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Martini M, Arias N. Disentangling the effects of near-infrared light stimulation and exercise on cognitive function in fNIRS studies. Neuroimage 2024; 292:120615. [PMID: 38631617 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) studies often aim to measure changes in the brain's hemodynamic response in relation to a specific intervention. We recently showed how a fNIRS device could induce photobiomodulatory effects on cognition by using its near-infrared (NIR) light. However, so far, fNIRS research has overlooked the stimulatory potential intrinsic to this technique. The work by Kuwamizu et al. (2023) on pupil dynamics during exercise is no exception. Here, we suggest a fix to their experimental design, which could be taken into account in other fNIRS studies, to guarantee an adequate level of control for possible unconsidered photobiomodulatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Martini
- Department of Humanities, Letters, Cultural Heritage and Educational Studies, via Arpi, Foggia 71121, Italy.
| | - Natalia Arias
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Psychology and Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), Oviedo 33005, Spain; Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo 33011, Spain; BRABE Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University of Nebrija, C/del Hostal, Madrid 28248, Spain
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Zhong X, Wang C, Xu M, Yuan X, Jiang C. Physical training improves inhibitory control in children aged 7-12 years: An fNIRS study. Behav Brain Res 2024; 463:114902. [PMID: 38341102 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Physical exercise plays a crucial role in the development of cognition and brain functions in children. Inhibitory control is an advanced cognition that affects children's life and learning. In the current study, the relationship between physical training and inhibitory control was explored. In total, 80 children were randomly but equally assigned to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent physical training (volleyball) for 60 min, thrice a week for 12 weeks. In contrast, the control group did not undergo any training and continued with their daily routines. The flanker task and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) were employed to investigate the effects of 12-week physical training on inhibitory control and changes in the oxy-Hb concentration in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during the task. The behavioral results revealed that the experimental group performed better on the flanker task (e.g., shorter response time [F(1,74) = 18.420, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.199] and higher accuracy [F(1,74) = 15.00, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.169] than the control group. The oxy-Hb concentration in the right dorsolateral PFC (R-DLPFC) was higher and the activation level of this region was higher during the flanker task [F(1,74) = 6.216, p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.077]. Moreover, the McNemar test revealed improved cognitive performance in response time or accuracy and R-DLPFC activation induced by physical exercise coincided significantly (χ2 = 5.49, p < 0.05; χ2 = 6.081, p < 0.05). These findings suggest that the R-DLPFC is likely the neural substrate for improved cognitive performance elicited by 12-week physical training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Zhong
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Mingchao Xu
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaoxia Yuan
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Changhao Jiang
- The Center of Neuroscience and Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100089, China.
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Xiao R, Xu P, Liang XL, Zou Z, Zhong JG, Xiang MQ, Hou XH. Effects of the special olympics unified sports soccer training program on executive function in adolescents with intellectual disabilities. J Exerc Sci Fit 2024; 22:103-110. [PMID: 38268818 PMCID: PMC10806089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jesf.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rang Xiao
- Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Educational Psychology, School of Leisure Sports and Management, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Lian Liang
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Zou
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiu-Gen Zhong
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qiang Xiang
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Hou
- Department of Sports and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Claußen L, Heidelbach T. Resistance exercising on unstable surface leads to Pupil Dilation. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:62. [PMID: 38439063 PMCID: PMC10913668 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00858-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic resistance training and acute resistance exercises improve physical performance and can enhance cognitive performance. However, there is still uncertainty about the mechanism(s) responsible for cognitive improvement following resistance training and exercise. Recent findings suggest that resistance exercise has metabolic as well as cognitive demands, which potentially activate similar neural circuitry associated with higher-order cognitive function tasks. Exercising on unstable devices increases the coordinative and metabolic demands and thus may further increase cognitive activation during resistance exercise. The measurement of pupil diameter could provide indications of cognitive activation and arousal during resistance exercise. Pupil dilation is linked to the activity in multiple neuromodulatory systems (e.g., activation of the locus coeruleus and the release of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (LC-NE system)), which are involved in supporting processes for executive control. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the cognitive activation measured by pupil diameter during an acute bout of resistance exercise on stable and unstable surfaces. METHODS 18 participants (23.5 ± 1.5 years; 10 females) performed ten kettlebell squats in a preferred repetition velocity in stable and unstable (BOSU® Balance Trainer) ground conditions. Pupil diameter was recorded with eye tracking glasses (SMI ETG) during standing (baseline) and during squatting. Raw pupil data were cleaned of artifacts (missing values were linearly interpolated) and subjected to a subtractive baseline correction. A student t-test was used to compare mean pupil diameter between ground conditions. RESULTS The mean pupil diameter was significantly greater during squats in the unstable condition than in the stable condition, t (17) = -2.63, p =.018, Cohen's dZ = -0.62; stable: 0.49 ± 0.32 mm; unstable: 0.61 ± 0.25 mm). CONCLUSION As indicated by pupil dilation, the use of unstable devices can increase the cognitive activation and effort during acute bouts of resistance exercise. Since pupil dilation is only an indirect method, further investigations are necessary to describe causes and effects of neuromodulatory system activity during resistance exercise. Resistance training with and without surface instability can be recommended to people of all ages as a physically and cognitively challenging training program contributing to the preservation of both physical and cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Claußen
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Tabea Heidelbach
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
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Tse AC, Liu VH, Lee PH, Anderson DI, Lakes KD. The relationships among executive functions, self-regulation, and physical exercise in children with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:327-341. [PMID: 37161786 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231168944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT This study examined the impacts of two types of physical exercises (two-wheel cycling vs stationary cycling) on cognition and self-regulation among 64 children with autism spectrum disorder. It also explored the role of social, emotional, and physical needs of an individual in the relationship between exercise, cognition, and self-regulation. Results showed that participants in the two-wheel cycling group showed significant improvements in their cognition and that the two exercise groups also enhanced their self-regulation. Moreover, this study also revealed that the social need is crucial in mediating the relationship between exercise and self-regulation. This study strengthens the notion that cognitively engaging exercise is more beneficial than the non-cognitively engaging exercise in enhancing cognition in children with autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Cy Tse
- The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Venus Hl Liu
- The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Wall J, Xie H, Wang X. Temporal Interactions between Maintenance of Cerebral Cortex Thickness and Physical Activity from an Individual Person Micro-Longitudinal Perspective and Implications for Precision Medicine. J Pers Med 2024; 14:127. [PMID: 38392561 PMCID: PMC10890462 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of brain structure is essential for neurocognitive health. Precision medicine has interests in understanding how maintenance of an individual person's brain, including cerebral cortical structure, interacts with lifestyle factors like physical activity. Cortical structure, including cortical thickness, has recognized relationships with physical activity, but concepts of these relationships come from group, not individual, focused findings. Whether or how group-focused concepts apply to an individual person is fundamental to precision medicine interests but remains unclear. This issue was studied in a healthy man using concurrent micro-longitudinal tracking of magnetic resonance imaging-defined cortical thickness and accelerometer-defined steps/day over six months. These data permitted detailed examination of temporal relationships between thickness maintenance and physical activity at an individual level. Regression analyses revealed graded significant and trend-level temporal interactions between preceding activity vs. subsequent thickness maintenance and between preceding thickness maintenance vs. subsequent activity. Interactions were bidirectional, delayed/prolonged over days/weeks, positive, bilateral, directionally asymmetric, and limited in strength. These novel individual-focused findings in some ways are predicted, but in other ways remain unaddressed or undetected, by group-focused work. We suggest that individual-focused concepts of temporal interactions between maintenance of cortical structure and activity can provide needed new insight for personalized tailoring of physical activity, cortical, and neurocognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Wall
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
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O'Callaghan L, Foweather L, Crotti M, Oppici L, Pesce C, Boddy L, Fitton Davies K, Rudd J. Associations of physical activity dose and movement quality with executive functions in socioeconomically disadvantaged children aged 5-6 years. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2024; 70:102546. [PMID: 37858876 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing up in areas of high deprivation can negatively impact children's movement behaviours and cognitive development. Enhancing the quantity and quality of children's movement experiences is believed to enhance cognitive development. This study investigated the association of three different modes of movement assessment, movement proficiency and divergent movement ability (collectively understood as motor competence) and PA dose with executive function in a low socio-economic demographic. Demographics, motor competence, and a combination of motor competence and physical activity were hypothesized to be significantly predictor of executive functions. METHOD In this cross-sectional study, 360 children aged 5-6 years from deprived areas were assessed using three movement assessments: wrist-worn accelerometery for physical activity dose, Test of Gross Motor Development-3 for movement proficiency, and divergent movement assessment. Executive function, including inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, was measured using the NIH Toolbox on an iPad. Multiple linear regression models were designed to evaluate the independent and combined association of demographics, movement competence and physical activity variables with executive function. RESULTS The regression analysis, with demographic factors only, explained 12% of EF variance (r2 = 0.12 95%CI 0.06-0.18). In addition to this demographics the model with divergent movement explained 19% of EF variance (r2 = 0.19 95% CI = 0.12-0.28), the model with movement proficiency explained 16% of EF variance (r2 = 0.16 95% CI = 0.08-0.26) and the model with PA dose explained 13% of EF variance (r2 = 0.13 95% CI = 0.07-0.20). In these models both divergent movement and proficiency were significant predictors, whilst physical activity variables were not. The final models, combining motor competence and physical activity variables, explained 24% and 23% of EF variance (r2 = 0.24 CI = 0.14-0.33 and r2 = 0.23 CI = 0.14-0.32). In these models, motor competence variables were significant predictors, and only vigorous physical activity and Euclidean Norm Minus One emerged as significant PA dose predictors. DISCUSSION These findings emphasise that motor competence and physical activity variables better predict executive functions when they are combined. When considered individually both motor competence variables were significant predictors of executive function whilst physical activity variables were not. Importantly, among the two movement competence facets, divergent movement assessment exhibited the strongest association with executive function. Future interventions should consider how to facilitate both movement and cognitive development in children. Future interventions should consider both the interplay of movement quality and quantity and the importance of environments that invite children's exploratory movement behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Callaghan
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Lawrence Foweather
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Matteo Crotti
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Luca Oppici
- Department of Teacher Education and Outdoor Studies, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lynne Boddy
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Katie Fitton Davies
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - James Rudd
- Department of Teacher Education and Outdoor Studies, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway; Department of Sport, Food and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Education, Arts and Sports, Western Norway University of Applies Sciences, Sogndal, Norway.
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Robinson K, Riley N, Owen K, Drew R, Mavilidi MF, Hillman CH, Faigenbaum AD, Garcia-Hermoso A, Lubans DR. Effects of Resistance Training on Academic Outcomes in School-Aged Youth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Med 2023; 53:2095-2109. [PMID: 37466900 PMCID: PMC10587249 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01881-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effect of resistance training on academic outcomes in school-aged youth. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of six electronic databases (CINAHL Complete, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, Ovid MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus and EMBASE) with no date restrictions. Studies were eligible if they: (a) included school-aged youth (5-18 years), and (b) examined the effect of resistance training on academic outcomes (i.e., cognitive function, academic achievement, and/or on-task behaviour in the classroom). Risk of bias was assessed using the appropriate Cochrane Risk of Bias Tools, funnel plots and Egger's regression asymmetry tests. A structural equation modelling approach was used to conduct the meta-analysis. RESULTS Fifty-three studies were included in our systematic review. Participation in resistance training (ten studies with 53 effect sizes) had a small positive effect on the overall cognitive, academic and on-task behaviours in school-aged youth (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.05-0.32). Resistance training was more effective (SMD 0.26, 95% CI 0.10-0.42) than concurrent training, i.e., the combination of resistance training and aerobic training (SMD 0.11, 95% CI - 0.05-0.28). An additional 43 studies (including 211 effect sizes) examined the association between muscular fitness and cognition or academic achievement, also yielding a positive relationship (SMD 0.13, 95% CI 0.10-0.16). CONCLUSION This review provides preliminary evidence that resistance training may improve cognitive function, academic performance, and on-task behaviours in school-aged youth. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42020175695.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Robinson
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas Riley
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine Owen
- Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan Drew
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Myrto F Mavilidi
- School of Education/Early Start, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), Keiraville, Australia
| | - Charles H Hillman
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy, Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Avery D Faigenbaum
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ, 08628, USA
| | - Antonio Garcia-Hermoso
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - David Revalds Lubans
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
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Eng CM, Flynn RM, Thiessen ED, Fisher AV. A Literature Review on the Effects of Exergames on Executive Function in Youth. TECHNOLOGY, MIND, AND BEHAVIOR 2023; 4:10.1037/tmb0000118. [PMID: 38162378 PMCID: PMC10756422 DOI: 10.1037/tmb0000118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Exergames (video games that promote cognitive and physical activity simultaneously) benefit executive function in elderly populations. It has been suggested that exergames may induce larger effects than cognitive or exercise training alone, but few reviews have synthesized the causal factors of exergames on executive function from experimental research with youth. This review investigates (1) the various types of exergames and associated comparison conditions (2) the executive function outcome assessments commonly utilized in exergame research with youth (3) the efficacy of exergames by evaluating experimental studies that compared exergaming to cognitive, exercise, and passive control conditions inclusive of effect sizes and (4) the potential mechanisms underlying the changes in executive function induced from exergames. Eligible outcome data were available from 607 participants across ten studies, with the age of participants ranging from 4-21 (M age = 10.46 ). The findings indicate that exergames improve aspects of executive function from both acute and chronic studies. Despite the high variability of exergame contexts, dosage, populations, and outcome assessments, improvements in executive function comparing exergaming to passive control conditions were exhibited across all studies. While there is evidence of exergaming demonstrating advantages over passive control conditions, evidence is mixed when comparing exergaming to sedentary cognitive and exercise comparison conditions. Potential sources of these mixed results and future directions to address current gaps in the field are identified. As video game and technology use grows exponentially and concerns of childhood sedentary behavior and play deprivation increase, evidence-based practices that promote both physical and cognitive activity are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra M Eng
- Stanford University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- Carnegie Mellon University, Department of Psychology
| | - Rachel M Flynn
- San Francisco State University, Department of Child and Adolescent Development
| | | | - Anna V Fisher
- Carnegie Mellon University, Department of Psychology
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Hammami A, Kasmi S, Ben Saad H, Bouhlel E, Krustrup P, Chamari K. It Is Time to Play: Acute Effects of Soccer and Sprint Exercise on Attentional Performance, Mood, and Enjoyment in Untrained Male Adolescents. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231209202. [PMID: 37905710 PMCID: PMC10619353 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231209202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the effects of an acute bout of small-sided soccer game (SSG) and sprint exercise on attention, mood, and enjoyment in untrained adolescent boys. Eighteen adolescent boys aged 13-15 years participated in a counterbalanced order intervention: 1-No-training control condition (CONTROL), 2-SSG (SOCCER), and 3-Repeated sprint (SPRINT) sessions. Before and after the sessions, all participants completed the revised d2-test of attention and a mood assessment (i.e., Brunel mood scale [BRUMS]). Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and perceived enjoyment (i.e., physical activity enjoyment scale) were evaluated after each session. A 3 × 2 repeated measures analysis of variance with contrast-coded test was used to analyze the data. Attentional test performance increased from pre- to post-exercise intervention for both SOCCER and SPRINT (main effect of Phase, F = 40.81, p < .001, ηp2 = 0.48), compared with the CONTROL. BRUMS scores did not change for any of the interventions. RPE was significantly lower after SOCCER compared with SPRINT (t = 3.05 [3.20-7.18], p < .001, ηp2 = 0.46). SOCCER was perceived to be significantly more enjoyable compared with SPRINT (p = .03) and CONTROL (p < .001). To conclude, an acute bout of exercise based on SOCCER or SPRINT exercise was beneficial for adolescent boys' attention, with significantly better enjoyment reported after the SOCCER session, whereas we did not observe any mood effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amri Hammami
- Tunisian Research Laboratory “Sport Performance Optimization,” National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sofien Kasmi
- Tunisian Research Laboratory “Sport Performance Optimization,” National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- Laboratoire de Recherche (Insuffisance Cardiaque, LR12SP09), Hôpital Farhat Hached, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ezdine Bouhlel
- Laboratoire de Physiologie de l’exercice et Physiopathologie, de L’intégré au Moléculaire “Biologie, Médecine, Santé,” Faculty of Medicine Ibn El Jazzar, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Peter Krustrup
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, SDU Sport and Health Sciences Cluster (SHSC), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Danish Institute for Advanced Study (DIAS), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karim Chamari
- Aspetar, Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, FIFA Medical Center of Excellence, Doha, Qatar
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Lacerenza M, Frabasile L, Buttafava M, Spinelli L, Bassani E, Micheloni F, Amendola C, Torricelli A, Contini D. Motor cortex hemodynamic response to goal-oriented and non-goal-oriented tasks in healthy subjects. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1202705. [PMID: 37539388 PMCID: PMC10394236 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1202705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Motor disorders are one of the world's major scourges, and neuromotor rehabilitation is paramount for prevention and monitoring plans. In this scenario, exercises and motor tasks to be performed by patients are crucial to follow and assess treatments' progression and efficacy. Nowadays, in clinical environments, quantitative assessment of motor cortex activities during task execution is rare, due to the bulkiness of instrumentation and the need for immobility during measurements [e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)]. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can contribute to a better understanding of how neuromotor processes work by measuring motor cortex activity non-invasively in freely moving subjects. Aim Exploit fNIRS to measure functional activation of the motor cortex area during arm-raising actions. Design All subjects performed three different upper limbs motor tasks: arm raising (non-goal-oriented), arm raising and grasping (goal oriented), and assisted arm raising (passive task). Each task was repeated ten times. The block design for each task was divided into 5 seconds of baseline, 5 seconds of activity, and 15 seconds of recovery. Population Sixteen healthy subjects (11 males and 5 females) with an average (+/- standard deviation) of 37.9 (+/- 13.0) years old. Methods Cerebral hemodynamic responses have been recorded in two locations, motor cortex (activation area) and prefrontal cortex (control location) exploiting commercial time-domain fNIRS devices. Haemodynamic signals were analyzed, separating the brain cortex hemodynamic response from extracerebral hemodynamic variations. Results The hemodynamic response was recorded in the cortical motor area for goal-oriented and not-goaloriented tasks, while no response was noticed in the control location (prefrontal cortex position). Conclusions This study provides a basis for canonical upper limb motor cortex activations that can be potentially compared to pathological cerebral responses in patients. It also highlights the potential use of TD-fNIRS to study goal-oriented versus non-goaloriented motor tasks. Impact: the findings of this study may have implications for clinical rehabilitation by providing a better understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying goal-oriented versus non-goal-oriented motor tasks. This may lead to more effective rehabilitation strategies for individuals with motor disorders and a more effective diagnosis of motor dysfunction supported by objective and quantitative neurophysiological readings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Lacerenza
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
- PIONIRS s.r.l., Milano, Italy
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Spinelli
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa Bassani
- Scuola Universitaria Professionale della Svizzera Italiana, Manno, Switzerland
- Centro Studi Riabilitazione Neurologica, Neuropsicologia e Neuropsicoterapia, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Micheloni
- Centro Studi Riabilitazione Neurologica, Neuropsicologia e Neuropsicoterapia, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Torricelli
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Contini
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Nath K, Ferguson I, Puleio A, Wall K, Stark J, Clark S, Story C, Cohen B, Anderson-Hanley C. Brain Health Indicators Following Acute Neuro-Exergaming: Biomarker and Cognition in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) after Pedal-n-Play (iPACES). Brain Sci 2023; 13:844. [PMID: 37371324 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Facing an unrelenting rise in dementia cases worldwide, researchers are exploring non-pharmacological ways to ameliorate cognitive decline in later life. Twenty older adults completed assessments before and after a single bout of interactive physical and cognitive exercise, by playing a neuro-exergame that required pedaling and steering to control progress in a tablet-based video game tailored to impact executive function (the interactive Physical and Cognitive Exercise System; iPACES v2). This study explored the cognitive and biomarker outcomes for participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and normative older adults after 20 min of pedal-to-play exercise. Neuropsychological and salivary assessments were performed pre- and post-exercise to assess the impact. Repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed significant interaction effects, with MCI participants experiencing greater changes in executive function and alpha-amylase levels than normative older adults; within-group changes were also significant. This study provides further data regarding cognitive effects and potential mechanisms of action for exercise as an intervention for MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartik Nath
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | | | - Alexa Puleio
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | - Kathryn Wall
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | - Jessica Stark
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | - Sean Clark
- Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Rd, Wenham, MA 01984, USA
| | - Craig Story
- Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Rd, Wenham, MA 01984, USA
| | - Brian Cohen
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | - Cay Anderson-Hanley
- Union College, 807 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
- iPACES LLC, 56 Clifton Country Road, Suite 104 (Box#11), Clifton Park, NY 12065, USA
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Ciria LF, Román-Caballero R, Vadillo MA, Holgado D, Luque-Casado A, Perakakis P, Sanabria D. An umbrella review of randomized control trials on the effects of physical exercise on cognition. Nat Hum Behav 2023:10.1038/s41562-023-01554-4. [PMID: 36973359 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01554-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Extensive research links regular physical exercise to an overall enhancement of cognitive function across the lifespan. Here we assess the causal evidence supporting this relationship in the healthy population, using an umbrella review of meta-analyses limited to randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Despite most of the 24 reviewed meta-analyses reporting a positive overall effect, our assessment reveals evidence of low statistical power in the primary RCTs, selective inclusion of studies, publication bias and large variation in combinations of pre-processing and analytic decisions. In addition, our meta-analysis of all the primary RCTs included in the revised meta-analyses shows small exercise-related benefits (d = 0.22, 95% confidence interval 0.16 to 0.28) that became substantially smaller after accounting for key moderators (that is, active control and baseline differences; d = 0.13, 95% confidence interval 0.07 to 0.20), and negligible after correcting for publication bias (d = 0.05, 95% confidence interval -0.09 to 0.14). These findings suggest caution in claims and recommendations linking regular physical exercise to cognitive benefits in the healthy human population until more reliable causal evidence accumulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Ciria
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Rafael Román-Caballero
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel A Vadillo
- Department of Basic Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Darias Holgado
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Quartier UNIL-Centre, Bâtiment Synathlon, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Pandelis Perakakis
- Department of Social, Work, and Differential Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Sanabria
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
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Pellegrino M, Ben-Soussan TD, Paoletti P. A Scoping Review on Movement, Neurobiology and Functional Deficits in Dyslexia: Suggestions for a Three-Fold Integrated Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3315. [PMID: 36834011 PMCID: PMC9966639 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Developmental dyslexia is a common complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Many theories and models tried to explain its symptomatology and find ways to improve poor reading abilities. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize current findings and several approaches and theories, focusing on the interconnectedness between motion, emotion and cognition and their connection to dyslexia. Consequently, we present first a brief overview of the main theories and models regarding dyslexia and its proposed neural correlates, with a particular focus on cerebellar regions and their involvement in this disorder. After examining different types of intervention programs and remedial training, we highlight the effects of a specific structured sensorimotor intervention named Quadrato Motor Training (QMT). QMT utilizes several cognitive and motor functions known to be relevant in developmental dyslexia. We introduce its potential beneficial effects on reading skills, including working memory, coordination and attention. We sum its effects ranging from behavioral to functional, structural and neuroplastic, especially in relation to dyslexia. We report several recent studies that employed this training technique with dyslexic participants, discussing the specific features that distinguish it from other training within the specific framework of the Sphere Model of Consciousness. Finally, we advocate for a new perspective on developmental dyslexia integrating motion, emotion and cognition to fully encompass this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Pellegrino
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation for Development and Communication, 06081 Assisi, Italy
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation for Development and Communication, 06081 Assisi, Italy
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15
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Liu J, Taneepanichskul S, Zhang B, Xenos P. The Effect of a Single Bout of Chinese Archery on Core Executive Functions in Preadolescent Children in Shanghai. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1415. [PMID: 36674178 PMCID: PMC9859288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent literature has demonstrated that acute physical activity benefits the transfer of executive functions. However, further studies indicated the type of variability in the effect of physical activity on executive functions. Therefore, this study initially explored the effect of a single bout of Chinese archery on subdomains of core EFs in preadolescent children; Method: Eligible participants were allocated either an intervention group (n = 36) or a control group (n = 36). The subjects in the intervention group received a 45-min Chinese archery session. The primary outcomes were the performance of core EFs (inhibition control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) in preadolescent children, assessed with psychological paradigms (Fish Flanker Task, N-Back Task, and DCCS (Border version), respectively). Paired t-test and ANCOVA were used to analyze the mean difference in the performance of core EFs within and between subjects, respectively; Results: Considering reaction time and accuracy, we explored the impressive performance in three cognitive tasks with acute Chinese archery; Conclusion: The finding suggests that a single bout of Chinese archery benefited three subdomains of core EFs in healthy preadolescent children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Liu
- School of Physical Education & Health, Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, Shanghai 201620, China
- College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | | | - Bo Zhang
- School of Physical Education & Health, Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Peter Xenos
- Capitol University Research and Extension Office (CUREXO), Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City 9000, Philippines
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16
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Jin P, Zhao ZQ, Zhu XF. The relationship between sport types, sex and visual attention as assessed in a multiple object tracking task. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1099254. [PMID: 36910748 PMCID: PMC9996032 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1099254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to examine differences in visual attention according to sports type and sex. In total, 132 participants [open-skill sport athletes (basketball players), closed-skill sport athletes (swimmers), and non-athletes; n = 22 men and 22 women each] aged 19-24 years performed a multiple object tracking (MOT) task, which is a well-established paradigm for the assessment of visual attention. Visual tracking accuracy was affected by the sport type (p < 0.001), being superior among basketball players than among swimmers and non-athletes, with no significant difference between the latter groups. It also varied by sex (p < 0.001), being superior among males than among females. Significant interaction between the sport type and sex was observed (p < 0.001), with male and female basketball players showing similar tracking accuracy. Our results demonstrate that open-skill sport activities strongly related to visual attention, as estimated by MOT task performance, and that sex plays a role in this performance. They also indicate that females might gain a greater visual attention advantage from open than from closed-skill sports participation, as long-term open-skill sports training appeared to minimize the sex difference in visual attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Jin
- Department of Physical Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Southeast University Research Institute of Sports Science, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Qi Zhao
- Department of Physical Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhu
- School of Elite Sport, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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17
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Meredith Weiss S, Marshall PJ. Anticipation across modalities in children and adults: Relating anticipatory alpha rhythm lateralization, reaction time, and executive function. Dev Sci 2023; 26:e13277. [PMID: 35616474 PMCID: PMC10078525 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The development of the ability to anticipate-as manifested by preparatory actions and neural activation related to the expectation of an upcoming stimulus-may play a key role in the ontogeny of cognitive skills more broadly. This preregistered study examined anticipatory brain potentials and behavioral responses (reaction time; RT) to anticipated target stimuli in relation to individual differences in the ability to use goals to direct action (as indexed by measures of executive function; EF). A cross-sectional investigation was conducted in 40 adults (aged 18-25 years) and 40 children (aged 6-8 years) to examine the association of changes in the amplitude of modality-specific alpha-range rhythms in the electroencephalogram (EEG) during anticipation of lateralized visual, tactile, or auditory stimuli with inter- and intraindividual variation in RT and EF. Children and adults exhibited contralateral anticipatory reductions in the mu rhythm and the visual alpha rhythm for tactile and visual anticipation, respectively, indicating modality and spatially specific attention allocation. Variability in within-subject anticipatory alpha lateralization (the difference between contralateral and ipsilateral alpha power) was related to single-trial RT. This relation was more prominent in adults than in children, and was not apparent for auditory stimuli. Multilevel models indicated that interindividual differences in anticipatory mu rhythm lateralization contributed to the significant association with variability in EF, but this was not the case for visual or auditory alpha rhythms. Exploratory microstate analyses were undertaken to cluster global field power (GFP) into a distribution-free temporal analysis examining developmental differences across samples and in relation to RT and EF. Anticipation is suggested as a developmental bridge construct connecting neuroscience, behavior, and cognition, with anticipatory EEG oscillations being discussed as quantifiable and potentially malleable indicators of stimulus prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staci Meredith Weiss
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter J Marshall
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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The effects of aerobic exercise and transcranial direct current stimulation on cognitive function in older adults with and without cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 81:101738. [PMID: 36162707 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aerobic exercise (AE) may slow age-related cognitive decline. However, such cognition-sparing effects are not uniform across cognitive domains and studies. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation and is also emerging as a potential alternative to pharmaceutical therapies. Like AE, the effectiveness of tDCS is also inconsistent for reducing cognitive impairment in ageing. The unexplored possibility exists that pairing AE and tDCS could produce synergistic effects and reciprocally augment cognition-improving effects in older individuals with and without cognitive impairments. Previous research found such synergistic effects on cognition when cognitive training is paired with tDCS in older individuals with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. AIM The purpose of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to explore if pairing AE with tDCS could augment singular effects of AE and tDCS on global cognition (GC), working memory (WM) and executive function (EF) in older individuals with or without MCI and dementia. METHODS Using a PRISMA-based systematic review, we compiled studies that examined the effects of AE alone, tDCS alone, and AE and tDCS combined on cognitive function in older individuals with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. Using a PICOS approach, we systematically searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science searches up to December 2021, we focused on 'MoCA', 'MMSE', 'Mini-Cog' (measures) and 'cognition', 'cognitive function', 'cognitive', 'cognitive performance', 'executive function', 'executive process', 'attention', 'memory', 'memory performance' (outcome terms). We included only randomized controlled trials (RTC) in humans if available in English full text over the past 20 years, with participants' age over 60. We assessed the methodological quality of the included studies (RTC) by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS Overall, 68 studies were included in the meta-analyses. AE (ES = 0.56 [95% CI: 0.28-0.83], p = 0.01) and tDCS (ES = 0.69 [95% CI: 0.12-1.26], p = 0.02) improved GC in all three groups of older adults combined (healthy, MCI, demented). In healthy population, AE improved GC (ES = 0.46 [95% CI: 0.22-0.69], p = 0.01) and EF (ES = 0.27 [95% CI: 0.05-0.49], p = 0.02). AE improved GC in older adults with MCI (ES = 0.76 [95% CI: 0.21-1.32], p = 0.01). tDCS improved GC (ES = 0.69 [90% CI: 0.12-1.26], p = 0.02), all three cognitive function (GC, WM and EF) combined in older adults with dementia (ES = 1.12 [95% CI: 0.04-2.19], p = 0.04) and improved cognitive function in older adults overall (ES = 0.69 [95% CI: 0.20-1,18], p = 0.01). CONCLUSION Our systematic review with meta-analysis provided evidence that beyond the cardiovascular and fitness benefits of AE, pairing AE with tDCS may have the potential to slow symptom progression of cognitive decline in MCI and dementia. Future studies will examine the hypothesis of this present review that a potentiating effect would incrementally improve cognition with increasing severity of cognitive impairment.
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Drozdowska A, Jendrusch G, Platen P, Lücke T, Kersting M, Sinningen K. Dose-Related Effects of Endurance, Strength and Coordination Training on Executive Functions in School-Aged Children: A Systematic Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9111651. [PMID: 36360379 PMCID: PMC9688908 DOI: 10.3390/children9111651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to evaluate previous findings on the dose-related effects of short- and long-term physical activities (PA) on executive functions (EF) using a new approach by considering the success of experimental manipulation. Eight electronic databases were searched between May 2021 and September 2021. Randomized control trials among healthy children (6-12 years) were screened. Data extraction included the measurement of experimental manipulations and pre-post measurements of physical fitness. After identifying 1774 records, 17 studies were included (nine short-term PA and eight long-term PA). The overall results suggest that a single 20-min PA may be overwhelming for short-term EF in children up to 9 years of age but may be beneficial for children 9 years and older. A dose-related relationship between PA and EF could not be verified in long-term studies, which is possibly due to insufficient fitness gains and participation in the intervention. Short- and long-term endurance and coordination training could improve children's executive functions, but so far, there is no specific evidence on the duration, frequency, and intensity of PA. Not quantity but quality of intervention seems to be important in this context. Further intervention studies are needed that control for the characteristics of the experimental manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Drozdowska
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-234-509-2615
| | - Gernot Jendrusch
- Department of Sports Medicine and Sports Nutrition, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Petra Platen
- Department of Sports Medicine and Sports Nutrition, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Lücke
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Mathilde Kersting
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Kathrin Sinningen
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
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20
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Guicciardi M, Pazzona R, Manca A, Monni A, Scalas LF, Perra F, Leban B, Roberto S, Mulliri G, Ghiani G, Doneddu A, Crisafulli A. Executive Functions and Mood States in Athletes Performing Exercise Under Hypoxia. Front Psychol 2022; 13:906336. [PMID: 35712141 PMCID: PMC9196732 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.906336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia can impair cognitive performance, whereas exercise can enhance it. The effects of hypoxia on cognitive performance during exercise appear to be moderated by exercise duration and intensity and by severity and duration of hypoxia and cognitive task. In normal individuals, exercise under hypoxia can evoke adverse post-exercise mood states, such as tension and fatigue. However, little is known about the effects of hypoxia during exercise in trained athletes. The purpose of this study was to investigate how hypoxia affected executive functions and mood states, assessed, respectively, during and post-exercise and to explore the role of motivation moderators, such as inhibition and activation systems (BIS-BAS). Two different sessions of exercise in normoxia and hypoxia (FiO2 13%), each lasting 18 min, were randomly assigned in a counterbalanced order and administered to seventeen male athletes. During exercise bouts, participants performed a mental task (BST) aimed to produce cognitive interference and suppression. Reaction times and accuracy of responses were recorded. After 5 min, all participants completed two questionnaires assessing mood states (ITAMS) and incidence of symptoms potentially related to hypoxia (AMS-C). The results show that hypoxia impairs cognitive performance in terms of slower reaction times, but a high BAS attenuates this effect. Participants with high BAS show an equivalent cognitive performance under hypoxia and normoxia conditions. No effects were found on mood states. Further research is required to investigate the role of BAS, cognitive abilities, and mood states in prolonged hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Guicciardi
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pazzona
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Manca
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Monni
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Francesca Scalas
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Perra
- Department of Education, Psychology, Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bruno Leban
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvana Roberto
- Sports Physiology Lab, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Mulliri
- Sports Physiology Lab, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ghiani
- Sports Physiology Lab, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Azzurra Doneddu
- Sports Physiology Lab, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Crisafulli
- Sports Physiology Lab, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Torre MM, Temprado JJ. Effects of Exergames on Brain and Cognition in Older Adults: A Review Based on a New Categorization of Combined Training Intervention. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:859715. [PMID: 35431905 PMCID: PMC9009337 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.859715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The literature on exergames has reported inconsistent benefits on brain and cognitive functions. Moreover, it is still unknown whether they yield to equal or superior benefits as compared to other forms of physical exercise. However, until now, a review of exergaming literature was lacking, that would reverse the “product first” approach to replacing it with a “training first” approach that is, an analysis of the different studies based on a detailed description of the type of combined training interventions that was supported by the utilized exergames. In the present review, thanks to a structured framework build around seven interacting constructs (stimuli, settings, targets, markers, outcomes, moderators, and mechanisms), which collectively afford a global picture of the determining factors of exergames training, we aimed to determine whether and under which conditions exergames could be more effective than conventional training. Twenty three studies were finally selected for review and analyzed. We concluded that, in spite of their potential to improve brain and cognition, beneficial factors contributing to exergaming efficacy as well as its underlying mechanisms need to be investigated more systematically thanks to common experimental designs based on gold standards. We proposed some directions in this respect.
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22
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Effects of the Type of Sports Practice on the Executive Functions of Schoolchildren. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073886. [PMID: 35409571 PMCID: PMC8998109 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
There is a close relationship between the development of complex motor skills and executive functions during childhood. This study aimed to analyze the differences in different dimensions of executive functions in children practicing an open-skill sport (handball) and a closed-skill sport (athletics) and controls who did not participate in sports activities after a 12-week intervention period. School-aged male and female subjects (n = 90; mean ± standard deviation = 11.45 ± 0.68 years) participated in a non-randomized controlled study. Data analysis was performed using the STATA V.15 statistical software. The athletics intervention promoted semantic fluency (p = 0.007), whereas handball increased inhibition (p = 0.034). Additionally, physical activity improved in both intervention groups (p = < 0.001), whereas sprint performance improved in the handball group following intervention (p = 0.008), lower body muscular power improved in athletics (p = 0.04), and evidence of improvement in upper body muscular strength was noted in handball (p = 0.037). In turn, an increase in the Physical Activity Questionnaire for older Children score showed an association with the Standard Ten scores of executive functions. In conclusion, compared to controls, both athletics and handball induced meaningful improvements in physical activity and executive functions. However, sport-specific adaptations were noted after athletics (i.e., semantic fluency and lower body muscular power) and handball (i.e., inhibition, sprint, and upper-body muscular strength).
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23
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Contreras-Osorio F, Guzmán-Guzmán IP, Cerda-Vega E, Chirosa-Ríos L, Ramírez-Campillo R, Campos-Jara C. Anthropometric Parameters, Physical Activity, Physical Fitness, and Executive Functions among Primary School Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053045. [PMID: 35270736 PMCID: PMC8910200 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity during childhood and adolescence favors brain development and cognitive functioning, particularly the executive functions. This study aimed to assess potential associations between anthropometric parameters, physical activity, physical fitness, and executive functions among elementary school children returning to school after the COVID-19 lockdown in Chile. School-age male and female participants (n = 90; age, 10−12 years) participated in the study. To determine the association between variables, a multivariable linear regression analysis was performed. Higher fat-related anthropometric indexes were associated with lower working memory, cognitive flexibility, planning, and attention (r = −0.55 to −0.22; p = 0.031 to <0.001). In contrast, higher physical activity levels, better sprint performance, higher lower-body muscular power, and greater upper-body muscular strength were associated with better working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, planning, and/or attention (r = 0.19 to −0.54; p = 0.04 to <0.001). Current results consistently suggest the need for adequate levels of physical activity, physical fitness, and anthropometric parameters among the school-age population to promote healthy and adequate executive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falonn Contreras-Osorio
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (F.C.-O.); (L.C.-R.)
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile
| | - Iris Paola Guzmán-Guzmán
- Faculty of Chemical-Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo 39087, Mexico;
| | - Enrique Cerda-Vega
- Pedagogy in Physical Education and Health Career, Department of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile 7820436, Chile;
| | - Luis Chirosa-Ríos
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (F.C.-O.); (L.C.-R.)
| | - Rodrigo Ramírez-Campillo
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile;
| | - Christian Campos-Jara
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-9-42057069
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Jansen P, Hoja S, Jost L. Are There Gender Differences in Executive Functions in Musicians and Non-Musicians? JOURNAL OF INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1027/1614-0001/a000350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Abstract. Until now, better performance in executive functions (EF) in musicians compared to non-musicians has not been investigated in relation to possible gender differences. For that, it is the main goal of this study to investigate possible gender differences in executive functions. Sixty-three musicians and 64 non-musicians, 63 men and 64 women respectively, completed tests of (a) cognitive processing speed (ZVT), (b) working memory (2-Back Task), (c) inhibition (Flanker Task), and (d) cognitive flexibility (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, WCST). Results showed a significantly better performance for the target accuracy in the working memory task for musicians compared to non-musicians but not in the other tasks of executive functions. Furthermore, women demonstrated a better performance than men for the target accuracy in the 2-Back Task. However, only cognitive processing speed predicted working memory performance but not the group affiliation or gender. This study revealed that gender differences in executive functions are less likely to appear also in a trained sub-group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Jansen
- Faculty of Human Science, University of Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Hoja
- Faculty of Human Science, University of Regensburg, Germany
| | - Leonardo Jost
- Faculty of Human Science, University of Regensburg, Germany
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Tse ACY, Anderson DI, Liu VHL, Tsui SSL. Improving Executive Function of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder through Cycling Skill Acquisition. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 53:1417-1424. [PMID: 34127635 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Executive dysfunction has been widely reported in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although studies have clearly documented the cognitive benefits of physical exercise on cognition in children, similar studies in children with ASD are scarce. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of cognitively engaging exercise and noncognitively engaging exercise on executive function in children with ASD. METHODS Sixty-two children diagnosed with ASD (50 males and 12 females, Mage = 9.89 ± 1.53 yr, Mheight = 1.43 ± 0.15 m, and Mweight = 44.69 ± 11.96 kg) were randomly assigned into three groups: learning to ride a bicycle (n = 22), stationary cycling (n = 20), and control (n = 20). Four executive function components (planning, working memory, flexibility, and inhibition) were assessed. RESULTS Results revealed significant improvements in all executive function components in the learning to ride a bicycle group (Ps < 0.05) but not in the other two groups after controlling for age and IQ. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the value of cognitive engagement in exercise programs designed to improve cognition in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy C Y Tse
- Department of Health and Physical Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Ting Kok, HONG KONG
| | - David I Anderson
- Marian Wright Edelman Institute for the Study of Children, Youth and Families, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA
| | - Venus H L Liu
- Department of Health and Physical Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Ting Kok, HONG KONG
| | - Sherry S L Tsui
- Department of Health and Physical Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Ting Kok, HONG KONG
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Age-Related Differential Effects of School-Based Sitting and Movement Meditation on Creativity and Spatial Cognition: A Pilot Study. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8070583. [PMID: 34356562 PMCID: PMC8303844 DOI: 10.3390/children8070583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Psychophysical well-being can be supported during development by the integration of extra-curricular activities in scholastic settings. These activities can be implemented in different forms, ranging from physical activities to sitting meditation practices. Considering that both such activities are thought to affect children’s psychophysical development, a movement-based meditation that combines the two approaches−in the form of a short daily activity−could represent a powerful tool to promote healthy physical and mental development. Consequently, the current pilot study aimed to examine the effect of short daily school-based sitting and movement meditation trainings on creativity and spatial cognition. Utilizing a crossover design, we evaluated their feasibility and efficacy at different ages among children (n = 50) in 5th to 8th grade. We observed that 5 weeks of daily training in sitting and movement meditation techniques improved children’s cognition differently. Specifically, younger children showed greater creativity and better spatial cognition following the movement-based meditation, while older children showed greater enhancement in these areas following sitting meditation training. This suggests that training can affect children’s cognition differently depending on their developmental stage. We discuss these results within the framework of embodied and grounded cognition theories. Information on feasibility and age-related effect sizes derived from the current study paves the way for future well-powered larger-scale efficacy studies on different forms of school-based interventions to cognitive development promotion.
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Stojan R, Kaushal N, Bock OL, Hudl N, Voelcker-Rehage C. Benefits of Higher Cardiovascular and Motor Coordinative Fitness on Driving Behavior Are Mediated by Cognitive Functioning: A Path Analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:686499. [PMID: 34267646 PMCID: PMC8277437 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.686499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Driving is an important skill for older adults to maintain an independent lifestyle, and to preserve the quality of life. However, the ability to drive safely in older adults can be compromised by age-related cognitive decline. Performing an additional task during driving (e.g., adjusting the radio) increases cognitive demands and thus might additionally impair driving performance. Cognitive functioning has been shown to be positively related to physical activity/fitness such as cardiovascular and motor coordinative fitness. As such, a higher fitness level might be associated with higher cognitive resources and may therefore benefit driving performance under dual-task conditions. For the first time, the present study investigated whether this association of physical fitness and cognitive functioning causes an indirect relationship between physical fitness and dual-task driving performance through cognitive functions. Data from 120 healthy older adults (age: 69.56 ± 3.62, 53 female) were analyzed. Participants completed tests on cardiovascular fitness (cardiorespiratory capacity), motor coordinative fitness (composite score: static balance, psychomotor speed, bimanual dexterity), and cognitive functions (updating, inhibition, shifting, cognitive processing speed). Further, they performed a virtual car driving scenario where they additionally engaged in cognitively demanding tasks that were modeled after typical real-life activities during driving (typing or reasoning). Structural equation modeling (path analysis) was used to investigate whether cardiovascular and motor coordinative fitness were indirectly associated with lane keeping (i.e., variability in lateral position) and speed control (i.e., average velocity) while dual-task driving via cognitive functions. Both cardiovascular and motor coordinative fitness demonstrated the hypothesized indirect effects on dual-task driving. Motor coordinative fitness showed a significant indirect effect on lane keeping, while cardiovascular fitness demonstrated a trend-level indirect effect on speed control. Moreover, both fitness domains were positively related to different cognitive functions (processing speed and/or updating), and cognitive functions (updating or inhibition), in turn, were related to dual-task driving. These findings indicate that cognitive benefits associated with higher fitness may facilitate driving performance. Given that driving with lower cognitive capacity can result in serious consequences, this study emphasizes the importance for older adults to engage in a physically active lifestyle as it might serve as a preventive measure for driving safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Stojan
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Navin Kaushal
- School of Health & Human Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IA, United States
| | - Otmar Leo Bock
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
- Institute of Exercise Training and Sport Informatics, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nicole Hudl
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Claudia Voelcker-Rehage
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
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Effects of Sport-Based Interventions on Children's Executive Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11060755. [PMID: 34200362 PMCID: PMC8226694 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most studied aspects of children’s cognitive development is that of the development of the executive function, and research has shown that physical activity has been demonstrated as a key factor in its enhancement. This meta-analysis aims to assess the impact of specific sports interventions on the executive function of children and teenagers. A systematic review was carried out on 1 November 2020 to search for published scientific evidence that analysed different sports programs that possibly affected executive function in students. Longitudinal studies, which assessed the effects of sports interventions on subjects between 6 and 18 years old, were identified through a systematic search of the four principal electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO. A total of eight studies, with 424 subjects overall, met the inclusion criteria and were classified based on one or more of the following categories: working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. The random-effects model for meta-analyses was performed with RevMan version 5.3 to facilitate the analysis of the studies. Large effect sizes were found in all categories: working memory (ES −1.25; 95% CI −1.70; −0.79; p < 0.0001); inhibitory control (ES −1.30; 95% CI −1.98; −0.63; p < 0.00001); and cognitive flexibility (ES −1.52; 95% CI −2.20; −0.83; p < 0.00001). Our analysis concluded that healthy children and teenagers should be encouraged to practice sports in order to improve their executive function at every stage of their development.
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Liang X, Li R, Wong SHS, Sum RKW, Sit CHP. The impact of exercise interventions concerning executive functions of children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2021; 18:68. [PMID: 34022908 PMCID: PMC8141166 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-021-01135-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies found that exercise interventions have positive effects on executive functions of the general population. However, studies seldom target executive functions of children and adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to synthesise empirical studies regarding the effects of exercise interventions on executive functions of children and adolescents with ADHD. Methods A systematic search of the relevant literature was conducted in March 2020 through six electronic databases: CINAHL Complete, Eric, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, SPORTDiscus with Full Text, and Web of Science. Randomised controlled trials/quasi-experimental designs that applied exercise interventions and assessed executive functions through neurocognitive tasks among children and adolescents with ADHD were included. Altogether, 314 studies were identified, from which 31 full texts were independently assessed by two authors for eligibility. Finally, 21 studies underwent systematic reviews and 15 were selected for meta-analysis. Data extraction procedures and risk of bias analysis were conducted by two independent authors using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results The findings indicated that exercise interventions improved overall executive functions of children and adolescents with ADHD (SMD = 0.611, 95% CI [0.386 to 0.836], p < 0.01). Exercise interventions had a moderate-to-large positive effect on inhibitory control (g = 0.761, 95% CI [0.376 to 1.146], p < 0.01) and cognitive flexibility (g = 0.780, 95% CI [0.331 to 1.228], p < 0.001). Likewise, during the subgroup analysis, intervention intensity and sessions of exercise (acute vs chronic) significantly moderated exercise intervention rather than intervention type. Conclusions Chronic sessions of exercise interventions with moderate intensity should be incorporated as treatment for children with ADHD to promote executive functions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12966-021-01135-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liang
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chines University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ru Li
- Faculty of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Stephen H S Wong
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chines University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Raymond K W Sum
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chines University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cindy H P Sit
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chines University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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Guo W, Wang B, Smoter M, Yan J. Effects of Open-Skill Exercises on Cognition on Community Dwelling Older Adults: Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050609. [PMID: 34068726 PMCID: PMC8151174 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Cognitive function may benefit from physical exercise in older adults. However, controversy remains over which mode of exercise is more beneficial. (2) The aim of the proposed study is to investigate the effect of open-skill exercise training on cognitive function in community dwelling older adults compared with closed-skill exercise, cognitive training, and active control. (3) One hundred and sixty participants, aged between 60 and 80 years old, will be recruited from community senior centers in Yangzhou, China and randomly assigned to one of four groups: open-skill exercise group, closed-skill exercise group, mobile game playing group, and active control group. All participants will join a 24-week program involving 50 min sessions three times a week. The primary outcome measure is visuospatial working memory. Secondary measures include subjective memory complaint, attention network, nonverbal reasoning ability, and physical activities. All participants will be measured before, mid-way, and immediately after intervention, and three months later. (4) If successful, this study is expected to provide evidence-based recommendations for older adults to select the most efficient and effective mode of exercise to improve cognitive function. Importantly, the three intervention groups provide an opportunity to separate the cognitive activity component from the physical activity component. Comparison of these components is expected to help elucidate possible mechanisms contributing to the additional cognitive benefit of open-skill exercises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Guo
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Biye Wang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Małgorzata Smoter
- Gdańsk Academy of Physical Education and Sport, 80-001 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Jun Yan
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Correspondence:
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31
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Lo SL, Gearhardt AN, Fredericks EM, Katz B, Sturza J, Kaciroti N, Gonzalez R, Hunter CM, Sonneville K, Chaudhry K, Lumeng JC, Miller AL. Targeted self-regulation interventions in low-income children: Clinical trial results and implications for health behavior change. J Exp Child Psychol 2021; 208:105157. [PMID: 33910138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2021.105157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Self-regulation, known as the ability to harness cognitive, emotional, and motivational resources to achieve goals, is hypothesized to contribute to health behaviors across the lifespan. Enhancing self-regulation early in life may increase positive health outcomes. During pre-adolescence, children assume increased autonomy in health behaviors (e.g., eating; physical activity), many of which involve self-regulation. This article presents results from a clinical trial (NCT03060863) that used a factorial design to test behavioral interventions designed to enhance self-regulation, specifically targeting executive functioning, emotion regulation, future-oriented thinking, and approach biases. Participants were 118 children (9-12 years of age, M = 10.2 years) who had a history of living in poverty. They were randomized to receive up to four interventions that were delivered via home visits. Self-regulation was assayed using behavioral tasks, observations, interviews, and parent- and child-report surveys. Results were that self-regulation targets were reliably assessed and that interventions were delivered with high fidelity. Intervention effect sizes were very small to moderate (d range = .02-.65, median = .14), and most were not statistically significant. Intercorrelation analyses indicated that associations between measures within each target varied based on the self-regulation target evaluated. Results are discussed with regard to the role of self-regulation-focused interventions in child health promotion. Implications of findings are reviewed for informing next steps in behavioral self-regulation interventions among children from low-income backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon L Lo
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR 97123, USA; School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Ashley N Gearhardt
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Emily M Fredericks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Benjamin Katz
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Julie Sturza
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Niko Kaciroti
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Richard Gonzalez
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Christine M Hunter
- Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kendrin Sonneville
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kiren Chaudhry
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Julie C Lumeng
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Alison L Miller
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Amatriain-Fernández S, Ezquerro García-Noblejas M, Budde H. Effects of chronic exercise on the inhibitory control of children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2021; 31:1196-1208. [PMID: 33559271 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitory control is a main component of executive functions that relate to the ability to control prepotent responses and to resist interferences. Deficits in inhibitory control have been associated with numerous disorders, but exercise has become a promising approach to benefit this domain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide synthesized information and effect size calculations of the benefits of chronic exercise interventions on the inhibitory control of healthy children and adolescents. A systematic search of PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ERIC, SPORTDiscus, and PsycArticles identified 4166 articles to be screened for eligibility. A total of 10 studies (3138 participants) met the inclusion criteria. A random-effects analysis model was performed in three variables: accuracy, reaction time and combined scores. The results showed a very small but statistically significant effect in accuracy (d = 0.14, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.27, P =.04), and two almost null effects (statistically non-significant), in the reaction time (d = 0.03, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.16, P =.62) and the combined scores (d = 0.06, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.15, P =.17). Despite the high number of studies that reported positive outcomes, this meta-analysis found only modest benefits in the inhibitory control of healthy children and adolescents after they participated in different chronic exercise interventions. The strict inclusion criteria of this study and the high variability in the designs of the exercise interventions included, among other reasons, might explain the obtained results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Amatriain-Fernández
- Department of Pedagogy, Faculty of Human Sciences, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Physical and Sports Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Milagros Ezquerro García-Noblejas
- Department of Physical and Sports Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Henning Budde
- Department of Pedagogy, Faculty of Human Sciences, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Bombardier CH, Motl RW, Benedict RHB, Temkin N, Qian P, Alexander K, Evans A, Thomas A, Toms K, Carey CM, Kraft GH. Exercise training and cognition in multiple sclerosis: The GET Smart trial protocol. Contemp Clin Trials 2021; 104:106331. [PMID: 33652128 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2021.106331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes cognitive impairment in approximately 50% of cases. Disease modifying medications and cognitive rehabilitation produce only small positive effects on cognition in MS. Converging animal and human research suggests that aerobic exercise may improve cognition in people with MS, but definitive trials are lacking. We describe the design of the GET Smart study, a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of aerobic exercise versus stretching and toning on cognition in MS. METHODS The study is a single-blind, parallel group randomized (1:1) controlled trial that compares aerobic exercise training with an active control group consisting of stretching and toning exercises for improving cognition. Participants are nondepressed, ambulatory, non-exercising adults with MS aged 18-54 years who have below average cognitive processing speed. Both treatments were designed to generate equivalent outcome expectancies and entailed supervised, progressive exercise programs, 3 times per week for up to 40 min over a 6 month period. PROJECTED PATIENT OUTCOMES The primary hypothesis is that the aerobic training group will demonstrate significantly greater cognitive processing speed compared with the control group at the end of the treatment phase (6 months) as measured by a composite of the Paced Auditory Serial Additon Test and the oral Symbol-Digit Modalities Test using intent-to treat analyses. Secondary outcomes are neuropsychological functioning and cardiorespiratory fitness as well as participant reported outcomes such as depression, sleep, and fatigue. Study findings will inform future research, patient education, clinical care and policymaking. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02106052.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles H Bombardier
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
| | - Robert W Motl
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama, SHPB 336, 1716 9th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Ralph H B Benedict
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, University at Buffalo, UBMD Physicians Group, 1001 Main Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Nancy Temkin
- Departments of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Box 359925, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Peiqing Qian
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, 1600 E Jefferson St, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
| | - Katharine Alexander
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Annabeth Evans
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Andrea Thomas
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Kristin Toms
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Cathea M Carey
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - George H Kraft
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9(th) Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA; Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine and Neurology, University of Washington, Box 356490, UW Medical Center-Montlake, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Comparison of Three Physical-Cognitive Training Programs in Healthy Older Adults: A Study Protocol for a Monocentric Randomized Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11010066. [PMID: 33561081 PMCID: PMC7825494 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Combining aerobic, coordination and cognitive training allows for more improved physical and cognitive performance than when performed separately. A Nordic walking (NW) and two cognitive-motor circuit training programs (CT-c and CT-fit) are compared. CT-c and CT-fit stimulate cognition differently: CT-c, is through conventional complex coordination training performed in single and dual-task conditions; CT-fit, incorporates it into complex goal-directed actions, implemented by fitness gaming technology (2) The aim is to determine whether CT-fit brings additional benefits to cognition compared to more traditional training. (3) Forty-five healthy independent living community dwellers participants (65–80 years) will be included after a general medical examination. The main exclusion criteria are signs of cognitive impairments (Mini–Mental State Examination < 26/30) and physical impairments. Pre and post-tests will be performed to assess: cognitive functions (Montreal Cognitive Assessment; Trail Making Test; Stroop task, working memory test, Rey Complex Figure copy task, Oral Trail Making Test, and dual-task); motor fitness (Bipedal and unipedal balance test, gait assessments, Time Up and Go, chair sit and reach test and four-square stepping test); and physical fitness (10 m incremental shuttle walking test, maximal handgrip force, Timed-Stands test). (4) Incorporating cognitive demands into complex, goal-directed actions using fitness gaming technology should be the best solution to optimize training benefits.
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Hudson KN, Ballou HM, Willoughby MT. Short report: Improving motor competence skills in early childhood has corollary benefits for executive function and numeracy skills. Dev Sci 2020; 24:e13071. [PMID: 33275832 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have documented that individual differences in fine and gross motor skills are associated with executive function (EF) skills. This study used an experimental design to test whether participating in cognitively challenging motor skills activities was causally related to improvements in motor skills and two key indicators of school readiness: executive function and early numeracy skills. The motor skill program involved fine and gross motor game-like activities that were delivered in a small group format. Activities were socially engaging and progressively challenged children based on their motor competencies. Fifty-three preschool-aged children participated in 16 motor skill sessions across 8 weeks. There were significant treatment effects for all outcomes, such that children in the treatment condition exhibited significant improvements in motor, EF, and early numeracy skills, compared to their peers in the waitlist control condition. Treatment effects on EF skills were stronger for inhibitory control than working memory. Improvements in numeracy were most pronounced for children with initially lower levels of ability. Motor skill-based interventions are an ecologically valid and developmentally appropriate approach for fostering school readiness skills in early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesha N Hudson
- Education & Workforce Development, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Haley M Ballou
- Education & Workforce Development, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael T Willoughby
- Education & Workforce Development, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Ben-Soussan TD, Marson F, Piervincenzi C, Glicksohn J, De Fano A, Amenduni F, Quattrocchi CC, Carducci F. Correlates of Silence: Enhanced Microstructural Changes in the Uncinate Fasciculus. Front Psychol 2020; 11:543773. [PMID: 33132952 PMCID: PMC7578698 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.543773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Silence is an important aspect of various meditation practices, but little work has focused specifically on the underlying neurophysiology of silence-related meditative practice, and on how it relates to the self-reported experiences of practitioners. To expand current knowledge regarding the neurophenomenology of silence in meditation, we directly investigated first-person reports of silence-related experiences during the practice of Quadrato Motor Training (QMT) and their association with changes in fractional anisotropy (FA). Participants recorded their cognitive, emotional, and physical experiences upon beginning QMT and again after 6 weeks of QMT practice. These reports were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. Findings showed that change between the two time points in self-reported silence-related experiences was negatively correlated with change in attentional effort, and positively correlated with changes in the left uncinate fasciculus. These results expand current knowledge regarding the neuroanatomical correlates of silence-related experiences during meditation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy
| | - Fabio Marson
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Neuroimaging Laboratory, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Piervincenzi
- Human Neuroscience Department, Neuroimaging Laboratory, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Joseph Glicksohn
- Department of Criminology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,The Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Antonio De Fano
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Science, Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics (BIND) Center, University of Chieti-Pescara G. d'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Carlo C Quattrocchi
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università "Campus Bio-Medico di Roma," Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Carducci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Neuroimaging Laboratory, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Xiong J, Ye M, Wang L, Zheng G. Effects of physical exercise on executive function in cognitively healthy older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials: Physical exercise for executive function. Int J Nurs Stud 2020; 114:103810. [PMID: 33248291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2020.103810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of physical exercise interventions on executive function in cognitively healthy adults aged 60 years and older. METHODS Four electronic databases, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Web of Science and Embase, were comprehensively searched from their inception to November 25, 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effect of physical exercise on executive function in cognitively healthy older adults were included. RESULTS Twenty-five eligible trials with fair methodological quality were identified. Compared to a no-exercise intervention, physical exercise had positive effect on working memory (Hedge's g=0.127, p<0.01, I2= 0%), cognitive flexibility (Hedge's g=0.511; p=0.007, I2=89.08%), and inhibitory control (Hedge's g=0.136; p=0.001, I2=0%) in cognitively healthy older adults. The moderator analysis indicated that more than 13 weeks of aerobic exercise significantly improved working memory and cognitive flexibility, and intervention lasting more than 26 weeks significantly improved inhibition; mind-body exercise significantly improved working memory. No significant effect on planning or semantic verbal fluency (SVF) was found. CONCLUSION Regular physical exercise training, especially aerobic exercise and mind-body exercise, had positive benefit for improving working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control of executive function in cognively healthy older adults. Further well-designed RCTs should focus on the impact of specific exercise forms with a standardized exercise scheme on executive function in cognitively healthy older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xiong
- College of Nursing and Health Management, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China; No.1 People's Hospital of Zhangjiagang, JiangSu, China
| | - Mingzhu Ye
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lecong Wang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guohua Zheng
- College of Nursing and Health Management, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China; Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Moreau D. Shifting Minds: A Quantitative Reappraisal of Cognitive-Intervention Research. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2020; 16:148-160. [PMID: 33021890 DOI: 10.1177/1745691620950696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent popular areas of research in psychology suggest that behavioral interventions can have profound effects on our cognitive abilities. In particular, the study of brain training, video gaming, mindset, and stereotype threat all include claims that low-cost, noninvasive manipulations of the environment can greatly affect individual performance. Here, I provide a quantitative reappraisal of this literature, focusing on recent meta-analytic findings. Specifically, I show that effect-size distributions in the four aforementioned areas are best modeled by multiple rather than single latent distributions, suggesting important discrepancies in the effect sizes reported. I further demonstrate that these multimodal characteristics are not typical within the broader field of psychology, using 107 meta-analyses published in three top-tier journals as a comparison. The effect-size distributions observed in cognitive-intervention research therefore appear to be uncommon, and their characteristics are largely unexplained by current theoretical frameworks of cognitive improvement. Before the source of these discrepancies is better understood, the current study calls for constructive skepticism in evaluating claims of cognitive improvement after behavioral interventions and for caution when this line of research influences large-scale policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Moreau
- School of Psychology & Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland
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Pesce C, Lakes KD, Stodden DF, Marchetti R. Fostering Self-Control Development With a Designed Intervention in Physical Education: A Two-Year Class-Randomized Trial. Child Dev 2020; 92:937-958. [PMID: 32840871 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated whether a theory-based intervention in physical education (PE) designed to train self-control may positively impact children's quick-temperedness and disruptiveness and whether changes in executive functions (EFs) may be a correlate or antecedent of such effects. One hundred and sixteen children aged 8-9 years participated in a 2-year intervention and completed three assessments at baseline, 6- and 18-month follow-ups in quick-temperedness and disruptiveness, hot and cool EFs. After the intervention, children in the intervention group showed lower quick-temperedness and disruptiveness and improvement in hot EF. Changes over the intervention period were moderately associated and showed marginal evidence of causal ordering, suggesting that designed PE may benefit self-control through a possible linkage to hot EF improvement.
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40
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Tabibnia G. An affective neuroscience model of boosting resilience in adults. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 115:321-350. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Rudd JR, Crotti M, Fitton-Davies K, O’Callaghan L, Bardid F, Utesch T, Roberts S, Boddy LM, Cronin CJ, Knowles Z, Foulkes J, Watson PM, Pesce C, Button C, Lubans DR, Buszard T, Walsh B, Foweather L. Skill Acquisition Methods Fostering Physical Literacy in Early-Physical Education (SAMPLE-PE): Rationale and Study Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial in 5-6-Year-Old Children From Deprived Areas of North West England. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1228. [PMID: 32625143 PMCID: PMC7311787 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for interdisciplinary research to better understand how pedagogical approaches in primary physical education (PE) can support the linked development of physical, cognitive and affective aspects of physical literacy and physical activity behaviors in young children living in deprived areas. The Skill Acquisition Methods fostering Physical Literacy in Early-Physical Education (SAMPLE-PE) study aims to examine the efficacy of two different pedagogies for PE, underpinned by theories of motor learning, to foster physical literacy. METHODS SAMPLE-PE will be evaluated through a cluster-randomized controlled trial targeting 5-6 year old children from schools located in areas of high deprivation in Merseyside, North-West England. Schools will be randomly allocated to one of three conditions: Linear Pedagogy, Non-linear Pedagogy, or Control. Non-linear and Linear Pedagogy intervention primary schools will receive a PE curriculum delivered by trained coaches over 15 weeks, while control schools will follow their usual practice. Data will be collected at baseline (T0), immediately post-intervention (T1), and 6 months after the intervention has finished (T2). Children's movement competence is the primary outcome in this trial. Secondary outcomes include physical activity, perceived competence, motivation, executive functions, and self-regulation. An extensive process evaluation will also examine implementation factors such as intervention context, reach, dose, fidelity and acceptability. DISCUSSION The SAMPLE-PE project will enable better understanding surrounding how to operationalise physical literacy through enrichment of PE practices in early PE. The study will provide robust scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of underpinning PE pedagogy with theories of motor learning to promote the development of physical literacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION Retrospectively registered on 5th September 2018 at ClinicalTrials.gov, a resource provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (Identifier: NCT03551366).
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Rudd
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Institute for Health and Sport, Footscray Park Campus, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Matteo Crotti
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Fitton-Davies
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Laura O’Callaghan
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Farid Bardid
- School of Education, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Till Utesch
- Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Simon Roberts
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lynne M. Boddy
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Colum J. Cronin
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Knowles
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Foulkes
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paula M. Watson
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Rome, Italy
| | - Chris Button
- School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Revalds Lubans
- Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Education, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Buszard
- Institute for Health and Sport, Footscray Park Campus, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Barbara Walsh
- School of Sport Leisure and Nutrition, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence Foweather
- Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Muntaner-Mas A, Vidal-Conti J, Salmon J, Palou-Sampol P. Associations of Heart Rate Measures during Physical Education with Academic Performance and Executive Function in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17124307. [PMID: 32560190 PMCID: PMC7344793 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17124307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The current evidence for a relation between children’s heart rate measures and their academic performance and executive functioning is infancy. Despite several studies observing dose-response effects of physical activity on academic performance and executive function in children, further research using objective measures of the relative intensity of physical activity (e.g., heart rate) is warranted. The present study aimed to inspect associations between heart rate response and various academic performance indicators and executive function domains. A total of 130 schoolchildren between the ages of 9 and 13 years (M = 10.69, SD 0.96 years old; 56.9% boys) participated in a cross-sectional study. Children’s heart rate data were collected through participation in physical education classes using the polar TeamTM hardware and software. One week before heart rate measures, academic performance was obtained from the school records in maths, Spanish language, Catalan language, physical education, and Grade point average. Executive function was measured by two domains, cognitive flexibility with the Trail Making Test and inhibition with the Stroop test. Associations between children’s heart rate data and academic performance and executive function were analyzed using regression models. Academic performance was found to be positively related to four heart rate measures (β range, 0.191 to 0.275; all p < 0.040). Additionally, the hard heart rate intensity level was positively related to two academic indicators (β range, 0.183 to 0.192; all p < 0.044). Three heart rate measures were associated with two cognitive flexibility subdomains (β range, −0.248 to 0.195; all p < 0.043), and three heart rate measures were related to one inhibition subdomain (β range, 0.198 to 0.278; all p < 0.028). The results showed slight associations of heart rate responses during physical education lessons with academic performance but did not clearly indicate associations with executive function. Future experimental studies testing associations between different bouts of intensity levels are needed to disentangle the relationship with brain function during childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrià Muntaner-Mas
- GICAFE “Physical Activity and Exercise Sciences Research Group”, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Balearic Islands, Spain; (J.V.-C.); (P.P.-S.)
- PROFITH “PROmoting FITness and Health through Physical Activity” Research Group, Department of Physical and Sports Education, Sports and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Josep Vidal-Conti
- GICAFE “Physical Activity and Exercise Sciences Research Group”, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Balearic Islands, Spain; (J.V.-C.); (P.P.-S.)
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia;
| | - Pere Palou-Sampol
- GICAFE “Physical Activity and Exercise Sciences Research Group”, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Balearic Islands, Spain; (J.V.-C.); (P.P.-S.)
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Bremer E, Graham JD, Heisz JJ, Cairney J. Effect of Acute Exercise on Prefrontal Oxygenation and Inhibitory Control Among Male Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Exploratory Study. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:84. [PMID: 32655381 PMCID: PMC7325913 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience significant challenges in executive functioning. Emerging evidence suggests exercise may improve executive functioning among children; however, these effects and their mechanisms have not been fully explored among children with ASD. The purpose of this study was to explore the acute effect of exercise on cerebral oxygenation within the prefrontal cortex and inhibitory control among male children with ASD. Method: Participants (N = 12) were 8–12 years of age with a diagnosis of ASD. A within-subject crossover design was employed. Participants completed three 20-min conditions on separate days: circuit-based workout, treadmill walking, and sedentary control. Pre- and post- each condition participants completed a cancellation task (Leiter-3) as a measure of inhibitory control and cerebral oxygenation was concurrently assessed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Heart rate, affect, perceived exertion, motivation, and self-efficacy were measured throughout the experiment as manipulation checks and potential psychological mechanisms. A series of repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to examine intervention effects. Results: Results demonstrated medium-to-large interaction effects (time by condition) for cerebral oxygenation (ηp2 = 0.237) and inhibitory control (ηp2 = 0.118). Post hoc analyses revealed that the circuit exercise condition elicited the largest changes in both outcomes. The manipulation checks indicated that the exercises were completed as intended. Conclusion: These findings suggest that exercise may be a feasible intervention for enhancing executive functioning in children with ASD. More research with larger samples is needed to replicate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Bremer
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D Graham
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer J Heisz
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - John Cairney
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Gharakhanlou R, Wesselmann L, Rademacher A, Lampit A, Negaresh R, Kaviani M, Oberste M, Motl RW, Sandroff BM, Bansi J, Baker JS, Heesen C, Zimmer P, Javelle F. Exercise training and cognitive performance in persons with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis of clinical trials. Mult Scler 2020; 27:1977-1993. [PMID: 32390502 DOI: 10.1177/1352458520917935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is common, debilitating, and poorly managed in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Exercise training might have positive effects on cognitive performance in pwMS, yet the overall magnitude, heterogeneity, and potential moderators remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This three-level meta-analysis aims to identify the effects of exercise training and those of exercise modalities on global and domain-specific cognitive performance in pwMS. METHODS MEDLINE, PsycInfo, SportDiscus, CENTRAL, and EMBASE were screened for randomized and non-randomized clinical trials from inception to 27 January 2020, yielding 3091 articles. Based on titles and abstracts, 75 articles remained in the selection process. After full-text evaluation, 13 studies were finally selected (PROSPERO pre-registered). RESULTS The pooled effect of exercise training on the global cognitive performance was null (g = 0.04, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.11 to 0.18) and no significant differences were displayed among domains. Heterogeneity within studies was null (I(2)2= 0.0%) and between studies was low (I(3)2= 25.1%). None of the moderators (exercise modalities, age, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), supervision, cognitive domains) reached significance. However, the exercise volume explained most of the overall heterogeneity (slope = 4.651 × 10-5, R(2)2 = 100%, R(3)2 = 52.34%). CONCLUSION These results do not support the efficacy of exercise training on global or domain-specific cognitive performance in pwMS. Future studies are needed to determine whether higher training dose are beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Gharakhanlou
- Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leonie Wesselmann
- Clinical Exercise-Neuroimmunology Group, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Annette Rademacher
- Clinical Exercise-Neuroimmunology Group, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Amit Lampit
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raoof Negaresh
- Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Kaviani
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - Max Oberste
- Clinical Exercise-Neuroimmunology Group, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Robert W Motl
- Department of Physical Therapy, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Brian M Sandroff
- Department of Physical Therapy, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jens Bansi
- Department of Neurology, Kliniken-Valens, Rehabilitationsklinik-Valens, Valens, Switzerland
| | - Julien S Baker
- Institute for Clinical Exercise and Health Science, School of Science and Sport, University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton, UK
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Zimmer
- Clinical Exercise-Neuroimmunology Group, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany/Department for Performance and Health (Sports Medicine), Institute for Sport and Sport Science, Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Florian Javelle
- Clinical Exercise-Neuroimmunology Group, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Wang JG, Cai KL, Liu ZM, Herold F, Zou L, Zhu LN, Xiong X, Chen AG. Effects of Mini-Basketball Training Program on Executive Functions and Core Symptoms among Preschool Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10050263. [PMID: 32365853 PMCID: PMC7287705 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10050263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of a 12-week mini-basketball training program (MBTP) on executive functions and core symptoms among preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this quasi-experimental pilot study, 33 ASD preschoolers who received their conventional rehabilitation program were assigned to either a MBTP group (n = 18) or control group (n = 15). Specifically, the experimental group was required to take an additional 12-week MBTP (five days per week, one session per day, and forty minutes per session), while the control group was instructed to maintain their daily activities. Executive functions and core symptoms (social communication impairment and repetitive behavior) were evaluated by the Childhood Executive Functioning Inventory (CHEXI), the Social Responsiveness Scale-Second Edition (SRS-2), and the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R), respectively. After the 12-week intervention period, the MBTP group exhibited significantly better performances in working memory (F = 7.51, p < 0.01, partial η2 = 0.195) and regulation (F = 4.23, p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.12) as compared to the control group. Moreover, the MBTP significantly improved core symptoms of ASD preschoolers, including the social communication impairment (F = 6.02, p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.020) and repetitive behavior (F = 5.79, p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.016). Based on our findings, we concluded that the 12-week MBTP may improve executive functions and core symptoms in preschoolers with ASD, and we provide new evidence that regular physical exercise in the form of a MBTP is a promising alternative to treat ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Gui Wang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.-G.W.); (K.-L.C.); (Z.-M.L.); (X.X.)
| | - Ke-Long Cai
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.-G.W.); (K.-L.C.); (Z.-M.L.); (X.X.)
| | - Zhi-Mei Liu
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.-G.W.); (K.-L.C.); (Z.-M.L.); (X.X.)
| | - Fabian Herold
- Research Group Neuroprotection, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany;
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Liye Zou
- Exercise and Mental Health Laboratory, School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China;
| | - Li-Na Zhu
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100000, China;
| | - Xuan Xiong
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.-G.W.); (K.-L.C.); (Z.-M.L.); (X.X.)
| | - Ai-Guo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (J.-G.W.); (K.-L.C.); (Z.-M.L.); (X.X.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-514-8797-8013
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Amico G, Schaefer S. Running During Encoding Improves Word Learning for Children. Front Psychol 2020; 11:684. [PMID: 32373027 PMCID: PMC7186412 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The learning of new information is an important task in everyday life, especially at a young age. Acute physical exercise can facilitate cognitive processes in multiple ways, and previous studies have shown that memory can profit from physical exercise before and during the encoding of vocabulary. The current study investigates the interplay of movement and vocabulary learning and also addresses lifespan differences in these effects. Participants were recruited in a recreational basketball club. Children (n = 24, Mage = 12.3 years; 13 girls), young adults (n = 30, Mage = 21.5 years; 17 women), and older adults (n = 24, Mage = 59.3 years; 9 women) learned 20 new pseudo-words, which corresponded to a German word. In a between-subjects design, encoding took place either while standing, while running, or while running and dribbling a basketball. Recall was assessed three times throughout the learning session and on the following day. In children, more words could be remembered in the running condition compared to the standing condition. There were no differences between conditions for the young and older adults. Age-dependent reasons for this pattern of results are discussed and embedded into the literature of physical exercise. Our result suggests that implementing learning activities into children’s physical education or exercise activities could be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Amico
- Department of Sport Sciences, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Sabine Schaefer
- Department of Sport Sciences, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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Booth JN, Chesham RA, Brooks NE, Gorely T, Moran CN. A citizen science study of short physical activity breaks at school: improvements in cognition and wellbeing with self-paced activity. BMC Med 2020; 18:62. [PMID: 32178667 PMCID: PMC7077117 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01539-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND School-based physical activity and running programmes, such as The Daily Mile™, are increasing in popularity globally. The aim of this research was to examine the acute impact of such classroom physical activity breaks on cognition and affective wellbeing. METHODS A total of 5463 school pupils from 332 schools took part in a citizen science project with a repeated measures design. They completed tasks of cognition (inhibition, verbal, and visuo-spatial working memory) and the Children's Feeling Scale and Felt Arousal Scale before and after three different outdoor activities: a classroom break of 15 min of self-paced activity, a near maximal exhaustion activity (the bleep test), and a no-exercise control group where pupils sat or stood outside. Wellbeing and fitness were examined as mediators of the relationship between outdoor activity and cognition. RESULTS Fifteen minutes of self-paced outdoor activity was beneficial for pupils' cognition and wellbeing in comparison to both other activities (Cohen's d effect sizes ranging from 0.04 to 0.22; small). The relationship with cognition was not mediated by participants' fitness level and was only partially mediated by wellbeing. Change scores for alertness were higher after the bleep test compared to the control activity but similar for all other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Taking a break from the classroom to complete 15 min of self-paced physical activity should be considered a worthwhile activity by class teachers, school management, and policymakers. Additionally, more intense physical activity should not be considered to be detrimental.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine N Booth
- Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 8AQ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Ross A Chesham
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK
| | - Naomi E Brooks
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK
| | - Trish Gorely
- School of Health, Social Care and Life Sciences, University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for Health Sciences, Old Perth Road, Inverness, IV2 3JH, UK
| | - Colin N Moran
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK
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48
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Cardiac vagal tone and executive functions: Moderation by physical fitness and family support. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2020.101120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Eckardt N, Braun C, Kibele A. Instability Resistance Training improves Working Memory, Processing Speed and Response Inhibition in Healthy Older Adults: A Double-Blinded Randomised Controlled Trial. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2506. [PMID: 32054896 PMCID: PMC7018952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with declines in physical and cognitive performance. While there is no doubt about beneficial effects of physical exercise on proxies of strength and balance, the overall evidence for positive effects of resistance and balance training on executive functions is rather inconsistent. Whether the simultaneous exercising of strength and balance, i.e., instability resistance training, promotes executive functions in older adults is unknown. In the present trial, we tested the effects of unstable vs. stable resistance training on executive functions. Sixty-eight healthy older adults aged 65–79 years were randomly assigned to either an instability free-weight resistance training or one of two stable machine-based resistance training programs. Each group exercised twice a week on non-consecutive days for 10 weeks. Four tests to evaluate specific domains of executive functions were administered prior and following training: working memory, processing speed, response inhibition and set-shifting. The instability resistance training group improved working memory, processing speed and response inhibition from pre to post-test. In contrast, we found no improvements in executive functions for both stable resistance training groups. Our results demonstrate that 10 weeks of instability resistance training suffice to improve executive functions in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Eckardt
- University of Kassel, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, Department of Training and Movement Science, Kassel, 34121, Germany. .,Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Institute of Sport Science, Department of Sport and Movement Science, Oldenburg, 26129, Germany.
| | - Claudia Braun
- University of Kassel, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, Department of Training and Movement Science, Kassel, 34121, Germany
| | - Armin Kibele
- University of Kassel, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, Department of Training and Movement Science, Kassel, 34121, Germany
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Ruotsalainen I, Gorbach T, Perkola J, Renvall V, Syväoja HJ, Tammelin TH, Karvanen J, Parviainen T. Physical activity, aerobic fitness, and brain white matter: Their role for executive functions in adolescence. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2020; 42:100765. [PMID: 32072938 PMCID: PMC7013351 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2020.100765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aerobic fitness level, but not physical activity, is related to white matter properties in the brain. The relation between physical activity and working memory is moderated by fractional anisotropy (FA) of the corpus callosum. The FA of the corpus callosum and superior corona radiata moderates the relation between aerobic fitness and working memory.
Physical activity and exercise beneficially link to brain properties and cognitive functions in older adults, but the findings concerning adolescents remain tentative. During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes, which are especially pronounced in white matter. Studies provide contradictory evidence regarding the influence of physical activity or aerobic-exercise on executive functions in youth. Little is also known about the link between both fitness and physical activity with the brain’s white matter during puberty. We investigated the connection between aerobic fitness and physical activity with the white matter in 59 adolescents. We further determined whether white matter interacts with the connection of fitness or physical activity with core executive functions. Our results show that only the level of aerobic fitness, but not of physical activity relates to white matter. Furthermore, the white matter of the corpus callosum and the right superior corona radiata moderates the links of aerobic fitness and physical activity with working memory. Our results suggest that aerobic fitness and physical activity have an unequal contribution to the white matter properties in adolescents. We propose that the differences in white matter properties could underlie the variations in the relationship between either physical activity or aerobic fitness with working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Ruotsalainen
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Brain Research, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Tetiana Gorbach
- Umeå School of Business, Economics and Statistics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jaana Perkola
- Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Ville Renvall
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland; AMI Centre, Aalto NeuroImaging, School of Science, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Heidi J Syväoja
- LIKES Research Centre for Physical Activity and Health, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tuija H Tammelin
- LIKES Research Centre for Physical Activity and Health, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Juha Karvanen
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tiina Parviainen
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Brain Research, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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