Harmaline toxicity on dorsal striatal neurons and its role in tremor.

Harmaline is one of the β-carboline derivative compounds that is widely distributed in the food chain and human tissues. Harmine, a dehydrogenated form of harmaline, appeared to have a higher concentration in the brain, and appeared to be elevated in essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease. Exogenous harmaline exposure in high concentration has myriad consequences, including inducing tremor, and causing neurodegeneration of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum.

COVID-19-associated Coagulopathy: Role of Vitamins D and K.

Recent reports show coagulopathy as a potential complication and poorer outcome of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in those with comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension as thrombosis could result in stroke and heart attacks. Indeed, cardiovascular complications in COVID-19 account for 40% of mortality. Although there is no standard treatment protocol or guidelines for COVID-19, it is a common practice to use anti-inflammatory corticosteroids and anti-coagulants, especially for severe COVID-19 patients.

Comparative Effects of Repetitive Odor Identification and Odor Memory Tasks on Olfactory Engagement in Older Populations - A Pilot fMRI Study.

Objective: This study evaluated human Blood Oxygen Level-Dependent (BOLD) responses in primary and higher-order olfactory regions of older adults, using odor memory and odor identification tasks. The goal was to determine which olfactory and memory regions of interest are more strongly engaged in older populations comparing these two odor training tasks.

Methods: Twelve adults 55-75 years old (75% females) without intranasal or major neurological disorders performed repetitive odor memory and identification tasks using a 3-tesla magnetic resonance scanner.

Novel targets for parkinsonism-depression comorbidity.

With the aging population growing and the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases on the rise, the researchers in the field are yet more urgently challenged to slow and/or reverse the devastating consequences of such progression. The challenge is further enforced by psychiatric co-morbid conditions, particularly the feeling of despair in these population. Fortunately, as our understanding of the neurobiological substrates of maladies affecting the central nervous system increases, more therapeutic options are also presented.