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Vints WAJ, Valatkevičienė K, Levin O, Weerasekera A, Jesmanas S, Kušleikienė S, Česnaitienė VJ, Himmelreich U, Verbunt JA, Ratai EM, Gleiznienė R, Masiulis N. Hippocampal neurometabolic and structural changes from pre-to post-COVID-19: A case-series study. Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 109:249-255. [PMID: 38521366 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2024.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurological complications of the COVID-19 infection may be caused in part by local neurochemical and structural abnormalities that could not be detected during routine medical examinations. We examined within subject neurometabolic and structural brain alterations from pre-to post-COVID-19 in the hippocampal region of three elderly individuals (aged 63-68 years) who had a COVID-19 infection with mild symptoms. Patients were participating in an interventional study in which they were closely monitored at the time they were diagnosed with COVID-19. Patients 1 and 2 just completed 18-20 resistance training sessions prior to their diagnosis. Patient 3 was assigned to a non-training condition in the same study. METHODS Whole brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) of the left hippocampus were collected before and after infection. Structural and spectroscopic imaging measures post-COVID-19 were contrasted to the pre-COVID-19 measures and were compared with values for Minimal Detectable Change at 95% (MDC95) and 90% (MDC90) confidence from a group of six elderly (aged 60-79 years) without COVID-19 that participated in the same study. RESULTS After SARS-COV-2 infection, we observed a reduction of glutamate-glutamine (Glx) in Patients 1 and 2 (≥ 42.0%) and elevation of myo-inositol (mIns) and N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) in Patient 3 (≥ 36.4%); all > MDC90. MRI findings showed increased (Patients 1 and 2) or unchanged (Patient 3) hippocampal volume. CONCLUSIONS Overall, findings from this exploratory study suggest that mild COVID-19 infection could be associated with development of local neuroinflammation and reduced glutamate levels in the hippocampus. Our 1H-MRS findings may have clinical value for explaining chronic neurological and psychological complaints in COVID-19 long-haulers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter A J Vints
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands; Adelante Zorggroep, P.O. Box 88, 6430 AB, Hoensbroek, the Netherlands.
| | - Kristina Valatkevičienė
- Department of Radiology, Kauno Klinikos, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Oron Levin
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; Movement Control & Neuroplasticity Research Group, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Heverlee 3001, Belgium
| | - Akila Weerasekera
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School (MGH/HMS), Boston 02129, MA, USA
| | - Simonas Jesmanas
- Department of Radiology, Kauno Klinikos, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Simona Kušleikienė
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Vida J Česnaitienė
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Jeanine A Verbunt
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands; Adelante Zorggroep, P.O. Box 88, 6430 AB, Hoensbroek, the Netherlands
| | - Eva-Maria Ratai
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School (MGH/HMS), Boston 02129, MA, USA
| | - Rymantė Gleiznienė
- Department of Radiology, Kauno Klinikos, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Nerijus Masiulis
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical and Sports Medicine, Institute of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio Str. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Deodato M, Granato A, Buoite Stella A, Martini M, Marchetti E, Lise I, Galmonte A, Murena L, Manganotti P. Efficacy of a dual task protocol on neurophysiological and clinical outcomes in migraine: a randomized control trial. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07611-8. [PMID: 38806882 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07611-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a dual task protocol in people with episodic migraine with respect to both active exercises only and cognitive task only treatments, concerning some neurophysiological and clinical outcomes. A randomized control trial was adopted in people with episodic migraine without aura. Some neurophysiological and clinical outcomes were collected (t0): resting motor threshold (rMT), short intracortical inhibition (SICI) and facilitation (ICF), pressure pain threshold (PPT), trail making test (TMT), frontal assessment battery (FAB), headache-related disability (MIDAS) and headache parameters. Then, participants were randomized into three groups: active exercise only (n = 10), cognitive task only (n = 10) and dual task protocol (n = 10). After 3 months of each treatment and after 1-month follow-up the same neurophysiological and clinical outcomes were revaluated. A significant time x group effect was only found for the trapezius muscle (p = 0.012, pη2 = 0.210), suggesting that PPT increased significantly only in active exercise and dual task protocol groups. A significant time effect was found for rMT (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.473), MIDAS (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.426), TMT (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.338) and FAB (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.462). A repeated measures ANOVA for SICI at 3 ms highlighted a statistically significant time effect for the dual task group (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.629), but not for the active exercises group (p = 0.565, pη2 = 0.061), and for the cognitive training (p = 0.357, pη2 = 0.108). The dual task protocol seems to have a more evident effect on both habituation and sensitization outcomes than the two monotherapies taken alone in people with migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Deodato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Antonio Granato
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alex Buoite Stella
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Miriam Martini
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Enrico Marchetti
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lise
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Galmonte
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luigi Murena
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Manganotti
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
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Tomasa-Irriguible TM, Monfà R, Miranda-Jiménez C, Morros R, Robert N, Bordejé-Laguna L, Vidal S, Torán-Monserrat P, Barriocanal AM. Preventive Intake of a Multiple Micronutrient Supplement during Mild, Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection to Reduce the Post-Acute COVID-19 Condition: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2024; 16:1631. [PMID: 38892564 PMCID: PMC11174626 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have low levels of vitamins and trace elements. This could lead to a post-acute COVID-19 condition (PCC) that can worsen a patient's quality of life. We aimed to study the baseline micronutrient status of patients and assess whether a multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS) taken for 2 weeks at the first sign of COVID-19 symptoms would be able to reduce the incidence of PCC. This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted in adult outpatients with acute COVID-19, recruited between 2021 and 2023 in Spain. Of the 285 patients assessed for eligibility, 267 were randomized and 246 were included in the intent-to-treat population. The mean age was 46.8 years, and 68% were female. Overall, 54.6% had micronutrient deficiencies in the acute phase of COVID-19 at baseline, and 26.2% had PCC after 180 days of follow-up (D180). The most frequently recorded PCC symptoms were neurological (14.1%), with 24% patients scoring worse in the cognitive tests compared to their baseline status. The rate of PCC at D180 was similar between the placebo (25.0%) and intervention (27.7%) groups, without significant differences (p = 0.785). Age over 50 years was the most relevant risk factor for developing PCC, followed by female sex. The most important protective factor against PCC was SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. In this population of predominantly middle-aged, white women with acute COVID-19 not requiring hospital admission, MMS intake for 14 days at symptom onset did not prevent PCC nor improve their micronutrient status at D180.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramon Monfà
- Jordi Gol University Research Institute in Primary Care (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (R.M.); (C.M.-J.)
| | - Cristina Miranda-Jiménez
- Jordi Gol University Research Institute in Primary Care (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (R.M.); (C.M.-J.)
| | - Rosa Morros
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain;
| | - Neus Robert
- Emergency Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Luisa Bordejé-Laguna
- Intensive Care Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Sandra Vidal
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Pere Torán-Monserrat
- North Metropolitan Research Support Unit, Jordi Gol University Research Institute in Primary Care (NM-IDIAP Jordi Gol), 08303 Mataró, Spain;
| | - Ana Maria Barriocanal
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
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Jurek JM, Castro-Marrero J. A Narrative Review on Gut Microbiome Disturbances and Microbial Preparations in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Implications for Long COVID. Nutrients 2024; 16:1545. [PMID: 38892479 PMCID: PMC11173566 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and long COVID are complex, multisystemic and long-term disabling conditions characterized by debilitating post-exertional malaise and other core symptoms related to immune dysregulation resultant from post-viral infection, including mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic neuroinflammation and gut dysbiosis. The reported associations between altered microbiota composition and cardinal symptoms of ME/CFS and long COVID suggest that the use of microbial preparations, such as probiotics, by restoring the homeostasis of the brain-immune-gut axis, may help in the management of symptoms in both conditions. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the implications of alerted gut microbiome and assess the evidence supporting use of microbial-based preparations, including probiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics alone and/or in combination with other nutraceuticals in the management of fatigue, inflammation and neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal symptoms among patients with ME/CFS and long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Michalina Jurek
- Unit of Research in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID, Rheumatology Research Division, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43005 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Jesus Castro-Marrero
- Unit of Research in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID, Rheumatology Research Division, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
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Deodato M, Granato A, Martini M, Buoite Stella A, Galmonte A, Murena L, Manganotti P. Neurophysiological and Clinical Outcomes in Episodic Migraine Without Aura: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 41:388-395. [PMID: 37934069 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess differences between people with episodic migraine and healthy controls in some neurophysiological and clinical outcomes, which, in turn, may highlight the differences in sensory processing, especially in cortical excitability, pain processing, and executive function. METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed, including the following outcomes: pressure pain thresholds with algometry; resting motor threshold, short-interval intracortical inhibition, and intracortical facilitation with transcranial magnetic stimulation; and executive functions with the trail making test and the frontal assessment battery. RESULTS Thirty adults with migraine (36 ± 10 years) and 30 healthy controls (29 ± 14 years) were included in this study. Compared with the healthy controls, participants with migraine presented lower pressure pain thresholds values in all the assessed muscles ( P < 0.001), lower resting motor threshold (-10.5% of the stimulator output, 95% CI: -16.8 to -4.2, P = 0.001, Cohen d = 0.869) and higher short-interval intracortical inhibition motor-evoked potential's amplitude at 3 ms (0.25, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.46, P = 0.015, Cohen d = 0.662), and worse performances both in trail making test (7.1, 95% CI: 0.9 to 13.4, P = 0.027, Cohen d = 0.594) and frontal assessment battery (-1.1, 95% CI: -1.7 to -0.5, P = 0.001, Cohen d = 0.915). CONCLUSIONS Participants with migraine presented significant differences in cortical excitability, executive functions, and pressure pain thresholds, compared with healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Deodato
- PhD Program in Neural and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Trieste, Italy
| | - Antonio Granato
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Trieste, Italy
| | - Miriam Martini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alex Buoite Stella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
| | - Alessandra Galmonte
- PhD Program in Neural and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
| | - Luigi Murena
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Manganotti
- PhD Program in Neural and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; and
- Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina, Trieste, Italy
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Zifko U, Guendling K, Seet R, Kasper S. Management of cognitive impairment associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome: recommendations for primary care. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1338235. [PMID: 38711990 PMCID: PMC11072190 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1338235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Although post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) with cognitive impairment is increasingly encountered in primary care, evidence-based recommendations for its appropriate management are lacking. Methods: A systematic literature search evaluating the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment associated with PCS was conducted. Practical recommendations for the management of PCS-associated cognitive impairment in primary care are summarized, based on an evaluation of pharmacological plausibility and clinical applications. Results: Currently, the pathology of cognitive impairment associated with PCS remains unclear with no high-quality data to support targeted interventions. Existing treatment approaches are directed towards symptom relief where counseling on the chronicity of the disease and regular reassessments at 4- to 8-week intervals is considered reasonable. Patients should be informed and encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle that centers around balanced nutrition and appropriate physical activities. They may also benefit from the intake of vitamins, micronutrients, and probiotics. The administration of Ginkgo biloba extract could offer a safe and potentially beneficial treatment option. Other non-pharmacological measures include physiotherapy, digitally supported cognitive training, and, if indicated, ergotherapy or speech therapy. In most patients, symptoms improve within 8 weeks. If serious, ambiguous, or when new symptoms occur, specialized diagnostic measures such as comprehensive neurocognitive testing or neuroimaging should be initiated. Very few patients would require inpatient rehabilitation. Conclusion: PCS with cognitive impairment is a debilitating condition that could affect daily functioning and reduce work productivity. Management in primary care should adopt a multidisciplinary approach, centering around physical, cognitive, and pharmacological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udo Zifko
- Rudolfinerhaus private clinic GmbH, Rudolfinerhaus, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Raymond Seet
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Center for Brain Research, Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Deodato M, Qualizza C, Martini M, Mazzari L, Furlanis G, Buoite Stella A, Manganotti P. Efficacy of dual-task augmented reality rehabilitation in non-hospitalized adults with self-reported long COVID fatigue and cognitive impairment: a pilot study. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:1325-1333. [PMID: 38191766 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07268-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment and chronic fatigue represent common characteristics of the long COVID syndrome. Different non-pharmacological treatments have been proposed, and physiotherapy has been proposed to improve the symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a dual-task augmented reality rehabilitation protocol in people with long COVID fatigue and cognitive impairment. METHODS AND MATERIALS Ten non-hospitalized adults with reported fatigue and "brain fog" symptoms after COVID (7/10 females, 50 years, range 41-58) who participated in 20 sessions of a 1-h "dual-task" training, were compared to 10 long COVID individuals with similar demographics and symptoms (9/10 females, 56 years, range 43-65), who did not participate to any rehabilitation protocol. Cognitive performance was assessed with the Trail Making Test (TMT-A and -B) and Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and cardiovascular and muscular fatigue were assessed with the fatigue severity scale (FSS), six-minute walking test and handgrip endurance. Finally, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) investigated cortical excitability. RESULTS The mixed-factors analysis of variance found a significant interaction effect only in cognitive performance evaluation, suggesting TMT-B execution time decreased (- 15.9 s, 95% CI 7.6-24.1, P = 0.001) and FAB score improved (1.88, 95% CI 2.93-0.82, P = 0.002) only in the physiotherapy group. For the remaining outcomes, no interaction effect was found, and most parameters similarly improved in the two groups. CONCLUSION The preliminary results from this study suggest that dual-task rehabilitation could be a feasible protocol to support cognitive symptoms recovery after COVID-19 and could be helpful in those individuals suffering from persisting and invalidating symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Deodato
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Caterina Qualizza
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Miriam Martini
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
- PhD Program in Personalized Medicine and Innovative Therapies, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Mazzari
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanni Furlanis
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alex Buoite Stella
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy.
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Paolo Manganotti
- School of Physiotherapy, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Pascoli 31, 34100, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada Di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
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Marinkovic K, White DR, Alderson Myers A, Parker KS, Arienzo D, Mason GF. Cortical GABA Levels Are Reduced in Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1666. [PMID: 38137114 PMCID: PMC10741691 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
After recovering from the acute COVID-19 illness, a substantial proportion of people continue experiencing post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), also termed "long COVID". Their quality of life is adversely impacted by persistent cognitive dysfunction and affective distress, but the underlying neural mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study recruited a group of mostly young, previously healthy adults (24.4 ± 5.2 years of age) who experienced PASC for almost 6 months following a mild acute COVID-19 illness. Confirming prior evidence, they reported noticeable memory and attention deficits, brain fog, depression/anxiety, fatigue, and other symptoms potentially suggestive of excitation/inhibition imbalance. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) was used to examine the neurochemical aspects of cell signaling with an emphasis on GABA levels in the occipital cortex. The PASC participants were compared to a control (CNT) group matched in demographics, intelligence, and an array of other variables. Controlling for tissue composition, biological sex, and alcohol intake, the PASC group had lower GABA+/water than CNT, which correlated with depression and poor sleep quality. The mediation analysis revealed that the impact of PASC on depression was partly mediated by lower GABA+/water, indicative of cortical hyperexcitability as an underlying mechanism. In addition, N-acetylaspartate (NAA) tended to be lower in the PASC group, possibly suggesting compromised neuronal integrity. Persistent neuroinflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis of PASC-related neurocognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ksenija Marinkovic
- Spatio-Temporal Brain Imaging Lab, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (A.A.M.); (D.A.)
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - David R. White
- Spatio-Temporal Brain Imaging Lab, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (A.A.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Austin Alderson Myers
- Spatio-Temporal Brain Imaging Lab, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (A.A.M.); (D.A.)
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Katie S. Parker
- Spatio-Temporal Brain Imaging Lab, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (A.A.M.); (D.A.)
| | - Donatello Arienzo
- Spatio-Temporal Brain Imaging Lab, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA (A.A.M.); (D.A.)
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Graeme F. Mason
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Psychiatry, and Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
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Nolasco-Rosales GA, Alonso-García CY, Hernández-Martínez DG, Villar-Soto M, Martínez-Magaña JJ, Genis-Mendoza AD, González-Castro TB, Tovilla-Zarate CA, Guzmán-Priego CG, Martínez-López MC, Nicolini H, Juárez-Rojop IE. Aftereffects in Epigenetic Age Related to Cognitive Decline and Inflammatory Markers in Healthcare Personnel with Post-COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:4953-4964. [PMID: 37928957 PMCID: PMC10625328 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s426249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Epigenetic age and inflammatory markers have been proposed as indicators of severity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Furthermore, they have been associated with the occurrence of neurological symptoms, psychiatric manifestations, and cognitive impairment. Therefore, we aimed to explore the possible associations between epigenetic age, neuropsychiatric manifestations and inflammatory markers (neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio [NLR], platelet-lymphocyte ratio [PLR], monocyte-lymphocyte ratio [MLR], and systemic immune-inflammation index [SII]) in healthcare personnel with post-COVID condition. Patients and Methods We applied the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) tests to 51 Mexican healthcare workers with post-COVID-19 condition; we also estimated their epigenetic age using the PhenoAge calculator. Results The participants had a post-COVID condition that lasted a median of 14 months (range: 1-20). High NLR (>1.73) had association with mild cognitive impairment by MMSE (p=0.013). Likewise, high MLR (>0.24) were associated with language domain in MOCA (p=0.046). Low PLR (<103.9) was also related to delayed recall in MOCA (p=0.040). Regarding comorbidities, hypertension was associated with SII (p=0.007), overweight with PLR (p=0.047) and alcoholism was associated with MLR (p=0.043). Interestingly, we observed associations of low PLR (<103.9) and low SII (<1.35) levels with increased duration of post-COVID condition (p=0.027, p=0.031). Likewise, increases in PhenoAge were associated with high levels of SII (OR=1.11, p=0.049), PLR (OR=1.12, p=0.035) and MLR (OR=1.12, p=0.030). Conclusion We observed neurocognitive changes related to inflammatory markers and increases in epigenetic age in healthcare personnel with post-COVID-19 condition. Future research is required to assess mental and physical health in individuals with post-COVID-19 symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cecilia Yazmin Alonso-García
- División Académica de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Juarez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, México
| | | | - Mario Villar-Soto
- Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad de Salud Mental, Villahermosa, Tabasco, México
| | | | | | - Thelma Beatriz González-Castro
- División Académica Multidisciplinaria de Jalpa de Méndez, Universidad Juarez Autónoma de Tabasco, Jalpa de Méndez, Tabasco, México
| | - Carlos Alfonso Tovilla-Zarate
- División Académica Multidisciplinaria de Comalcalco, Universidad Juarez Autónoma de Tabasco, Comalcalco, Tabasco, México
| | | | | | - Humberto Nicolini
- Departamento de Genética Psiquiátrica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Isela Esther Juárez-Rojop
- División Académica de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Juarez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, México
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Lindenmann J, Porubsky C, Okresa L, Klemen H, Mykoliuk I, Roj A, Koutp A, Kink E, Iberer F, Kovacs G, Krause R, Smolle J, Smolle-Juettner FM. Immediate and Long-Term Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygenation in Patients with Long COVID-19 Syndrome Using SF-36 Survey and VAS Score: A Clinical Pilot Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6253. [PMID: 37834897 PMCID: PMC10573231 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Long COVID syndrome (LCS) is a heterogeneous long-standing condition following COVID-19 infection. Treatment options are limited to symptomatic measures, and no specific medication has been established. Hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) has been found to have a positive impact on the treatment of COVID-19 infection. This study evaluates both the feasibility and outcome of supportive HBO in patients with LCS. (2) Methods: Within 17 months, 70 patients with proven LCS were prospectively included. Each patient underwent a cycle of 10 subsequent HBO treatment sessions administered for 75 min at 2.2 atmospheres. Evaluation of the patients was performed before the first and after the last HBO session and 3 months afterwards. Statistical evaluation was based on an intention-to-treat analysis using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test for paired samples. (3) Results: In total, 59 patients (33 females, 26 males; mean age: 43.9 years; range: 23-74 years; median: 45.0) were evaluable. After HBO, a statistically significant improvement of physical functioning (p < 0.001), physical role (p = 0.01), energy (p < 0.001), emotional well-being (p < 0.001), social functioning (p < 0.001), pain (p = 0.01) and reduced limitation of activities (p < 0.001) was confirmed. (4) Conclusions: Physical functioning and both the physical and emotional role improved significantly and sustainably, suggesting HBO as a promising supportive therapeutic tool for the treatment of LCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joerg Lindenmann
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Christian Porubsky
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Lucija Okresa
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Huberta Klemen
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Iurii Mykoliuk
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Andrej Roj
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Amir Koutp
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
| | - Eveline Kink
- Department of Internal and Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Graz II, Academic Teaching Hospital of the Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Florian Iberer
- Department of Internal and Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Graz II, Academic Teaching Hospital of the Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Gabor Kovacs
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Robert Krause
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Josef Smolle
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Statistics and Documentation, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Freyja Maria Smolle-Juettner
- Division of Thoracic Surgery and Hyperbaric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria (F.M.S.-J.)
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11
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Muench A, Lampe EW, Boyle JT, Seewald M, Thompson MG, Perlis ML, Vargas I. The Assessment of Post-COVID Fatigue and Its Relationship to the Severity and Duration of Acute COVID Illness. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5910. [PMID: 37762851 PMCID: PMC10531744 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12185910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging data suggests that COVID-19 is associated with fatigue well beyond the acute illness period. The present analysis aimed to: (1) characterize the prevalence and incidence of high fatigue at baseline and follow-up; (2) examine the impact of COVID-19 diagnosis on fatigue level following acute illness; and (3) examine the impact of acute COVID-19 symptom severity and duration on fatigue at follow-up. Subjects (n = 1417; 81.0% female; 83.3% White; X¯age = 43.6 years) completed the PROMIS-Fatigue during the initial wave of the pandemic at baseline (April-June 2020) and 9-month follow-up (January-March 2021). A generalized linear model (binomial distribution) was used to examine whether COVID-19 positivity, severity, and duration were associated with higher fatigue level at follow-up. Prevalence of high fatigue at baseline was 21.88% and 22.16% at follow-up, with 8.12% new cases at follow-up. Testing positive for COVID-19 was significantly associated with higher fatigue at follow-up. COVID-19 symptom duration and severity were significantly associated with increased fatigue at follow-up. COVID-19 symptom duration and severity during acute illness may precipitate longer-term fatigue, which could have implications for treatment planning and future research. Future studies should further evaluate the relationship between symptom severity, duration, and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandria Muench
- Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (M.S.);
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Elizabeth W. Lampe
- Center for Weight Eating and Lifestyle Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Julia T. Boyle
- New England Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mark Seewald
- Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (M.S.);
| | - Michelle G. Thompson
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Michael L. Perlis
- Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (M.S.);
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ivan Vargas
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AK 72701, USA;
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Chen TB, Chang CM, Yang CC, Tsai IJ, Wei CY, Yang HW, Yang CP. Neuroimmunological Effect of Vitamin D on Neuropsychiatric Long COVID Syndrome: A Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3802. [PMID: 37686834 PMCID: PMC10490318 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is now recognized as a multiorgan disease with a broad spectrum of manifestations. A substantial proportion of individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 are experiencing persistent, prolonged, and often incapacitating sequelae, collectively referred to as long COVID. To date, definitive diagnostic criteria for long COVID diagnosis remain elusive. An emerging public health threat is neuropsychiatric long COVID, encompassing a broad range of manifestations, such as sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, brain fog, and fatigue. Although the precise mechanisms underlying the neuropsychiatric complications of long COVID are presently not fully elucidated, neural cytolytic effects, neuroinflammation, cerebral microvascular compromise, breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thrombosis, hypoxia, neurotransmitter dysregulation, and provoked neurodegeneration are pathophysiologically linked to long-term neuropsychiatric consequences, in addition to systemic hyperinflammation and maladaptation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Vitamin D, a fat-soluble secosteroid, is a potent immunomodulatory hormone with potential beneficial effects on anti-inflammatory responses, neuroprotection, monoamine neurotransmission, BBB integrity, vasculometabolic functions, gut microbiota, and telomere stability in different phases of SARS-CoV-2 infection, acting through both genomic and nongenomic pathways. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of the potential mechanisms and pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric long COVID syndrome and the plausible neurological contributions of vitamin D in mitigating the effects of long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Bin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Mao Chang
- Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
- Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chia Yang
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan;
| | - I-Ju Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, Kuang Tien General Hospital, Taichung 433, Taiwan;
| | - Cheng-Yu Wei
- Department of Exercise and Health Promotion, College of Kinesiology and Health, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 11114, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 50544, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Wen Yang
- Department of Family Medicine, Kuang Tien General Hospital, Taichung 433, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Pai Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Kuang Tien General Hospital, Taichung 433, Taiwan;
- Department of Neurology, Kuang Tien General Hospital, Taichung 433, Taiwan
- Department of Nutrition, HungKuang University, Taichung 433, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
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