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Zvornik A, Andersen KA, Petersen AD, Novén M, Siebner HR, Lundbye-Jensen J, Karabanov AN. Older and younger adults differ in time course of skill acquisition but not in overall improvement in a bimanual visuomotor tracking task. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1373252. [PMID: 38665899 PMCID: PMC11043555 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1373252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Manual motor performance declines with age, but the extent to which age influences the acquisition of new skills remains a topic of debate. Here, we examined whether older healthy adults show less training-dependent performance improvements during a single session of a bimanual pinch task than younger adults. We also explored whether physical and cognitive factors, such as grip strength or motor-cognitive ability, are associated with performance improvements. Healthy younger (n = 16) and older (n = 20) adults performed three training blocks separated by short breaks. Participants were tasked with producing visually instructed changes in pinch force using their right and left thumb and index fingers. Task complexity was varied by shifting between bimanual mirror-symmetric and inverse-asymmetric changes in pinch force. Older adults generally displayed higher visuomotor force tracking errors during the more complex inverse-asymmetric task compared to younger adults. Both groups showed a comparable net decrease in visuomotor force tracking error over the entire session, but their improvement trajectories differed. Young adults showed enhanced visuomotor tracking error only in the first block, while older adults exhibited a more gradual improvement over the three training blocks. Furthermore, grip strength and performance on a motor-cognitive test battery scaled positively with individual performance improvements during the first block in both age groups. Together, the results show subtle age-dependent differences in the rate of bimanual visuomotor skill acquisition, while overall short-term learning ability is maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Zvornik
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Keenie Ayla Andersen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Deigaard Petersen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikael Novén
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig Roman Siebner
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anke Ninija Karabanov
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
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2
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Taylor EM, Cadwallader CJ, Curtin D, Chong TTJ, Hendrikse JJ, Coxon JP. High-intensity acute exercise impacts motor learning in healthy older adults. NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2024; 9:9. [PMID: 38368455 PMCID: PMC10874400 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-024-00220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Healthy aging is associated with changes in motor sequence learning, with some studies indicating decline in motor skill learning in older age. Acute cardiorespiratory exercise has emerged as a potential intervention to improve motor learning, however research in healthy older adults is limited. The current study investigated the impact of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIT) on a subsequent sequential motor learning task. Twenty-four older adults (aged 55-75 years) completed either 20-minutes of cycling, or an equivalent period of active rest before practicing a sequential force grip task. Skill learning was assessed during acquisition and at a 6-hour retention test. In contrast to expectation, exercise was associated with reduced accuracy during skill acquisition compared to rest, particularly for the oldest participants. However, improvements in motor skill were retained in the exercise condition, while a reduction in skill was observed following rest. Our findings indicate that high-intensity exercise conducted immediately prior to learning a novel motor skill may have a negative impact on motor performance during learning in older adults. We also demonstrated that exercise may facilitate early offline consolidation of a motor skill within this population, which has implications for motor rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M Taylor
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Claire J Cadwallader
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Dylan Curtin
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Trevor T-J Chong
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Joshua J Hendrikse
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - James P Coxon
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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Park CH, Durand-Ruel M, Moyne M, Morishita T, Hummel FC. Brain connectome correlates of short-term motor learning in healthy older subjects. Cortex 2024; 171:247-256. [PMID: 38043242 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2023.09.020] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The motor learning process entails plastic changes in the brain, especially in brain network reconfigurations. In the current study, we sought to characterize motor learning by determining changes in the coupling behaviour between the brain functional and structural connectomes on a short timescale. 39 older subjects (age: mean (SD) = 69.7 (4.7) years, men:women = 15:24) were trained on a visually guided sequential hand grip learning task. The brain structural and functional connectomes were constructed from diffusion-weighted MRI and resting-state functional MRI, respectively. The association of motor learning ability with changes in network topology of the brain functional connectome and changes in the correspondence between the brain structural and functional connectomes were assessed. Motor learning ability was related to decreased efficiency and increased modularity in the visual, somatomotor, and frontoparietal networks of the brain functional connectome. Between the brain structural and functional connectomes, reduced correspondence in the visual, ventral attention, and frontoparietal networks as well as the whole-brain network was related to motor learning ability. In addition, structure-function correspondence in the dorsal attention, ventral attention, and frontoparietal networks before motor learning was predictive of motor learning ability. These findings indicate that, in the view of brain connectome changes, short-term motor learning is represented by a detachment of the brain functional from the brain structural connectome. The structure-function uncoupling accompanied by the enhanced segregation into modular structures over the core functional networks involved in the learning process may suggest that facilitation of functional flexibility is associated with successful motor learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Hyun Park
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland; Defitech Chair for Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL Valais, Clinique Romande de Réadaptation Sion, Switzerland
| | - Manon Durand-Ruel
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland; Defitech Chair for Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL Valais, Clinique Romande de Réadaptation Sion, Switzerland
| | - Maëva Moyne
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland; Defitech Chair for Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL Valais, Clinique Romande de Réadaptation Sion, Switzerland; Clinical Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Takuya Morishita
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland; Defitech Chair for Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL Valais, Clinique Romande de Réadaptation Sion, Switzerland
| | - Friedhelm C Hummel
- Defitech Chair of Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland; Defitech Chair for Clinical Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute (NIX) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL Valais, Clinique Romande de Réadaptation Sion, Switzerland; Clinical Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Tomlin KB, Johnson BP, Westlake KP. Age-Related Differences in Motor Skill Transfer with Brief Memory Reactivation. Brain Sci 2024; 14:65. [PMID: 38248280 PMCID: PMC10813682 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14010065] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Motor memories can be strengthened through online practice and offline consolidation. Offline consolidation involves the stabilization of memory traces in post-practice periods. Following initial consolidation of a motor memory, subsequent practice of the motor skill can lead to reactivation and reconsolidation of the memory trace. The length of motor memory reactivation may influence motor learning outcomes; for example, brief, as opposed to long, practice of a previously learned motor skill appears to optimize intermanual transfer in healthy young adults. However, the influence of aging on reactivation-based motor learning has been scarcely explored. Here, the effects of brief and long motor memory reactivation schedules on the retention and intermanual transfer of a visuomotor tracing task are explored in healthy older adults. Forty older adults practiced a virtual star-tracing task either three ("brief reactivation") or ten ("long reactivation") times per session over a two-week period. Comparison with a previously reported group of younger adults revealed significant age-related differences in the effect of the motor memory reactivation schedule on the intermanual transfer of the motor task. In older adults, unlike younger adults, no significant between-group differences were found by practice condition in the speed, accuracy, or skill of intermanual task transfer. That is, motor task transfer in healthy younger, but not older, adults appears to benefit from brief memory reactivation. These results support the use of age-specific motor training approaches and may inform motor practice scheduling, with possible implications for physical rehabilitation, sport, and music.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie B. Tomlin
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Brian P. Johnson
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Kelly P. Westlake
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Bakker LBM, Lamoth CJC, Vetrovsky T, Gruber M, Caljouw SR, Nieboer W, Taube W, van Dieën JH, Granacher U, Hortobágyi T. Neural Correlates of Balance Skill Learning in Young and Older Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:3. [PMID: 38185708 PMCID: PMC10772137 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00668-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the increasing number of research studies examining the effects of age on the control of posture, the number of annual fall-related injuries and deaths continues to increase. A better understanding of how old age affects the neural mechanisms of postural control and how countermeasures such as balance training could improve the neural control of posture to reduce falls in older individuals is therefore necessary. The aim of this review is to determine the effects of age on the neural correlates of balance skill learning measured during static (standing) and dynamic (walking) balance tasks in healthy individuals. METHODS We determined the effects of acute (1-3 sessions) and chronic (> 3 sessions) balance skill training on balance in the trained and in untrained, transfer balance tasks through a systematic review and quantified these effects by robust variance estimation meta-analysis in combination with meta-regression. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. Balance performance and neural plasticity outcomes were extracted and included in the systematic synthesis and meta-analysis. RESULTS Forty-two studies (n = 622 young, n = 699 older individuals) were included in the systematic synthesis. Seventeen studies with 508 in-analysis participants were eligible for a meta-analysis. The overall analysis revealed that acute and chronic balance training had a large effect on the neural correlates of balance skill learning in the two age groups combined (g = 0.79, p < 0.01). Both age groups similarly improved balance skill performance in 1-3 training sessions and showed little further improvements with additional sessions. Improvements in balance performance mainly occurred in the trained and less so in the non-trained (i.e., transfer) balance tasks. The systematic synthesis and meta-analysis suggested little correspondence between improved balance skills and changes in spinal, cortical, and corticospinal excitability measures in the two age groups and between the time courses of changes in balance skills and neural correlates. CONCLUSIONS Balance skill learning and the accompanying neural adaptations occur rapidly and independently of age with little to no training dose-dependence or correspondence between behavioral and neural adaptations. Of the five types of neural correlates examined, changes in only spinal excitability seemed to differ between age groups. However, age or training dose in terms of duration did not moderate the effects of balance training on the changes in any of the neural correlates. The behavioral and neural mechanisms of strong task-specificity and the time course of skill retention remain unclear and require further studies in young and older individuals. REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022349573.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne B M Bakker
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9700 AD, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Claudine J C Lamoth
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9700 AD, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tomas Vetrovsky
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Markus Gruber
- Department of Sport Science, Human Performance Research Centre, University of Konstanz, Constance, Germany
| | - Simone R Caljouw
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9700 AD, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ward Nieboer
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9700 AD, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang Taube
- Department of Neurosciences and Movement Sciences, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Urs Granacher
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, Exercise and Human Movement Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tibor Hortobágyi
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9700 AD, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Pécs, Pecs, Hungary
- Somogy County Kaposi Mór Teaching Hospital, Kaposvár, Hungary
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6
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Lv Y, Zhang JJ, Wang K, Ju L, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Pan Y, Gong J, Wang X, Fong KNK. Determining the Optimal Stimulation Sessions for TMS-Induced Recovery of Upper Extremity Motor Function Post Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1662. [PMID: 38137110 PMCID: PMC10741851 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121662] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
To find out the optimal treatment sessions of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the primary motor cortex (M1) for upper extremity dysfunction after stroke during the 6-week treatment and to explore its mechanism using motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI), 72 participants with upper extremity motor dysfunction after ischemic stroke were randomly divided into the control group, 10-session, 20-session, and 30-session rTMS groups. Low-frequency (1 Hz) rTMS over the contralesional M1 was applied in all rTMS groups. The motor function of the upper extremity was assessed before and after treatment. In addition, MEPs and rs-fMRI data were analyzed to detect its effect on brain reorganization. After 6 weeks of treatment, there were significant differences in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the upper extremity and the Wolf Motor Function Test scores between the 10-session group and the 30-session group and between the 20- and 30-session groups and the control group, while there was no significant difference between the 20-session group and the 30-session group. Meanwhile, no significant difference was found between the 10-session group and the control group. The 20-session group of rTMS decreased the excitability of the contralesional corticospinal tract represented by the amplitudes of MEPs and enhanced the functional connectivity of the ipsilesional M1 or premotor cortex with the the precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus, and cingulate gyrus, etc. In conclusion, the 20-session of rTMS protocol is the optimal treatment sessions of TMS for upper extremity dysfunction after stroke during the 6-week treatment. The potential mechanism is related to its influence on the excitability of the corticospinal tract and the remodeling of corticomotor functional networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Lv
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Jack Jiaqi Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kui Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Leilei Ju
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Department of Medical Imaging, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Yuehan Zhao
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Yao Pan
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Jianwei Gong
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264000, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Kenneth N. K. Fong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Fesharaki NJ, Taylor A, Mosby K, Kim JH, Ress D. Global effects of aging on the hemodynamic response function in the human brain. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3299293. [PMID: 37720046 PMCID: PMC10503846 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3299293/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
In functional magnetic resonance imaging, the hemodynamic response function (HRF) is a transient, stereotypical response to local changes in cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism due to briefly (< 4 s) evoked neural activity. Accordingly, the HRF is often used as an impulse response with the assumption of linearity in data analysis. In cognitive aging studies, it has been very common to interpret differences in brain activation as age-related changes in neural activity. Contrary to this assumption, however, evidence has accrued that normal aging may also significantly affect the vasculature, thereby affecting cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism, confounding interpretation of fMRI aging studies. In this study, use was made of a multisensory stimulus to evoke the HRF in ~ 87% of cerebral cortex in cognitively intact adults with ages ranging from 22-75 years. The stimulus evokes both positive and negative HRFs, which were characterized using model-free parameters in native-space coordinates. Results showed significant age trends in HRF parameter distributions in terms of both amplitudes (e.g., peak amplitude and CNR) and temporal dynamics (e.g., full-width-at-half-maximum). This work sets the stage for using HRF methods as a biomarker for age-related pathology.
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8
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Malek-Ahmadi M, Duff K, Chen K, Su Y, King JB, Koppelmans V, Schaefer SY. Volumetric regional MRI and neuropsychological predictors of motor task variability in cognitively unimpaired, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and probable Alzheimer's disease older adults. Exp Gerontol 2023; 173:112087. [PMID: 36639062 PMCID: PMC9974847 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The mechanisms linking motor function to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression have not been well studied, despite evidence of AD pathology within motor brain regions. Thus, there is a need for new motor measure that is sensitive and specific to AD. METHODS In a sample of 121 older adults (54 cognitive unimpaired [CU], 35 amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment [aMCI], and 32 probable mild AD), intrasubject standard deviation (ISD) across six trials of a novel upper-extremity motor task was predicted with volumetric regional gray matter and neuropsychological scores using classification and regression tree (CART) analyses. RESULTS Both gray matter and neuropsychological CART models indicated that motor task ISD (our measure of motor learning) was related to cortical regions and cognitive test scores associated with memory, executive function, and visuospatial skills. CART models also accurately distinguished motor task ISD of MCI and probable mild AD from CU. DISCUSSION Variability in motor task performance across practice trials may be valuable for understanding preclinical and early-stage AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Malek-Ahmadi
- Banner Alzheimer's Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States of America
| | - Kevin Duff
- Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging, & Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States of America
| | - Kewei Chen
- Banner Alzheimer's Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States of America
| | - Yi Su
- Banner Alzheimer's Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States of America
| | - Jace B King
- Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging, & Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States of America
| | - Vincent Koppelmans
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States of America
| | - Sydney Y Schaefer
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, United States of America.
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Chen YC, Chang GC, Huang WM, Hwang IS. Quick balance skill improvement after short-term training with error amplification feedback for older adults. NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2023; 8:3. [PMID: 36635300 PMCID: PMC9837031 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-022-00151-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated behavioral and cortical mechanisms for short-term postural training with error amplification (EA) feedback in the elderly. Thirty-six elderly subjects (65.7 ± 2.2 years) were grouped (control and EA, n = 18) for training in stabilometer balance under visual guidance. During the training session (8 training rounds of 60 s in Day 2), the EA group received visual feedback that magnified errors to twice the real size, whereas the control group received visual feedback that displayed real errors. Scalp EEG and kinematic data of the stabilometer plate and ankle joint were recorded in the pre-test (Day 1) and post-test (Day 3). The EA group (-46.5 ± 4.7%) exhibited greater post-training error reduction than that of the control group (-27.1 ± 4.0%)(p = 0.020), together with a greater decline in kinematic coupling between the stabilometer plate and ankle joint (EA: -26.6 ± 4.8%, control: 2.3 ± 8.6%, p = 0.023). In contrast to the control group, the EA group manifested greater reductions in mean phase-lag index (PLI) connectivity in the theta (4-7 Hz)(p = 0.011) and alpha (8-12 Hz) (p = 0.027) bands. Only the EA group showed post-training declines in the mean PLI in the theta and alpha bands. Minimal spanning tree analysis revealed that EA-based training led to increases in the diameter (p = 0.002) and average eccentricity (p = 0.004) of the theta band for enhanced performance monitoring and reduction in the leaf fraction (p = 0.030) of the alpha band for postural response with enhanced automaticity. In conclusion, short-term EA training optimizes balance skill, favoring multi-segment coordination for the elderly, which is linked to more sophisticated error monitoring with less attentive control over the stabilometer stance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ching Chen
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medical Science and Technology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Physical Therapy Room, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Gwo-Ching Chang
- Department of Information Engineering, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Min Huang
- Department of Management Information System, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Ing-Shiou Hwang
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.
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10
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Van Ruitenbeek P, Santos Monteiro T, Chalavi S, King BR, Cuypers K, Sunaert S, Peeters R, Swinnen SP. Interactions between the aging brain and motor task complexity across the lifespan: balancing brain activity resource demand and supply. Cereb Cortex 2022; 33:6420-6434. [PMID: 36587289 PMCID: PMC10183738 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The Compensation Related Utilization of Neural Circuits Hypothesis (CRUNCH) proposes a framework for understanding task-related brain activity changes as a function of healthy aging and task complexity. Specifically, it affords the following predictions: (i) all adult age groups display more brain activation with increases in task complexity, (ii) older adults show more brain activation compared with younger adults at low task complexity levels, and (iii) disproportionately increase brain activation with increased task complexity, but (iv) show smaller (or no) increases in brain activation at the highest complexity levels. To test these hypotheses, performance on a bimanual tracking task at 4 complexity levels and associated brain activation were assessed in 3 age groups (20-40, 40-60, and 60-80 years, n = 99). All age groups showed decreased tracking accuracy and increased brain activation with increased task complexity, with larger performance decrements and activation increases in the older age groups. Older adults exhibited increased brain activation at a lower complexity level, but not the predicted failure to further increase brain activity at the highest complexity level. We conclude that older adults show more brain activation than younger adults and preserve the capacity to deploy increased neural resources as a function of task demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Van Ruitenbeek
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences, Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - T Santos Monteiro
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences, Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Chalavi
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences, Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - B R King
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences, Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Health & Kinesiology; University of Utah, 250 South 1850 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112
| | - K Cuypers
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences, Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.,Neuroplasticity and Movement Control Research Group, Rehabilitation Research Institute (REVAL), Hasselt University, Agoralaan Gebouw A, 3590,Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - S Sunaert
- KU Leuven, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, UZ Herestraat 49, box 7003, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), ON V Herestraat 49, box 1020, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - R Peeters
- KU Leuven, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, UZ Herestraat 49, box 7003, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), ON V Herestraat 49, box 1020, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S P Swinnen
- KU Leuven, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Biomedical Sciences,Tervuursevest 101, box 1501, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), ON V Herestraat 49, box 1020, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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11
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Malik J, Stemplewski R, Maciaszek J. The Effect of Juggling as Dual-Task Activity on Human Neuroplasticity: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127102. [PMID: 35742356 PMCID: PMC9222273 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review formulated a research question based on the PICO method in accordance with the Guidelines for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), “What is the effect of juggling as dual-task activity on neuroplasticity in the human brain?” In total, 1982 studies were analysed, 11 of which met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. These studies included 400 participants who had no prior juggling experience or were expert jugglers. The research methodology in seven studies was based on a long-term intervention with juggling. Three studies were based on brain imaging during the act of juggling, and one study was based on comparing differences between experienced jugglers and non-jugglers without the intervention. In all of these selected studies, positive structural changes in the human brain were found, including changes mainly in the gray matter (GM) volume in the visual motion complex area (hMT/V5) and the white matter (WM) volume in fractional anisotropy (FA). Based on this evidence, it can be concluded that the bimanual juggling task, as a dual-task activity, may effectively integrate brain areas to improve neuroplasticity. The small number of well-designed studies and the high risk of bias call for further research using a juggling intervention to identify conclusive evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Malik
- Department of Physical Activity and Health Promotion Science, Poznan University of Physical Education, Królowej Jadwigi 27/39, 61-871 Poznan, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-739-975-701
| | - Rafał Stemplewski
- Department of Digital Technologies in Physical Activity, Poznan University of Physical Education, Królowej Jadwigi 27/39, 61-871 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Janusz Maciaszek
- Department of Physical Activity and Health Promotion Science, Poznan University of Physical Education, Królowej Jadwigi 27/39, 61-871 Poznan, Poland;
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12
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Asci F, Scardapane S, Zampogna A, D’Onofrio V, Testa L, Patera M, Falletti M, Marsili L, Suppa A. Handwriting Declines With Human Aging: A Machine Learning Study. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:889930. [PMID: 35601625 PMCID: PMC9120912 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.889930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundHandwriting is an acquired complex cognitive and motor skill resulting from the activation of a widespread brain network. Handwriting therefore may provide biologically relevant information on health status. Also, handwriting can be collected easily in an ecological scenario, through safe, cheap, and largely available tools. Hence, objective handwriting analysis through artificial intelligence would represent an innovative strategy for telemedicine purposes in healthy subjects and people affected by neurological disorders.Materials and MethodsOne-hundred and fifty-six healthy subjects (61 males; 49.6 ± 20.4 years) were enrolled and divided according to age into three subgroups: Younger adults (YA), middle-aged adults (MA), and older adults (OA). Participants performed an ecological handwriting task that was digitalized through smartphones. Data underwent the DBNet algorithm for measuring and comparing the average stroke sizes in the three groups. A convolutional neural network (CNN) was also used to classify handwriting samples. Lastly, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and sensitivity, specificity, positive, negative predictive values (PPV, NPV), accuracy and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated to report the performance of the algorithm.ResultsStroke sizes were significantly smaller in OA than in MA and YA. The CNN classifier objectively discriminated YA vs. OA (sensitivity = 82%, specificity = 80%, PPV = 78%, NPV = 79%, accuracy = 77%, and AUC = 0.84), MA vs. OA (sensitivity = 84%, specificity = 56%, PPV = 78%, NPV = 73%, accuracy = 74%, and AUC = 0.7), and YA vs. MA (sensitivity = 75%, specificity = 82%, PPV = 79%, NPV = 83%, accuracy = 79%, and AUC = 0.83).DiscussionHandwriting progressively declines with human aging. The effect of physiological aging on handwriting abilities can be detected remotely and objectively by using machine learning algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Scardapane
- Department of Information, Electronic and Communication Engineering (DIET), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Lucia Testa
- Department of Informatic, Automatic and Gestional Engineering (DIAG), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Patera
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Falletti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Marsili
- Department of Neurology, Gardner Family Center for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Antonio Suppa
- IRCCS Neuromed Institute, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Antonio Suppa,
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13
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Chettouf S, Triebkorn P, Daffertshofer A, Ritter P. Unimanual sensorimotor learning-A simultaneous EEG-fMRI aging study. Hum Brain Mapp 2022; 43:2348-2364. [PMID: 35133058 PMCID: PMC8996364 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25791] [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: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensorimotor coordination requires orchestrated network activity in the brain, mediated by inter‐ and intra‐hemispheric interactions that may be affected by aging‐related changes. We adopted a theoretical model, according to which intra‐hemispheric inhibition from premotor to primary motor cortex is mandatory to compensate for inter‐hemispheric excitation through the corpus callosum. To test this as a function of age we acquired electroencephalography (EEG) simultaneously with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in two groups of healthy adults (younger N = 13: 20–25 year and older N = 14: 59–70 year) while learning a unimanual motor task. On average, quality of performance of older participants stayed significantly below that of the younger ones. Accompanying decreases in motor‐event‐related EEG β‐activity were lateralized toward contralateral motor regions, albeit more so in younger participants. In this younger group, the mean β‐power during motor task execution was significantly higher in bilateral premotor areas compared to the older adults. In both groups, fMRI blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signals were positively correlated with source‐reconstructed β‐amplitudes: positive in primary motor and negative in premotor cortex. This suggests that β‐amplitude modulation is associated with primary motor cortex “activation” (positive BOLD response) and premotor “deactivation” (negative BOLD response). Although the latter results did not discriminate between age groups, they underscore that enhanced modulation in primary motor cortex may be explained by a β‐associated excitatory crosstalk between hemispheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Chettouf
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam
| | - Paul Triebkorn
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Andreas Daffertshofer
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam
| | - Petra Ritter
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany.,Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Einstein Center for Neuroscience Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Einstein Center Digital Future, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Johnson AJ, Wilson AT, Laffitte Nodarse C, Montesino-Goicolea S, Valdes-Hernandez PA, Somerville J, Peraza JA, Fillingim RB, Bialosky J, Cruz-Almeida Y. Age Differences in Multimodal Quantitative Sensory Testing and Associations With Brain Volume. Innov Aging 2021; 5:igab033. [PMID: 34616958 PMCID: PMC8489433 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Somatosensory function is critical for successful aging. Prior studies have shown declines in somatosensory function with age; however, this may be affected by testing site, modality, and biobehavioral factors. While somatosensory function declines are associated with peripheral nervous system degradation, little is known regarding correlates with the central nervous system and brain structure in particular. The objectives of this study were to examine age-related declines in somatosensory function using innocuous and noxious stimuli, across 2 anatomical testing sites, with considerations for affect and cognitive function, and associations between somatosensory function and brain structure in older adults. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional analysis included 84 "younger" (n = 22, age range: 19-24 years) and "older" (n = 62, age range: 60-94 years) healthy adults who participated in the Neuromodulatory Examination of Pain and Mobility Across the Lifespan study. Participants were assessed on measures of somatosensory function (quantitative sensory testing), at 2 sites (metatarsal and thenar) using standardized procedures, and completed cognitive and psychological function measures and structural magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS Significant age × test site interaction effects were observed for warmth detection (p = .018,η p 2 = 0.10) and heat pain thresholds (p = .014,η p 2 = 0.12). Main age effects were observed for mechanical, vibratory, cold, and warmth detection thresholds (ps < .05), with older adults displaying a loss of sensory function. Significant associations between somatosensory function and brain gray matter structure emerged in the right occipital region, the right temporal region, and the left pericallosum. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings indicate healthy older adults display alterations in sensory responses to innocuous and noxious stimuli compared to younger adults and, furthermore, these alterations are uniquely affected by anatomical site. These findings suggest a nonuniform decline in somatosensation in older adults, which may represent peripheral and central nervous system alterations part of aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa J Johnson
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Community Dentistry & Behavioral Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Abigail T Wilson
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brooks Rehabilitation–College of Public Health and Health Professions Research Collaboration, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Chavier Laffitte Nodarse
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Soamy Montesino-Goicolea
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Pedro A Valdes-Hernandez
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Community Dentistry & Behavioral Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jessie Somerville
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Julio A Peraza
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Roger B Fillingim
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Community Dentistry & Behavioral Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Joel Bialosky
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Brooks Rehabilitation–College of Public Health and Health Professions Research Collaboration, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Yenisel Cruz-Almeida
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Community Dentistry & Behavioral Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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15
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Rurak BK, Rodrigues JP, Power BD, Drummond PD, Vallence AM. Test Re-test Reliability of Dual-site TMS Measures of SMA-M1 Connectivity Differs Across Inter-stimulus Intervals in Younger and Older Adults. Neuroscience 2021; 472:11-24. [PMID: 34333064 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Dual-site transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a promising tool to measure supplementary motor area and primary motor cortex (SMA-M1) connectivity in younger and older adults, and could be used to understand the pathophysiology of movement disorders. However, test re-test reliability of dual-site TMS measures of SMA-M1 connectivity has not been established. We examined the reliability of SMA-M1 connectivity using dual-site TMS in two sessions in 30 younger and 30 older adults. For dual-site TMS, a conditioning pulse delivered to SMA (140% of active motor threshold) preceded a test pulse delivered to M1 (intensity that elicited MEPs of ~1 mV) by inter-stimulus intervals (ISI) of 6 ms, 7 ms, and 8 ms. Moderate intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were found for SMA-M1 connectivity at an ISI of 7 ms in younger (ICC: 0.69) and older adults (ICC: 0.68). Poor ICCs were found for SMA-M1 connectivity at ISIs of 6 ms and 8 ms in both age groups (ICC range: 0.01-0.40). We report evidence for stable measures of SMA-M1 connectivity at an ISI of 7 ms in both age groups. These findings are foundational for future research developing evidence-based interventions to strengthen SMA-M1 connectivity to improve bilateral motor control in older adults and populations with movement disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- B K Rurak
- Discipline of Psychology, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Australia; Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Australia.
| | | | - B D Power
- Hollywood Private Hospital, Australia; School of Medicine Fremantle, University of Notre Dame, Australia
| | - P D Drummond
- Discipline of Psychology, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Australia; Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Australia
| | - A M Vallence
- Discipline of Psychology, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Australia; Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Australia; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch 6150, Australia
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16
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Bakker LBM, Nandi T, Lamoth CJC, Hortobágyi T. Task specificity and neural adaptations after balance learning in young adults. Hum Mov Sci 2021; 78:102833. [PMID: 34175684 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2021.102833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne B M Bakker
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands,.
| | - Tulika Nandi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Claudine J C Lamoth
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tibor Hortobágyi
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands,; Institute of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Somogy County Kaposi Mór Teaching Hospital, Kaposvár, Hungary
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17
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Classification of visuomotor tasks based on electroencephalographic data depends on age-related differences in brain activity patterns. Neural Netw 2021; 142:363-374. [PMID: 34116449 DOI: 10.1016/j.neunet.2021.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Classification of physiological data provides a data driven approach to study central aspects of motor control, which changes with age. To implement such results in real-life applications for elderly it is important to identify age-specific characteristics of movement classification. We compared task-classification based on EEG derived activity patterns related to brain network characteristics between older and younger adults performing force tracking with two task characteristics (sinusoidal; constant) with the right or left hand. We extracted brain network patterns with dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) and classified the tasks on an individual level using linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Next, we compared the models' performance between the groups. Studying brain activity patterns, we identified signatures of altered motor network function reflecting dedifferentiated and compensational brain activation in older adults. We found that the classification performance of the body side was lower in older adults. However, classification performance with respect to task characteristics was better in older adults. This may indicate a higher susceptibility of brain network mechanisms to task difficulty in elderly. Signatures of dedifferentiation and compensation refer to an age-related reorganization of functional brain networks, which suggests that classification of visuomotor tracking tasks is influenced by age-specific characteristics of brain activity patterns. In addition to insights into central aspects of fine motor control, the results presented here are relevant in application-oriented areas such as brain computer interfaces.
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18
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Veldman MP, Maurits NM, Mantini D, Hortobágyi T. Age-dependent modulation of motor network connectivity for skill acquisition, consolidation and interlimb transfer after motor practice. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:1790-1801. [PMID: 34130247 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Age-related differences in neural strategies for motor learning are not fully understood. We determined the effects of age on the relationship between motor network connectivity and motor skill acquisition, consolidation, and interlimb transfer using dynamic imaging of coherent sources. METHODS Healthy younger (n = 24, 18-24 y) and older (n = 24, 65-87 y) adults unilaterally practiced a visuomotor task and resting-state electroencephalographic data was acquired before and after practice as well as at retention. RESULTS The results showed that right-hand skill acquisition and consolidation did not differ between age groups. However, age affected the ability to transfer the newly acquired motor skill to the non-practiced limb. Moreover, strengthened left- and right-primary motor cortex-related beta connectivity was negatively and positively associated with right-hand skill acquisition and left-hand skill consolidation in older adults, respectively. CONCLUSION Age-dependent modulations of bilateral resting-state motor network connectivity indicate age-specific strategies for the acquisition, consolidation, and interlimb transfer of novel motor tasks. SIGNIFICANCE The present results provide insights into the mechanisms underlying motor learning that are important for the development of interventions for patients with unilateral injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Veldman
- KU Leuven, Department of Movement Sciences, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Leuven, Belgium; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Center for Human Movement Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands; KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium.
| | - N M Maurits
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Neurology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - D Mantini
- KU Leuven, Department of Movement Sciences, Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Leuven, Belgium; Brain Imaging and Neural Dynamics Research Group, IRCCS San Camillo Hospital, Venice, Italy
| | - T Hortobágyi
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Center for Human Movement Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands; Institute of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Somogy County Kaposi Mór Teaching Hospital, Kaposvár, Hungary
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19
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Coelho A, Fernandes HM, Magalhães R, Moreira PS, Marques P, Soares JM, Amorim L, Portugal‐Nunes C, Castanho T, Santos NC, Sousa N. Reorganization of brain structural networks in aging: A longitudinal study. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1354-1376. [PMID: 33527512 PMCID: PMC8248023 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Normal aging is characterized by structural and functional changes in the brain contributing to cognitive decline. Structural connectivity (SC) describes the anatomical backbone linking distinct functional subunits of the brain and disruption of this communication is thought to be one of the potential contributors for the age-related deterioration observed in cognition. Several studies already explored brain network's reorganization during aging, but most focused on average connectivity of the whole-brain or in specific networks, such as the resting-state networks. Here, we aimed to characterize longitudinal changes of white matter (WM) structural brain networks, through the identification of sub-networks with significantly altered connectivity along time. Then, we tested associations between longitudinal changes in network connectivity and cognition. We also assessed longitudinal changes in topological properties of the networks. For this, older adults were evaluated at two timepoints, with a mean interval time of 52.8 months (SD = 7.24). WM structural networks were derived from diffusion magnetic resonance imaging, and cognitive status from neurocognitive testing. Our results show age-related changes in brain SC, characterized by both decreases and increases in connectivity weight. Interestingly, decreases occur in intra-hemispheric connections formed mainly by association fibers, while increases occur mostly in inter-hemispheric connections and involve association, commissural, and projection fibers, supporting the last-in-first-out hypothesis. Regarding topology, two hubs were lost, alongside with a decrease in connector-hub inter-modular connectivity, reflecting reduced integration. Simultaneously, there was an increase in the number of provincial hubs, suggesting increased segregation. Overall, these results confirm that aging triggers a reorganization of the brain structural network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Coelho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Henrique M. Fernandes
- Center for Music in the Brain (MIB)Aarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Ricardo Magalhães
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Pedro S. Moreira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Paulo Marques
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - José M. Soares
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Liliana Amorim
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Carlos Portugal‐Nunes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Teresa Castanho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Nadine Correia Santos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of MedicineUniversity of MinhoBragaPortugal
- ICVS/3B’s, PT Government Associate LaboratoryBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
- Clinical Academic Center – BragaBragaPortugal
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20
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Bootsma JM, Caljouw SR, Veldman MP, Maurits NM, Rothwell JC, Hortobágyi T. Neural Correlates of Motor Skill Learning Are Dependent on Both Age and Task Difficulty. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:643132. [PMID: 33828478 PMCID: PMC8019720 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.643132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although a general age-related decline in neural plasticity is evident, the effects of age on neural plasticity after motor practice are inconclusive. Inconsistencies in the literature may be related to between-study differences in task difficulty. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effects of age and task difficulty on motor learning and associated brain activity. We used task-related electroencephalography (EEG) power in the alpha (8–12 Hz) and beta (13–30 Hz) frequency bands to assess neural plasticity before, immediately after, and 24-h after practice of a mirror star tracing task at one of three difficulty levels in healthy younger (19–24 yr) and older (65–86 yr) adults. Results showed an age-related deterioration in motor performance that was more pronounced with increasing task difficulty and was accompanied by a more bilateral activity pattern for older vs. younger adults. Task difficulty affected motor skill retention and neural plasticity specifically in older adults. Older adults that practiced at the low or medium, but not the high, difficulty levels were able to maintain improvements in accuracy at retention and showed modulation of alpha TR-Power after practice. Together, these data indicate that both age and task difficulty affect motor learning, as well as the associated neural plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josje M Bootsma
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Simone R Caljouw
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Menno P Veldman
- Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Department of Movement Science, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Natasha M Maurits
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - John C Rothwell
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tibor Hortobágyi
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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21
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Task Feedback Processing Differs Between Young and Older Adults in Visuomotor Rotation Learning Despite Similar Initial Adaptation and Savings. Neuroscience 2020; 451:79-98. [PMID: 33002556 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Ageing has been suggested to affect sensorimotor adaptation by impairing explicit strategy use. Here we recorded electrophysiological (EEG) responses during visuomotor rotation in both young (n = 24) and older adults (n = 25), to investigate the neural processes that underpin putative age-related effects on adaptation. We measured the feedback related negativity (FRN) and the P3 in response to task-feedback, as electrophysiological markers of task error processing and outcome evaluation. The two age groups adapted similarly and showed comparable after effects and savings when re-exposed to the same perturbation several days after the initial session. Older adults, however, had less distinct EEG responses (i.e., reduced FRN amplitudes) to negative and positive task feedback. The P3 did not differ between age groups. Both young and older adults also showed a sustained late positivity following task feedback. Measured at the frontal electrode Fz, this sustained activity was negatively associated with both the amount of voluntary disengagement of explicit strategy and savings. In conclusion, despite preserved task performance, we find clear differences in neural responses to errors in older people, which suggests that there is a fundamental decline in this aspect of sensorimotor brain function with age.
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22
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Bootsma JM, Caljouw SR, Veldman MP, Maurits NM, Rothwell JC, Hortobágyi T. Failure to Engage Neural Plasticity through Practice of a High-difficulty Task is Accompanied by Reduced Motor Skill Retention in Older Adults. Neuroscience 2020; 451:22-35. [PMID: 33075459 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
While the difficulty of a motor task can act as a stimulus for learning in younger adults, it is unknown how task difficulty interacts with age-related reductions in motor performance and altered brain activation. We examined the effects of task difficulty on motor performance and used electroencephalography (EEG) to probe task-related brain activation after acquisition and 24-h retention of a mirror star-tracing skill in healthy older adults (N = 36, 65-86 years). The results showed that the difficulty of the motor skill affected both the magnitude of motor skill learning and the underlying neural mechanisms. Behavioral data revealed that practicing a motor task at a high difficulty level hindered motor skill consolidation. The EEG data indicated that task difficulty modulated changes in brain activation after practice. Specifically, a decrease in task-related alpha power in frontal and parietal electrodes was only present after practice of the skill at the low and medium, but not the high difficulty level. Taken together, our findings show that a failure to engage neural plasticity through practice of a high-difficulty task is accompanied by reduced motor skill retention in older adults. The data help us better understand how older adults learn new motor skills and might have implications for prescribing motor skill practice according to its difficulty in rehabilitation settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josje M Bootsma
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Simone R Caljouw
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Menno P Veldman
- Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Department of Movement Science, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Natasha M Maurits
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - John C Rothwell
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tibor Hortobágyi
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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23
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Lin CS. Functional Adaptation of Oromotor Functions and Aging: A Focused Review of the Evidence From Brain Neuroimaging Research. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 11:354. [PMID: 31998112 PMCID: PMC6962247 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
“Practice makes perfect” is a principle widely applied when one is acquiring a new sensorimotor skill to cope with challenges from a new environment. In terms of oral healthcare, the traditional view holds that restoring decayed structures is one of the primary aims of treatment. This assumes that the patient’s oromotor functions would be recovered back to normal levels after the restoration. However, in older patients, such a structural–functional coupling after dental treatment shows a great degree of individual variations. For example, after prosthodontic treatment, some patients would adapt themselves quickly to the new dentures, while others would not. In this Focused Review, I argue that the functional aspects of adaptation—which would be predominantly associated with the brain mechanisms of cognitive processing and motor learning—play a critical role in the individual differences in the adaptive behaviors of oromotor functions. This thesis is critical to geriatric oral healthcare since the variation in the capacity of cognitive processing and motor learning is critically associated with aging. In this review, (a) the association between aging and the brain-stomatognathic axis will be introduced; (b) the brain mechanisms underlying the association between aging, compensatory behavior, and motor learning will be briefly summarized; (c) the neuroimaging evidence that suggests the role of cognitive processing and motor learning in oromotor functions will be summarized, and critically, the brain mechanisms underlying mastication and swallowing in older people will be discussed; and (d) based on the current knowledge, an experimental framework for investigating the association between aging and the functional adaptation of oromotor functions will be proposed. Finally, I will comment on the practical implications of this framework and postulate questions open for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Shu Lin
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Brain Science, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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24
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Lepley AS, Ly MT, Grooms DR, Kinsella-Shaw JM, Lepley LK. Corticospinal tract structure and excitability in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A DTI and TMS study. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2019; 25:102157. [PMID: 31901791 PMCID: PMC6948362 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2019.102157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Underlying neural factors contribute to poor outcomes following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Neurophysiological adaptations have been identified in corticospinal tract excitability, however limited evidence exists on neurostructural changes that may influence motor recovery in ACLR patients. OBJECTIVE To 1) quantify hemispheric differences in structural properties of the corticospinal tract in patients with a history of ACLR, and 2) assess the relationship between excitability and corticospinal tract structure. METHODS Ten participants with ACLR (age: 22.6 ± 1.9 yrs; height: 166.3 ± 7.5 cm; mass: 65.4 ± 12.6 kg, months from surgery: 70.0 ± 23.6) volunteered for this cross-sectional study. Corticospinal tract structure (volume; fractional anisotropy [FA]; axial diffusivity [AD]; radial diffusivity [RD]; mean diffusivity [MD]) was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging, and excitability was assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation (motor evoked potentials normalized to maximal muscle response [MEP]) for each hemisphere. Hemispheric differences were evaluated using paired samples t-tests. Correlational analyses were conducted on structural and excitability outcomes. RESULTS The hemisphere of the ACLR injured limb (i.e. hemisphere contralateral to the ACLR injured limb) demonstrated lower volume, lower FA, higher MD, and smaller MEPs compared to the hemisphere of the non-injured limb, indicating disrupted white matter structure and a reduction in excitability of the corticospinal tract. Greater corticospinal tract excitability was associated with larger corticospinal tract volume. CONCLUSIONS ACLR patients demonstrated asymmetry in structural properties of the corticospinal tract that may influence the recovery of motor function following surgical reconstruction. More research is warranted to establish the influence of neurostructural measures on patient outcomes and response to treatment in ACLR populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam S Lepley
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Brain Imaging Research Center, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States.
| | - Monica T Ly
- Brain Imaging Research Center, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Dustin R Grooms
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute & Division of Athletic Training, School of Applied Health Sciences and Wellness, College of Health Sciences and Professions, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| | | | - Lindsey K Lepley
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
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25
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Zhang Q, Li L, Guo X, Zheng L, Wu Y, Zhou C. Implicit learning of symmetry of human movement and gray matter density: Evidence against pure domain general and pure domain specific theories of implicit learning. Int J Psychophysiol 2019; 147:60-71. [PMID: 31734444 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2019.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Theories of the neural basis of implicit learning postulated that specific regions were responsible for specific structures (e.g., supra-finite state) regardless of domain (e.g., vision, movement); others assumed that implicit learning was the adaptation that occurred within neural regions dealing with each domain. We explored whether people could implicitly learn to detect symmetry in biological motion, and if so, based on voxel-based morphometry (VBM), whether the learning was associated with language-related regions involved with supra-finite state grammars (such as symmetry) or motor-related regions. To explore the relevance of motor-related regions, we investigated brain structural changes in athletes compared with non-athletes and the advantage of athletes in implicit learning of action symmetry. Further, we examined whether motor imagery ability could account for the role of motor-related regions in this learning. Participants passively observed and memorized a number of biological motion sequences instantiating a symmetry rule and then judged new sequences as grammatical or not. Behaviorally, the implicit acquisition of symmetry could extend to process biological motion. Athletes showed superior classification accuracy and kinesthetic imagery ability, and gave more familiarity attributions. VBM results showed that athletes exhibited greater gray matter density in the right cerebellum, as well as the left lingual gyrus, the left precuneus, the left calcarine gyrus, and the right thalamus. Correlation analysis showed that the cerebellar gray matter density was positively associated with classification accuracy, which was mediated by kinesthetic imagery ability. Moreover, gray matter density of the left inferior frontal cortex was also positively associated with classification accuracy, indicating the involvement of regions related to symmetry learning across domains. The study provides initial evidence that implicit learning involves both adaptation within brain regions responsible for the specific domain as well as brain regions processing the same structure across domains, at least in a case of supra-finite state grammars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Li
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiuyan Guo
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Zheng
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuyan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chu Zhou
- Department of Psychology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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26
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Négyesi J, Galamb K, Szilágyi B, Nagatomi R, Hortobágyi T, Tihanyi J. Age-specific modifications in healthy adults' knee joint position sense. Somatosens Mot Res 2019; 36:262-269. [PMID: 31691599 DOI: 10.1080/08990220.2019.1684888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Right-handed young adults perform target-matching tasks more accurately with the non-dominant (ND) compared to the dominant (D) limb, but it is unclear if age affects this disparity. We determined if age affects target-matching asymmetry in right-side dominant healthy adults. Method: Young (n = 12, age: 23.6 y, 6 females) and older (n = 12; age: 75.1 y, 7 females) adults performed a passive joint position-matching task with the D and ND leg in a randomized order. Result: Age affected absolute, constant, and variable knee JPS errors but, contrary to expectations, it did not affect target-matching asymmetries between the D and ND knees. However, older participants tended to underestimate while young subjects overestimated the target angles. Moreover, older as compared to young subjects performed the target-matching task with higher variability. Conclusion: Altogether, age seems to affect passive knee target-matching behaviour in right-side dominant healthy adults. The present data indicate that healthy aging produces age-specific modifications in passive joint position sense.
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Affiliation(s)
- János Négyesi
- Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kata Galamb
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Borbála Szilágyi
- Department of Biomechanics, Kinesiology and Informatics, University of Physical Education, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ryoichi Nagatomi
- Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health & Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tibor Hortobágyi
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - József Tihanyi
- Department of Biomechanics, Kinesiology and Informatics, University of Physical Education, Budapest, Hungary
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27
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Salat DH, Kennedy KM. Current themes and issues in neuroimaging of aging processes: Editorial overview to the special issue on imaging the nonpathological aging brain. Neuroimage 2019; 201:116046. [PMID: 31376520 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2019.116046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David H Salat
- Martinous Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusets General Hospital, Department of Radiology, Harvard University, USA
| | - Kristen M Kennedy
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Vital Longevity, The University of Texas at Dallas, USA.
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