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Background: Cadence-controlled walking may be a desirable approach for older adults to self-monitor exercise intensity and achieve physical activity guidelines. We examined the acute effects of cadence-controlled walking on cognition and vascular function in physically inactive older adults. Methods: In a randomized crossover design, 26 participants (65% females, 67.8 ± 11.3 years) underwent 30-min acute exercise (walking at 100 steps/min) and control (sitting) conditions. We measured cognition, central blood pressure (BP), and arterial stiffness before, and immediately, after each condition. Results: We observed significant Time × Condition interactions in the Flanker Inhibitory Control and Attention (Flanker) test and Dimensional Change Card Sort (DCCS) test scores, and in central systolic BP, central pulse pressure, and carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity (p <.05). The Flanker and DCCS scores significantly increased after walking (d = 0.4 and 0.5, respectively), but not after sitting. Central systolic BP, central pulse pressure, and carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity significantly increased after sitting but remained unchanged after acute walking (d = 0.4–0.2), with p-values <.05. After walking, significant correlations were observed between DCCS and diastolic BP and central pulse pressure change scores and change scores in central pulse wave velocity, Flanker, and DCCS (rs = −0.45 to −0.52). Conclusion: These findings suggest that a single bout of cadence-controlled walking elicited an immediate improvement in cognition and might have mitigated increases in arterial stiffness and central BP observed in the seated control condition. Further research is needed to examine the association between cognition and vascular function following acute exercise compared to control conditions. Significance: Our findings may have practical implications for developing daily physical activity recommendations for improving the cognitive health for successful aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease threatens the health of older adults, particularly by disrupting executive and memory functions, and many studies have shown that aerobic exercise prevents and improves the symptoms associated with the disease. Objective: The objective was to systematically review the effects of aerobic exercise on executive and memory functions in patients with Alzheimer's disease and to determine the effect factors and mechanisms of the design of aerobic exercise intervention programs. Method: Relevant literature was searched in three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO) from January 1, 2014 to March 1, 2023, using a subject-word search method. Data on 10 items, including author and country, were extracted from the literature after screening. The quality of the literature was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale, and a systematic review was performed. Results: Twelve papers from seven countries were ultimately included, embodying 11 randomized controlled trials and one study with a repeated-measures design. The overall quality of the studies was good as 657 study participants, aged 45 years and older who had varying degrees of Alzheimer's disease and significant symptoms, were included. Aerobic exercise was found to have a significant positive impact on executive and memory functions in people with Alzheimer's disease. Conclusion: The effects of aerobic exercise on aspects of executive function were mainly characterized by improvements in inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, whereas the effects on aspects of memory function were mainly characterized by improvements in logical memory, situational memory, and short-term memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the effects of dual- and single-task training in older adults with age-related hearing loss. Intervention groups included single-, dual-task training, and control groups. The dual- and single-task trainings were held 2 days a week for 40 min for a total of 10 sessions for 5 weeks. We evaluated physical, cognitive, and auditory functions, quality-of-life, balance, concerns about falling, independence in activities of daily living, and dual-task performance. A total of 42 patients fully participated in this study. Statistically significant differences were observed in chair stand, chair sit-and-reach, global cognitive function, and delayed recall between the intervention groups and control group (p <.05). There was no statistically significant difference in quality-of-life, balance, falling concerns, independence in activities of daily living, and dual-task performance between all groups (p >.05). In conclusion, single- and dual-task training had a positive effect on physical and cognitive functioning in older adults with age-related hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As rates of obesity continue to rise, so does the impact of obesity on cognitive function. Engaging in physical activity is one pathway through which individuals can help maintain cognitive function. This study examined whether any link between exercise and cognitive function was associated with weight characteristics. Data from 6,012 participants in the Health and Retirement Study were used. The association between participation in light or moderate physical activity and better cognitive function was particularly strong for overweight or obese adults and less so for those who were normal weight. Overall, the findings suggested that while being physically active is associated with better cognitive function regardless of weight, the associations were stronger for individuals who were overweight/obese compared with those who were normal weight. Given the results were particularly pronounced for waist circumference (relative to body mass index), further research should be conducted to examine if individuals with greater abdominal adiposity may benefit most from staying active in terms of their cognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionFew studies have examined the relationship between education and cognition among the oldest-old.MethodsCognitive assessments were conducted biannually for 803 participants (62.6% women) of LifeAfter90, a longitudinal study of individuals ≥ 90 years old. Gender differences in associations between education (

INTRODUCTION: Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) represent a major factor in cognitive decline in older adults. The present study examined the relationship between cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cognitive function in a multi-site study, using a predefined hypothesis. METHODS: We conducted the study in a total of three analysis sites and 263 subjects. Each site performed an identical CVR MRI procedure using 5% carbon dioxide inhalation. A global cognitive measure of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and an executive function measure of item response theory (IRT) score were used as outcomes. RESULTS: CVR and MoCA were positively associated, and this relationship was reproduced at all analysis sites. CVR was found to be positively associated with executive function. DISCUSSION: The predefined hypothesis on the association between CVR and a global cognitive score was validated in three independent analysis sites, providing support for CVR as a biomarker in VCID. HIGHLIGHTS: This study measured a novel functional index of small arteries referred to as cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR). CVR was positively associated with global cognition in older adults. This finding was observed in three independent cohorts at three sites. Our statistical analysis plan was predefined before beginning data collection.

BACKGROUND: Mental health in the elderly has multiple determinants, and studies indicate household and family composition, economic status, and family support are key factors. However, these are difficult to modify, and better lifestyle for the elderly can be a possible intervention. The current study examined the mediating role of lifestyle in the association between these three types of the household and family composition (living alone, living with a spouse, and living with children) and mental health in older adults. METHODS: We studied 5,407 participants (58.7% female, age 45 + years) from the Beijing Aging Brain Rejuvenation Initiative Project. All participants underwent a battery of examinations to measure degree loneliness, depression, and global cognitive function. We also surveyed personal lifestyles. We used a mediation analysis to determine the relative contribution of each lifestyle factor on mental health outcomes. RESULTS: Older adults living alone rarely participated in mental and social activities and often had irregular diets; those adults living with children spent most of their time caring for grandchildren and had irregular eating and sleeping schedules; those living with a spouse often engaged in a variety of leisure activities and had the best life habits. Mediation analyses showed that dietary and sleeping irregularity partially mediated the negative effects of living alone on mental health, and were moderated by age and gender. CONCLUSIONS: Living with a spouse was associated with benefits for the mental health of middle-aged and older adults (especially older and female individuals), through modifying better lifestyles than those of individuals with the other two types of the household and family composition.

IntroductionDepressive symptoms are associated with higher risk of dementia, but how they impact cognition in diverse populations is unclear.MethodsAsian, Black, Latino, or White participants (n = 2227) in the Kaiser Healthy Aging and Diverse Life Experiences (age 65+) and the Study of Healthy Aging in African Americans (age 50+) underwent up to three waves of cognitive assessments over 4 years. Multilevel models stratified by race/ethnicity were used to examine whether depressive symptoms were associated with cognition or cognitive decline and whether associations differed by race/ethnicity.ResultsHigher depressive symptoms were associated with lower baseline verbal episodic memory scores (-0.06, 95% CI: -0.12, -0.01; -0.15, 95% CI: -0.25, -0.04), and faster decline annually in semantic memory (-0.04, 95% CI: -0.07, -0.01; -0.10, 95% CI: -0.15, -0.05) for Black and Latino participants. Depressive symptoms were associated with lower baseline but not decline in executive function.DiscussionDepressive symptoms were associated with worse cognitive outcomes, with some evidence of heterogeneity across racial/ethnic groups.HighlightsWe examined whether baseline depressive symptoms were differentially associated with domain-specific cognition or cognitive decline by race/ethnicity. Depressive symptoms were associated with worse cognitive scores for all racial/ethnic groups across different domains examined. Higher depressive symptoms were associated with faster cognitive decline for semantic memory for Black and Latino participants. The results suggest a particularly harmful association between depressive symptoms and cognition in certain racial/ethnic groups.

Obesity is linked to cognitive decline and metabolic dysregulation in the brain, yet the role of sex is relatively unexplored. We sought to explore the effects of obesity and sex on the brain metabolome. In male and female ob/ob and wild-type mice, we assessed whole brain untargeted metabolomics by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, behavior by open field test, and cognitive function by Y-maze and Morris water maze. The metabolic profiles of ob/ob and wild-type mice differed in both sexes. There were more obesity-altered brain metabolites in males than females. Thirty-nine metabolites were unique to males, 15 were unique to females, and five were common to both sexes. Two of the common metabolites were involved in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide homeostasis. A key feature of the metabolites identified in males was an increase in free fatty acids. In females, a unique feature was the presence of the neuro-modulatory metabolites 2-linoleoyl glycerol and taurine. The behavioral effects of obesity were only seen in females. These results demonstrate that most impacts of obesity on the brain metabolomic profile are sex-specific. Our work has implications for understanding the role of obesity in brain metabolism and the differential contribution of obesity to cognitive decline in males and females.

BACKGROUND: Higher allostatic load (AL), a multi-system measure of physiological dysregulation considered a proxy for chronic stress exposure, is associated with poorer global cognition (GC) in older non-Hispanic white adults. However, evidence of these associations in middle-aged and older US-based Hispanic/Latino adults is limited. OBJECTIVE: To examine associations of AL with level of cognition, performance in cognition 7 years later, and change in cognition over 7 years among middle-aged and older US-based Hispanic/Latino adults. METHODS: We used data (n = 5,799, 45-74 years at baseline) from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) and SOL-Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging (SOL-INCA). The AL score comprised 16 biomarkers representing cardiometabolic, glucose, cardiopulmonary, parasympathetic, and inflammatory systems (higher scores = greater dysregulation). Cognitive outcomes included GC and individual tests of verbal learning and memory, world fluency (WF), Digit Symbol Substitution (DSS), and Trail Making (Parts A & B). Survey-linear regressions assessed associations of AL with performance in cognition at baseline, 7 years later, and via 7-year cognitive change scores adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: Higher AL was associated with lower baseline performance in GC and WF; and lower 7-year follow-up performance in these same measures plus DSS and Trail Making Parts A & B. Higher AL was associated with more pronounced 7-year change (reduction) in GC and on WF and DSS tests. CONCLUSIONS: Findings extend previous evidence in predominantly older non-Hispanic white cohorts to show that AL is related to level of and change in GC (as well as WF and DSS) among middle-aged and older US-based Hispanic/Latino adults.

BackgroundHypertension can have deleterious effects on cognitive function; however, few studies have examined its effects on cognition among Hispanics/Latinos.ObjectiveTo assess associations between hypertension status with 1) change in cognitive performance, and 2) having mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among diverse Hispanics/Latinos.MethodsThis population-based, prospective cohort, multisite study included Hispanic/Latino adults aged 45 to 72 years in enrolled in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos at Visit 1 (2008-2011; mean age of 63.40±8.24 years), and the Study of Latinos-Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging at Visit 2 (2016-2018), with a mean follow-up duration of 7 years (n = 6,173). Hypertension status was assessed at both visits: normotension (no hypertension), incident hypertension (only at Visit 2), and persistent hypertension (at both visits). We examined change in cognitive performance and having MCI (only assessed at Visit 2) relative to hypertension status and adjusted for demographics and cardiovascular disease risk factors.ResultsCompared to normotension, persistent hypertension was associated with significantly increased decline in verbal fluency (β= -0.08; CI = [-0.16;-0.01]; p

IntroductionThe prevalence of poor sleep quality and sleep apnea differs by race and ethnicity and may contribute to racial disparities in cognitive aging. We investigated whether sleep quality and sleep apnea risk were associated with cognitive function and decline and whether the associations differed by race/ethnicity.MethodsParticipants from the Kaiser Healthy Aging and Diverse Life Experiences (KHANDLE; N = 1690; mean age: 75.7 years) study, a cohort of Asian, Black, Latino, and White participants, completed a modified Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index assessing subjective sleep quality, latency, duration, disturbances, sleep medication use, and daytime dysfunction. Sleep apnea risk was measured by questions about snoring, tiredness, and whether apnea was observed. Executive function and verbal episodic memory were assessed at three time points over an average of 2.7 years with the Spanish and English Neuropsychological Assessment Scale. We fit linear mixed-effect models and stratified analyses by race/ethnicity.ResultsHigher sleep apnea risk was associated with faster declines in verbal episodic memory (β^ sleep apnea = -0.02, 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.04, -0.001) but not in executive function. Poorer sleep quality was associated with lower levels of and faster decline in executive function but not in verbal episodic memory. Race/ethnicity modified these associations: compared to estimated effects among White participants, poorer global sleep quality (β^ sleep*time = -0.02, 95% CI, -0.02, -0.01) was associated with larger effects on decline in executive function among Black participants. Estimated effects of some individual sleep quality components were also modified by race/ethnicity; for example, sleep medication use was associated with faster declines in executive function (β^ sleep*time = -0.05, 95% CI, -0.07, -0.03) and verbal episodic memory β^ sleep*time = -0.04, 95% CI, -0.07, -0.02) among Black participants compared to White participants.DiscussionObservational evidence indicates sleep quality is a promising target for addressing racial/ethnic disparities in cognitive aging, especially among Black older adults.HighlightsSleep apnea risk was associated with faster declines in verbal episodic memory but not executive function among all participants.Global sleep quality was associated with lower levels of and faster decline in executive function but not verbal episodic memory among all participants.Black older adults were particularly susceptible to the estimated adverse cognitive impacts of global sleep quality, particularly the use of sleep medication.

The menopausal transition is regarded as the critical window where midlife women experience various health challenges having debilitating impact on their wellbeing. The present cross-sectional study intends to assess cognitive outcome with changing hormonal milieu during menopausal transition and related symptoms in midlife and beyond. For this purpose, cognitive performance of women and menopausal symptoms were studied on the sample of 320 women ranging in age from 45 to 60 years. Data collection was carried out by purposive sampling method from rural areas of Haryana from March 2021 to January 2023. Findings of the study demonstrated a successive downward trend in the mean scores of orientation to time and place, registration, attention, recall, as well as language and visual spatial skills cognitive domain from premenopause to late postmenopause stage. Multivariate logistic regression analysis (adjusted for age and educational status) identified severe menopausal symptoms, i.e. heart beating quickly or strongly, difficulty in sleeping, feeling tired, feeling unhappy or depressed, and sexual dysfunction as the potential determinants of poor functioning of different cognitive domains among women transitioning menopause and beyond. Hence, it was observed that cognitive decline during menopause transition and beyond is sensitive to severe menopausal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dark green vegetables include dark green leafy vegetables and broccoli. They are sources of many essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B and C, folate, fibre, carotenoids and flavonoids. This study aimed to explore the association between dietary dark green vegetable intake and cognitive function in US older adults. We included 2344 older adults (≥60 years old) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014 cycles. Dark green vegetable consumption was assessed using a continuous variable (cups/day) and two categorical variables. The first categorical variable classified participants into non‐consumers and consumers based on whether they consumed dark green vegetables. The second categorical variable grouped participants into four levels of dark green vegetable consumption (non‐consumers, consumers with low intakes, consumers with moderate intakes and consumers with high intakes). We used five continuous variables with non‐normal distribution to assess cognitive function, including a composite z‐score and the standardised scores of four individual cognitive tests. The four cognitive tests included the Immediate Recall Test (IRT), the Delayed Recall Test (DRT), the Animal Mobility Test (AFT) and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). The standardised scores of the four cognitive tests were calculated using the mean and standard deviation of each cognitive test score. The composite z‐score was calculated by averaging the standardised scores of four cognitive tests to evaluate global cognition. We used multiple linear regression models to examine the association between dietary dark green vegetable intake and cognitive function. Our findings indicated that dark green vegetable intake was positively associated with global cognition (β [95% CI]: 0.17 [0.04, 0.30]; p = 0.016) and IRT (β [95% CI]: 0.26 [0.08, 0.43]; p = 0.009) and DRT (β [95% CI]: 0.21 [0.05, 0.36]; p = 0.012) standardised scores. Individuals with high intake of dark green vegetables showed notably better global cognition (β [95% CI]: 0.16 [0.05, 0.28]; p = 0.010) and showed higher IRT (β [95% CI]: 0.22 [0.07, 0.38]; p = 0.010) and DRT standardised scores (β [95% CI]: 0.21 [0.07, 0.36]; p = 0.007) compared with the non‐consumers. Blood neutrophil counts mediated the cognitive benefits of dark green vegetables (Proportion: 9.5%, p = 0.006). In conclusion, our findings suggest that dark green vegetable consumption may have favourable effects on cognitive function in US older adults, especially on immediate and delayed learning abilities. The underlying mechanisms include the ability of dark green vegetables to reduce blood neutrophil levels, an indicator of decreased systemic inflammation. Increasing dietary intake of dark green vegetables may be a beneficial intervention to improve cognitive health in the older US population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Impaired cognitive function following exposure to heavy metals has emerged as a significant global health concern. Nevertheless, the impact of combined exposure to multiple heavy metals on cognitive impairment remains unclear. Objective: This study aimed to explore the association between multiple heavy metals exposure and cognitive function to provide theoretical evidence to guide prevention strategies. Methods: The blood levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) and the results of the cognitive function tests were extracted from 811 elderly Americans who completed the NHANES between 2011 and 2014. Quantile regression (QR), restricted cubic splines (RCS), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were used to explore the individual and joint association between heavy metals exposure and performance in 4 standardized cognitive tests; Item Response Theory (IRT), Delayed Recall Test (DRT), Animal Fluency Test (AFT) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Results: A negative association was noted between Cd levels and IRT (p = 0.048, 95%CI: -2.7, -0.1). Se concentrations ranging between 2.197 µg/L (95%CI: 0.004, 0.15) to 2.29 µg/L (95%CI: 2.56, 7.64) (log10Se) was postively associated with DSST (p = 0.001). Cu was negatively associated with DSST (p = 0.049, 95%CI: -37.75, -0.09), while Zn was positively associated with IRT (p = 0.022, 95%CI: 0.55, 11.73). Exposure to the 6 heavy metals combined showed a positive linear association with IRT, DRT, and a negative linear association with DSST. An interaction between Cd and the other heavy metals (excepted for Pb). Conclusion: Exposure to Pb, Cd, Hg, Se, Cu, and Zn was associated with cognitive function. Joint exposure to the 6 heavy metals showed a positive linear association with IRT, DRT, contrarily, a negative linear association with DSST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both long and short sleep durations may lead to cognitive decline in the elderly individuals, though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Aims: To explore the mediating mechanism of activities of daily living and depression on different sleep durations and cognitive function in older Chinese older adults. Methods: This retrospective study used data from 5,899 older adults who completed the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Surveys. We used the PROCESS macro in SPSS to determine the chain mediating effect of ADL and depression on the relationship between different sleep durations and cognitive functions. Results: (1) There were significant correlations among sleep duration, ability to perform ADL, depression, and cognitive function. (2) For sleep durations ≤ 7 h/night or > 7 h/night, ADL and depression play a chain mediating role in the relationship between sleep duration and cognitive function. Conclusions: Shorter or longer sleep durations were associated with cognitive decline by weakening ADL and worsening depression, which suggests that medical personnel should take action to correct abnormal sleep duration in older adults. Timely treatment of ADL impairment and depression may help prevent cognitive decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parkinson's disease psychosis (PDPsy) is associated with increased nursing home placement and mortality and is closely linked with cognitive dysfunction. Objective: Assess the clinical and cognitive features associated with PDPsy in patients without dementia. Methods: We prospectively recruited people with Parkinson's disease (PwP) without dementia for a 3-year, longitudinal study at an outpatient movement disorders clinic. Participants completed annual visits involving assessment of motor and non-motor symptoms including neuropsychological testing. PDPsy was defined as the recurring presence of visual illusions, sense of presence, hallucinations, or delusions for at least 1 month. Using generalized estimating equations, we conducted two sets of analyses to separately assess the clinical and the cognitive predictors of PDPsy. Results: We enrolled 105 participants. At baseline, mean age was 67.8 (SD = 8.0), median disease duration was 4.9 years (IQR: 3.4–7.7), and mean MoCA was 24.8 (SD = 2.3). Prevalence of PDPsy increased over 3 years from 31% (n = 32) to 39% (n = 26). Forty-five participants (43%) experienced PDPsy. Visual illusions were most common (70%, n = 84), followed by hallucinations (58.3%, n = 70). In multivariate analysis, of the clinical variables, only depressive symptoms [OR 1.09, 95% CI: (1.03, 1.16), p = 0.004] increased the odds of PDPsy; of the cognitive variables, only Trail Making Test B-A scores [OR 1.43, 95% CI: (1.06, 1.93), p = 0.018] significantly increased the odds of PDPsy. Conclusions: In PwP without dementia, depressive symptoms were associated with increased risk of PDPsy. Executive/attentional dysfunction was also associated with PDPsy and may mark the transition from isolated minor hallucinations to more complex psychotic symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of working older adults has been increasing in the past decade. Past studies have shown that working has a beneficiary effect on the health of older adults. One of the functions that older adults want to maintain is cognitive function, as this function is essential for an independent and high quality of life. Meanwhile, the association between employment >60 years and cognitive function has not yet been organized. In this study, a systematic review was conducted to clarify the longitudinal association between working older adults and cognitive function. A computerized search was performed using PubMed, CINHAL, and PsycINFO for prospective studies published until July 2023. Of the 76 174 studies identified, six were included in the systematic review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Four studies were from Asian countries (one from Taiwan and three from Japan), and two from the USA. Of the six studies, five reported an association between employment later in life and a lower risk of cognitive decline. Three studies examined the association by performing gender‐specific analyses, reporting varied results. Overall, the results of this review suggest that the employment of older adults was positively associated with cognitive function over time. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A growing body of epidemiologic and toxicologic literature indicates that fine airborne particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution is neurotoxic and threatens children's neurobehavioral development, resulting in reduced cognitive function. Understanding the magnitude of this effect is critical for establishing public health policies that will protect children's health, preserve human capital, and support societal progress. Objective: To quantify the association between ambient PM2.5 air pollution and loss of cognitive function in children, as measured by Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores, through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic literature search across seven databases: Agricultural and Environmental Science, BIOSIS Citation Index, Embase, GreenFILE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify original scientific studies that investigated the impact of PM2.5 exposure during pre-and postnatal periods on IQ loss during childhood. Using data from studies included for final review, we conducted a meta-analysis, using a random effects model to compute a beta coefficient that quantifies the overall effect of PM2.5 exposure on Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ), Performance IQ (PIQ), and Verbal IQ (VIQ). Findings: Of the 1,107 unique publications identified, six studies met the inclusion criteria for final review, representing 4,860 children across three continents (North America, Europe, and Asia). The mean PM2.5 concentration across all studies was 30.4 ± 24.4 µg/m3. Exposure timing ranged from the prenatal period to mid-childhood. Children were an average of 8.9 years old at the time of cognitive testing. We found that each 1 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 concentration is associated with a -0.27 point change in FSIQ (p < 0.001), 0.39 point change in PIQ (p = 0.003), and -0.24 point change in VIQ (p = 0.021). Conclusion: Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, we identified a statistically significant relationship between increased exposure to PM2.5 air pollution and reduced cognitive function in children, with the most pronounced impact on PIQ. This analysis will enable estimation of the burden of adverse neurobehavioral development attributable to PM2.5 in pediatric populations and will inform local and global strategies for exposure prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies identified individual-level socioeconomic factors as key determinants of cognitive health. This study investigated the effect of area-based socioeconomic deprivation on cognitive outcomes in midlife to early late-life New Zealanders without cognitive impairment at baseline. Data stemmed from a subsample of the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement Study, a cohort study on ageing, who completed face-to-face interviews and were reassessed two years later. Cognitive functioning was measured using Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination–Revised, adapted for culturally acceptable use in Aotearoa New Zealand. Area-based socioeconomic deprivation was assessed using the New Zealand Deprivation Index (NZDep2006). Linear mixed-effects models analysed the association between area-based socioeconomic deprivation and cognitive outcomes. The analysis included 783 participants without cognitive impairment at baseline (54.7% female, mean age 62.7 years, 25.0% Māori, the Indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand). There was an association between higher area-based socioeconomic deprivation and lower cognitive functioning (B = -0.08, 95%CI: -0.15;-0.01; p =.050) and cognitive decline (B = -0.12, 95%CI: -0.20;-0.04, p =.013) over two years, while controlling for covariates. The findings emphasise the importance of considering neighbourhood characteristics and broader socioeconomic factors in strategies aimed at mitigating cognitive health disparities and reducing the impact of dementia in disadvantaged communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesMethodsResultsConclusionsClinical implicationsTo explore the temporal sequence between cognitive function and activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and investigate whether apathy mediates these effects.We recruited 486 patients from the Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative. We constructed a cross-lagged panel model to explore the temporal sequence between cognitive function and ADLs and analyzed the longitudinal mediating effect of apathy on the relationship between cognitive function and ADLs.The slopes of ADLs and cognitive function were significant (p < .001), and lower levels of cognitive function indicated lower ADLs, suggesting that a decreased cognitive performance preceded ADLs decline. Cognitive function influenced apathy (negatively) (p < .001) and ADLs (p < .001). A significant indirect effect of cognitive function on ADLs through apathy was revealed by bias-corrected bootstrapping (β = 0.181, p < .001).The rate of change in cognitive function was significantly correlated with that of ADLs, and a decreased cognitive performance preceded ADLs decline. Cognition was indirectly related to ADLs through apathy.The rate of change in cognitive function in patients with PD was correlated with that of ADLs, and a decreased cognitive performance preceded ADLs decline. Reducing apathy represents a promising approach to reducing the impact of cognitive decline on ADLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is associated with cognitive impairment, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Methylglyoxal (MGO), a precursor to advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs), is elevated in diabetes and linked to microvascular dysfunction. In this study, overexpression of the MGO‐detoxifying enzyme glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) was used in a mouse model of diabetes to explore whether MGO accumulation in diabetes causes cognitive impairment. Diabetes was induced with streptozotocin. Fasting blood glucose, cognitive function, cerebral blood flow, neurovascular coupling (NVC), Glo1 activity, MGO and AGEs were assessed. In diabetes, MGO‐derived hydroimidazolone‐1 increased in the cortex, and was decreased in Glo1‐overexpressing mice compared to controls. Visuospatial memory was decreased in diabetes, but not in Glo1/diabetes. NVC response time was slightly increased in diabetes, and normalised in the Glo1‐overexpressing group. No impact of diabetes or Glo1 overexpression on blood–brain barrier integrity or vascular density was observed. Diabetes induced a mild visuospatial memory impairment and slightly reduced NVC response speed and these effects were mitigated by Glo1. This study shows a link between MGO‐related AGE accumulation and cerebrovascular/cognitive functions in diabetes. Modulation of the MGO–Glo1 pathway may be a novel intervention strategy in patients with diabetes who have cerebrovascular complications. Key points: Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of stroke, cognitive decline, depression and Alzheimer's disease, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.Methylglyoxal (MGO), a highly reactive by‐product of glycolysis, plays an important role in the development of diabetes‐associated microvascular dysfunction in the periphery and is detoxified by the enzyme glyoxalase 1.Diabetes reduced visuospatial memory in mice and slowed the neurovascular coupling response speed, which was improved by overexpression of glyoxalase 1.MGO formation and MGO‐derived advanced glycation endproduct (AGE) accumulation in the brain of diabetic mice are associated with a slight reduction in neurovascular coupling and mild cognitive impairment.The endogenous formation of MGO, and the accumulation of MGO‐derived AGEs, might be a potential target in reducing the risk of vascular cognitive impairment in people with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionThis study aimed to investigate the effects of a long-term intervention with β-lactolin, a tetrapeptide (sequence: glycine-threonine-tryptophan-tyrosine) derived from milk, on cognitive performance in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted. We recruited 48 participants aged 50 years or older with the Japanese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-J) score of 24–28 and a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) score of 0.5. Participants were administered β-lactolin (1.8 mg daily) or placebo for 24 weeks. The primary outcomes were the MMSE-J and the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-J) scores for cognitive function.A total of 422 individuals were screened, 48 of whom were included in this study. The MMSE-J and MoCA-J scores showed no significant differences between the groups. In the intra-group comparison of the MoCA-J delayed recall score, a significant difference was observed in the β-lactolin group after 12 and 24 weeks of intervention (p = 0.0256, p = 0.0175, respectively). Furthermore, the subgroup analysis stratified for females only showed a significant difference in MoCA-J total score in the β-lactolin group after 24 weeks of intervention (p = 0.0253).β-lactolin intake does not significantly improve cognitive function in MCI in an inter-group comparison; nevertheless, the MoCA-J delayed recall score was significantly improved in the β-lactolin group. The number of participants was lower than planned, limiting the confirmation of the effectiveness of β-lactolin on MCI. This report demonstrated the effect size of β-lactolin intervention in MCI, contributing insights for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusionTo evaluate the cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome scale (CCAS-S) in patients with acute cerebellar stroke (ACS) and examine its relationship with the discharge destination.Patients with first-time ACS admitted to our hospital between April 2021 and April 2023 were included. The CCAS-S, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) were evaluated 1 week after stroke onset, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM)/Barthel Index (BI) at discharge, duration of hospitalization, and discharge destination were evaluated. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare CCAS-S and variables.Thirteen consecutive patients with ACS and age-matched comparison groups were included. The MMSE was within the normal range in all patients; however, patients with stroke had a lower total CCAS-S score (median 72, IQR 66–80) and a higher number of failed tests (median 4, IQR 3–5) than comparison. Significant deficits were observed in semantic fluency (p = 0.008), category switching (p = 0001), and similarity (p = 009). Definite CCAS were diagnosed 10 patients, respectively. Patients discharged home showed better SARA and FIM/BI but similar CCAS-S compared to those discharged to rehabilitation hospitals.In patients with ACS, it is the impairment of motor function, not CCAS, that affects discharge destination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is a significant issue commonly observed following chemotherapy treatment. The study aimed to investigate the changes in cognitive function and their association with IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10 levels before and after R-CHOP chemotherapy over six cycles. Seventy chemotherapy naïve, newly diagnosed lymphoma patients were enrolled. Cognitive functions and inflammatory cytokines were assessed at baseline (TP1), after 3rd cycle (TP2), and after 6th cycle (TP3). Patients, with mean age of 44.17 ± 13.67 years, showed significantly increased levels of IL-6 and IL-1β and decreased IL-10 levels over time (p < .001). On the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), scores of domains such as executive functioning (p = .002), attention (p < .001), language (p < .001), recall (p = .005), and orientation (p < .001) significantly decreased post six cycles of R-CHOP chemotherapy. Correlation analysis at TP2 indicated a positive association between elevated IL-6 levels with a decrease in MoCA scores indicating a decline in cognitive function (ρ = 0.68, p < .001). At TP3, no association of MoCA scores with IL-6 and IL-1β was observed. Decreased IL-10 levels showed a weak association with decreased MoCA scores at TP2 and TP3 (ρ = 0.2, p = .09; for TP3, ρ = 0.16, p = .17), but this was not significant. In summary, the findings of the present study highlight significant cognitive decline and changes in inflammatory cytokine levels following six cycles of R-CHOP. Objective cognitive assessments may be done to detect CRCI in patients treated with R-CHOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was aimed at analyzing cognitive function and quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) in patients with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) based on the presence of depression and at evaluating the impact of depression on phenoconversion to neurodegenerative diseases. Methods: Individuals diagnosed with iRBD via polysomnography were included. Based on the presence of depression, patients were categorized into two groups. Neuropsychological tests and qEEG were conducted following the diagnosis of iRBD, and outcomes were compared between the two groups. Patients were regularly followed to monitor their phenoconversion status. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the hazard ratio associated with depression. Results: Ninety iRBD patients (70% males) were included, with a median age of 66.3 years. Depression was identified in 26 (28.9%) of these patients. The depressed group showed significantly poorer performance only in color reading subtest of Stroop (p = 0.029) compared to the nondepressed group, showing reduced processing speed. In qEEG, relative gamma power (p = 0.034) and high gamma power (p = 0.020) in the parietal region were significantly higher in the depressed group than in the nondepressed group. Depression was associated with a hazard ratio of 3.32 for the risk of phenoconversion to neurodegenerative diseases in iRBD patients (p = 0.011). Conclusion: Depressive symptoms in iRBD patients should be closely monitored as they could aggravate cognitive dysfunction and increase the risk of phenoconversion to neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have demonstrated a possible association between cognitive impairments and traumatic upper limb injuries. This study aims to track the cognitive changes in individuals with such injuries. In this longitudinal study, 36 participants with traumatic upper limb injuries and 36 uninjured participants were enrolled. Cognitive functions were assessed using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) and the Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT) over a period of 6 months, with evaluations conducted on three occasions: 1 month (T1), 3 months (T2), and 6 months (T3). The results revealed that participants with nerve injuries exhibited significantly lower RAVLT scores overall and at each time point (Overall: Wald χ2 = 7.99, P < .05; T1: Wald χ2 = 7.61, P < .05; T2: Wald χ2 = 5.95, P < .05; T3: Wald χ2 = 5.76, P < .05). In contrast, no significant impairment in RAVLT performance was observed in participants without nerve injuries. Additionally, the SCWT showed no significant differences between injured and uninjured participants over the six-month period (P > .05). In conclusion, traumatic nerve injuries to the upper limbs negatively affect memory, and this impairment does not spontaneously recover within six months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence on associations of remnant cholesterol (RC) and its variability with cognitive function is still lacking. Objective: To explore the association of RC and its variability with cognitive function. Methods: Participants were recruited from a population-based cohort, the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Cognitive function was assessed by a standardized questionnaire from CHARLS, with domains of episodic memory and mental intactness. A linear mixed effects model was used to analyze the association of RC with cognitive function, along with its variability (calculated as standard deviation [SD], coefficient of variation [CV], variability independent of the mean [VIM]), with results expressed as β (95%CI). Potential subgroup differences in the association of RC and its variability with cognitive function were also explored. Results: 4234 participants were eventually included, with mean (SD) age of 57.4 (8.0) years. Each 10 mg/dL increase in RC was associated with 0.053 (95%CI: 0.096, 0.009) points, 0.021 (95%CI: 0.042, 0.000) points, 0.032 (95%CI: 0.064, 0.001) points decrease in global cognitive function, episodic memory, and mental intactness scores, respectively. Compared with the first tertile (T1) group of RC variability (calculated as SD, VIM), T3 showed a lower level in global cognition and episodic memory after multivariate adjustment. The potential modification effects of educational level on RC and its variability in relation to cognitive function were also identified. Conclusions: Among Chinese middle-aged and older adults, higher RC level were associated with worse cognitive function. Greater RC variability was also associated with worse cognitive performance, especially in memory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aging global population is increasing the attention to cognitive decline in older individuals. Objective: This study sought to examine the potential link between the neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) and cognitive function. Methods: We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2014 using multivariate logistic regression and smooth curve fitting, to investigate the correlation between NPAR and cognitive performance. Restricted cubic spline analysis assessed the linear relationship with high-risk cognitive dysfunction, while piecewise linear regression identified thresholds. Subgroup analyses confirmed the consistency and reliability of our findings. Results: Our study included data from 2759 individuals aged >60 years. NPAR showed a significant correlation with Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) word learning score, CERAD delayed recall score, total z-score and a high risk of cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, there were statistically significant trends in the changes in CERAD word learning, digit symbol substitution test, and CERAD delayed recall scores as the NPAR quartile increased, these trends were inverted U-shaped. When the NPAR exceeded 14.57, there was a positive association with the likelihood of a high risk of cognitive impairment. The link between NPAR and cognitive performance was notably stronger in individuals with moderate body mass index and those aged 73–80 years. Conclusions: A strong link was observed between the NPAR and cognitive function. NPAR may serve as a tool to identify individuals at increased risk of cognitive decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance of lifestyle, including diet and exercise, has been associated with improved learning and memory capacity, delayed age-related cognitive decline, and a reduced risk of neurodegeneration. Most neurodegenerative diseases are defined as complex multifactorial disorders in which genetic and environmental factors greatly contribute to their onset. Although inflammatory cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative stress itself might exert pro-inflammatory effects and an uncontrolled response could lead to a state of chronic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory dietary approaches unify the disciplines of nutrition, immunity, and neurology. Personalized dietary interventions will be developed based on an individual's genetic makeup, metabolic profile, and gut microbiota composition, thanks to advances in genomics, metabolomics, and microbiome research. The relevance of dietary patterns in decreasing inflammation relies on the role of specific antioxidant nutrients, which might contribute to a decrease in the levels of ROS. This review aims to summarize recent advancements in neuroscience and immunology that have revealed the crucial role that diet and the immune system play in brain function and disease progression. Nutrition influences the immune system, and in turn, the immune system impacts neurological health. This bidirectional relationship suggests that targeted nutritional interventions could modulate immune responses to delay or mitigate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases potentially. This approach focuses on the use of specific nutrients and dietary components that influence the immune system and inflammatory pathway. Key elements of immunonutrition include omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and various bioactive compounds found in foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remimazolam is a new benzodiazepine. Currently, it remains unclear how repeated exposure to remimazolam affects the cognitive function of the developing brain. In the present study, the equivalent doses of the two sedatives were derived from S-shaped dose–response curves, and the ED95 of remimazolam was 45 mg/kg (95% CI 37.579–79.280), and for midazolam, it was 77 mg/kg (95% CI 63.751–127.21) using probability analysis. Then, we evaluated the effects of remimazolam and midazolam on cognitive function in juvenile mice (C57BL/6) through Y-maze and MWM. TUNEL staining was used to observe the apoptosis of neurons in hippocampus, western blotting was used to detect the expression changes of related proteins, and the changes of LTP were observed by recording the activity of neurons through electrical stimulation. We found that there was no significant difference in the behavior of mice in MWM. However, the short-term memory of developing mice was impaired in Y-maze after repeated exposure to remimazolam and midazolam. Furthermore, our data demonstrated that the short-term memory damage caused by remimazolam is lighter than midazolam. Concurrently, the extent of caspase-3 upregulation, the number of neuronal apoptosis in CA1 and CA3 regions, a downward trend of PSD95 and BDNF in the hippocampus, and the inhibition of LTP were highly consistent with the behavior of short-term memory impairment. These results indicate that the degree of memory impairment caused by remimazolam is milder than that caused by midazolam, making it a potential replacement for midazolam in repeated medication and long-term sedation in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multiple studies have reported the association between balance performance and cognitive function among older adults. However, few studies have been conducted in low-income settings. Objectives: This cross-sectional study examined the relationships of dynamic and static balance with cognitive function in community-dwelling low-income older adults in Orlando, Florida. Methods: Dynamic balance was assessed with a Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and static balance with BTracks Balance System. Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) assessed cognition and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 assessed depressive symptoms. Results: Multiple regression analysis showed dynamic balance was significantly associated with cognition, but static balance was not, controlling for depressive symptoms (N = 89, M age = 72.70, SD ± 6.95; females = 79). Specifically, higher dynamic balance was associated with better cognitive function. Cognitively healthy participants (RUDAS scores ≥23) scored 2.526 points higher in SPPB than those with possible cognitive impairment (RUDAS scores <23). Conclusions: Findings provide the evidence to suggest dynamic balance and cognitive function health disparities affecting older adults from low-income community. By implication, dynamic balance and cognitive function should be part of routine screening with older adults living in low-income communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As one of the key features of sleep, sleep duration (SD) has been confirmed to be associated with multiple health outcomes. However, the link between SD and cognitive function (CF) is still not well understood. Methods: We employed a combined approach utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2011–2014) and Mendelian Randomization (MR) methods to investigate the relationship between SD and CF. In the NHANES cross-sectional analysis, the association between these variables was primarily examined through multivariate linear regression to explore direct correlations and utilized smoothing curve fitting to assess potential nonlinear relationships. To ensure the robustness of our findings, subgroup analyses were also conducted. MR analysis was used to assess the causal relationship between SD and sleeplessness on CF. After excluding confounding factors, univariate and multivariate MR were performed using inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the main analysis method, and sensitivity analysis was performed. Results: The results of our cross-sectional study indicate a notable negative association between SD and CF, forming an inverted U-shaped curve with the inflection point occurring at SD = 6 h. This relationship remains consistent and robust across subgroup analyses differentiated by variables such as age, levels of physical activity, and frequency of alcohol intake. In MR analysis, IVW analysis showed no causal relationship between SD and sleeplessness on CF (Both P > 0.05). Conclusion: Cross-sectional studies suggest the existence of an inverted U-shaped correlation between SD and CF among the elderly. However, MR analysis did not reveal a causal relationship between SD and CF, which the lack of nonlinear MR analysis may limit. These findings provide evidence from a sleep perspective for optimizing cognitive strategies in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Shared biological factors may play a role in both the cognitive deficits and the increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome observed in individuals with Schizophrenia (SCZ). These factors could entail disturbances in tryptophan (Trp) to both melatonin (MLT) and kynurenine (Kyn) metabolic pathways, as well as inflammation and alterations in the gut microbiome composition. Methods: The present research project aims to investigate this hypothesis by recruiting 170 SCZ patients from two different recruitment sites, assessing their cognitive functions and screening for the presence of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, we plan to assess the impact of a 3-month cognitive remediation therapy on 30 of these patients. We will analyze clinical data alongside serum biomarkers and gene expression related to the Trp- to MLT and Kyn metabolic pathways, markers of inflammatory and composition of the gut microbiome. The association between Trp-MLT-Kyn levels, expression levels of selected genes, inflammatory markers and clinical phenotypes will be analyses in the context of general linear models. Discussion: This project has the potential to identify some typical SCZ symptomatic clusters that will be more stringently associated with variations in the Trp-MLT-Kyn/inflammatory system and with a better response to cognitive remediation therapy. Moreover, in a future perspective, it may highlight a group of patients who may benefit from a pharmacological treatment aiming at reinstating the physiological Trp to MLT and Kyn system. Therefore, it has the potential to move research toward a personalized approach for SCZ management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of stress on obesity have been thoroughly studied in high-fat diet fed mice, but not in normal diet fed mice, which is important to clarify because even on a normal diet, some individuals will become obese under stress conditions. Here we compared mice that showed substantial weight gain or loss under chronic mild stress while on a normal diet; we compared the two groups in terms of cognitive function, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling, neurogenesis and activation of microglia in hippocampus, gene expression and composition of the gut microbiome. Chronic mild stress induced diet-independent obesity in approximately 20% of animals, and it involved inflammatory responses in peripheral and central nervous system as well as hyperactivation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling and of microglia in the hippocampus, which were associated with cognitive deficits and impaired hippocampal neurogenesis. It significantly increased in relative abundance at the phylum level (Firmicutes), at the family level (Prevotellaceae ucg − 001 and Lachnospiraceae NK4a136), at the genus level (Dubosiella and Turicibacter) for some enteric flora, while reducing the relative abundance at the family level (Lactobacillaceae and Erysipelotrichaceae), at the genus level (Bacteroidota, Alistipes, Alloprevotella, Bifidobacterium and Desulfovibrio) for some enteric flora. These results suggest that stress, independently of diet, can induce obesity and cognitive decline that involve dysfunctional gut microbiota. These insights imply that mitigation of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal signaling and microglial activation as well as remodeling of gut microbiota may reverse stress-induced obesity and associated cognitive decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder causing significant cognitive decline and impaired daily functioning. Current treatments offer only modest relief, and many amyloid-targeting therapies have failed, prompting exploration of alternative approaches such as PE with albumin replacement. Objectives: This scoping review systematically maps the literature on PE with albumin replacement in AD management, focusing on outcomes, methodologies, and reported benefits and risks. Methods: A comprehensive search in PubMed, supplemented by reference scanning and hand-searching, identified studies involving PE with albumin replacement in AD patients. Data charting and critical appraisal were conducted using standardized tools. Results: Seven primary studies from the AMBAR (Alzheimer Management by Albumin Replacement) trial met the inclusion criteria, consistently reporting improvements in cognitive function, positive neuroimaging results, and favorable neuropsychiatric outcomes. For instance, one study found a significant slowing of cognitive decline (p < 0.05) among patients receiving PE with albumin replacement. Another study showed better preservation of hippocampal volume and improved brain perfusion metrics in the treatment group (p < 0.05). The intervention was generally well-tolerated with manageable side effects. Conclusion: PE with albumin replacement is a promising therapeutic approach for AD, warranting further investigation to confirm its efficacy and safety across broader settings. Scoping review registration: https://osf.io/v6dez/?view_only=1cd9637e7e0347d39713bf19aac0dfe8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy disorders in AD patients and animal models were well known, however, the effect of P301S‐tau on autophagy is not clear. Here, we found that autophagy related protein Tectonin Beta‐Propeller Repeat‐Containing Protein 1 (TECPR1) decreased in the hippocampus of P301S‐tau transgenic mice by proteomics, which was proved in vivo and in vitro, and P301S‐tau induced autophagic deficits in early and late process. TECPR1 overexpression attenuated P301S‐tau induced autophagy defects via promoting autophagosome generation and autophagosome and lysosomes fusion. We also found that TECPR1 overexpression ameliorated the behavior disorders of P301S‐tau mice with promoting tau degradation, improving synaptic plasticity and neuron loss. Lastly, CQ or 3‐MA treatment reversed TECPR1 induced improvement effects on autophagic and cognitive disorders, further proved that, TECPR1 activated the early and late process of autophagy to ameliorate the cognition of P301S‐tau mice. Our data suggest that TECPR1 is a potential therapy target for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sanda, a martial art that primarily involves punching, kicking, and throwing techniques, requires athletes to maintain high levels of concentration during combat. Sanda principally involves striking the opponent to secure victory, with trauma frequently occurring to the head; however, it remains unclear whether prolonged training enhances or impairs the athletes' attentional capacities. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Sanda training on athletes' attention by employing attention network tests. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 37 professional Sanda athletes from a certain sports academy; 38 college students from the same institution majoring in physical education were recruited as the control group. Control participants had no prior experience in Sanda training, and the Sanda and control groups were matched in terms of sex, age, and education level. The Attention Network Test (ANT) was administered to both groups to compare differences in efficiency across the alerting, orienting, and executive control networks. Results: Compared to the control group, the Sanda athletes exhibited significantly higher executive control network efficiency values and executive control network efficiency ratios (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the Sanda group and the control group regarding the efficiency values of the alerting and orienting networks (P > 0.05). Additionally, total accuracy and total reaction time between the Sanda athletes and control participants showed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Sanda practice has detrimental effects on attention, including a decrease in the efficiency of the executive control network and a prolongation of the total reaction time. Therefore, athletes should improve attention training and use head protection to prevent frequent head impacts during training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Abnormalities in the hippocampus have been extensively reported in schizophrenia research. However, inconsistent findings exist, and how structural and functional abnormalities of the hippocampus are associated with clinical symptoms in schizophrenia, especially concerning clozapine treatment, remains uncertain. Methods: We recruited 52 patients with schizophrenia, each with an illness duration of at least 5 years, and categorized them based on clozapine treatment. T1-weighted images and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained and analyzed to perform group comparisons of the structural and functional changes in the hippocampus. Volumes of the hippocampal subregions, as well as resting-state functional connectivity maps from these areas were compared between the groups. Associations with clinical symptoms, including the severity of psychiatric symptoms and cognitive functions, were investigated. Results: The clozapine group (n=23) exhibited smaller volumes in several hippocampal subregions, including the CA1, CA4, granule cell and molecular layers of the dentate gyrus, compared to the non-clozapine group (n=29). Seven clusters with significant group differences in functional connectivity with these hippocampal subregions were identified, with six of these clusters showing increased functional connectivity in the clozapine group. The reduced volumes of the hippocampal subregions were moderately associated with the severity of negative symptoms, general intelligence, and executive function. Discussion: Patients with schizophrenia undergoing clozapine treatment exhibited smaller volumes in the hippocampal subregions, which were moderately associated with negative symptoms and cognitive functions, compared to those without clozapine treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusions This cohort study aimed to assess weight loss associated with new long‐term care insurance (LTCI) certifications over a 9‐year period, accounting for the competing risk of death.We analyzed data from 3749 Japanese individuals aged ≥65 years in Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Weight loss was assessed using the Kihon Checklist during the baseline survey. Data regarding LTCI certifications were collected until March 2022. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of 9‐year LTCI certification because of weight loss, adjusted for confounding factors. To exclude the effect of competing risks, Fine‐Gray regression was used to estimate subdistribution HRs. Subgroup analyses were carried out after the examination of potential interactions between subjective cognitive function, body mass index categories and weight loss.The incidence rate of new LTCI certifications was 5.16 per 100 person‐years overall – broken down into 7.02 for those with weight loss and 4.97 for those without. The adjusted HR for weight loss to new LTCI certifications was 1.35 (95% CI 1.15–1.59). Considering mortality as a competing risk, the adjusted subdistribution HR was 1.37 (95% CI 1.16–1.61). Conversely, no interaction was observed between weight loss and subjective cognitive function or body mass index categories.Excluding the effect of mortality, weight loss was identified as a risk factor for new LTCI certifications. However, no interaction was observed between weight loss and subjective cognitive function or body mass index categories. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This study evaluates the neurocognitive and electrophysiological effects of 1‐year memantine treatment in 14 adolescents and young adults (mean age 24 years) with sickle cell disease (SCD, incluing sickle cell anaemia and sickle cell β‐thalassemia), hypothesizing improvements in cognitive functions and neural processing. Participants underwent assessments using subtests from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale and a computerized task‐switching paradigm with concurrent event‐related potential (ERP) recordings, both before and after the treatment period. Assessments focused on processing speed, working memory, attention and executive function. ERP measurements targeted brain response changes during task switching. Memantine treatment enhanced cognitive test performance, especially in processing speed as shown by the Digit–Symbol Coding and Symbol‐Search tests. Results indicated improved visuospatial and graphomotor speed, working memory and attention. The task‐switching test revealed reduced error rates, suggesting decreased cognitive load and enhanced executive control. Electrophysiological changes in P1 and P3 amplitudes at frontal and parietal locations post‐treatment pointed to more efficient neural processing in tasks requiring cognitive flexibility. These preliminary findings from a Phase II clinical study serve as a ‘proof of concept’, exploring the feasibility and potential effectiveness of memantine treatment in SCD—a previously uninvestigated context. They support the rationale for more extensive investigations to confirm these results and assess memantine's broader effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Many studies show that both callous‐unemotional (CU) traits (e.g., low empathy, lack of guilt) and cognitive difficulties increase risk for externalizing psychopathology across development. However, other work suggests that some aggression (e.g., relational, proactive) may rely on intact cognitive function, which could vary based on the presence of CU traits. Moreover, no prior research has adequately accounted for common risk factors shared by CU traits, cognitive difficulties, and externalizing problems, which confounds conclusions that can be drawn about their purported relationships. The current study addressed these knowledge gaps by leveraging rigorous propensity matching methods to isolate associations between CU traits and different dimensions of cognitive function and externalizing problems.Associations between CU traits, cognitive functioning, and externalizing outcomes were tested within dimensional (n = 11,868) and propensity‐matched group‐based (n = 1,224) models using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study®, with rigorous statistical control for shared sociodemographic risk factors. Cross‐sectional outcomes were parent‐reported symptoms of conduct disorder (CD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Longitudinal outcomes were child‐reported overt and relational aggression.CU traits were uniquely related to more parent‐reported CD, ODD, ADHD symptoms, as well as more child‐reported aggressive behaviors. Effects of cognitive difficulties were domain specific and were not consistent across dimensional and propensity matched models. There was minimal evidence for divergent associations between CU traits and externalizing outcomes as a function of cognition (i.e., no moderation).Rigorous control for sociodemographic factors within propensity‐matched models establish CU traits as a robust and unique risk factor for externalizing psychopathology, over and above difficulties with cognitive functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Studies have recently shown an alteration of the structural connectivity and a dysfunctional glymphatic system in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the structural connectivity and glymphatic system on the cognitive function of patients with CKD. Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients with CKD and healthy controls. The CKD group was divided into two regarding their cognitive function. All patients received brain magnetic resonance imaging, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). We calculated the measures of structural connectivity and diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) index, a neuroimaging marker of the glymphatic system function, and compared the indices between groups. Results: The mean clustering coefficient, local efficiency, and small-worldness index in patients with CKD were lower than those in healthy controls (0.125 ± 0.056 vs. 0.167 ± 0.082, p = 0.008; 1.191 ± 0.183 vs. 1.525 ± 0.651, p = 0.002; 0.090 ± 0.043 vs. 0.143 ± 0.102, p = 0.003; respectively). The DTI-ALPS index was lower in patients with CKD than in healthy controls (1.436 vs. 1.632, p < 0.001). Additionally, the DTI-ALPS index differed significantly between CKD patients with and without cognitive impairment. Notably, this index was lower in patients with CKD and cognitive impairment than in patients without cognitive impairment (1.338 vs. 1.494, p = 0.031). However, there were no differences of the structural connectivity between CKD patients with and without cognitive impairment. Conclusion: We found lower DTI-ALPS index in patients with CKD, which could be related with glymphatic system dysfunction. Moreover, those with cognitive impairment in the CKD group had a lower index than those without, indicating a link between the glymphatic system function and cognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As population aging increased globally, this study aimed to examine the relationship between leisure activity participation and cognitive function in the older Chinese population and the gender and age differences in this relationship. A total of 12526 individuals aged 60 years and older from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey were obtained for this study. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to explore the relationship. This study found productive, physical, intellectual, recreational and social activities were associated with cognitive function. Males enjoyed extra benefits from recreational activities compared with females. Females enjoyed extra benefits from productive activities and social activities compared with males. Older age enjoyed extra benefits from productive activities, physical activities, intellectual activities, recreational activities, social activities in comparison with younger age. Thus, Chinese older adults need to make efforts to increase the time and variety of leisure activities, especially for the oldest old. Compared with other types of leisure activities, it's more important for old men to participate in recreational activities, and for old women to participate in productive activities and social activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute aerobic exercise improves memory, but this phenomenon is understudied in response to resistance exercise (RE) despite evidence that RE-induced increases in lactate and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play mechanistic roles in memory performance. To determine the acute effect of RE on lactate, BDNF, and their associations with object and relational memory, blood lactate, and serum and plasma BDNF were taken from 36 adults (average age 23.6463.89 years; 18 woman) before and immediately after 42 minutes of high-intensity RE and a rest condition on counterbalanced days. Subjects then immediately studied a series of paired objects and completed object and relational recognition tasks. Results revealed a condition by trial interaction, previously studied objects were remembered less accurately following RE (d 5 0.66) but recognition occurred faster (d 5 0.28), indicating a speed-accuracy tradeoff following RE. There was no effect of either intervention on relational recognition performance. Lactate (d 5 3.68) and serum BDNF (d 5 0.74) increased following RE, whereas there was no timerelated change in lactate and serum BDNF following rest. However, changes in lactate and BDNF did not predict any measures of object (rs, 0.25, ps. 0.16) or relation recognition (rs, 0.28, ps. 0.13). Collectively, these findings suggest that acute highintensity RE selectively improves the processing speed of recognizing objects at the cost of less accurate recognition of previously studied objects. Furthermore, changes in object and relational memory performance are unlikely driven by acute increases in lactate or BDNF following high-intensity RE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced intracerebral hematoma is a major driver of secondary injury pathology such as neuroinflammation, cerebral edema, neurotoxicity, and blood–brain barrier dysfunction, which contribute to neuronal loss, motor deficits, and cognitive impairment. Cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47) is an antiphagocytic cell surface protein inhibiting hematoma clearance. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of blockade of CD47 via intravenous (i.v.) administration of anti-CD47 antibodies following penetrating ballistic-like brain injury (PBBI) with significant traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (tICH). The pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of the anti-CD47 antibody elicited that antibody concentration decayed over 7 days post-administration. Blood tests and necropsy analysis indicated no severe adverse events following treatment. Cerebral hemoglobin levels were significantly increased after injury, however, anti-CD47 antibody administration at 0.1 mg/kg resulted in a significant reduction in cerebral hemoglobin levels at 72 h post-administration, indicating augmentation of hematoma clearance. Immunohistochemistry assessment of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) demonstrated a significant reduction of GFAP levels in the lesion core and peri-lesional area. Based on these analyses, the optimal dose was identified as 0.1 mg/kg. Lesion volume showed a reduction following treatment. Rotarod testing revealed significant motor deficits in all injured groups but no significant therapeutic benefits. Spatial learning performance revealed significant deficits in all injured groups, which were significantly improved by the last testing day. Anti-CD47 antibody treated rats showed significantly improved attention deficits, but not retention scores. These results provide preliminary evidence that blockade of CD47 using i.v. administration of anti-CD47 antibodies may serve as a potential therapeutic for TBI with ICH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) and cognitive function remains largely unknown. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between CKD-MBD and cognitive function in patients on hemodialysis. Methods: Hemodialysis patients aged ≥ 65 years without diagnosed dementia were included. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). CKD-MBD markers, serum magnesium, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23, and soluble α-klotho were measured. Results: Overall, 390 patients with a median age of 74 (interquartile range, 70–80) years, mean serum magnesium level of 2.4 ± 0.3 mg/dL, and median MoCA and MMSE scores of 25 (22–26) and 28 (26–29), respectively, were analyzed. MoCA and MMSE scores were significantly higher (preserved cognitive function) in the high-magnesium group than in the low-magnesium group according to the unadjusted linear regression analysis (β coefficient [95% confidence interval (CI)] 1.05 [0.19, 1.92], P = 0.017 for MoCA; 1.2 [0.46, 1.94], P = 0.002 for MMSE) and adjusted multivariate analysis with risk factors for dementia (β coefficient [95% CI] 1.12 [0.22, 2.02], P = 0.015 for MoCA; 0.92 [0.19, 1.65], P = 0.014 for MMSE). Conclusions: Higher serum magnesium levels might be associated with preserved cognitive function in hemodialysis patients. Conversely, significant associations were not observed between cognitive function and intact PTH, 25-OHD, FGF-23, or soluble α-klotho levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) is a noninvasive fibrosis test that is recommended for patients who are at risk of developing hepatic fibrosis. The aim of the study was to explore the correlation between FIB‐4 index and the decline of cognitive function among older patients with hypertension. The study used a cross‐sectional design to analyze data obtained from the NHANES 2011–2014. The significance of the FIB‐4 index correlation with cognitive function in individuals over the age of 60 was evaluated via multivariate regression models. The nonlinear link was described and fitted smoothed curves. There were a total of 2039 participants in the study, and those with a higher FIB‐4 index were more susceptible to developing cognitive decline. In the completely adjusted model, the association remained statistically significant between the FIB‐4 index and poor cognitive function as measured by CERAD: Total Score (OR = 0.72, 0.57−0.91), Animal Fluency Score (OR = 0.66, 0.48−0.91), and Digit Symbol Score (OR = 0.36, 0.17−0.77). A nonlinear association was found between the FIB‐4 and poor cognitive ability: Total Score, CERAD: Score Delayed Recall, Digit Symbol Score, and Animal Fluency Score. In elderly patients with hypertension, a high FIB‐4 index is correlated with an increased prevalence of cognitive decline. Hence, the FIB‐4 index could potentially serve as a valuable tool for determining individuals with hypertension who are susceptible to both liver‐related complications and cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been increasing interest in examining the potential moderating effects that cognitive functioning has on treatment outcome in bipolar disorder (BD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Therefore, the aim of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between baseline cognitive function and treatment outcome in individuals with mood disorders who completed 12 months of interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and were randomised to receive adjunctive cognitive remediation (CR) or no additional intervention. Methods: Fifty‐eight patients with mood disorders (BD, n = 36, MDD, n = 22), who were randomised to IPSRT‐CR or IPSRT, underwent cognitive testing at baseline and completed follow‐up mood measures after 12 months. General linear modelling was used to examine the relationship between baseline cognitive function (both objective and subjective) and change in mood symptom burden, and functioning, from baseline to treatment‐end. Results: Poorer baseline attention/executive function was associated with less change in mood symptom burden, particularly depressive symptoms, at treatment‐end. Additionally, slower psychomotor speed at baseline was associated with less improvement in mania symptom burden. Subjective cognitive function at baseline was not related to change in mood symptom burden at treatment‐end, and neither objective nor subjective cognitive function was associated with functional outcome. Limitations: Due to the exploratory nature of the study, there was no correction for multiple comparisons. Conclusion: Aspects of objective cognitive function were associated with treatment outcomes following psychotherapy. Further large‐scale research is required to examine the role that cognitive function may have in determining various aspects of mood disorder recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to explore the association between declining lung function and depression in middle‐aged and older adults, with a special focus on the mediating role of cognitive function. Methods: This study utilizes self‐reported and physical examination data from 5345 individuals participating in the 2015 cycle of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) to explore the role of cognitive function changes in mediating the effects of diminished lung function on depression among middle‐aged and older adults. Results: Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between pulmonary and cognitive functions (β = 0.003, 95% CI: 0.002∼0.003, P < 0.01) and a negative correlation between cognitive function and depression (β = −0.279, 95% CI: −0.330–0.228, P < 0.01). Cognitive function plays a mediating role in linking pulmonary function with depression, exhibiting a mediation effect of −0.0007 and a total effect of −0.0046, wherein the mediation effect contributes to 15.22% of the total effect. For females, the mediating effect of cognitive function was stronger (β = −0.0013, 95% CI: −0.0018∼–0.0008, P < 0.01) than it was for males (β = −0.0006, 95% CI: −0.0009∼–0.0003, P < 0.01). Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of monitoring lung and cognitive functions as interconnected factors contributing to the mental health of middle‐aged and older adults. It suggests that interventions aimed at improving pulmonary health and cognitive function may help mitigate depressive symptoms among middle‐aged and older adults. Further research is warranted to validate these findings across diverse cultural and demographic settings. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1210–1217. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]