Asian Journal of Research and Reports in Neurology

Post-Translational Modifications of α-Synuclein: Drivers of Aggregation and Synucleinopathy Pathogenesis: A Systematic Review

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: This systematic review aimed to critically evaluate the influence of post-translational modifications (PTMs) on α-synuclein structure, aggregation, and toxicity, and to clarify their relevance to the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy.

Methodology: Relevant peer-reviewed literature from Scopus, web of science, PubMed, google scholar was systematically examined to assess the effects of major α-synuclein PTMs, including major enzymatic and oxidative PTMs, and their effects on protein folding, solubility, aggregation behaviour, neurotoxicity, and clearance mechanisms involving autophagy and the proteasome.

Results: Phosphorylation at Serine 129 (Ser129) was identified as the most prevalent pathological modification, showing marked enrichment in aggregated α-synuclein within diseased brain tissue. Phosphorylation at Serine 87 (Ser87) and N-terminal acetylation were commonly associated with delayed fibril formation and reduced aggregation propensity, highlighting that certain PTMs exert stabilizing and aggregation-inhibitory effects on α-synuclein. Modifications such as C-terminal truncation and tyrosine nitration significantly enhanced fibrillization and promoted the formation of highly neurotoxic oligomeric species.

Discussion: There are Multiple studies, that demonstrated PTM crosstalk, wherein combinations of modifications either exacerbated or mitigated aggregation and influenced degradation pathways. PTM-specific α-synuclein species, particularly phosphorylated and truncated forms, showed promise as biomarkers for early diagnosis, disease staging, and differentiation among synucleinopathies.

Conclusion: Collectively, the findings indicate that α-synuclein aggregation and associated neurotoxicity result from a complex interplay of multiple post-translational modifications rather than a single pathogenic event. Elucidating this PTM network provides critical insights into disease mechanisms and supports the development of refined diagnostic approaches and targeted therapeutic interventions, including PTM-informed biomarker strategies and precision therapeutic design.

Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Clinical Features, Differential Diagnosis and Prevention

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent and clinically significant adverse effect associated with several commonly used chemotherapeutic agents, including platinum compounds, taxanes, vinca alkaloids, and proteasome inhibitors (Cavaletti and Marmiroli, 2010, Park et al., 2013, Seretny et al., 2014).

CIPN predominantly presents as a length-dependent sensory neuropathy affecting the distal extremities and may persist long after completion of chemotherapy, resulting in chronic pain, functional impairment, and diminished quality of life (Mols et al., 2014, Winters-Stone et al., 2017, Eckhoff et al., 2015).

Despite increasing understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, effective preventive strategies remain limited, and no pharmacologic agent has demonstrated consistent benefit for routine prophylaxis. Current management primarily focuses on early recognition, symptom control, and dose modification (Loprinzi et al., 2020, Hershman et al., 2014). Accurate diagnosis requires careful clinical evaluation, supported by neurological examination and nerve conduction studies. Important differential diagnoses such as diabetic neuropathy, vitamin B12 deficiency, paraneoplastic neuropathy, and critical illness neuropathy should be excluded. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, differential diagnosis, and prevention strategies for CIPN, with emphasis on current clinical evidence and future research directions.

A Scoping Review of Laser-based Visual Cueing Strategies for the Management of Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s Disease

Sat, 02 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic degeneration and Lewy body pathology, leading to impaired basal ganglia function and motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, and gait disturbances. Freezing of gait (FOG) is a challenging feature that may increase fall risk and affect quality of life. Visual cueing, particularly laser-based strategies, may enhance motor control by engaging cortical and visuomotor pathways.

Objective: To synthesise evidence on laser-based visual cueing for managing FOG and gait dysfunction in PD, and to examine the influence of device design and patient characteristics on outcomes.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and open-access sources. Studies involving PD patients using laser-based cueing with quantitative gait or FOG outcomes were included. Interventions were categorised by device type, delivery mode, study design, and duration.

Results: Eight studies (sample sizes 10–80; Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–4) were included. Laser cueing was associated with reduced FOG severity and frequency in some studies, with reported improvements in NFOGO scores, reduced FOG episodes (~31%) and fewer falls and near-falls (~41% and ~58%); however, findings were not consistent across all devices or participants. Accelerometry showed a reduced Freeze Index in some studies. Laser canes demonstrated a benefit for gait initiation freezing in one study. Spatiotemporal outcomes were mixed, with some devices improving stride length and velocity, while others increased variability, suggesting cautious gait. Kinematic improvements included better joint motion and stability.

Conclusion: Laser-based visual cueing may act as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for FOG in PD, though effects vary by device and patient profile, highlighting the need for individualised approaches, larger controlled trials and further long-term research to establish robust evidence.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Suicidal Ideation among Pregnant Adolescents in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Epidemiological Review

Tanisha Ghosh, Swagata Sarkar, Ananya Ghosh, Puspen Ghosh — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Adolescent pregnancy is a major public health concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with poor maternal and mental health outcomes driven by socioeconomic vulnerability, gender inequality, and limited access to care. Suicidal ideation among pregnant adolescents is underexplored and linked to stigma, social isolation, early marriage, and intimate partner violence, but evidence on its prevalence and determinants remains fragmented

Objectives:

To synthesize evidence on the prevalence and risk factors of suicidal ideation among pregnant adolescents in LMICs
To identify psychosocial, demographic, and health-related correlates
To analyze regional variations; and to highlight gaps to inform future research and policy.

Methods: This study is a scoping review conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and further refined by Levac et al. and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. Reporting adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A systematic search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, along with grey literature from the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), covering publications from 2000 to 2024.

Results: The 40 studies covered 23 LMICs in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. Suicidal ideation ranged from 5.2% to 46.5%, with attempts up to 18%. Key correlates included depression, intimate partner violence, abuse, stigma, poverty, unplanned pregnancy, prior trauma, low education, and poor social support. Most studies were cross-sectional with methodological heterogeneity, limiting causal inference

Conclusion: Suicidal ideation among pregnant adolescents in low- and middle-income countries is a significant yet underrecognized burden, with prevalence ranging from 5.2% to 46.5% and suicide attempts up to 18%. Key risk factors include depression, intimate partner violence, unplanned pregnancy, and poor social support. Despite methodological variability, findings consistently indicate multifactorial vulnerability, underscoring the need for standardized screening and integration of mental health care into antenatal services.

Early Intervention Strategies in Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease Type II: A Case Study on Pediatric Physiotherapy Management

Hanzala J. Shaikh, Aagya M. Kumar — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type II (CMT2) is an inherited axonal sensorimotor neuropathy with heterogeneous and often subtle manifestations in early childhood. Delayed recognition may limit opportunities for timely preventive rehabilitation and early functional optimization.

Purpose: To describe the clinical presentation, comprehensive functional assessment, and physiotherapy management of a young child with electrophysiological features consistent with CMT2, and to contextualize these findings through a targeted narrative review of contemporary pediatric neurorehabilitation literature.

Case Description: A 3-year-9-month-old female child presented with emerging balance and gait difficulties despite largely age-appropriate early developmental milestones. A multidimensional assessment framework was employed, including developmental screening, gross motor and balance evaluation using the Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), caregiver-reported outcome measures, detailed musculoskeletal examination, and nerve conduction studies. Neurophysiological findings demonstrated a moderately severe primary axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy, supporting a diagnosis within the Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type II (CMT2) spectrum.

Intervention: An individualized, evidence-informed physiotherapy program was initiated, emphasizing task-oriented strengthening, balance and gait training, prevention of secondary musculoskeletal complications, and structured caregiver education. Intervention planning incorporated defined dosimetry and a preventive rationale guided by current evidence.

Outcomes: Following early intervention, the child demonstrated improved postural stability during functional tasks, enhanced task participation during balance-challenging activities, and better tolerance to age-appropriate gross motor activities. Caregivers reported increased confidence in handling, positioning, and implementing home-based strategies.

Conclusion: Early, structured physiotherapy guided by integrated functional and neurophysiological assessment may support functional preservation, reduce secondary complications, and promote proactive management in children with suspected CMT2.

Cervical Medulloblastoma Mimicking a Nerve Sheath Tumour in a Child: A Rare Extracranial Presentation

Jaimin Modh, Arvind Verma, Renish Padshala, Md. Nazar Imam — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: To emphasize the diagnostic challenge of primary cervical medulloblastoma mimicking a nerve sheath tumor in pediatric patients.

Case Report: An 8-year-old boy presented with posterior neck swelling and spastic quadriparesis. MRI revealed a well-defined intradural extramedullary cervical mass with "dumbbell" extension, radiologically resembling a schwannoma. Gross total resection was performed, yielding significant neurological recovery. Unexpectedly, histopathology confirmed medulloblastoma.

Discussion: Primary spinal medulloblastomas are rare and can radiologically masquerade as benign tumors. Unlike drop metastases, they lack intracranial involvement. Management requires surgical decompression followed by craniospinal irradiation and chemotherapy.

Conclusion: Medulloblastoma should be considered in the differential of pediatric spinal masses. Early recognition and multimodal management are critical for favorable outcomes.

Cauda Equina Syndrome Secondary to Massive L4–L5 Disc Herniation: A Case Report

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a very unusual and highly critical emergency in surgery, which is a result of the compression of nerve roots in the lumbar-spinal region and the thalamus, which could have irreversible neurological impairments in case it is not addressed in due time. The following is an example of a 49-year-old healthy female who presented to the emergency department due to a 1-year history of axial lower back pain that occurred suddenly and spread to include bilateral lower-limb pain, paresthesia, and numbness. Remarkably, the patient has mentioned the recent development of involuntary micturition and defecation, which are the characteristics of autonomic dysfunction. Examination showed severe lower-extremity motor weakness (4/5 strength) and a severely poor straight-leg raise (0-20°). Stenosis was observed at the L4-L5 segmental canal on magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was stabilized and was given intravenous corticosteroids and neuroprotective factors until the definitive neurosurgical operation. This report highlights the urgency of the early detection of the so-called red-flag symptoms (in particular, bowel and urinary dysfunction) in patients with recurrent low back pain, and, hence, allowing timely decompression and avoids the occurrence of fatal paralysis.

Congenital Facial Paralysis Associated with Grade III Microtia in a 13-Year-Old Male: A Case Report

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

As a background, microtia and congenital facial paralysis are both extremely rare disorders that provide formidable clinical obstacles. They require extensive interdisciplinary care since their simultaneous presence is so rare.

We present a case of a male patient, 13 years old, who had microtia grade 3, congenital left-sided facial paralysis (House-Brackmann grade V). In addition to severe conductive hearing loss, facial asymmetry, an atretic external auditory canal, a tiny, peanut-shaped vestigal ear structure on the left side were also detected during the clinical examination. Thorough evaluation of the anatomy was made possible by cutting-edge MRI and CT scans. The patient was assessed and managed by a team of experts from many fields, including audiology, ophthalmology, and surgery planning.

In conclusion, this unusual relationship highlights the need for prompt diagnosis, thorough evaluation, and tailored interdisciplinary treatment. This case study adds to the little literature on this unusual presentation while also shedding insight on healthcare management techniques in India.

The Airpod Sign in Bilateral Medial Medullary Infarction after Rapid Neurological Deterioration: A Case Report

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bilateral medial medullary infarction is a rare and potentially devastating posterior circulation stroke that may be missed in its earliest stages because initial symptoms can be nonspecific and computed tomography‑based imaging may be unrevealing. We report the case of a 65‑year‑old man with hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidaemia who presented within one hour of symptom onset with left‑sided weakness, facial deviation, and dysarthria. Initial non‑contrast computed tomography, computed tomography angiography, and computed tomography perfusion were unremarkable, and his deficits transiently improved. Over the ensuing hours, however, he developed progressive symmetrical weakness, worsening bulbar dysfunction, and abrupt deterioration to quadriplegia and aphonia. Repeat computed tomography remained non‑diagnostic. Magnetic resonance imaging performed the following morning demonstrated bilateral diffusion restriction within the ventral, middle, and dorsal medulla, with the characteristic heart‑shaped “Airpod sign” on axial diffusion‑weighted imaging. Magnetic resonance angiography showed diffuse severe atherosclerotic disease affecting both vertebral arteries and the proximal basilar artery. The patient was managed with antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, supportive care, permissive hypertension, metabolic stabilization, and respiratory support, then transferred for long‑term rehabilitation. This case highlights the progressive nature of bilateral medial medullary infarction, the limitations of early computed tomography in posterior circulation stroke, and the diagnostic importance of timely magnetic resonance imaging when medullary infarction is clinically suspected.

Integrated Analysis of Glioblastoma: Unravelling Molecular Signatures Across Diverse Datasets for Enhanced Diagnosis

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its complex molecular pathogenesis. Current diagnostic methods often fail to detect early molecular signatures critical for timely intervention. This study integrates microarray and RNA-Seq datasets from both serum and tissue samples to explore differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and protein-protein interaction networks, aiming to identify robust biomarkers and understand the molecular underpinnings of GBM.

Methods: Utilizing microarray datasets (GSE116520, GSE90604) and RNA-Seq datasets (GSE165595, GSE228512) from both brain tissue and serum samples, this study conducted integrative differential gene expression analysis using limma and DESeq2 packages. Functional annotation and gene ontology analyses were performed with DAVID and ShinyGO tools. Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using the STRING database and analysed via Cytoscape to identify central hub genes.

Results: The analysis and cross-technology validation highlighted 1,051 common DEGs across tissue datasets, with 87 upregulated and 255 downregulated. Notably, three genes, MAST3, ADAM11, and PTPRK, were consistent across tissue and serum datasets, suggesting their utility as non-invasive biomarkers. Functional annotation identified critical biological processes and pathways disrupted in GBM, such as cell division, angiogenesis, and cell adhesion. The PPI network analysis identified central hub genes, offering insights into the molecular interactions contributing to GBM pathophysiology.

Conclusion: This study underscores a complex network of molecular interactions pivotal to GBM pathophysiology. The identified DEGs and pathways provide a foundation for developing diagnostic panels and therapeutic targets, emphasizing the need for further research to translate these biomarkers from bench to bedside.

A Field Survey of Available Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) in Lagos - The Commercial Hub of Nigeria: Success and Challenges

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Access to anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) remains a major challenge in low- and middle-income countries, despite significant advancements in epilepsy therapy. Availability of both older and newer AEDs varies widely across regions, and limited access contributes to poor seizure control and increased morbidity. This study assessed the availability of AEDs across community and hospital-affiliated pharmacies in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 50 pharmacies across Lagos Mainland and Lagos Island using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Twenty-eight AEDs were evaluated. Availability was categorized as “Available” or “Not Available,” and pharmacies provided reasons for non-availability. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained prior to data collection.

Results: Among the 28 AEDs surveyed, 4 (14.3%)—retigabine, rufinamide, cenobamate, and stiripentol—were completely unavailable in all pharmacies. Older AEDs demonstrated the highest availability: carbamazepine (96.0%), pregabalin (98.0%), and sodium valproate (90.0%). In contrast, newer and third-generation AEDs such as brivaracetam, lacosamide, and eslicarbazepine were available in only 1% of pharmacies. Key reasons for non-availability included low demand, high cost, lack of importation, and limited pharmacy familiarity.

Conclusions: AED availability in Lagos is heavily skewed toward older, first-line agents. As a result, most patients with epilepsy continue to rely predominantly on older antiepileptic drugs, with limited access to newer therapies due to cost and availability constraints. Newer and third-generation AEDs remain largely inaccessible, limiting therapeutic options for patients with refractory epilepsy. Addressing supply, affordability, and policy barriers is essential to improving epilepsy care in Nigeria.

Histological and Histochemical Studies on the Hippocampus Induced with Lead Acetate Following Oral Administration of Ethanolic Cowpea Extract on Adult Male Wistar Rats

Elemuo, Stanley Chukwuebuka, Anyiam, Kennedy Ekenedirichukwu — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: This study aimed to ascertain the neuroprotective effects of Vigna unguiculata on adult male wistar rats following lead induced neurotoxicity.

Study Design: 25 rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n=5): Group A (control), Group B (15 mg/kg lead acetate), Group C (15mg/kg lead acetate+100 mg/kg cowpea extract), Group D (15mg/kg lead acetate+200 mg/kg cowpea extract), and Group E (200 mg/kg cowpea extract).

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Human Anatomy, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra State, Nigeria between September and October 2021.

Methodology: Sample: 25 male Wistar Rats weighing between 170-220g were used for this study. Acclimatized for 7 days and were randomly selected into five groups of five animals each (A to E).

Results: The present study observed that there were histological changes in hippocampus of adult Wistar rats exposed to lead acetate. There was restorative effect in the groups treated with Vigna unguiculata on the hippocampus by the changes induced by lead acetate. Histochemical results revealed that exposure to 15 mg/kg of lead acetate resulted in densely packed neurons with reduced Nissl substance, indicative of cytoplasmic condensation and impaired protein synthesis associated with neurotoxicity. Co-administration of cowpea extract demonstrated a dose-dependent restorative effect. Biochemical analysis in the present investigation further revealed alterations in oxidative stress markers in the brain tissues of the experimental animals.

Conclusion: This present study has established that ethanolic extract of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) at appropriate doses was able to ameliorate the effect of lead on the hippocampus and may likely be beneficial to the population in areas exposed to lead poisoning.

Molecular Evaluation of Oligodendrogliomas Using Next Generation Sequencing: The GCRI Experience

Dhruva Trivedi, Mittal Mistry, Pina Trivedi, Richa Soni, Trupti Trivedi — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Oligodendroglioma is a rare, slow-growing glioma originating from oligodendrocytic cells and primarily affects adults. According to the 5th edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System, a definitive diagnosis requires the presence of an Isocitrate Dehydrogenase (IDH) gene mutation and co-deletion of chromosome arms 1p and 19q. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and molecular genetic analyses form the diagnostic foundation. However, the accuracy of IHC alone in distinguishing oligodendrogliomas from astrocytomas remains questionable.

Methods: Based on IHC findings, 11 cases were initially diagnosed as oligodendroglioma, they all were found positive for IDH1 R132H mutation and retained ATRX protein expression and were subjected to further molecular testing. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was used to identify the single nucleotide variations (SNVs), fusions and copy number variations (CNVs). The gold standard technique Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) technique was used to identify 1p/19q co-deletion detection along with CNVs.

Results: Our NGS results demonstrated that out of 11 patients who were positive for IDH mutation by IHC, 4 patients had IDH wild-type glioma tumors. In another result, we found that 1 patient had 1p/19q co-deletion by FISH and had IDH mutation alongwith ATRX retained by IHC, however, by NGS, it showed presence of ATRX mutation and no co-deletion in CNVs. Rest 5 samples showed concordance findings with FISH results proving to be negative for oligodendrogliomas.

Conclusion: Based on our findings with limited sample size, we conclude that for Oligodendroglioma tumor classification, IHC alone is insufficient for definitive diagnosis, while FISH remains the diagnostic gold standard. However, NGS offers broader molecular profiling by offering higher throughput, with limited biopsy material, enabling precise sub-typing even in challenging cases aligning with WHO CNS5. Although, assessment in higher number of patients is warranted.

Patterns of BDNF Dysregulation Following Cannabinoid Supplementation in Male Wistar Rats

Elizabeth Eepho Krukru, Bruno Chukwuemeka Chinko, Victor Datonye Dapper — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a critical biomarker implicated in the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This study investigated the dose- and time-dependent effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) administration on serum and hippocampal BDNF levels in male Wistar rats.

Methods: A total of 75 male Wistar rats (120-140g) were divided into 3 study phases: acute (14 days), sub-chronic (28 days), and chronic (56 days). In each phase, the animals were randomly assigned to five experimental groups (n=5 per group per phase): Group 1 (control, distilled water); Group 2 (THC 5mg/kg); Group 3 (THC 15mg/kg); Group 4 (CBD 20mg/kg); and Group 5 (CBD 60mg/kg). At the end of each phase, serum and hippocampal BDNF levels were quantified and compared across treatment groups and time points.

Results: In serum, both THC and CBD produced significant (p<0.05) BDNF reductions compared to controls across all phases. THC-treated groups exhibited the most pronounced suppression, with levels significantly lower than those of CBD-treated groups. Notably, hippocampal BDNF displayed divergent, dose-dependent responses: while high-dose THC (15mg/kg) consistently reduced hippocampal BDNF, CBD at 20mg/kg maintained levels comparable to controls during acute and sub-chronic phases, with suppression only emerging after chronic administration. The higher CBD dose (60mg/kg) resulted in significant hippocampal BDNF reduction from the acute phase onward, mirroring THC effects.

Conclusion: Chronic administration of both cannabinoids is associated with significant BDNF downregulation in a dose- and tissue-specific manner, with THC demonstrating consistently greater suppressive effects. These findings suggest that prolonged cannabinoid exposure, particularly at higher doses, may indicate altered neurotrophic regulation associated with prolonged cannabinoid exposure. Chronic high-dose THC and CBD exposure reduce BDNF in a dose‑ and tissue-specific manner, with CBD showing limited neuroprotective potential at moderate doses.

Clinical-Demographic Profile and Outcome of Mechanical Ventilator Liberation in Neurologically Critical Patients of Southeastern Mexico

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Invasive Mechanical Ventilation (IMV) is essential in most neurologically critical patients. Therefore, it is important to provide conditions that protect the airway and prevent secondary brain damage. However, physiological instability increases the risk of failure in mechanical ventilator liberation. The demographic, clinical, and ventilatory characteristics of the patients influence the outcome of extubation.

Aim: To know the clinical-demographic profile and outcome of mechanical ventilator liberation in neurologically critical patients in Southeast Mexico.

Methods: Retrospective and descriptive study that included patients (n=50) of both sexes, ≥18 years of age, admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a second-level Public Hospital located in Southeast Mexico with a confirmed diagnosis of brain injury of traumatic or non-traumatic origin between January and July 2024. Patients transferred to other medical units were excluded. Demographic, clinical, and ventilatory data were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied using SPSS version 25.

Results: The sample size was 50 clinical records. Demographic data showed a mean age of 47.1 ± 19.0 years and higher proportion of women (60.0%). Patients with non-traumatic brain injury represented 52.0%. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score upon admission to the ICU was 9.3 ± 3.4. The mean time on mechanical ventilation was 8.80 ± 5.40 days. The mean values at the time of weaning from mechanical ventilation were: Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) (mmHg) 130.3 ± 12.5; Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (mmHg) 79.7 ± 10.9; Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) (mmHg) 96.5 ± 9.5; Heart Rate (HR) (beats/minute) 84.0 ± 14.0; Respiratory Rate (RR) (breaths/minute) 27.2 ± 7.0; Partial Pressure of Oxygen in Arterial Blood (PaO₂) (mmHg) 77.6 ± 7.9; Kirby Index (PaO₂/FiO₂) 274.2 ± 70.1; Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) (cm H₂O) 7.4 ± 2.2; Tobin Index (RR/Vt) (breaths/minute/liter) 71.6 ± 26.2. The Airway Care Score (ACS) was 5.7 ± 2.7; and the Full Outline of Unresponsiveness [FOUR] Coma Scale 10.2 ± 2.7. Positive total fluid balance was present in 42.0%. The outcome of mechanical ventilator weaning was simple in 50.0%; prolonged in 32.0%; and difficult in 18.0%.

Conclusion: The results showed that demographic, clinical, and ventilatory characteristics can influence the outcome of mechanical ventilator liberation in neurologically critical patients of southeastern Mexico. Understanding these factors is crucial for the timely identification of adverse conditions that can lead to weaning from mechanical ventilation failure, morbidity, mortality, and increased hospital costs.

Knowledge of Bipolar Disorder among Undergraduates of Selected Departments in Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that typically emerges during late adolescence and early adulthood, coinciding with the university years. Poor knowledge of the disorder persists among university students, contributing to delayed diagnosis, stigma, and adverse outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge of bipolar disorder among undergraduates from selected departments at Abia State University, Uturu.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 undergraduate students selected through multistage sampling from the Departments of Public Health (n=302) and Accounting (n=98). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the Bipolar Disorder Knowledge Scale (BDKS). with internal consistency confirmed (Cronbach’s α = 0.78). Knowledge scores were categorized as poor (<40%), fair (40–69%), and good (≥70%). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests (χ² values reported), and independent samples t-test at p<0.05.

Results: Respondents were predominantly aged 20-24 years (46.0%), female (52.0%), Igbo (90.3%), and Christian (90.5%). The majority demonstrated fair (46.5%) or good (43.0%) knowledge, while 10.5% had poor knowledge. Correct identification was highest for depressive symptoms (64.8%), the chronic nature of the disorder (67.8%), and genetic etiology (67.0%). Social media (60.3%) was the most frequently used information source, while university lectures (32.8%) were the most trusted. Most respondents expressed supportive attitudes toward affected peers (65.8%) and believed in recovery with treatment (78.6%). No significant associations were found between socio-demographic factors and categorical knowledge levels. However, Public Health students (M=5.28, SD=1.35) had significantly higher mean knowledge scores than Accounting students (M=4.88, SD=1.24), t(398)=2.65, p=0.008.

Conclusion: Undergraduates from selected departments at Abia State University demonstrated moderate knowledge of bipolar disorder with strengths in some domains and gaps in others. Department of study significantly influenced knowledge, highlighting the need for mental health education across all disciplines to promote early recognition and reduce stigma.

Neurochemistry and Histological Studies of the Prefrontal Cortex of Adult Wistar Rats after the Administration of Ethanolic Leave Extract of Psidium guajava Linn (Myrtaceae)

Kingsley Akaninyene Okon, Nsikan-Abasi Bassey Udoh — Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Guava (Psidium Guajava), a large dicotyledonous plant easily identified by its copper-coloured thin smooth bark with greenish colouration underneath is an example of such plant with reportedly wide range of medicinal values.

Aims: The study aims to investigate the neurohistological and histochemical effects of graded doses of ethanolic leaf extract of Psidium guajava on the prefrontal cortex of adult Wistar rats.

Study Design: This study involved the use of twenty inbred adult male Wistar rats of average weight 200 g which were divided into groups 1– 4. The control rats received 5 ml kg^-1 of distilled water, while the treatment groups received oral doses of 100 mg kg^-1, 150 mg kg^-1, and 200 mg kg^-1 body weight of P. guajava for 28 days.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was undertaken at the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria in July 2025.

Methodology: Upon complete administration of the extract, ketamine–hydrochloride was used to deeply anesthetize the animals. The brains were then perfused fixed in 10 % buffered formalin. They were processed using hematoxylin and eosin for cellular and neuronal integrity. Representative sections were also used for histochemical analysis using Cresyl Fast Violet staining techniques.

Results: Histological observations of the prefrontal cortex showed hypertrophied and vacuolated neuronal cells, decreased cellular population and glia with loss of marginal and adjoining cortical parenchyma including karyorrhectic perikaryons marked with reduced Nissl substance stains and chromatolysis of neuronal cell bodies throughout the six cortical layers

Conclusion: Psidium Guajava induced a dose-dependent adverse effects on the neurohistology and histochemical integrity of the prefrontal cortex This may suggest neuronal and biochemical degeneration, thus resulting in impaired prefrontal cortical functions.

Neuroprotective Effect of Low-Dose of Vitamin A on the Prefrontal Cortex of Methamphetamine Induced Adult Male Wistar Rats

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Methamphetamine is a potent psychostimulant known to induce oxidative stress and neurodegeneration, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive and cognitive functions. Vitamin A, an essential antioxidant, may offer neuroprotection by modulating oxidative balance and preserving neuronal integrity. This study investigated the effect of low-dose vitamin A on the prefrontal cortex of adult male Wistar rats exposed to toxic doses of methamphetamine. Twenty adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups consisting of five rats for each group. Group A received distilled water and normal feed; Group B received 10 mg/kg methamphetamine; Group C received 1.2 mg/kg vitamin A; and Group D received 10 mg/kg of methamphetamine and 1.2 mg/kg vitamin A. Treatment lasted for 28 days. Body weight, oxidative stress biomarkers [malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)], and behavioral performance using the Morris Water Maze test were assessed. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and considered statistically significant when P <0.05. Methamphetamine exposure (Group B) led to significant weight loss (p = 0.001), elevated MDA levels, and reduced GSH and SOD activities, indicating oxidative stress. Co-administration of vitamin A (Group D) significantly improved antioxidant enzyme levels (p < 0.05) and reduced escape latency in the Morris Water Maze test, reflecting enhanced cognitive performance. Histological examination of the prefrontal cortex revealed that vitamin A mitigated methamphetamine-induced neuronal necrosis, cytoplasmic vacuolation, and perivascular edema, suggesting structural recovery. In conclusion, low-dose vitamin A may exert neuroprotective effects against methamphetamine-induced oxidative damage and cognitive impairment in the prefrontal cortex of adult male Wistar rats. These findings support the potential therapeutic role of vitamin A in managing methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity.