Annals of Neurosciences

An injury to the brain affects a person in some or all cognitive, emotional, behavioural and physical domains impacting quality of life. Quality of life is essential to well-being and optimum functioning of a person in daily life. It is influenced by various individual and social aspects like physical, psychological, social relationships and environment. This article discusses an overview of impact of acquired brain injury on quality of life.

This article aims to create an awareness of the nature of brain injury, factors impacting quality of life, and inter-relationships amongst them which can have implications for clinical rehabilitation.

An acquired brain injury is a life-changing event for the affected person and the family. It is globally considered a national burden. As compared to the developed countries, the availability and access to social determinants of health is low in the underdeveloped, and developing countries. An awareness of the nature of brain injury, the prognosis, available approaches to treatment can enable simple cost-effective psychosocial interventions to complement overall rehabilitation plan.

Anxiety disorders are commonly associated with a higher risk of fatal cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Anxiety disorders lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, thus weakening the key neuronal components of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that are involved in cardiovascular functions, leading to increased cardiovascular risk.

Impaired ANS activity, as reduced parasympathetic tone is strongly associated with an increased risk of CVD in anxiety disorders. Slow pranayama influences the ANS by activating the parasympathetic tone and deactivating the sympathetic tone in healthy volunteers and various diseased conditions. Therefore, we aimed to study the effects of slow pranayama and savasana on cardiac autonomic function tests in anxiety disorder patients.

Anxiety disorder patients (N = 140) of either sex between the age group 18 and 40 years attending the psychiatry outpatient department (OPD) in JIPMER were recruited for the study and were randomly assigned into the pranayama group and control group. The Pranayama group practised slow pranayama and savasana for 8 weeks along with routine psychiatric care, while the control group continued with routine psychiatric care only. Outcome measures were heart rate variability (HRV), baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), 30:15 ratio during lying to standing, E: I ratio during deep breathing, and ∇DBP during isometric handgrip, which were assessed before and after the intervention period.

After 8 weeks in the Pranayama group, the HRV parameters showed significant improvement towards the parasympathetic domain. Also, there was a significant increase in parasympathetic reactivity with a decrease in sympathetic reactivity and significant improvement in BRS.

Slow pranayama and savasana practice in anxiety disorder patients as an adjunct to routine psychiatric care effectively improves cardiac autonomic function with a shift towards parasympathetic predominance, with significant improvements in cardiovascular parameters. Slow pranayamas with savasana may be incorporated into the routine care of these patients to enhance their cardiovascular health.

This study explored the relationship between personality attributes and substance use disorder (SUD). Research has identified specific personality dimensions, such as neuroticism, psychoticism, antisocial personality traits, paranoia, and anxiety, as contributing factors to the initiation, maintenance, and relapse of SUD.

To explore this connection, we examined the personality profiles of subjects with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD).

A total of 928 subjects, 320 with AUD, 490 with OUD and 118 healthy controls (HC), in the age range of 16–65 years were recruited in the study. The Clinical Profile Sheet and the Multiphasic Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) were administered to HC and patients who fulfil the diagnostic criteria for substance dependence as defined by ICD-10 (WHO-1992).

We found significant differences in personality profiles between individuals with OUD and AUD. Patients with AUD scored higher than OUD on the MPQ subscales for depression, mania, paranoia, and antisocial personality traits. All subscales of the MPQ showed elevated scores in subjects with SUD compared to HC.

Elevated scores on the MPQ subscales suggest that personality factors may contribute to the pattern of substance use and misuse in this cohort.

The field of journalism has undergone substantial transformation with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), leveraging technologies like natural language processing and automated reporting. These advancements enhance information processing speed, enable personalised content delivery and improve data analysis capabilities, thereby reshaping journalism practices.

Despite the benefits AI offers, concerns persist regarding its impact on job security and the mental health of journalists. Rapid technological changes can lead to increased job insecurity, altered job roles and heightened pressure to adapt, potentially affecting journalists’ mental well-being.

This study utilises the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to assess levels of depression, anxiety and stress among 500 journalists from various media organisations that have integrated AI technologies. Quantitative data analysis explores the relationship between AI integration and mental health outcomes.

The findings indicate significant correlations between the perceived threat of AI replacing jobs and higher levels of depression among journalists. Mixed effects were observed regarding the impact of AI integration on job roles, with associations found between AI integration and both increased depression and reduced stress levels.

AI integration in journalism presents both opportunities and challenges for journalists’ mental health. Strategies to address job security concerns, enhance comfort with AI tools through training and establish mental health support systems are crucial for fostering a supportive environment in AI-driven newsrooms.

Early detection of developmental delays in children can significantly help them realise their full potential. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), is the system in use at the moment to detect neurodevelopmental delays among children in the United States and other Western nations. However, due to cultural differences, there is a pertinent need for a content-validated module in the context of low- and middle-income countries, including India.

The aim of this study was to develop and validate Teacher’s Evaluation of Neurodevelopmental Delays (TEDD) tool based on the criterions and definitions of neurodevelopmental disorders as mentioned in DSM-V and then synced with developmental milestones mentioned in International Classification of Diseases, 10^th revision (ICD-10) and Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)/ New York City Early Education Centre (NYCE) framework, and items were worded in behavioural terms

We did a thorough review of the literature for the development of TEDD tool and used modified Delphi technique to content validate it. Data from nine experts, such as doctors, clinical psychologists, special educators, speech and language and applied behaviour analysis therapist were used for the analysis.

Analysis resulted into 28 items being retained which can be applied in the Indian context.

This study has shown good content validity of the TEDD tool. Future studies are being planned to rule the feasibility and reliability of this tool.

In India, the incidence of orthopaedic conditions is significantly increasing, with 63 million people suffering from various orthopaedic issues, causing considerable distress to patients. This study aims to assess stress, resilience, sexual functioning, and quality of life in participants who underwent arthroplasty and arthroscopy surgery at baseline, one month, and three months.

This comparative study utilised the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Sexual Function Scale, and the WHO Quality of Life Scale.

The comparison between arthroscopy and arthroplasty reveals distinct patterns in stress, resilience, sexual functioning, and quality of life. For both procedures, stress levels were higher at baseline and one-month post-surgery but decreased by three months. Resilience scores improved consistently over time in both groups. However, sexual functioning and quality of life showed different trends: while sexual functioning initially decreased post-arthroscopy but improved by three months, arthroplasty participants generally experienced a more consistent improvement in both sexual functioning and quality of life from baseline through the follow-up periods.

The study showed that stress was significantly higher at baseline and one-month post-surgery. However, the trends in sexual functioning and quality of life differed between the two types of surgery. These findings highlight the need for tailored patient support and interventions based on the type of orthopaedic procedure performed.

Hypertension, a prevalent cardiovascular condition, is linked to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, often evidenced by reduced heart rate variability (HRV). Yoga, particularly Uddiyana Bandha, may influence autonomic control and improve HRV, thus offering potential benefits for hypertension management.

This study intended to assess the impact of the regular use of Uddiyana Bandha practice on HRV among hypertensive patients.

This randomised controlled study included 60 hypertensive patients aged between 40 and 60. Participants were randomised into an intervention group practicing Uddiyana Bandha (n = 30) and a control group with no intervention (n = 30). The outcome measures included time and frequency domain HRV variables, specifically the standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN), the square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (RMSSD), high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) components in normalised units (n.u), and the LF/HF ratio. These were assessed both before and immediately after the intervention. The intervention group performed three rounds of Uddiyana Bandha under supervision, while the control group rested quietly for an equivalent duration.

The Uddiyana Bandha group demonstrated significant (p < .05) improvements in HRV parameters post-intervention compared to the control group. Mean RR interval, SDNN and RMSSD increased immediately after Uddiyana Bandha practice. The HF component (n.u) increased, while the LF component (n.u) and LF/HF ratio decreased (p < .05), indicating enhanced parasympathetic activity. No significant changes were observed in the control group.

Uddiyana Bandha’s practice immediately has notable effects on HRV in hypertensive patients, showing better autonomic balance and cardiovascular performance. These results suggest Uddiyana Bandha as a possible non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management. Future studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations are needed to support these results and explore long-term effects.

Sarcoidosis is defined as an immune-mediated disorder characterised by granulomatous inflammation of affected organs. Neurosarcoidosis is demographically reported in 5%–10% of all patients with primary sarcoidosis. A similar genetic mechanism for inflammation compared to active systemic tuberculosis suggests that identical inflammatory pathways are acting in both tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.

We, hereby, report a case of recurrent cranial nerve neuropathy, which was falsely diagnosed as tuberculosis, and the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis was masked for more than a year.

Any case with recurrent cranial nerve involvement, bilateral lymphadenopathy with multi-system involvement and a history of steroid-dependent resolution of symptoms must be primarily evaluated for sarcoidosis with histological evidence.

Myotonic dystrophy Type 1 (DM1) is a multisystem genetic disorder characterised by progressive muscle weakness along with ocular, cardiac and endocrine abnormalities. However, detrusor underactivity manifesting as urinary retention is an under-recognised and rarely reported complication.

To highlight a case of urinary retention caused by detrusor muscle underactivity in a young female with classic features of DM1, highlighting the need for early recognition and management of this rare but significant manifestation.

This case is of a 31-year-old female with urinary retention due to detrusor muscle underactivity, which is an under-recognised complication of DM1. The patient had classical features including grip myotonia, frontal balding, ptosis, intellectual impairment and early cataract changes. Uroflowmetry and significant post-void residual volume confirmed an atonic bladder. Elevated creatinine phosphokinase levels prompted electromyography, which demonstrated myotonic dive bomber discharges, and genetic testing identified pathogenic CTG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK) gene.

The patient was treated initially with clean intermittent catheterisation and Bethanechol (muscarinic agonist), then switched to indwelling urinary catheterisation due to improper technique. However, the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections remains a concern. Carbamazepine improved grip myotonia.

This case highlights the importance of the recognition of urinary retention as an important complication of DM1 and early recognition and treatment to prevent complications like recurrent urinary tract infections.

The bioenergetic therapy model combines holistic somatic therapy with psychotherapy, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of healing. In cases of long-standing treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), which may persist for over two decades, finding effective therapeutic strategies remain a significant challenge. Despite numerous treatment options, no existing reports integrate somatosensory therapy with neuropsychopharmacological interventions for these complex cases.

To demonstrate the integration of bioenergetic therapy with neuropsychopharmacological interventions in managing long-standing treatment-resistant schizophrenic cases.

Two cases of long-standing schizophrenia were illustrated for how we integrated somatosensory bioenergetics principles with neuropsychopharmacology. They had emotional and/or physical abuse in addition to psychotic symptoms without any pre-morbid schizoid/paranoid traits or psychiatric history of substance abuse, and presented to us with complaints of high sensitivity to rejection, persecutory delusions, third-person auditory hallucinations, irritability, episodic aggression, psychomotor retardation, disturbed sleep, and declining professional performance.

A systematic cognitive deficit evaluation, slow building of clozapine (100 mg/day), integration of somatosensory therapy, family system therapy model and cognitive enhancement therapy were integrated. This integration of somatosensory therapy with neuropsychopharmacological interventions led to a significant improvement over a four-week period. Notable recovery was observed in the experience of being touched for rebuilding maternal trust and developing a therapeutic rapport.

Integration of multiple system bioenergetic model in chronic TRS adds another novel way to its management which is an advanced extrapolation of the Bio-Psycho-Social model of schizophrenia. Bioenergetic analysis facilitated a unique somatic psychotherapy that combined cognitive feelings, somatic, and psychomotor functions. To our knowledge, this represents the first successful application of bioenergetic analytical integration in schizophrenia with marked behavioural resistance.

Perinatal mood disorders are being increasingly recognised and may have deleterious outcomes for the mother and offspring, underlining the importance of understanding their pathophysiology. Neurosteroids can alter the excitability of neurons through rapid non-genomic actions. Here, we review the changes in neurosteroids across pregnancy and their impact on maternal mental health.

Among the neurosteroids, the most studied is allopregnanolone, followed by 5-DHP in pregnancy. Predominantly, allopregnanolone is shown to be increased across pregnancy with a drop in the post-partum levels. With respect to the mood changes in pregnancy and the role of neurosteroids, there are conflicting reports about pregnanolone and its isomers. However, a few studies reported that lower allopregnanolone levels during mid-pregnancy seem to be associated with an increased risk for postpartum depression (PPD).

Thus, while there are reports that have examined individual neurosteroids across pregnancy, studies with serial measurements that include comprehensively all neurosteroids throughout pregnancy and their temporal relationship to mood are needed. Such studies will pave the way for a better understanding of the neurobiology of mood disorders in pregnancy. Additionally, it will facilitate the development of novel antenatal tests for potential predictive biomarkers, thus improving clinical decision-making, patient management and evolving appropriate preventive lifestyle interventions/therapeutic measures.

Suicidal behaviour (SB) is one of the most complex neuropsychiatric conditions, with an etiopathogenesis that remains elusive despite a myriad of studies revealing its multifaceted nature, influenced by various biological, psychological, socioeconomic and cultural factors, usually with complex reciprocal and synergistic interactions. Emerging evidence has recently suggested a potential involvement of pathogens and host-tissue derived microbial species in contributing to SB. This review aims to provide a concise synthesis of clinical evidence focusing on the presence of microbial alterations in subjects with SB and in those exhibiting risk factors for SB, thereby exploring a possible new perspective in suicidology.

We conducted a surveillance of the literature in the PUBMED database, from its inception to 10 May 2025, to identify associations between infection/microbial alterations with SB and some of its risk factors (by focusing on two pathologic examples of psychiatric and somatic origins, respectively: depression and chronic pain, two often closely related conditions). Major clinical findings were selected and synthesised into a hypothetical framework to support the presence of a microbe-related origin of SB. We found that SB was associated with selected infections, such as Toxoplasma gondii and Cytomegalovirus. Dysbiosis, including changes in diversity and/or abundance of selected microbial species, in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and other mucosal tissues, was observed in subjects with SB and individuals with psychiatric (depression) and somatic (chronic pain) risk factors of SB.

Microbial dysbiosis might contribute to SB etiopathogenesis. Further studies in this emerging field of research are expected to provide additional mechanistic insights for an improved understanding, prevention, and therapeutic management of this neuropsychiatric condition.

The issue of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has received critical attention in understanding the complexity of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Despite growing empirical support demonstrating the role of ACEs in neurodevelopment, there is little research on their distinct role in the onset, severity, and progression of NDDs, specifically attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and cognitive impairments.

The goal of this systematic review is to critically summarise the existing research on the relationship between ACEs and NDDs, assess current knowledge about their interdependency, identify the gaps in the literature, and suggest future direction and clinical application. Based on the PECO and PRISMA frameworks, we have systematically searched four electronic databases—ScienceDirect, Web of Science, EBSCO, and PubMed. Thirty-two studies that meet the inclusion criteria are further evaluated for quality using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI) and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) parameters. Most studies fall in the moderate-to-high quality range. The review critically evaluates the interplay between ACEs and three types of specific NDDs—ADHD, ASD, and cognitive impairments. The findings provide strong empirical confirmation of the consistent bidirectional, cyclical, and dose-response association between the ACEs and NDDs.

Shedding a contemporary light on recent evidence, this study focuses on important gaps in the existing literature pertaining to the association of ACEs and NDDs across the developmental trajectory of the individual. There are several promising areas for further study involving high-quality research (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods) to investigate the dynamic and complex interplay between ACEs and NDDs and to design appropriate interventions.

Neuroeducation is an interdisciplinary area of study which combines insights of neuroscience, psychology, and education to enhance learning, using the body of scientific knowledge regarding the brain. Even though scholars have already investigated different details related to neuroeducation, thorough bibliometric research in the area remains absent.

This review will provide a conceptual framework that will be used to analyse neuroeducation studies published in 2020-2025 on a medical database that would be accessed through Dimensions AI. The analyses involving VOSviewer of co-authorship, co-citation, and keywords in relation to 1,507 peer-reviewed articles were assessed. Key contributors, institutions, and theme clusters are suggested in the study. The United States, Canada and Spain became the leading contributors whereas such researchers as Antonopoulou Hera and Steve Masson made a significant contribution to the field.

The current bibliometric analysis gives us a vivid picture of the development of neuroeducation, its trends, and collaboration which can be used by educators, researchers, and policymakers when establishing the global network of research and filling the conceptual divide between neuroscience and practice in education.