Neuroscience Research Notes

Optimizing functional recovery after sciatic nerve injury: A multidisciplinary approach

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Sciatic nerve injuries present a significant challenge due to their inherent complexity and the limitations of current treatment methods. While microsurgical techniques have advanced, achieving optimal functional recovery necessitates a deeper understanding of the underlying neurobiology following peripheral nerve injury. This article explores the limitations of current treatment modalities, including autologous nerve grafting and mecobalamin administration. It emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates physical therapy, occupational therapy, and potentially telehealth and VR interventions to optimize functional recovery and patient well-being. The article highlights the critical role of collaboration between various healthcare professionals. It emphasizes the need for ongoing research and development of novel therapeutic strategies to address the challenges associated with individual variability in the healing process and limited treatment options for severe nerve injuries.

MicroRNA-mediated regulation of BDNF in depressive disorder: a pathway to diagnosis and therapy

Thi Minh Thu Nguyen, Si Bao Nguyen, Thi Thu Hang Do — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Depressive disorder, also known as depression, represents a major global health concern. Effective diagnosis and treatment of depression are critical to moderate its impact. Current diagnostic methods for depression are time-consuming and subjective, which can lead to misdiagnosis and impact treatment effectiveness. Therefore, identifying potential biomarkers for early and accurate diagnosis is critically needed. Although the exact pathophysiology of depression remains unknown, neurotrophic factors, with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) being the most important, have been elucidated to play a key role in the pathogenesis of depression. Alterations in functional BDNF may contribute to the pathophysiology of depression by impairing neuroplasticity, a process closely linked to antidepressant action. Meanwhile, advancements in next-generation sequencing (NGS), quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and bioinformatics have enabled the identification of various microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with depression. This review aims to assess the role and mechanisms of microRNAs that target BDNF in depression. These microRNAs regulate the pathophysiology of depression, particularly through abnormalities in neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, as well as other mechanisms such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivity and inflammatory dysregulation. These microRNAs may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis and as targets for novel antidepressants. Our study identifies 16 miRNAs that target BDNF in depression, either directly or indirectly through other molecules. Among these, miR-124, miR-132, and miR-221 are promising candidates for biomarkers of depression. Meanwhile, miR-124 and miR-132 present significant promise for treatment. However, major challenges remain in translating these findings into clinical practice, underscoring the need for further research.

Pragmatics in children with autism spectrum disorder

Varshini T Manimudi, Jo Yee Sin, Hui Ying Jong — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Pragmatics examines how context influences language meaning, with a focus on implied meanings and social factors that impact communication. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face significant challenges in pragmatic skills, attributed to factors such as structural language deficits, theory of mind, executive function, comorbidities of ASD and parental pragmatic skills, which impact their social interactions and conflict resolution. They may exhibit behavioural responses similar to typically developing (TD) children while performing a pragmatic task. Still, their neural mechanism differs, particularly in the medial prefrontal cortex, temporal regions, temporal lobe, central parietal regions, limbic networks, and Default Mode Network (DMN). These deficits are often assessed using tools like the Children’s Communication Checklist-2, Test of Pragmatic Language and neuroimaging, particularly Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). It is of paramount importance to understand pragmatic impairment in children with ASD to provide appropriate interventions. This review aims to give an overview of the pragmatics in children with ASD, which can provide a foundation to comprehend their pragmatic challenges better and guide the development of targeted interventions to improve their social interactions and language skills.

The role of intonation in designing machinery for mental sports psychology

Hui Ying Jong, Garry Kuan — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Intonation – the variation in pitch, rhythm, and stress in speech – plays a crucial role in cognitive and emotional regulation, particularly in the field of sports psychology. This mini-review examines the role of intonation in designing machinery for mental sports psychology, focusing on three core areas: neurocognitive mechanisms, technological integration, and psychophysiological responses. We explore how the brain processes intonation, how it influences motivation and attention in athletes, and how emerging technologies are incorporating vocal cues for performance optimisation. Neurocognitive research reveals that intonation engages bilateral cortical and subcortical pathways, influencing attention, memory encoding, and motivation regulation. The amygdala and auditory cortex process emotional prosody, while Self Determination Theory (SDT) and Neurovisceral Integration models highlight the motivational and stress-modulating effects of tone of voice. Technological advancements leverage AI-driven coaching, neurofeedback systems, and VR-based training to integrate adaptive vocal cues that regulate athletes' arousal levels. Biofeedback tools and voice analysis systems now track stress and cognitive load via vocal markers, enabling personalised mental training. On a psychophysiological level, intonation directly affects heart rate, respiratory function, and hormonal responses, influencing athletes’ readiness, stress resilience, and performance outcomes. Studies show that energising intonations enhance physical output, while calming tones reduce anxiety and improve decision-making under pressure. Structured vocal guidance in imagery training, relaxation techniques, and pre-performance routines optimises arousal modulation for peak performance. Despite growing interest, the literature lacks an integrative framework that explicitly connects intonation-driven vocal modulation with neurocognitive and psychophysiological mechanisms in sport-specific contexts. We propose a conceptual model linking intonation to cognitive and physiological optimisation, emphasising coach-athlete communication, voice-based feedback, and real-time stress tracking. Future research should explore individualised voice training, multimodal integration with movement, and neuroadaptive intonation technologies to refine mental performance strategies in sports.

Altered effective connectivity within the default mode network in kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) users: A resting-state fMRI study

Suzana Mat Isa, Aini Ismafairus Abd Hamid, Darshan Singh, Muhamad Zabidi Ahmad — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a Southeast Asian plant with stimulant and opioid-like properties, traditionally used for its medicinal effects. However, its increasing popularity and potential for dependence raise concerns about its impact on brain function. This study investigated alterations in effective connectivity (EC) within the default mode network (DMN), a network associated with self-related processes, in kratom users compared to healthy controls. Ten regular kratom users (mean age: 27.30 ± 3.97) and seven healthy controls (mean age: 20.72 ± 1.88) underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). The EC analyses were performed using spectral dynamic causal modelling to examine directional influences between DMN regions. A fully connected model best represented EC in both groups; however, the control group lacked a significant connection between the right inferior parietal cortex (RIPC) and the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). Kratom users exhibited hyperconnectivity between the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) and the left inferior parietal lobule (LIPL) connection compared to controls. Additionally, negative correlations were identified between the duration of kratom use and connectivity from PCC to RIPC. In contrast, positive correlations were observed between the duration of use and connectivity from RIPC to PCC. These findings suggest that kratom consumption may alter EC within the DMN, particularly the MPFC→LIPL connection, potentially due to chronic intake. This preliminary study provides neuroimaging insights into the effects of kratom on the brain and contributes to ongoing discussions regarding its potential for dependence and therapeutic applications.

Zerumbone ameliorates neuroinflammation in LPS-induced SH-SY5Y cells, an in vitro model of neuropathic pain: targeting NO, IL-6, and TNF-α

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Neuropathic pain is initiated by lesions or diseases affecting the somatosensory nervous system. The development and persistence of this condition involve complex and interconnected mechanisms, including those related to neuroinflammation and neuronal hyperexcitability. Due to an incomplete understanding of these mechanisms, conventional therapies for neuropathic pain often result in adverse effects. Recent research has proposed that zerumbone, a crystalline sesquiterpene compound extracted from Zingiber zerumbet, can attenuate neuropathic pain in animal models. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced SH-SY5Y cells were employed to allow tight control of the physiological environment, which could not be established in in vivo models, in addition to reducing the use of animals in the study of neuropathic pain. LPS induction in SH-SY5Y cells enables the observation of one of the hallmarks of neuropathic pain pathophysiology, which is the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators. This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of zerumbone by measuring its influence on the expression of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in LPS-induced SH-SY5Y cells, an in vitro model of neuropathic pain. The anti-neuroinflammatory effect of zerumbone was first investigated through the expression level of NO, whereby the inhibitory concentration of zerumbone was determined at 8 g/ml (p<0.0001 compared to the LPS-only group). Zerumbone treatment significantly reduced the expression of IL-6 (p<0.05 compared to the LPS-only group). Although a reduction in TNF-α levels was observed, it did not reach statistical significance in the enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Data from each experiment were analysed by using the One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by the post hoc Tukey test, p<0.05. Zerumbone demonstrates an anti-neuroinflammatory effect in LPS-stimulated SH-SY5Y cells by suppressing the expression of key inflammatory mediators NO, IL-6, and TNF-α. These findings suggest that zerumbone is a potential therapeutic candidate for managing neuropathic pain associated with neuroinflammation.

The design of public services area in a government office building integrating Bayesian Brain Perceptual Mapping

Rizka Tri Arinta, Prasasto Satwiko, Robert Rianto Widjaja — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The Bayesian Brain Behavioural Mapping framework examines how multisensory stimuli affect worker perception and the mitigation of fatigue within workspace environments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. TPDK Disdukcapil Semarang was selected as a case study due to its notable digital service innovation during the pandemic, which enabled remote access to essential public administration services. This innovation ensured continuity of service, improved public accessibility, and received national recognition for its effectiveness. This study employed an observational case study approach combined with real-time electroencephalogram monitoring to examine how a fatigued worker experienced their workspace. A portable EEG device recorded the participant's brainwave activity as they performed routine administrative tasks. The EEG data captured cognitive and emotional responses to multisensory environmental stimuli, including visual (lighting and colours), auditory (coughing and sneezing), and olfactory (disinfectant smells) inputs that were prevalent during the pandemic. The researchers assessed worker fatigue using a triangulated method that combined self-reported data and behavioural observation. The Fatigue Assessment Scale was used to evaluate physical and mental fatigue. Observable indicators such as reduced focus, slower movements, and facial expressions helped validate the subjective reports. This research applies Bayes' Theorem to model how seven environmental factors, such as contrast, atmosphere, context, dimensions, space density, emotional tone, and spatial originality, can influence perceived comfort and the likelihood of spatial persistence. The findings highlight that neurocognitive elements, such as density, atmosphere, contextual fit, and emotional stability, are critical in shaping the spatial experience. For instance, lower density and emotional stability were associated with greater comfort in administrative spaces, while a sense of originality was essential in archive areas. By integrating Bayesian analysis with spatial design, this study provides a framework for architects to create work environments that align with human cognitive and emotional responses, promoting resilience and well-being, particularly in response to pandemic-related challenges.

Neural substrates of perception and imagery revealed by fMRI: a pilot study

Yiyun Gong, Aini Ismafairus Abd Hamid, Hafidah Umar — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Visual mental imagery, the subjective experience of “seeing” in the absence of sensory input, has long been studied in relation to perception. While considerable evidence points to shared neural mechanisms, the precise nature of their overlap and divergence remains an area of active investigation. The present fMRI study examined brain activation patterns and functional roles of distinct regions during the perception and imagery of animals, utilising a sparse temporal sampling paradigm to control for auditory interference. Seven participants (2 males, 5 females; mean age=22.57, SD=0.48) participated in the study. Perception and imagery tasks were conducted separately within a single session to minimise fatigue and motion artefacts. BOLD signals were preprocessed and analysed using SPM12, employing paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA. The analysis utilised an uncorrected threshold of p<0.001 at the voxel level, combined with cluster-level family-wise error correction at p<0.05. Results revealed substantial overlap in neural substrates, with perception uniquely engaged in the right medial superior frontal gyrus, suggesting heightened top-down attentional control. In contrast, imagery preferentially activated the left supplementary motor area and right opercular inferior frontal gyrus, implying a greater demand for internal representation and cognitive control. The imagery phase further demonstrated widespread activation across the frontoparietal network and temporal lobe, with image generation eliciting the strongest engagement of auditory and attentional regions. Self-reported vividness during imagery correlated positively with pre-scan vividness scores (p<0.05), validating the ecological relevance of the task. These findings suggest that while perception and imagery share a common neural foundation, they diverge in the specific cognitive processes they recruit, with imagery placing greater emphasis on internal generation and manipulation of mental representations. The study highlights the dynamic interplay of brain regions supporting visual imagery and its multifaceted nature, offering potential implications for interventions targeting cognitive enhancement and addressing deficits in perception or imagery.

Estimation of prevalence and severity of misophonia in adults from India

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Misophonia, or "hatred of sound", is characterised by adverse reactions to a specific sound. Persons with misophonia might experience diverse symptoms like anxiety, rage, hatred, etc, from mild to severe. Little is known about the prevalence of misophonia in the adult population in the age range of 30 to 50 years, and existing prevalence studies include only college students or the clinical population - the present study aimed to estimate the prevalence and severity of misophonia in adults through standardised questionnaires. A total of 341 adults from all over India, aged 30 to 50 years, participated in the study. The Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ), given by Marsha Johnson, was used to analyse the severity of misophonia in the participants. The questionnaire was administered individually through an online survey, where participants completed Google Forms containing demographic data and the Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ). The present study revealed that, out of 341 subjects, the prevalence of misophonia was approximately 31.37%, with most subjects having subclinical misophonia. The results of the study show a high prevalence of misophonia among adults in the age range of 30-50 years. As misophonia is prevalent in the general population, appropriate assessment and management will help reduce the quality of life disruptions.

The 11th Annual Meeting of the Mongolian Neuroscience Society (MNS) and 7th Asia Pacific Yoga Therapy Association Symposium in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 2024

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0800

The 11^th annual meeting of the Mongolian Neuroscience Society (MNS), themed "Multidisciplinary Brain Science 2024", served as a significant international platform for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in neuroscience and mental health. It was held on 2 and 3 August 2024, at the Ministry of Health and Ramada Hotel in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The conference was organized under the auspices of MNS, in partnership with the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH), the Institute of Biomedicine at the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS), and the Mongolian Yoga Association. The conference brought together diverse professionals, including neuroscientists, psychologists, medical professionals, researchers, and policymakers from the United States, China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Mongolia. Participants shared their expertise, discussed cutting-edge research, and explored new avenues for collaboration in neuroscience and mental health. A pivotal focus of the event was the exploration of holistic mental health strategies, integrating modern neuroscience methodologies with traditional therapeutic practices such as yoga therapy. The conference further emphasised the importance of establishing a robust research infrastructure and fostering international collaborations to advance the fields of neuroscience and mental health research in Mongolia.