Physical exercise, neuroplasticity, spatial learning and memory

Neuronal plasticity and its role in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease

Neuronal plasticity, the brain's ability to adapt structurally and functionally, is essential for learning, memory, and recovery from injuries. In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, this plasticity is disrupted, leading to cognitive and motor deficits. This review explores the mechanisms of neuronal plasticity and its effect on Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Alzheimer's disease features amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles that impair synaptic function, while Parkinson's disease involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons affecting motor control. Enhancing neuronal plasticity offers therapeutic potential for these diseases. A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Data synthesis identified key themes such as synaptic mechanisms, neurogenesis, and therapeutic strategies, linking molecular insights to clinical applications. Results highlight that targeting synaptic plasticity mechanisms, such as long-term potentiation and long-term depression, shows promise. Neurotrophic factors, advanced imaging techniques, and molecular tools (e.g., clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and optogenetics) are crucial in understanding and enhancing plasticity. Current therapies, including dopamine replacement, deep brain stimulation, and lifestyle interventions, demonstrate the potential to alleviate symptoms and improve outcomes. In conclusion, enhancing neuronal plasticity through targeted therapies holds significant promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Future research should integrate multidisciplinary approaches to fully harness the therapeutic potential of neuronal plasticity in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Effectiveness of different exercise interventions on depressive symptoms among college students: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Depression affects approximately 25% of college students globally. Physical exercise shows promise as a low-cost, high-adherence intervention for depression, but research comparing different exercise types is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of various exercise interventions in alleviating depressive symptoms among college students through a network meta-analysis, to inform targeted exercise prescriptions.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and ScienceDirect) from their inception to July 1, 2024. Interventions were classified into six categories based on exercise type and intensity. Data extraction and systematic analysis were performed using Review Manager 5.4. A network meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 14.0, with heterogeneity assessed via node-splitting models, and results presented as standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Forty-two randomized controlled trials involving 1,169 participants were included. The network meta-analysis revealed that Special Training Unit (STU), Dynamic Resistance Movement Group (DRMG), and Aerobic Exercise Group (AEG) demonstrated high effectiveness in improving depressive symptoms. STU showed the highest probability of being the most effective intervention (65.1%), followed by DRMG (64.8%), AEG (61.3%), and Strength and Resistance Training Group (SRTG) (60.9%). High-Intensity Training Group (HITG) (26.2%) and Moderate Intensity Group (MIG) (21.7%) showed less impact on improving depressive symptoms. The limited effectiveness of HITG may relate to excessive physiological stress responses, while MIG potentially provided insufficient stimulation to trigger optimal neurobiological adaptations for mood improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Special Training Units (STU) and Dance and Rhythmic Movement Group (DRMG) interventions demonstrate superior efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms among college students. These findings suggest that integrating rhythmic movement with psychological components may offer optimal benefits compared to intensity-focused exercise approaches, providing evidence-based guidance for mental health programs in university settings.

Scientific status analysis of exercise benefits for vascular cognitive impairment: Evidence of neuroinflammation

Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is a syndrome characterized by cognitive decline resulting from insufficient perfusion to the entire brain or specific brain regions. The lack of a clear understanding of the mechanisms linking cerebrovascular disease to cognitive impairment has impeded the development of targeted treatments for VCI. Increasing evidence indicates that exercise may offer significant benefits for patients with VCI. This study explores how neuroinflammatory mechanisms mediate the effects of exercise on VCI, focusing on the broader biological processes involved. Exercise plays a crucial role in mitigating vascular risk factors, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting neurogenesis. Furthermore, exercise influences neuroinflammatory mediators and central immune cells via various signaling pathways. Different types and intensities of exercise, including resistance and endurance training, have been shown to differentially modulate neuroinflammation during the progression of VCI. This paper summarizes the current mechanisms of action and proposes exercise interventions targeting neuroinflammatory pathways, along with biomarker studies, to enhance our understanding of VCI pathogenesis and inform clinical practice. A more in-depth understanding of the inflammatory mechanisms underlying VCI may facilitate the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.

Does Play After Training Improve a Canine Good Citizenship Skill in Pet Dogs?

A major reason people surrender their dogs or fail to adopt them from shelters is due to concerns regarding the management of behavioral issues. This makes effective training of everyday obedience behaviors crucial to dog welfare. Here, we test the playful learning hypothesis to examine whether play after a training session increases a dog's success in learning two basic Canine Good Citizen behaviors: "sit" and "stay". In two studies, the dogs experienced brief training sessions and then were assigned to either play or rest. The next day, they returned for another brief training session, and we measured any change in the duration that the dogs were able to hold a "sit" and "stay" from the first day. In Experiment 1, the subjects with low baseline levels of ability improved more after playing than those subjects that simply rested after training. However, Experiment 2, which further controlled for exercise and time spent with trainers, and standardized the measure of success across dogs regardless of their initial ability levels, did not replicate the improved performance in response to play after a training session. Overall, we find limited support for the application of the playful learning hypothesis to everyday training and suggest avenues for future research to determine how play might improve training outcomes for pet dogs.

Amelioration of Chronic Ethanol Administration-Induced Learning and Memory Impairments by High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Ritalin

OBJECTIVES

The current study aimed to investigate the impacts of 8-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and Ritalin (RIT), alone and in combination, on cognitive functions and hippocampal oxidative parameters following chronic ethanol consumption in male rats.

METHODS

A total of 56 adult male rats were divided into 8 groups and received one of the following treatments: ethanol 20% (ET) (3 mL/kg/day, orally, 5 consecutive days/week in weeks 1-4, and 3 consecutive days/week in weeks 4-8), RIT (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, three consecutive times/week for 8 weeks), HIIT + SAL (five consecutive times/week for 8 weeks + saline injection), or saline (1 mL/day, intraperitoneally, three consecutive times/week for 8 weeks). Cognitive performance was assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance tasks. Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), were measured in the hippocampus using thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP). Nitric oxide (NO) level in the hippocampus was determined using an NO Assay Kit (Natrix, Arman Biotech, Iran).

RESULTS

Chronic ethanol administration impaired cognitive functions. However, RIT, HIIT, and their combination significantly improved these impairments. Furthermore, RIT increased ethanol-induced oxidative stress, whereas HIIT reduced it, even in the combination group.

CONCLUSION

Chronic ethanol consumption caused learning and memory deficits and disrupted oxidant/antioxidant balance in the hippocampus of rats. HIIT potentially improved memory impairments by restoring this balance, whereas RIT ameliorated cognitive dysfunction through a mechanism that requires further investigation.

Multivariate decomposition of gender differentials in cognitive impairment among older adults in India based on Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, 2017-2018

BACKGROUND

Increasing life expectancy and declining fertility rates have increased the ageing population around the world. The literature lacks a consensus regarding the risk of cognitive impairments by gender.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to examine the differences in cognition impairments between male and female older adults in India.

METHODOLOGY

We utilized data from the first wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) (2017-18), analyzing 31,464 older adults aged 60 years and above (15,098 males and 16,366 females). Cognitive impairment is measured using the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP) which includes five broad domains (memory, orientation, arithmetic function, executive function, and object naming). A multivariate decomposition analysis was performed using STATA 17 software to identify covariates'contributions, which explain the group differences to average predictions.

FINDINGS

The prevalence of cognitive impairment was significantly higher among females (19.8%) than males (6.4%) (p < 0.001). Gender disparities were more pronounced among the oldest-old (41.5% vs. 15.9%), widowed individuals (24.6% vs. 9.8%), those with no education (25.1% vs. 11.8%), and individuals living alone (23.4% vs. 5.0%). Decomposition analysis revealed that 62% of the gender gap in cognitive impairment was attributable to differences in compositional factors, primarily education (42%), marital status (6%), working status (6%), difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living (3%), and physical activity (2%). The remaining 38% of the disparity was due to differences in how these factors impacted men and women.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that cognitive impairments are more pronounced among women. Gender-responsive interventions improving education access among the female gender would bring relevant and desired results.

Effects of memantine and donepezil on social memory, anxiety-like behavior and the expression levels of microRNA-124, microRNA-125b, and microRNA-132 in scopolamine-induced memory impairment in rats

INTRODUCTION

Almost all physiological processes are modulated by microRNAs, therefore, dysregulation of these small regulatory RNAs is observed in a variety of diseases, including cognitive impairments.

METHODS

In this study, 40 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups of control, scopolamine, donepezil, memantine, and combined administration of donepezil + memantine. Rats in scopolamine, donepezil, memantine, and combined administration of donepezil + memantine groups received scopolamine (1 mg/kg-intraperitoneal) for 7 days. After the last administration of scopolamine, was started injecting donepezil (3 mg/kg-i.p.), memantine (10 mg/kg-i.p.), and combined administration of Donepezil + Memantine (0.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg-i.p., respectively), up to 21 days. Twenty-four hours after the last injection, elevated plus-maze, social interaction, open field tests, and gene expression analysis of miR-124, miR-125b, and miR-132 in the hippocampus were carried out.

RESULTS

The results of the behavioral tests indicate that donepezil and memantine significantly prevented Scopolamine-induced anxiety, sociability, and social memory decline. The gene expression of selected microRNAs did not significantly differ between the groups.

DISCUSSION

This study revealed that donepezil and memantine effectively prevent synaptic plasticity disruption and cognitive decline induced by scopolamine. Findings indicated that this treatment is unrelated to the expression of the selected microRNAs. The positive effects of memantine and donepezil depend on age, dosages, cognitive task demands, and possibly the length and timing of the treatment.

Effect of in vivo reprogramming of astrocytes combined with exercise training on neurorepair in rats with spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

The inability of damaged neurons to regenerate and of axons to establish new functional connections leads to permanent functional deficits after spinal cord injury (SCI). Although astrocyte reprogramming holds promise for neurorepair in various disease models, it is not sufficient on its own to achieve significant functional recovery.

METHODS

A rat SCI model was established using a spinal cord impactor. Seven days postsurgery, adeno-associated virus were injected to overexpress the transcription factors NeuroD1 and Neurogenin-2 (Ngn2) in the spinal cord. The rats were then trained to walk on a weight-supported treadmill for 4 weeks, starting 14 days after modeling. The effects of these interventions on motor and sensory functions, as well as spinal cord tissue repair, were subsequently evaluated.

RESULTS

The combination of NeuroD1 and Ngn2 overexpression with weight-supported exercise training significantly improved gait compared to either intervention alone. The group receiving the combined intervention exhibited enhanced sensitivity in sensory assessments. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed increased colocalization of astrocytes and microtubule-associated protein 2-positive neurons in the injury area. These effects were more pronounced than those observed with spinal cord tissue repair alone. Additionally, the combined intervention significantly reduced glial scarring and the size of the injury area.

CONCLUSION

Exercise intervention enhances the reprogramming effects of astrocytes and restores motor function, yielding better results than either intervention alone.

Relationship among depression, fatigue, and sleep after traumatic brain injury: The role of physical exercise as a non-pharmacological therapy

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a burdensome condition frequently associated with an increased risk of psychiatric disorders. Although the exact molecular signaling pathways have not yet been fully defined, the compromised integrity of functional brain networks in regions such as the prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex has been linked to persistent symptoms, including depression, fatigue, and sleep disorders. Understanding how TBI affects neural physiology enables the development of effective interventions. One such strategy may be physical exercise, which promotes neural repair and behavioral rehabilitation after TBI. However, there are caveats to consider when interpreting the effects of physical exercise on TBI-induced mental health issues. This review will highlight the main findings from the literature investigating how different physical exercise protocols affect the progression of TBI-induced depression, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Furthermore, we aim to explore potential neurobiological pathways that explain how physical exercise influences depression, fatigue, and sleep following TBI.

Effects of physical activity on mobile phone addiction among university students: the mediating roles of self-control and resilience

Background

In recent years, mobile phone addiction (MPA) has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly among university students. Physical activity (PA) is believed to exert a beneficial influence on MPA within this demographic. However, the extent to which this influence is moderated by other factors remains uncertain. Evidence points to self-control and resilience as potential mediators that may partially account for the positive impact of PA on MPA. Accordingly, this study seeks to investigate the effect of PA on MPA and the mediating role of self-control and resilience in this relationship through a chain-mediated model.

Methods

The study involved 413 Chinese university students (208 males, mean age 20.59 ± 1.17 years), who completed the PA Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), the Self-Control Scale (SCS), the Mobile Phone Addiction Index (MPAI), along with other psychosocial assessments. Pearson's correlation was employed to analyze the relationships between variables, while mediation models were examined using SPSS PROCESS and bootstrapped regression analysis.

Results

PA demonstrated a significant negative correlation with mobile phone addiction behaviors (β = -0.22, p < 0.01). Self-control and resilience moderated the relationship between PA and mobile phone addiction. Notably, PA influenced mobile phone addiction through the chain-mediated effects of self-control and resilience.

Conclusion

College students can alleviate MPA issues by consistently engaging in healthy PA, which is essential for enhancing self-control and bolstering resilience.

A comprehensive review on the impact of polyphenol supplementation and exercise on depression and brain function parameters

The objective of this review study is to examine the combined antidepressant effects of exercise and polyphenol supplementation, with a focus on specific polyphenolic compounds such as crocin, curcumin, and quercetin, as well as different forms of physical exercise, including aerobic and resistance training. The research examines how these interventions influence depressive-like behaviors, cognitive function, and neurochemical markers in animal models and human participants. The findings demonstrate that both exercise and polyphenols independently contribute to mood enhancement, reduced anxiety, and improved cognitive function through mechanisms such as neurogenesis, neurotransmitter modulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Notably, the combined interventions showed a synergistic effect, providing more significant benefits in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhancing cognitive performance, and supporting overall mental well-being. These results suggest that integrating exercise and polyphenol supplementation could be a promising non-pharmacological approach to managing depression and related disorders.

Relations between 24-h movement behaviors, declarative memory, and hippocampal volume in early childhood

This study aimed to determine if 24-h movement behaviors (sedentary time, physical activity, and sleep), considered independently and together, were associated with declarative memory and hippocampal volume in late early childhood. Observational data were obtained from preschool-aged children (timepoint 1: n = 35 children, 3.9 ± 0.5 years; 6 months later: n = 28 children, 4.5 ± 0.5 years). Movement behaviors were measured with actigraphy. Outcomes were declarative memory and hippocampal subregion volumes. Multilevel models explored movement behaviors independently as absolute values, and with both absolute total activity, 24-h sleep duration, and night sleep efficiency. Movement behaviors were also explored as compositions in linear regression models. In independent models, sleep duration and moderate to vigorous physical activity were positively associated with total and right hippocampal volumes, respectively. When examined together, children meeting sleep recommendations were more likely to have larger total, right and left hemisphere, body, and tail hippocampal volumes. In our sample of preschool children, we observed positive associations between sleep duration and hippocampal volume, independent of age. To improve our understanding of the connections between 24-h behaviors and brain health in early childhood, larger samples that also consider the context and subcomponents of movement behaviors may be warranted.

Aerobic exercise training improves learning and memory performance in hypoxic-exposed rats by activating the hippocampal PKA-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

This study aims to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise training on learning and memory (L&M) performance in rats exposed to altitude hypoxia and its relationship with hippocampal plasticity and the PKA-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 14.2% hypoxia with or without 60 min of non-weight-bearing swimming training for 8 weeks. The L&M performance was evaluated using the Morris water maze, and the mRNA expression of PSD95, SYP, PKA, CREB, CBP, and BDNF in the hippocampus was detected.

RESULTS

Chronic hypoxia exposure significantly impaired L&M performance and reduced the mRNA expression of hippocampal PSD95, SYP, PKA, CREB, CBP, and BDNF. Aerobic exercise training effectively reversed these changes by enhancing hippocampal synaptic plasticity through the activation of the PKA-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Aerobic exercise training can alleviate the decline in L&M performance caused by altitude hypoxia exposure, possibly through the activation of the hippocampal PKA-CREB-BDNF signaling pathway.

Differential Regulation of miRNA and Protein Profiles in Human Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles via Continuous Aerobic and High-Intensity Interval Training

Both continuous aerobic training (CAT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are recommended to promote health and prevent diseases. Exercise-induced circulating extracellular vesicles (EX-EVs) have been suggested to play essential roles in mediating organ crosstalk, but corresponding molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To assess and compare the systemic effects of CAT and HIIT, five healthy male volunteers were assigned to HIIT and CAT, with a 7-day interval between sessions. Plasma EVs were collected at rest or immediately after each training section, prior to proteomics and miRNA profile analysis. We found that the differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs in EX-EVs were largely involved in the regulation of transcriptional factors, while most of the DE proteins in EX-EVs were identified as non-secreted proteins. Both CAT and HIIT play common roles in neuronal signal transduction, autophagy, and cell fate regulation. Specifically, CAT showed distinct roles in cognitive function and substrate metabolism, while HIIT was more associated with organ growth, cardiac muscle function, and insulin signaling pathways. Interestingly, the miR-379 cluster within EX-EVs was specifically regulated by HIIT, involving several biological functions, including neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction. Furthermore, EX-EVs likely originate from various tissues, including metabolic tissues, the immune system, and the nervous system. Our study provides molecular insights into the effects of CAT and HIIT, shedding light on the roles of EX-EVs in mediating organ crosstalk and health promotion.

Exercise and Sinonasal Diseases: Key Interactions and Management Pearls

The nose filters, moistens, and warms inspired air at rest and during activity. Exercise is associated with an increase in nasal airflow and a decrease in resistance to that flow. Mechanistically, changes in the nasal mucosa during exercise may increase neutrophilic infiltration, impair olfaction, and prolong mucociliary transport time. The increased exposure to substances in the exercise environment may also produce rhinitis. Clinically, the prevalence of rhinitis and upper airway infections is increased in athletes. Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, and rhinosinusitis may be diagnosed clinically, with other studies supporting the diagnosis; their main treatments are topical steroids, antihistamines, and saline.

Adrenic acid: A promising biomarker and therapeutic target (Review)

Adrenic acid is a 22‑carbon unsaturated fatty acid that is widely present in the adrenal gland, liver, brain, kidney and vascular system that plays a regulatory role in various pathophysiological processes, such as inflammatory reactions, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, vascular function, and cell death. Adrenic acid is a potential biomarker for various ailments, including metabolic, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In addition, adrenic acid is influenced by the pharmacological properties of several natural products, such as astragaloside IV, evodiamine, quercetin, kaempferol, Berberine‑baicalin and prebiotics, so it is a promising new target for clinical treatment and drug development. However, the molecular mechanisms by which adrenic acid exerts are unclear. The present study systematically reviewed the biosynthesis and metabolism of adrenic acid, focusing on intrinsic mechanisms that influence the progression of metabolic, cardiovascular and neurological disease. These mechanisms regulate several key processes, including immuno‑inflammatory response, oxidative stress, vascular function and cell death. In addition, the present study explored the potential clinical translational value of adrenic acid as a biomarker and therapeutic target. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is first systematic summary of the mechanisms of action of adrenic acid across a range of diseases. The present study provides understanding of the wide range of metabolic activities of adrenic acid and a basis for further exploring the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of various diseases.

The neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of exercise interventions in autistic individuals

Autism spectrum disorder is a pervasive and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication difficulties and rigid, repetitive behaviors. Owing to the complex pathogenesis of autism, effective drugs for treating its core features are lacking. Nonpharmacological approaches, including education, social-communication, behavioral and psychological methods, and exercise interventions, play important roles in supporting the needs of autistic individuals. The advantages of exercise intervention, such as its low cost, easy implementation, and high acceptance, have garnered increasing attention. Exercise interventions can effectively improve the core features and co-occurring conditions of autism, but the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are unclear. Abnormal changes in the gut microbiome, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity may individually or interactively be responsible for atypical brain structure and connectivity, leading to specific autistic experiences and characteristics. Interestingly, exercise can affect these biological processes and reshape brain network connections, which may explain how exercise alleviates core features and co-occurring conditions in autistic individuals. In this review, we describe the definition, diagnostic approach, epidemiology, and current support strategies for autism; highlight the benefits of exercise interventions; and call for individualized programs for different subtypes of autistic individuals. Finally, the possible neurobiological mechanisms by which exercise improves autistic features are comprehensively summarized to inform the development of optimal exercise interventions and specific targets to meet the needs of autistic individuals.

Exploring the impact of exercise-induced BDNF on neuroplasticity in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions

This review investigates the intricate relationship between exercise, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neuroplasticity, and cognitive function, with a focus on implications for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. A systematic review was conducted by searching various databases for relevant studies that explored the connections between exercise, BDNF, neuroplasticity, and cognitive health. The analysis of eligible studies revealed that exercise increases BDNF levels in the brain, promoting neuroplasticity and enhancing cognitive functions. Furthermore, we discuss the protective effects of exercise against cognitive decline and neurological disorders, suggesting that BDNF plays a critical role in mediating these effects. Regular physical activity not only elevates BDNF levels but also fosters memory and learning, offering important implications for the prevention and treatment of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions. Our findings underscore the necessity of incorporating exercise into a healthy lifestyle to optimize brain health. Future research is essential to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this relationship and to refine exercise interventions for improved cognitive outcomes.

The Effect of Free Weight Resistance Training on Cognitive Function Explored Through Eye Tracking: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

In this study, we investigated the impact of a 10-week free weight resistance training (RT) program on cognitive function in healthy young adults. In this randomized controlled trial, 18 participants were assigned to either an experimental or control group. We assessed cognitive function by using eye-tracking (ET) technology during text processing tasks. First-pass reading times (FPRTs) and total reading times (TRTs) were measured. Results revealed a significant three-way interaction between group, moment, and syntactic complexity in FPRTs, demonstrating training effects on cognitive processing. The experimental group showed a distinctive shift in processing patterns: from longer times in low complexity pre-intervention to increased times in high complexity post-intervention, particularly in early processing measures (FPRTs). Complementary analyses of strength improvements showed that increased strength was associated with enhanced attention allocation to complex structures and improved processing efficiency for simpler texts, suggesting RT's potential to modulate cognitive function.

From Homeostasis to Neuroinflammation: Insights into Cellular and Molecular Interactions and Network Dynamics

Neuroinflammation is a complex and multifaceted process that involves dynamic interactions among various cellular and molecular components. This sophisticated interplay supports both environmental adaptability and system resilience in the central nervous system (CNS) but may be disrupted during neuroinflammation. In this article, we first characterize the key players in neuroimmune interactions, including microglia, astrocytes, neurons, immune cells, and essential signaling molecules such as cytokines, neurotransmitters, extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and neurotrophic factors. Under homeostatic conditions, these elements promote cellular cooperation and stability, whereas in neuroinflammatory states, they drive adaptive responses that may become pathological if dysregulated. We examine how neuroimmune interactions, mediated through these cellular actors and signaling pathways, create complex networks that regulate CNS functionality and respond to injury or inflammation. To further elucidate these dynamics, we provide insights using a multilayer network (MLN) approach, highlighting the interconnected nature of neuroimmune interactions under both inflammatory and homeostatic conditions. This perspective aims to enhance our understanding of neuroimmune communication and the mechanisms underlying shifts from homeostasis to neuroinflammation. Applying an MLN approach offers a more integrative view of CNS resilience and adaptability, helping to clarify inflammatory processes and identify novel intervention points within the layered landscape of neuroinflammatory responses.

A preliminary exploration of establishing a mice model of hypoxic training

Altitude training has been widely adopted. This study aimed to establish a mice model to determine the time point for achieving the best endurance at the lowland. C57BL/6 and BALB/c male mice were used to establish a mice model of hypoxic training with normoxic training mice, hypoxic mice, and normoxic mice as controls. All hypoxic mice were placed in a chamber filled with 16% O2 and N2, and hypoxic training mice were trained for two weeks. Then mice were removed from the chamber and tested at normoxic conditions weekly at the beginning of the experiment and the second, third, fourth, and sixth weeks. The tests for endurance ability include maximal aerobic speed (MAS), Rota-rod, and grip strength. In addition, the open field, visual cliff, and Y maze were used to test cognitive abilities. Body composition and lactic acid tolerance level were also measured. For BALB/c but not C57BL/6 mice were evaluated for effectively training. Based on the average MAS of all mice, mice successfully passed the training according to the procedure: the first week (32%MAS/10min, 48%MAS/10min, and 64%MAS/10min) and second week (40%MAS/10min, 56%MAS/10min, and 72%MAS/10min). Hypoxic training mice reached peak rotarod performance on the 7th day post-training (Test 3), with significant improvements compared to Test 1, 2, 4, and 5. At Test 3, their rotarod scores significantly differed from both H and N groups, and showing a trend towards difference from NT group. Meanwhile, hypoxic mice showed significant cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, muscle loss, and fat gain compared with hypoxic training mice after hypoxia intervation. Two consecutive weeks of 16% O2 training followed by one week of reoxygenation may be the best for endurance competition. Thus, we think a mouse model for hypoxic training was built, with Rota-rod testing as a detection indicator. Moreover, hypoxic training may alleviate the damage of hypoxia to the body.

Effects of moderate intensity exercise on liver metabolism in mice based on multi-omics analysis

Physical exercise is beneficial to keep physical and mental health. The molecular mechanisms underlying exercise are still worth exploring. The healthy adult mice after six weeks of moderate-intensity exercise (experimental group) and sedentary mice (control group) were used to perform transcriptomic, proteomic, lactylation modification, and metabolomics analysis. In addition, gene sets related to hypoxia, glycolysis, and fatty acid metabolism were used to aid in the screening of hub genes. The mMCP-counter was employed to evaluate infiltration of immune cells in murine liver tissues. Transcriptomics analysis revealed 82 intersection genes related to hypoxia, glycolysis, and fatty acid metabolism. Proteomics and lactylation modification analysis identified 577 proteins and 141 differentially lactylation modification proteins. By overlapping 82 intersection genes with 577 differentially expressed proteins and 141 differentially lactylation modification proteins, three hub genes (Aldoa, Acsl1, and Hadhb) were obtained. The immune infiltration analysis revealed a decreased score for monocytes/macrophages and an increased score for endothelial cells in the experimental group. Then, 459 metabolites in positive mode and 181 metabolites in negative mode were identified. The "Metabolic pathways" (mmu01100) was a common pathway between intersection genes-enriched pathways and metabolites-enriched pathways. These findings highlight the pivotal roles of hub genes in the glycolysis and fatty acid metabolism under the context of chronic exercise.

Treatment for peripheral nerve injury: a protocol for a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Available therapies for peripheral nerve injury (PNI) include surgical and non-surgical treatments. Surgical treatment includes neurorrhaphy, grafting (allografts and autografts) and tissue-engineered grafting (artificial nerve guide conduits), while non-surgical treatment methods include electrical stimulation, magnetic stimulation, laser phototherapy and administration of nerve growth factors. However, the treatments currently available to best manage the different PNI manifestations remain undetermined. This systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) aims to address this and determine the best treatment or combination of treatments for PNI.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese Biomedical Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database, Wanfang Database, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, ClinicalTrials.gov and the Chinese Clinical Trial Register will be completed using the following keywords: peripheral nerve injury, therapies and related entry terms. Studies will be included based on specific eligibility criteria, and the reference lists of the included studies will be manually searched. Relevant data will be extracted from the included studies using a specially designed data extraction sheet. The risk of bias in the included studies will be assessed, and the overall strength of the evidence will be summarised. A random-effects model was used for all pairwise meta-analyses (95% CI). Bayesian NMA is used to explore the relative benefits of various treatments. The review will be reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews incorporating NMA statement.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

As the protocol for this systematic review and Bayesian NMA is based on studies with published results and does not involve patient interventions, no ethical review is required. The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023475135.

The Effect of Physiotherapy on Arthrogenic Muscle Inhibition After ACL Injury or Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) following ACL injury or reconstruction is a common issue that affects muscle activation and functional recovery. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematize the literature on the effects of physiotherapy interventions in the rehabilitation of AMI after ACL injury or reconstruction. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The risk of bias was evaluated using the PEDro scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Searches were performed in the PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases. Randomized controlled trials involving patients with ACL injuries or ACL reconstruction were included. Twenty studies were included. Fifteen evaluated the effects of exercise, showing significant improvement. Seven studies examined electrotherapy, with neuromuscular electrical stimulation and high-frequency therapy combined with exercise showing improvements in muscle strength, pain, and joint range of motion. Nine studies explored interventions like motor imagery, cryotherapy, taping, and vibration. When performed before exercise, motor imagery and cryotherapy improved cortical activity and muscle recovery. Kinesio taping reduced edema and pain better than exercise alone. Vibration showed inconsistent results across three studies. Methodological quality varied between 5 and 8 on the PEDro scale, with moderate-to-low risk of bias. Structured exercise should be the first-line intervention, but combining it with other therapies enhances rehabilitation. The study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023425510).

Causal effect of physical activity and sedentary behavior on the risk of alcohol dependence: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Alcohol dependence, influenced by physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior, lacks clear causal clarity. This study aims to clarify causal relationships by estimating these effects using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR).

METHODS

A bidirectional multivariable two-sample MR framework was employed to assess the causal effects of PA and sedentary behavior on alcohol dependence. Summarized genetic association data were analyzed for four PA-related activity patterns-moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), vigorous physical activity (VPA), accelerometer-based physical activity with average acceleration (AccAve), and accelerometer-based physical activity with accelerations greater than 425 milli-gravities (Acc425)-and three sedentary behavior patterns-sedentary, TV watching, and computer use. The study was expanded to include the examination of the relationship between sedentary behavior or PA and general drinking behavior, quantified as drinks per week (DPW). We obtained summarized data on genetic associations with four PA related activity patterns (MVPA, VPA, AccAve and Acc425) and three sedentary behavior related behavior patterns (sedentary, TV watching and computer use).

RESULTS

MR analysis found AccAve inversely associated with alcohol dependence risk (OR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.80-0.95; p < 0.001), MVPA positively associated (OR: 2.86; 95%CI: 1.45-5.66; p = 0.002). For sedentary behavior and alcohol dependence, only TV watching was positively associated with the risk of alcohol dependence (OR: 1.43; 95%CI: 1.09-1.88; p = 0.009). No causal links found for other physical or sedentary activities. Reverse analysis and sensitivity tests showed consistent findings without pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Multivariate MR analyses indicated that while MVPA, AccAve and TV watching are independently associated with alcohol dependence, DPW did not show a significant causal relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that AccAve is considered a protective factor against alcohol dependence, while MVPA and TV watching are considered risk factors for alcohol dependence. Conversely, alcohol dependence serves as a protective factor against TV watching. Only TV watching and alcohol dependence might mutually have a significant causal effect on each other.

Exercise Alleviates Fluoride-Induced Learning and Memory Impairment in Mice: Role of miR-206-3p and PREG

Fluorosis decreases the learning and memory ability in humans and animals, while exercise can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. However, the effect of exercise on learning and memory in fluoride-exposed mice is unclear. For this purpose, in this study, mice were randomly allotted into four groups (16 mice per group, half male and half female): control group (group C), fluoride group (group F, 100 mg/L sodium fluoride (NaF)), exercise group (group E, treadmill exercise), and E plus F group (group EF, treadmill exercise, and 100 mg/L NaF). During 6 months of exposure, exercise alleviated the NaF-induced decline in memory and learning. In addition, NaF induced injuries in mitochondria and myelin sheath ultrastructure and reduced the neurons number, while exercise restored them. Metabolomics results showed that phosphatidylethanolamine, pregnenolone (PREG), and lysophosphatidic acid (LysoPA) were altered among groups C, F, and EF. Combined with previous studies, it can be suggested that PREG might be a biomarker in response to exercise-relieving fluorine neurotoxicity. The miRNA sequencing results indicated that in the differently expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), miR-206-3p, miR-96-5p, and miR-144-3p were shared in groups C, F, and EF. After the QRT-PCR validation and in vitro experiments, it was proved that miR-206-3p could reduce cell death and regulate AP-1 transcription factor subunit (JunD) and histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) to alleviate fluoride neurotoxicity. To sum up, the current study reveals that exercise could alleviate NaF-induced neurotoxicity by targeting miR-206-3p or PREG, which will contribute to revealing the pathogenesis and therapeutic method of fluoride neurotoxicity.

Effects of open-skill and closed-skill exercise on subthreshold depression in female adolescents: A randomized controlled trial

Background

Subthreshold depression (SD) affects a significant proportion of adolescent females, posing a risk of major depression in later life. This study examines the effects of open-skill exercise (OSE) and closed-skill exercise (CSE) on SD, executive function (EF), and emotional states in female adolescents.

Methods

A double-blind randomized controlled trial involved 95 female adolescents (mean age = 16.73 ± 0.42 years) with SD symptoms. Participants were assigned to OSE, CSE, or control (CON) groups and underwent an 8-week exercise program. Primary outcomes were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-13) and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), with secondary outcomes including EF tasks and emotional assessments. Differences were examined using generalized linear mixed models with intention-to-treat and multiple imputation.

Results

Both OSE and CSE significantly reduced depressive symptoms, with CSE showing greater improvement. EF assessments showed enhanced cognitive flexibility and working memory in both exercise groups at 4 weeks, and superior inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility in the CSE group at 8 weeks. Emotional assessments indicated a notable reduction in negative emotions in the CSE group after 8 weeks.

Conclusions

Both OSE and CSE reduce SD symptoms in female adolescents, with CSE providing more sustained benefits for EF and emotional states. Further research on exercise interventions for mental health is warranted.Trial registration number: ChiCTR2400081139.

The role of physical activity in the physiological activation of the scholastic pre-requirements

Physical activity during the developmental age is an indispensable tool for the physical and mental growth of children. Thanks to physical activity, individuals have the opportunity to improve their physical efficiency and promote better health, establish relationships with the environment and with others, and develop cognitive processes. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between physical activity and the development of scholastic prerequisites among kindergarten children. 52 children (aged 4-5) participated in either a classroom-based physical activity program (60'/3 days per week) or regular lessons. At the beginning and end of the intervention programs, a set of standardized motor evaluation tests and the Observational Questionnaire for the Early Identification of Learning Disabilities (IPDA) were administered. As a result, a meaningful Time x Group interaction for the IPDA Variable was observed. The aforementioned development denotes a noteworthy advancement within the treatment group (p < 0.001). Conversely, no substantial modification was noted in the control group. The findings derived from this study provide a foundational support to the concept that physical activity integrated into classroom settings is an effective strategy to improve both scholastic prerequisites and academic performance.

Accumulated HIIT inhibits anxiety and depression, improves cognitive function, and memory-related proteins in the hippocampus of aged rats

This study aimed to compare the effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) performed in a single session(1xHIIT) versus three daily sessions (3xHIIT) on fitness level and behavior of aged rats. Eighteen-month-old Wistar rats were assigned to Untrained (UN), 1xHIIT, or 3xHIIT (n = 12/group). Both groups, 1xHIIT and 3xHIIT, performed 15 min of a treadmill running HIIT protocol during 8 weeks. 1xHIIT protocol consisted of a single daily session of 15 min, while the 3xHIIT performed three daily sessions of 5 min with a 4 h interval between the sessions. Morris Water Maze (MWM) task was used to evaluate spatial learning and memory. Splash test, Forced Swim test, and Elevated Plus Maze task (EPM) were used to evaluate anhedonic, depressive-like, and anxious behaviors, respectively. Rats were euthanized, and the hippocampus was harvested for western blot analyses (CaMKII and BDNF). Both HIIT protocols improved VO2max and spatial memory. Notably, only the 3xHIIT protocol attenuated anxious and depressive-like behaviors. Western blot analyses of the hippocampus revealed that both HIIT protocols increased BDNF levels. BDNF levels were higher in the 3xHIIT when compared with 1xHIIT group, and we observed increasement of the CamKII levels just in the 3x HIIT group. Therefore, this study provides evidence indicating that accumulated HIIT sessions is more effective than traditional daily HIIT sessions in improving fitness level, cognitive function, memory, inhibiting the development of mood disorders, and enhancing BDNF and CaMKII levels in the hippocampus of aged rats.

Long-term voluntary running improves cognitive ability in developing mice by modulating the cholinergic system, antioxidant ability, and BDNF/PI3K/Akt/CREB pathway

Moderate physical exercise has positive effects on memory. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of long-term exercise on spatial memory in developing mice, as well as its association with the cholinergic system, antioxidant activities, apoptosis factor, and BDNF/PI3K/Akt/CREB pathway in the brain. In this study, Y maze and Novel object recognition (NOR) tests were employed to assess the impact of long-term voluntary exercise on memory. The cholinergic system, antioxidant activities, and apoptosis factors in the brain were quantified using Elisa. Additionally, western blot analysis was conducted to determine the expression of relevant proteins in the BDNF/PI3K/Akt/CREB pathway. The findings demonstrated that prolonged voluntary wheel running exercise enhanced memory in developing mice, concomitant with increased catalase (CAT) activity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the brain. Moreover, it could also increase the hippocampal acetylcholine (ACh) content and suppress the expression of neuronal apoptosis protein. Additionally, exercise also upregulated the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), phosphoinositide 3 kinases (PI3K), Akt, cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB) in the hippocampus. These findings suggest that long-term voluntary wheel running exercise improves the spatial memory of developing mice by modulating the cholinergic system, antioxidant activities, apoptosis factors, and activating the BDNF/PI3K/Akt/CREB pathway.

FNDC5/Irisin in dementia and cognitive impairment: update and novel perspective

Epidemiological surveys show that the incidence of age-related dementia and cognitive impairment is increasing and it has been a heavy burden for society, families, and healthcare systems, making the preservation of cognitive function in an increasingly aging population a major challenge. Exercise is beneficial for brain health, and FDNC5/irisin, a new exercise-induced myokine, is thought to be a beneficial mediator to cognitive function and plays an important role in the crosstalk between skeletal muscle and brain. This review provides a critical assessment of the recent progress in both fundamental and clinical research of FDNC5/irisin in dementia and cognitive impairment-related disorders. Furthermore, we present a novel perspective on the therapeutic effectiveness of FDNC5/irisin in alleviating these conditions.

Effects of moderate intensity training and lithium on spatial learning and memory in a rat model: The role of SIRT3 and PGC1-α expression levels and brain-derived neurotropic factor

In this study we investigated the potential synergistic effects of moderate interval training (MIT) and lithium on spatial learning and memory. Forty-two male Wistar males were classified into six groups including I: Control, II: 10 mg/kg/day IP lithium (Li10), III: MIT, IV: Li10 + MIT, V: 40 mg/kg/day IP lithium (Li40), and VI: Li40 + MIT. Then, the rats underwent Morris Water Maze (MWM) test to assess their spatial memory and learning ability. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) density was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the expression of PGC1 and SIRT3 were assessed via qRT-PCR. The results show that MIT improves both memory and spatial learning; but lithium alone, does not cause this. Additionally, those exposed to a combination of exercise and lithium also had improved spatial learning and memory. Finally, we observed a positive role of BDNF protein, and PGC1 gene on the effects of exercise and lithium.

Exercise may improve lung immunity after surgical stress: Evidence from a nephrectomy model via a bioinformatic analysis

Exercise offers numerous benefits to cancer patients and plays an essential role in postsurgical cancer rehabilitation. However, there is a lack of research examining the effects of exercise after the surgical stress of nephrectomy. To address this gap, we created an animal model that simulated patients who had undergone nephrectomy with or without an exercise intervention. Next, we performed a bioinformatic analysis based on the data generated by the RNA sequencing of the lung tissue sample. An overrepresentation analysis was conducted using two genome databases (Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes [KEGG]). A KEGG analysis of the exercise-treated nephrectomy mice revealed enrichment in immune-related pathways, particularly in the NF-κB and B cell-related pathways. The expression of CD79A and IGHD, which are responsible for B cell differentiation and proliferation, was upregulated in the nephrectomy mice. Differential gene expression was categorized as significantly upregulated or downregulated according to nephrectomy and exercise groups. Notably, we identified several gene expression reversals in the nephrectomy groups with exercise that were not found in the nephrectomy without exercise or control groups. Our preliminary results potentially reveal a genetic landscape for the underlying mechanisms of the effects of exercise on our nephrectomy model.

Dynamic associations between frailty and cognition over 4 years: A population-based study on adults aged ≥50 from 12 European countries

PURPOSE

This study aimed (1) to investigate autoregressive and cross-lagged associations between frailty and cognition over 4 years in a large sample of European citizens aged ≥50 years, (2) to examine the 4-year temporal associations' differences between sex and between active and inactive physical behaviour, and (3) to explore in the years 2011, 2013, and 2015 associations between cognitive performance and the pre-frailty and frailty conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This longitudinal analysis was conducted with 20,857 individuals (11,540 women) from 12 countries aged ≥50 years who responded to waves 4, 5, and 6 of the SHARE project. The variables analysed were frailty (SHARE-FI) and a general cognition index (Cogindex) calculated for each wave from verbal fluency, immediate recall, and delayed recall.

RESULTS

A greater propensity for cognitive impairment was found in women, as well as in pre-frail and frail individuals. There were no significant differences between the sexes for the autoregressive effect of frailty and Cogindex over 4 years. On the other hand, sedentary and active individuals differed in frailty between Time 1-2. Cross-lagged analyses indicated a significant difference for the sexes between frailty and Cogindex Time 1-3 and between Cogindex and frailty of Time 2-3. Sedentary and active differed significantly in the path of frailty on Cogindex between Time 2-3.

CONCLUSION

Health policies should increase surveillance of frailty, cognition, and level of physical activity in the older European population, with a special focus on women.

Step count and multiple health outcomes: An umbrella review

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantify the association between step count and multiple health outcomes in a healthy population.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses from inception to April 1, 2022. Literature screening, data extraction, and data analysis were performed in this umbrella review. The intervention factor was daily step counts measured based on devices. Multiple health outcomes included metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, all-cause mortality, and other outcomes in the healthy population.

RESULTS

Twenty studies with 94 outcomes were identified in this umbrella review. The increase in daily step count contributed to a range of human health outcomes. Furthermore, the special population, different age groups, countries, and cohorts should be carefully considered. Negative correlation between step counts and the following outcomes: metabolic outcomes, cardiovascular diseases, all-cause mortality, postural balance, cognitive function, and mental health. However, there was no association between participation in the outdoor walking group and the improvement of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Analysis of the dose-response association between increasing daily step count and the risk of cardiovascular disease events and all-cause mortality showed a substantially linear relationship.

CONCLUSION

A wide range of health outcomes can benefit from the right number of steps.

Evaluation of the effect of corrective exercise intervention on musculoskeletal disorders, fatigue and working memory of office workers

Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of corrective exercise intervention (corrective exercise reminding and training software) on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), fatigue, posture and working memory among office workers. Methods: A total of 66 office workers participated in the present study. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires (including the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, multidimensional fatigue inventory and Borg rating scale), direct observations of work postures using rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) and rapid office strain assessment, and the n-back test. Results: There was a significant difference between the two groups (intervention and control) in terms of the severity of musculoskeletal discomfort after the intervention. There was a significant decrease in the mean score of trunk posture and the total RULA score in the intervention group after the intervention. The severity of perceived discomfort in all areas except the knee declined during the intervention. There was also a significant difference in physical and mental fatigue scores before and after the intervention. There was a significant difference in the accuracy score of office workers after the intervention compared to before the intervention. Conclusions: Overall, the results confirm the effectiveness of this low-cost, simple and easy-to-use ergonomic intervention.

The mitochondrial quality control system: a new target for exercise therapeutic intervention in the treatment of brain insulin resistance-induced neurodegeneration in obesity

Obesity is a major global health concern because of its strong association with metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases such as diabetes, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Unfortunately, brain insulin resistance in obesity is likely to lead to neuroplasticity deficits. Since the evidence shows that insulin resistance in brain regions abundant in insulin receptors significantly alters mitochondrial efficiency and function, strategies targeting the mitochondrial quality control system may be of therapeutic and practical value in obesity-induced cognitive decline. Exercise is considered as a powerful stimulant of mitochondria that improves insulin sensitivity and enhances neuroplasticity. It has great potential as a non-pharmacological intervention against the onset and progression of obesity associated neurodegeneration. Here, we integrate the current knowledge of the mechanisms of neurodegenration in obesity and focus on brain insulin resistance to explain the relationship between the impairment of neuronal plasticity and mitochondrial dysfunction. This knowledge was synthesised to explore the exercise paradigm as a feasible intervention for obese neurodegenration in terms of improving brain insulin signals and regulating the mitochondrial quality control system.

Effects of exercise interventions on negative emotions, cognitive performance and drug craving in methamphetamine addiction

Introduction

Methamphetamine is currently one of the most commonly used addictive substances with strong addiction and a high relapse rate. This systematic review aims to examine the effectiveness of physical activity in improving negative emotions, cognitive impairment, and drug craving in people with methamphetamine use disorder (MUD).

Methods

A total of 17 studies out of 133 found from Embase and PubMed were identified, reporting results from 1836 participants from MUD populations. Original research using clearly described physical activity as interventions and reporting quantifiable outcomes of negative mood, cognitive function and drug craving level in people with MUD were eligible for inclusion. We included prospective studies, randomized controlled trials, or intervention studies, focusing on the neurological effects of physical activity on MUD.

Results

Taken together, the available clinical evidence showed that physical activity-based interventions may be effective in managing MUD-related withdrawal symptoms.

Discussion

Physical exercise may improve drug rehabilitation efficiency by improving negative emotions, cognitive behaviors, and drug cravings.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024530359.

Interactions between physical exercise, associative memory, and genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease

The ε4 allele of the APOE gene heightens the risk of late onset Alzheimer's disease. ε4 carriers, may exhibit cognitive and neural changes early on. Given the known memory-enhancing effects of physical exercise, particularly through hippocampal plasticity via endocannabinoid signaling, here we aimed to test whether a single session of physical exercise may benefit memory and underlying neurophysiological processes in young ε3 carriers (ε3/ε4 heterozygotes, risk group) compared with a matched control group (homozygotes for ε3). Participants underwent fMRI while learning picture sequences, followed by cycling or rest before a memory test. Blood samples measured endocannabinoid levels. At the behavioral level, the risk group exhibited poorer associative memory performance, regardless of the exercising condition. At the brain level, the risk group showed increased medial temporal lobe activity during memory retrieval irrespective of exercise (suggesting neural compensatory effects even at baseline), whereas, in the control group, such increase was only detectable after physical exercise. Critically, an exercise-related endocannabinoid increase correlated with task-related hippocampal activation in the control group only. In conclusion, healthy young individuals carrying the ε4 allele may present suboptimal associative memory performance (when compared with homozygote ε3 carriers), together with reduced plasticity (and functional over-compensation) within medial temporal structures.

Sports promote brain evolution: a resting-state fMRI study of volleyball athlete

Background

Long-term skill learning can lead to structure and function changes in the brain. Different sports can trigger neuroplasticity in distinct brain regions. Volleyball, as one of the most popular team sports, heavily relies on individual abilities such as perception and prediction for high-level athletes to excel. However, the specific brain mechanisms that contribute to the superior performance of volleyball athletes compared to non-athletes remain unclear.

Method

We conducted a study involving the recruitment of ten female volleyball athletes and ten regular female college students, forming the athlete and novice groups, respectively. Comprehensive behavioral assessments, including Functional Movement Screen and audio-visual reaction time tests, were administered to both groups. Additionally, resting-state magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were acquired for both groups. Subsequently, we conducted in-depth analyses, focusing on the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and functional connectivity (FC) in the brain for both the athlete and novice groups.

Results

No significant differences were observed in the behavioral data between the two groups. However, the athlete group exhibited noteworthy enhancements in both the ALFF and ReHo within the visual cortex compared to the novice group. Moreover, the functional connectivity between the visual cortex and key brain regions, including the left primary sensory cortex, left supplementary motor cortex, right insula, left superior temporal gyrus, and left inferior parietal lobule, was notably stronger in the athlete group than in the novice group.

Conclusion

This study has unveiled the remarkable impact of volleyball athletes on various brain functions related to vision, movement, and cognition. It indicates that volleyball, as a team-based competitive activity, fosters the advancement of visual, cognitive, and motor skills. These findings lend additional support to the early cultivation of sports talents and the comprehensive development of adolescents. Furthermore, they offer fresh perspectives on preventing and treating movement-related disorders.

Trial registration

Registration number: ChiCTR2400079602. Date of Registration: January 8, 2024.

The research progress of perioperative non-pharmacological interventions on postoperative cognitive dysfunction: a narrative review

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common neurological complication in elderly patients after surgery and general anesthesia. The occurrence of POCD seriously affects the postoperative recovery of patients, and leads to prolonged hospital stay, reduced quality of life, increased medical costs, and even higher mortality. There is no definite and effective drug treatment for POCD. More evidence shows that perioperative non-pharmacological intervention can improve postoperative cognitive function and reduce the incidence of POCD. Therefore, our studies summarize the current non-pharmacological interventions of POCD from the aspects of cognitive training, physical activity, transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation, noninvasive brain stimulation, non-pharmacological sleep improvement, music therapy, environment, and multimodal combination Interventions, to provide more data for clinical application and research.

Effects of square dance exercise on cognitive function in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment: the mediating role of balance ability and executive function

BACKGROUND

Square dancing is a kind of aerobic fitness exercise without environmental restrictions that yields many benefits for physical and mental health; this exercise is popular among middle-aged and elderly people in China and in these populations in other countries. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of square dance exercise on the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to research its mechanisms.

METHODS

A total of 60 elderly people with MCI (60-69 years old) without square dance experience were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). The experimental group participated in square dance exercise for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their original lifestyle habits. One week before and after the intervention period, the overall cognitive function, physical fitness, and executive function of both groups were measured.

RESULTS

According to the results, square dance exercise directly improved the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with MCI and indirectly affected overall cognitive function through the mediating effects of balance ability and executive function.

CONCLUSIONS

Square dance exercise represents a nonpharmacological intervention for the prevention and treatment of MCI. Importantly, it is best to combine this exercise with other forms of physical exercise and comprehensive treatment programs such as cognitive training, social interaction, and psychological intervention to realize its maximum effect.

Physical Activity and Cognitive Functioning

Neuroscience applied to motor activity is a growing area that aims to understand the effects of motor activity on the structures and functions of the Central Nervous System. Attention has been paid to this multidisciplinary field of investigation by the scientific community both because it is of great importance in the treatment of many chronic diseases and because of its potential applications in the Movement Sciences. Motor activity during a developmental age is, in fact, an indispensable tool for the physical and mental growth of children, both able-bodied and disabled. Through movement, individuals can improve their physical efficiency and promote their own better health, establish relationships with the environment and others, express themselves and their emotions, form their identity and develop cognitive processes. This literature review aims, therefore, to highlight how an adequate practice of motor activity offers extraordinary possibilities for everyone in relation to learning, from the perspective of an integral development of the person, and, consequently, can raise the awareness of those involved in the training and growth, especially the youngest, towards the educational value of motor and sports activities. According to this review, and in line with the modern neuroscientific approach toward the relationships between motor activities and cognitive functions, it is possible to claim that hypokinesia tends to inhibit learning. Therefore, it now seems more topical than ever to draw attention to the need to introduce working proposals that integrate brain-based motor activity programs into the school curriculum.

Voluntary exercise during puberty promotes spatial memory and hippocampal DG/CA3 synaptic transmission in mice

Physical exercise has been shown to have an impact on memory and hippocampal function across different age groups. Nevertheless, the influence and mechanisms underlying how voluntary exercise during puberty affects memory are still inadequately comprehended. This research aims to examine the impacts of self-initiated physical activity throughout adolescence on spatial memory. Developing mice were exposed to a 4-wk voluntary wheel running exercise protocol, commencing at the age of 30 d. After engaging in voluntary wheel running exercise during development, there was an enhancement in spatial memory. Moreover, hippocampal dentate gyrus and CA3 neurons rather than CA1 neurons exhibited an increase in the miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents and miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents. In addition, there was an increase in the expression of NR2A/NR2B subunits of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and α1GABAA subunit of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors, as well as dendritic spine density, specifically within dentate gyrus and CA3 regions rather than CA1 region. The findings suggest that voluntary exercise during development can enhance spatial memory in mice by increasing synapse numbers and improving synaptic transmission in hippocampal dentate gyrus and CA3 regions, but not in CA1 region. This study sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying how early-life exercise improves cognitive function.

Treadmill Exercise Reverses the Adverse Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Behavior and Cortical Spreading Depression in Young Rats

Intermittent fasting (IF) and physical exercise (PE) have beneficial psychological and physiological effects, improving memory and anxiety-like behavior. However, the impact of this combination on brain electrophysiological patterns is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the behavior and parameters of a brain excitability-related phenomenon named cortical spreading depression (CSD) in young rats (31-87 days of life) submitted to IF and treadmill PE for eight weeks. Sixty-four male and female Wistar rats aged 24 days were randomized into control, IF, PE, and IF+PE groups. Behavioral tests (open field (OF), object recognition, and elevated plus maze (EPM)) were performed, and the CSD propagation features were recorded. IF caused behavioral responses indicative of anxiety (lower number of entries and time spent in the OF center and EPM open arms). IF also reduced the discrimination index for object recognition memory tests and increased the propagation velocity of CSD. PE rats displayed more entries into the OF center and lowered CSD propagation speed. Data suggest that IF worsens anxiety-like behavior and memory and accelerates CSD in young rats. In contrast, PE reverted the unfavorable effects of IF. The brain effects of IF and PE at younger ages are recommended for study.

Risk Polymorphisms of FNDC5, BDNF, and NTRK2 and Poor Education Interact and Aggravate Age-Related Cognitive Decline

Cognitive abilities tend to decline with aging, with variation between individuals, and many studies seek to identify genetic biomarkers that more accurately anticipate risks related to pathological aging. We investigated the influence of BDNF, NTRK2, and FNDC5 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the cognitive performance of young and older adults with contrasting educational backgrounds. We addressed three questions: (1) Is education associated with reduced age-related cognitive decline? (2) Does the presence of SNPs explain the variation in cognitive performance observed late in life? (3) Is education differentially associated with cognition based on the presence of BDNF, NTRK2, or FNDC5 polymorphisms? We measured the cognitive functions of young and older participants, with lower and higher education, using specific and sensitive tests of the Cambridge Automated Neuropsychological Test Assessment Battery. A three-way ANOVA revealed that SNPs were associated with differential performances in executive functions, episodic memory, sustained attention, mental and motor response speed, and visual recognition memory and that higher educational levels improved the affected cognitive functions. The results revealed that distinct SNPs affect cognition late in life differentially, suggesting their utility as potential biomarkers and emphasizing the importance of cognitive stimulation that advanced education early in life provides.

Major Depressive Disorder and Gut Microbiota: Role of Physical Exercise

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has a high prevalence and is a major contributor to the global burden of disease. This psychiatric disorder results from a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors. In recent years, the role of the gut microbiota in brain health has received particular attention, and compelling evidence has shown that patients suffering from depression have gut dysbiosis. Several studies have reported that gut dysbiosis-induced inflammation may cause and/or contribute to the development of depression through dysregulation of the gut-brain axis. Indeed, as a consequence of gut dysbiosis, neuroinflammatory alterations caused by microglial activation together with impairments in neuroplasticity may contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. The modulation of the gut microbiota has been recognized as a potential therapeutic strategy for the management of MMD. In this regard, physical exercise has been shown to positively change microbiota composition and diversity, and this can underlie, at least in part, its antidepressant effects. Given this, the present review will explore the relationship between physical exercise, gut microbiota and depression, with an emphasis on the potential of physical exercise as a non-invasive strategy for modulating the gut microbiota and, through this, regulating the gut-brain axis and alleviating MDD-related symptoms.

Endurance Exercise Training Attenuates the Waterpipe Smoke Inhaling-Induced Learning and Memory Impairment in Rats: Role of Neurotrophic Factors and Apoptotic System

INTRODUCTION

The increasing prevalence of waterpipe tobacco smoking (WTS) and its detrimental effects on memory function have been reported. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of moderate-intensity endurance exercise on the detrimental effects of WTS on learning and spatial memory in rats.

AIMS AND METHODS

Animals were divided into the Control group (CTL), the exercise group (Ex) which trained for 8 weeks, the WTS group (Wp) exposed to smoke inhalation (30 minutes per day, 5 days each week, and for 8 weeks), and the group that did exercise training and received waterpipe smoke together (Ex + Wp). Thereafter, learning and spatial memory were assessed by the Morris water maze test and hippocampal molecular measurements were done.

RESULTS

Waterpipe smoke significantly impaired learning and spatial memory, decreased expression of neurotrophic factors IGF-1 and BDNF (p < .01 and p < .05 vs. CTL group, respectively), increased BAX to BCL-2 ratio (p < .001 vs. CTL group) in hippocampal tissue, and increased the percent of damaged neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area (p < .05 vs. CTL group). Combination of exercise training with WTS prevented learning and spatial memory disturbances and recovered expression of neurotrophic factors IGF-1 (p < .05 vs. Wp group), decreased BAX to BCL-2 ratio (p < .001 vs. Wp group), and reduced percentage of damaged neurons (p < .05 vs. Wp group).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that moderate-intensity endurance exercise training can ameliorate learning and memory impairment caused by waterpipe smoke in rats. This effect partly results from increasing the expression of neurotrophic factors BDNF and IGF-1 and correcting pro/anti-apoptotic proteins balance in the hippocampal tissue.

IMPLICATIONS

The popularity of WTS especially among youth is increasing. We assessed the effect of hookah smoke with/without exercise on learning and memory. Hookah smoke leads to CA1-neural injury and impairs learning and memory in rats. A combination of exercise training with hookah smoke attenuates these complications. This positive effect of exercise is partially mediated by the balancing of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and also the BAX to BCL-2 ratio, a significant predictor of cell susceptibility to apoptosis. Extrapolation of these positive findings to humans needs complementary studies.

Middle cerebral artery blood velocity and cognitive function after high- and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise sessions

This crossover study explored the acute effect of a session of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on middle cerebral artery (MCA) variables such as cerebral blood velocity, pulsatility index (PI) and resistivity index (RI) through transcranial Doppler (TCD), and cognitive function (CF - verbal fluency and Digit Span) in healthy young adults. Participants (26 healthy young adults, 13 women, 24 ± 3 years) underwent two different randomized exercise sessions: (1) MICT (60 % heart rate reserve, HRR) and (2) HIIT (80 % HRR). MCA velocity, PI, RI, CF, and serum lactate were measured immediately before and after the sessions. HIIT demonstrated improved executive function/semantic fluency (20 %, p = 0.019), while both MICT and HIIT increased lactate (625 %, HIIT, p < 0.001, and 238 %, MICT, p < 0.001). Other assessments remained stable, except for reduced PI (p = 0.029) and RI (p = 0.023) after MICT, with no significant difference (pre-post for HIIT-MICT). Notably, cognition improvement correlated with lactate increase in HIIT (ρ = 0.436; p < 0.001). Executive function/semantic fluency increased after HIIT relative to MICT. The findings show that there are no systematic out-of-normal changes in the cerebrovascular circulation of clinically healthy adults undergoing HIIT and MICT.

Goal-directed and habitual control: from circuits and functions to exercise-induced neuroplasticity targets for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor and cognitive impairments. The progressive depletion of dopamine (DA) is the pathological basis of dysfunctional goal-directed and habitual control circuits in the basal ganglia. Exercise-induced neuroplasticity could delay disease progression by improving motor and cognitive performance in patients with PD. This paper reviews the research progress on the motor-cognitive basal ganglia circuit and summarizes the current hypotheses for explaining exercise intervention on rehabilitation in PD. Studies on exercise mediated mechanisms will contribute to the understanding of networks that regulate goal-directed and habitual behaviors and deficits in PD, facilitating the development of strategies for treatment of PD.