. Here, we underscore the selective impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 on dementia among LACs, the specific strain on health systems devoted to dementia, and the subsequent effect of increasing inequalities among those with dementia in the region. Implementation of best practices for mitigation and containment faces particularly steep challenges in LACs. Based upon our consideration of these issues, we urgently call for a coordinated action plan, including the development of inexpensive mass testing and multilevel regional coordination for dementia care and related actions. Brain health diplomacy should lead to a shared and escalated response across the region, coordinating leadership, and triangulation between governments and international multilateral networks.

Neuropsychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, and cognitive impairment are prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These conditions often make worse the quality of life and also lead to longer hospitalizations and higher mortality. Over the past decades, some hypotheses have tried to explain the connection between CKD and neuropsychiatric disorders. The most common hypothesis is based on the occurrence of cerebrovascular disease and accumulated uremic toxins in adult patients with CKD. However, the lack of a direct association between known vascular risk factors (e.g., diabetes and hypertension) with CKD-related cognitive deficits suggests that other mechanisms may also play a role in the pathophysiology shared by renal and neuropsychiatric diseases. This hypothesis is corroborated by the occurrence of neuropsychiatric comorbidities in pediatric patients with CKD preceding vascular damage, and the inconsistent findings on neuroprotective effects of antihypertensives. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize clinical evidence and potential mechanisms that links CKD and brain disorders, specifically in regard to cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression.

Introdução: Drogas antineoplásicas neurotóxicas estão frequentemente associadas à neuropatia periférica induzida por quimioterapia (NPIQ). Objetivo: Avaliar a evolução clínica dos pacientes expostos a tratamento antineoplásico potencialmente neurotóxico e identificar possíveis preditores clínicos e sociodemográficos para o desenvolvimento da NPIQ. Método: Estudo de coorte prospectiva com pacientes com diagnóstico de câncer de mama, ovário ou intestino em tratamento quimioterápico com paclitaxel, docetaxel ou oxaliplatina. Foram avaliados antes da quimioterapia (T1), no terceiro mês (T2) e 30-60 dias após interrupção do tratamento (T3). Todos responderam ao questionário de perfis sociodemográfico e clínico, foram avaliados por meio de exame clínico neurológico, pela escala de performance ECOG, escala hospitalar de ansiedade e depressão (HAD), escala de dor Short-cGuill, autorrelato de sintomas de NPIQ e avaliação com o questionário de neurotoxicidade induzida por antineoplásicos (CINQ). Resultados: Por meio de autorrelato, 75% da dos pacientes informaram apresentar sintomas de NPIQ. O CINQ evidenciou que 90% apresentaram algum grau de NPIQ em T2, enquanto 82,5% ainda persistiam em T3. Dor neuropática acometeu 42% da população (RR=1,429; IC95%=1,130-1,806). Os escores de ansiedade e depressão reduziram significativamente quando comparados ao início de tratamento (redução de 2,5 pontos na escala HAD, p

Toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis (TR) is the most common identifiable cause of posterior uveitis in Brazil. Response to treatment and clinical presentation may vary significantly. We assessed serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin (NT)-3, and NT-4/5 in patients with active TR, before and after TR treatment. Methods: Twenty patients with active lesion and 15 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Serum concentration of neurotrophic factors was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: BDNF levels were significantly higher in patients before treatment when compared with controls (p = 0.0015). There was no significant difference in pro-BDNF, NGF, GDNF, NT-3, and NT-4/5 levels between TR patients and controls. Treatment did not affect the levels of these factors. Conclusion: BDNF may be released in the context of the active TR inflammatory response. Keywords: Retinochoroiditis, Toxoplasma gondii, Brain-derived neurotrophic factor

Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal-dominant neurodegenerative disease characterized by the selective loss of neurons in the striatum and cortex, leading to progressive motor dysfunction, cognitive decline and behavioral symptoms. HD is caused by a trinucleotide (CAG) repeat expansion in the gene encoding for huntingtin. Several studies have suggested that inflammation is an important feature of HD and it is already observed in the early stages of the disease. Recently, new molecules presenting anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory have been investigated for HD. The objective of this review is to discuss the data obtained so far on the immune-based therapeutic strategies for HD.

In developing countries, cardiovascular risk factors are poorly controlled, leading to high prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the burden of white matter lesions in magnetic resonance through the Fazekas scale in a population aged 75+ years living in the community, and to investigate possible associations between vascular lesions, cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive status. Subjects were selected from a community-based study on brain aging conducted in Caeté (Minas Gerais state), Brazil. Overall, 177 participants (112 cognitively healthy, 36 with cognitive impairment-no dementia and 29 with dementia), being 108 women, aged 79.3 ± 3.8 years, with 3.1 ± 2.9 years of educational level, underwent a 3 Tesla magnetic resonance scanner with fluid attenuated image recovery acquisition. Severity of white matter lesions was assessed through the Fazekas scale. Severe white matter lesions were present in 31.1% of the whole sample and in 25.0% of the cognitively healthy individuals. A significant association was found between severe white matter lesions and cognitive impairment (OR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.17–6.53; p = 0.021), as well as with hypertension (OR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.03–7.39; p = 0.043). In conclusion, a high prevalence of severe white matter lesions was observed in this elderly Brazilian population sample, and white matter lesions were associated with hypertension and cognitive status. Importantly, the prevalence of white matter lesions was also high in cognitively healthy subjects. Keywords: White matter lesions, Aging, Dementia, Hypertension

Objective: Childhood obesity has been associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to compare plasma levels of traditional metabolic markers, adipokines and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 1 (sTNFR1) in overweight, obese and lean children. We also assessed the relationships of these molecules with classical metabolic risk factors. Methods: This study included 104 children and adolescents, which were grouped as: lean (n = 24), overweight (n = 30), and obese subjects (n = 50). They were subjected to anthropometrical, clinical and laboratorial measurements. All measurements were compared between groups. Correlation analyses were also performed to evaluate the association between clinical data, traditional metabolic markers, adipokines and sTNFR1. Results: Fasting glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides were comparable in lean, overweight and obese subjects. Plasma levels of sTNFR1 were similar in lean and overweight subjects, but significantly increased in obese group. Leptin, adiponectin and resistin levels did not differ when overweight were compared to obese subjects. However, all adipokines differed significantly when lean subjects were compared to overweight and obese individuals. Plasma levels of adiponectin were negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI), whereas leptin, resistin and sTNFR1 concentrations positively correlated with BMI. Conclusion: Our results showed significant differences in circulating levels of the evaluated markers when lean, overweight and obese individuals were compared, suggesting that these biomarkers may change from lean to overweight and from overweight to obesity. Resumo: Objetivo: A obesidade na infância tem sido associada à síndrome metabólica e a doenças cardiovasculares. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar níveis plasmáticos de marcadores metabólicos tradicionais, adipocinas e do receptor solúvel de fator de necrose tumoral tipo 1 (sTNFR1) em crianças com sobrepeso, obesas e magras. Também avaliamos as relações dessas moléculas com fatores de risco metabólico clássicos. Métodos: Este estudo incluiu 104 crianças e adolescentes, agrupados da seguinte forma: indivíduos magros (n = 24), com sobrepeso (n = 30) e obesos (n = 50). Eles foram submetidos a medições antropométricas, clínicas e laboratoriais. Todas as medições foram comparadas entre os grupos. Também foram realizadas análises de correlação para avaliar a associação entre dados clínicos, marcadores metabólicos tradicionais, adipocinas e sTNFR1. Resultados: Glicemia de jejum, insulina, modelo de avaliação da homeostase da resistência à insulina (HOMA-IR), colesterol LDL e triglicerídeos foram comparáveis em indivíduos magros, com sobrepeso e obesos. Os níveis plasmáticos de sTNFR1 foram similares em indivíduos magros e com sobrepeso, porém significativamente maiores no grupo obeso. Os níveis de leptina, adiponectina e resistina não diferiram quando indivíduos com sobrepeso foram comparados aos obesos. Contudo, todas as adipocinas diferiram significativamente quando indivíduos magros foram comparados a indivíduos com sobrepeso e obesos. Os níveis plasmáticos de adiponectina estavam negativamente correlacionados ao índice de massa corporal (IMC), ao passo que as concentrações de leptina, resistina e sTNFR1 estavam positivamente correlacionadas ao IMC. Conclusão: Nossos resultados mostraram diferenças significativas nos níveis circulantes dos marcadores avaliados ao comparar indivíduos magros, com sobrepeso e obesos, sugerindo que esses biomarcadores poderão mudar de indivíduos magros para indivíduos com sobrepeso e de indivíduos com sobrepeso para obesos. Keywords: Leptin, Adiponectin, Resistin, Metabolic markers, Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor, Palavras-chave: Leptina, Adiponectina, Resistina, Marcadores metabólicos, Receptor solúvel de fator de necrose tumoral