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LoBue C, McClintock SM, Chiang HS, Helphrey J, Thakkar VJ, Hart J. A Critical Review of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Technologies in Alzheimer's Dementia and Primary Progressive Aphasia. J Alzheimers Dis 2024:JAD240230. [PMID: 38905047 DOI: 10.3233/jad-240230] [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] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Multiple pharmacologic agents now have been approved in the United States and other countries as treatment to slow disease and clinical progression for Alzheimer's disease. Given these treatments have not been proven to lessen the cognitive deficits already manifested in the Alzheimer's Clinical Syndrome (ACS), and none are aimed for another debilitating dementia syndrome identified as primary progressive aphasia (PPA), there is an urgent need for new, safe, tolerable, and efficacious treatments to mitigate the cognitive deficits experienced in ACS and PPA. Noninvasive brain stimulation has shown promise for enhancing cognitive functioning, and there has been interest in its potential therapeutic value in ACS and PPA. This review critically examines the evidence of five technologies in ACS and PPA: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS). Many randomized controlled trials of tDCS and rTMS report positive treatment effects on cognition in ACS and PPA that persist out to at least 8 weeks, whereas there are few trials for tACS and none for tRNS and nVNS. However, most positive trials did not identify clinically meaningful changes, underscoring that clinical efficacy has yet to be established in ACS and PPA. Much is still to be learned about noninvasive brain stimulation in ACS and PPA, and shifting the focus to prioritize clinical significance in addition to statistical significance in trials could yield greater success in understanding its potential cognitive effects and optimal parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian LoBue
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Shawn M McClintock
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Hsueh-Sheng Chiang
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jessica Helphrey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Vishal J Thakkar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - John Hart
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
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2
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Tippett DC, Neophytou K, Tao Y, Gallegos J, Morrow C, Onyike CU, Tsapkini K. Long-term, home-based transcranial direct current stimulation coupled with computerized cognitive training in frontotemporal dementia: A case report. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2024; 16:11795735241258435. [PMID: 38835997 PMCID: PMC11149448 DOI: 10.1177/11795735241258435] [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: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a 62-year-old woman with probable behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) with cognitive/language deficits who demonstrated improved performance on cognitive/language testing and in functional tasks following long-term, home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) coupled with computerized cognitive training (CCT). The patient underwent home-based tDCS (anode on the left prefrontal cortex and cathode on the right homologue) for 46 sessions over 10 weeks along with CCT. On post-treatment testing, the patient improved by 3 points on the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) (23 to 26). She also showed improvement on several cognitive/language tasks, such as immediate recall of single words and word pairs, total accurate words in sentence repetition, delayed recall, semantic processing, and sentence level comprehension. There was no decline in several other cognitive and language tasks. Family members reported subjective improvements in expressiveness, communication, and interaction with others as well as increased attention to grooming and style which contrasted with her pre-treatment condition. This report suggests that home-based tDCS combined with CCT for an extended period may slow decline, and improve cognitive/language performance and everyday function in FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna C Tippett
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kyriaki Neophytou
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yuan Tao
- Department of Cognitive Science, Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica Gallegos
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher Morrow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chiadi U Onyike
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kyrana Tsapkini
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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3
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Álvarez-Fernández B, Marín-Carmona JM. [Paradoxical lucidity and personal identity in patients with advanced dementia: change of paradigm?]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2024; 59:101493. [PMID: 38691896 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2024.101493] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
In this article we approach the concept of paradoxical lucidity (LP) (an unexpected, spontaneous, significant and relevant episode of communication or connection) in persons with advanced dementia. The existence of LP could change the paradigm of dementia as a degenerative, chronic, progressive and irreversible disease (where neuronal death plays the leading role), towards a model where functional deficits of neuronal networks acquire importance, which raises new potentially reversible therapeutic and rehabilitative possibilities. We analyze the ethical consequences that these episodes may have with respect to the implicated persons (patients, caregivers and professionals in charge of their care) and try to answer the following question: Do persons with advanced dementia continue to maintain their personal identity despite suffering cognitive impairment so severe?. The LP indicates that this is possible. In this work we make a transversal outline of the different concepts and theories of personal identity in these patients, from different areas of knowledge (philosophy, psychology, neuroscience).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Marín-Carmona
- Especialista en Geriatría. Programa de Memoria, Centro de Envejecimiento Saludable, Ayto, Málaga, España.
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Wang Y, Ma Y, Zhong Q, Song B, Liu Q. Transcriptomic analysis of rat brain response to alternating current electrical stimulation: unveiling insights via single-nucleus RNA sequencing. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e514. [PMID: 38495123 PMCID: PMC10943177 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrical brain stimulation (EBS) has gained popularity for laboratory and clinical applications. However, comprehensive characterization of cellular diversity and gene expression changes induced by EBS remains limited, particularly with respect to specific brain regions and stimulation sites. Here, we presented the initial single-nucleus RNA sequencing profiles of rat cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus subjected to intracranial alternating current stimulation (iACS) at 40 Hz. The results demonstrated an increased number of neurons in all three regions in response to iACS. Interestingly, less than 0.1% of host gene expression in neurons was significantly altered by iACS. In addition, we identified Rgs9, a known negative regulator of dopaminergic signaling, as a unique downregulated gene in neurons. Unilateral iACS produced a more focused local effect in attenuating the proportion of Rgs9+ neurons in the ipsilateral compared to bilateral iACS treatment. The results suggested that unilateral iACS at 40 Hz was an efficient approach to increase the number of neurons and downregulate Rgs9 gene expression without affecting other cell types or genes in the brain. Our study presented the direct evidence that EBS could boost cerebral neurogenesis and enhance neuronal sensitization to dopaminergic drugs and agonists, through its downregulatory effect on Rgs9 in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Institute of Biomedical and Health EngineeringShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Yongchao Ma
- Institute of Biomedical and Health EngineeringShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Qiuling Zhong
- Institute of Biomedical and Health EngineeringShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Bing Song
- Institute of Biomedical and Health EngineeringShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Qian Liu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health EngineeringShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
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Geng Z, Wu Y, Liu J, Zhan Y, Yan Y, Yang C, Pang X, Ji Y, Gao M, Zhou S, Wei L, Hu P, Wu X, Tian Y, Wang K. A Study on the Effect of Executive Control Network Functional Connection on the Therapeutic Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:1349-1359. [PMID: 38820018 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231449] [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: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by brain network dysfunction. Few studies have investigated whether the functional connections between executive control networks (ECN) and other brain regions can predict the therapeutic effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Objective The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between the functional connectivity (FC) within ECN networks and the efficacy of rTMS. Methods We recruited AD patients for rTMS treatment. We established an ECN using baseline period fMRI data and conducted an analysis of the ECN's FC throughout the brain. Concurrently, the support vector regression (SVR) method was employed to project post-rTMS cognitive scores, utilizing the connectional attributes of the ECN as predictive markers. Results The average age of the patients was 66.86±8.44 years, with 8 males and 13 females. Significant improvement on most cognitive measures. We use ECN connectivity and brain region functions in baseline patients as features for SVR model training and fitting. The SVR model could demonstrate significant predictability for changes in Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores among AD patients after rTMS treatment. The brain regions that contributed most to the prediction of the model (the top 10% of weights) were located in the medial temporal lobe, middle temporal gyrus, frontal lobe, parietal lobe and occipital lobe. Conclusions The stronger the antagonism between ECN and parieto-occipital lobe function, the better the prediction of cognitive improvement; the stronger the synergy between ECN and fronto-temporal lobe function, the better the prediction of cognitive improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Geng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
- Department of Sleep Psychology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiaqiu Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Yuqian Zhan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Yibing Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Chaoyi Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Xuerui Pang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Yi Ji
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Manman Gao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Ling Wei
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Panpan Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xingqi Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
| | - Yanghua Tian
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
- Department of Sleep Psychology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Neuropsychiatric Disorder and Mental Health, Hefei, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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6
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Gherardini L, Zajdel A, Pini L, Crimi A. Prediction of misfolded proteins spreading in Alzheimer's disease using machine learning and spreading models. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:11471-11485. [PMID: 37833822 PMCID: PMC10724880 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad380] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The pervasive impact of Alzheimer's disease on aging society represents one of the main challenges at this time. Current investigations highlight 2 specific misfolded proteins in its development: Amyloid-$\beta$ and tau. Previous studies focused on spreading for misfolded proteins exploited simulations, which required several parameters to be empirically estimated. Here, we provide an alternative view based on 2 machine learning approaches which we compare with known simulation models. The first approach applies an autoregressive model constrained by structural connectivity, while the second is based on graph convolutional networks. The aim is to predict concentrations of Amyloid-$\beta$ 2 yr after a provided baseline. We also evaluate its real-world effectiveness and suitability by providing a web service for physicians and researchers. In experiments, the autoregressive model generally outperformed state-of-the-art models resulting in lower prediction errors. While it is important to note that a comprehensive prognostic plan cannot solely rely on amyloid beta concentrations, their prediction, achieved by the discussed approaches, can be valuable for planning therapies and other cures, especially when dealing with asymptomatic patients for whom novel therapies could prove effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Gherardini
- Computer Vision Data Science Group, Sano centre for computational medicine, Czarnowiejska 36, Krakow 30-054, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zajdel
- Computer Vision Data Science Group, Sano centre for computational medicine, Czarnowiejska 36, Krakow 30-054, Poland
| | - Lorenzo Pini
- Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, Via 8 Febbraio, 2, Padua 35122, Italy
| | - Alessandro Crimi
- Computer Vision Data Science Group, Sano centre for computational medicine, Czarnowiejska 36, Krakow 30-054, Poland
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7
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Wang T, Yan S, Lu J. The effects of noninvasive brain stimulation on cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging: A systematic review and meta-analysis. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:3160-3172. [PMID: 37349974 PMCID: PMC10580344 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14314] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on cognition using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), thus providing the neuroimaging mechanism of cognitive intervention. METHODS English articles published up to April 30, 2023 were searched in the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. We included randomized controlled trials where resting-state fMRI was used to observe the effect of NIBS in patients with MCI or AD. RevMan software was used to analyze the continuous variables, and SDM-PSI software was used to perform an fMRI data analysis. RESULTS A total of 17 studies comprising 258 patients in the treatment group and 256 in the control group were included. After NIBS, MCI patients in the treatment group showed hyperactivation in the right precuneus and decreased activity in the left cuneus and right supplementary motor area. In contrast, patients in the control group showed decreased activity in the right middle frontal gyrus and no hyperactivation. The clinical cognitive scores in MCI patients were significantly improved by NIBS, while not in AD. Some evidence regarding the modulation of NIBS in resting-state brain activity and functional brain networks in patients with AD was found. CONCLUSIONS NIBS could improve cognitive function in patients with MCI and AD. fMRI evaluations could be added to evaluate the contribution of specific NIBS treatment therapeutic effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain InformaticsBeijingChina
- Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative DiseasesMinistry of EducationBeijingChina
| | - Shaozhen Yan
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain InformaticsBeijingChina
- Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative DiseasesMinistry of EducationBeijingChina
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Xuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Brain InformaticsBeijingChina
- Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative DiseasesMinistry of EducationBeijingChina
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Andrade SM, da Silva-Sauer L, de Carvalho CD, de Araújo ELM, Lima EDO, Fernandes FML, Moreira KLDAF, Camilo ME, Andrade LMMDS, Borges DT, da Silva Filho EM, Lindquist AR, Pegado R, Morya E, Yamauti SY, Alves NT, Fernández-Calvo B, de Souza Neto JMR. Identifying biomarkers for tDCS treatment response in Alzheimer's disease patients: a machine learning approach using resting-state EEG classification. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1234168. [PMID: 37859768 PMCID: PMC10582524 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1234168] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising treatment for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). However, identifying objective biomarkers that can predict brain stimulation efficacy, remains a challenge. The primary aim of this investigation is to delineate the cerebral regions implicated in AD, taking into account the existing lacuna in comprehension of these regions. In pursuit of this objective, we have employed a supervised machine learning algorithm to prognosticate the neurophysiological outcomes resultant from the confluence of tDCS therapy plus cognitive intervention within both the cohort of responders and non-responders to antecedent tDCS treatment, stratified on the basis of antecedent cognitive outcomes. Methods The data were obtained through an interventional trial. The study recorded high-resolution electroencephalography (EEG) in 70 AD patients and analyzed spectral power density during a 6 min resting period with eyes open focusing on a fixed point. The cognitive response was assessed using the AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale. The training process was carried out through a Random Forest classifier, and the dataset was partitioned into K equally-partitioned subsamples. The model was iterated k times using K-1 subsamples as the training bench and the remaining subsample as validation data for testing the model. Results A clinical discriminating EEG biomarkers (features) was found. The ML model identified four brain regions that best predict the response to tDCS associated with cognitive intervention in AD patients. These regions included the channels: FC1, F8, CP5, Oz, and F7. Conclusion These findings suggest that resting-state EEG features can provide valuable information on the likelihood of cognitive response to tDCS plus cognitive intervention in AD patients. The identified brain regions may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting treatment response and maybe guide a patient-centered strategy. Clinical Trial Registration https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02772185?term=NCT02772185&draw=2&rank=1, identifier ID: NCT02772185.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suellen Marinho Andrade
- Aging and Neuroscience Laboratory, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Leandro da Silva-Sauer
- Aging and Neuroscience Laboratory, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | | | | | - Eloise de Oliveira Lima
- Aging and Neuroscience Laboratory, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Maria Lima Fernandes
- Center for Alternative and Renewable Energies (CEAR), Department of Electrical Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Eduarda Camilo
- Laboratory of Ergonomics and Health, Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel Tezoni Borges
- Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Raquel Lindquist
- Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Pegado
- Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Edgard Morya
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neurosciences (IIN-ELS), Macaíba, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Seidi Yonamine Yamauti
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neurosciences (IIN-ELS), Macaíba, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Nelson Torro Alves
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Bernardino Fernández-Calvo
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - José Maurício Ramos de Souza Neto
- Center for Alternative and Renewable Energies (CEAR), Department of Electrical Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
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9
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Monteverdi A, Palesi F, Schirner M, Argentino F, Merante M, Redolfi A, Conca F, Mazzocchi L, Cappa SF, Cotta Ramusino M, Costa A, Pichiecchio A, Farina LM, Jirsa V, Ritter P, Gandini Wheeler-Kingshott CAM, D’Angelo E. Virtual brain simulations reveal network-specific parameters in neurodegenerative dementias. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1204134. [PMID: 37577354 PMCID: PMC10419271 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1204134] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neural circuit alterations lay at the core of brain physiopathology, and yet are hard to unveil in living subjects. The Virtual Brain (TVB) modeling, by exploiting structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), yields mesoscopic parameters of connectivity and synaptic transmission. Methods We used TVB to simulate brain networks, which are key for human brain function, in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) patients, whose connectivity and synaptic parameters remain largely unknown; we then compared them to healthy controls, to reveal novel in vivo pathological hallmarks. Results The pattern of simulated parameter differed between AD and FTD, shedding light on disease-specific alterations in brain networks. Individual subjects displayed subtle differences in network parameter patterns that significantly correlated with their individual neuropsychological, clinical, and pharmacological profiles. Discussion These TVB simulations, by informing about a new personalized set of networks parameters, open new perspectives for understanding dementias mechanisms and design personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Monteverdi
- Unit of Digital Neuroscience, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fulvia Palesi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michael Schirner
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center Digital Future, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francesca Argentino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Merante
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alberto Redolfi
- Laboratory of Neuroinformatics, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Laura Mazzocchi
- Advanced Imaging and Artificial Intelligence Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano F. Cappa
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- University Institute of Advanced Studies (IUSS), Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Costa
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Pichiecchio
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Advanced Imaging and Artificial Intelligence Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Viktor Jirsa
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, INSERM, INS, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Petra Ritter
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center Digital Future, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia A. M. Gandini Wheeler-Kingshott
- Unit of Digital Neuroscience, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- NMR Research Unit, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Egidio D’Angelo
- Unit of Digital Neuroscience, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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10
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Legaz A, Prado P, Moguilner S, Báez S, Santamaría-García H, Birba A, Barttfeld P, García AM, Fittipaldi S, Ibañez A. Social and non-social working memory in neurodegeneration. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 183:106171. [PMID: 37257663 PMCID: PMC11177282 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106171] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Although social functioning relies on working memory, whether a social-specific mechanism exists remains unclear. This undermines the characterization of neurodegenerative conditions with both working memory and social deficits. We assessed working memory domain-specificity across behavioral, electrophysiological, and neuroimaging dimensions in 245 participants. A novel working memory task involving social and non-social stimuli with three load levels was assessed across controls and different neurodegenerative conditions with recognized impairments in: working memory and social cognition (behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia); general cognition (Alzheimer's disease); and unspecific patterns (Parkinson's disease). We also examined resting-state theta oscillations and functional connectivity correlates of working memory domain-specificity. Results in controls and all groups together evidenced increased working memory demands for social stimuli associated with frontocinguloparietal theta oscillations and salience network connectivity. Canonical frontal theta oscillations and executive-default mode network anticorrelation indexed non-social stimuli. Behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia presented generalized working memory deficits related to posterior theta oscillations, with social stimuli linked to salience network connectivity. In Alzheimer's disease, generalized working memory impairments were related to temporoparietal theta oscillations, with non-social stimuli linked to the executive network. Parkinson's disease showed spared working memory performance and canonical brain correlates. Findings support a social-specific working memory and related disease-selective pathophysiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustina Legaz
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Psicología, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Pavel Prado
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile; Escuela de Fonoaudiología, Facultad de Odontología y Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Moguilner
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile; Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, United States; Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Hernando Santamaría-García
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Medical School, Physiology and Psychiatry Departments, Memory and Cognition Center Intellectus, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Agustina Birba
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Neurociencia, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Pablo Barttfeld
- Cognitive Science Group. Instituto de Investigaciones Psicológicas (IIPsi), CONICET UNC, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Boulevard de la Reforma esquina Enfermera Gordillo, CP 5000. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Adolfo M García
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, United States; Departamento de Lingüística y Literatura, Facultad de Humanidades, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sol Fittipaldi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile; Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, United States; Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Agustín Ibañez
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andres, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile; Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, United States; Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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11
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Yen C, Lin CL, Chiang MC. Exploring the Frontiers of Neuroimaging: A Review of Recent Advances in Understanding Brain Functioning and Disorders. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1472. [PMID: 37511847 PMCID: PMC10381462 DOI: 10.3390/life13071472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroimaging has revolutionized our understanding of brain function and has become an essential tool for researchers studying neurological disorders. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) are two widely used neuroimaging techniques to review changes in brain activity. fMRI is a noninvasive technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed brain images. An EEG is a noninvasive technique that records the brain's electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp. This review overviews recent developments in noninvasive functional neuroimaging methods, including fMRI and EEG. Recent advances in fMRI technology, its application to studying brain function, and the impact of neuroimaging techniques on neuroscience research are discussed. Advances in EEG technology and its applications to analyzing brain function and neural oscillations are also highlighted. In addition, advanced courses in neuroimaging, such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and transcranial electrical stimulation (TES), are described, along with their role in studying brain connectivity, white matter tracts, and potential treatments for schizophrenia and chronic pain. Application. The review concludes by examining neuroimaging studies of neurodevelopmental and neurological disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). We also described the role of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in ASD, ADHD, AD, and PD. Neuroimaging techniques have significantly advanced our understanding of brain function and provided essential insights into neurological disorders. However, further research into noninvasive treatments such as EEG, MRI, and TES is necessary to continue to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiahui Yen
- Department of International Business, Ming Chuan University, Taipei 111, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Li Lin
- Department of International Business, Ming Chuan University, Taipei 111, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chang Chiang
- Department of Life Science, College of Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan
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12
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Sanz Perl Y, Fittipaldi S, Gonzalez Campo C, Moguilner S, Cruzat J, Fraile-Vazquez ME, Herzog R, Kringelbach ML, Deco G, Prado P, Ibanez A, Tagliazucchi E. Model-based whole-brain perturbational landscape of neurodegenerative diseases. eLife 2023; 12:e83970. [PMID: 36995213 PMCID: PMC10063230 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is hindered by lack of interventions capable of steering multimodal whole-brain dynamics towards patterns indicative of preserved brain health. To address this problem, we combined deep learning with a model capable of reproducing whole-brain functional connectivity in patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). These models included disease-specific atrophy maps as priors to modulate local parameters, revealing increased stability of hippocampal and insular dynamics as signatures of brain atrophy in AD and bvFTD, respectively. Using variational autoencoders, we visualized different pathologies and their severity as the evolution of trajectories in a low-dimensional latent space. Finally, we perturbed the model to reveal key AD- and bvFTD-specific regions to induce transitions from pathological to healthy brain states. Overall, we obtained novel insights on disease progression and control by means of external stimulation, while identifying dynamical mechanisms that underlie functional alterations in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonatan Sanz Perl
- Department of Physics, University of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), CABABuenos AiresArgentina
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San AndrésBuenos AiresArgentina
- Center for Brain and Cognition, Computational Neuroscience Group, Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
| | - Sol Fittipaldi
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), CABABuenos AiresArgentina
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San AndrésBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Cecilia Gonzalez Campo
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), CABABuenos AiresArgentina
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San AndrésBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Sebastián Moguilner
- Global Brain Health Institute, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
| | - Josephine Cruzat
- Center for Brain and Cognition, Computational Neuroscience Group, Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
| | | | - Rubén Herzog
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
| | - Morten L Kringelbach
- Department of Psychiatry, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus UniversityÅrhusDenmark
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of MinhoBragaPortugal
- Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Gustavo Deco
- Center for Brain and Cognition, Computational Neuroscience Group, Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
- Department of Information and Communication Technologies, Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
- Institució Catalana de la Recerca i Estudis Avancats (ICREA)BarcelonaSpain
- Department of Neuropsychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
- School of Psychological Sciences, Monash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - Pavel Prado
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
- Escuela de Fonoaudiología, Facultad de Odontología y Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad San SebastiánSantiagoChile
| | - Agustin Ibanez
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), CABABuenos AiresArgentina
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San AndrésBuenos AiresArgentina
- Global Brain Health Institute, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience (TCIN), Trinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Enzo Tagliazucchi
- Department of Physics, University of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), CABABuenos AiresArgentina
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San AndrésBuenos AiresArgentina
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo IbáñezSantiagoChile
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13
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Watanabe K, Kokubun K, Yamakawa Y. Altered Grey Matter-Brain Healthcare Quotient: Interventions of Olfactory Training and Learning of Neuroplasticity. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030667. [PMID: 36983823 PMCID: PMC10052964 DOI: 10.3390/life13030667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies revealed that grey matter (GM) changes due to various training and learning experiences, using magnetic resonance imaging. In this study, we investigate the effect of psychological characteristics and attitudes toward training and learning on GM changes. Ninety participants were recruited and distributed into three groups: an olfactory training group that underwent 40 olfactory training sessions designed for odour classification tasks, a group classified for learning of neuroplasticity and brain healthcare using a TED Talk video and 28 daily brain healthcare messages, and a control group. Further, we assessed psychological characteristics, such as curiosity and personal growth initiatives. In the olfactory training group, we conducted a questionnaire survey on olfactory training regarding their interests and sense of accomplishment. In the olfactory training group, the GM change was significantly correlated with the sense of achievement and interest in training. The learning of neuroplasticity and brain healthcare group showed a significantly smaller 2-month GM decline than did the control group. The Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-II scores were significantly correlated with GM changes in both intervention groups only. In conclusion, our result suggested that training or learning with a sense of accomplishment, interest, and curiosity would lead to greater GM changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Watanabe
- Institution of Open Innovation, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- Correspondence:
| | - Keisuke Kokubun
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Yamakawa
- Institution of Open Innovation, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
- Academic and Industrial Innovation, Kobe University, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
- ImPACT Program of Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation (Cabinet Office, Government of Japan), Tokyo 100-8914, Japan
- BRAIN IMPACT General Incorporated Association, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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14
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Pini L. Brain network modulation in Alzheimer's disease: clinical phenotypes and windows of opportunity. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:115-116. [PMID: 35799521 PMCID: PMC9241393 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.340410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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15
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A low-dimensional cognitive-network space in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:199. [PMID: 36581943 PMCID: PMC9798659 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01145-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) show network dysfunctions linked with cognitive deficits. Within this framework, network abnormalities between AD and FTD show both convergent and divergent patterns. However, these functional patterns are far from being established and their relevance to cognitive processes remains to be elucidated. METHODS We investigated the relationship between cognition and functional connectivity of major cognitive networks in these diseases. Twenty-three bvFTD (age: 71±10), 22 AD (age: 72±6), and 20 controls (age: 72±6) underwent cognitive evaluation and resting-state functional MRI. Principal component analysis was used to describe cognitive variance across participants. Brain network connectivity was estimated with connectome analysis. Connectivity matrices were created assessing correlations between parcels within each functional network. The following cognitive networks were considered: default mode (DMN), dorsal attention (DAN), ventral attention (VAN), and frontoparietal (FPN) networks. The relationship between cognition and connectivity was assessed using a bootstrapping correlation and interaction analyses. RESULTS Three principal cognitive components explained more than 80% of the cognitive variance: the first component (cogPC1) loaded on memory, the second component (cogPC2) loaded on emotion and language, and the third component (cogPC3) loaded on the visuo-spatial and attentional domains. Compared to HC, AD and bvFTD showed impairment in all cogPCs (p<0.002), and bvFTD scored worse than AD in cogPC2 (p=0.031). At the network level, the DMN showed a significant association in the whole group with cogPC1 and cogPC2 and the VAN with cogPC2. By contrast, DAN and FPN showed a divergent pattern between diagnosis and connectivity for cogPC2. We confirmed these results by means of a multivariate analysis (canonical correlation). CONCLUSIONS A low-dimensional representation can account for a large variance in cognitive scores in the continuum from normal to pathological aging. Moreover, cognitive components showed both convergent and divergent patterns with connectivity across AD and bvFTD. The convergent pattern was observed across the networks primarily involved in these diseases (i.e., the DMN and VAN), while a divergent FC-cognitive pattern was mainly observed between attention/executive networks and the language/emotion cognitive component, suggesting the co-existence of compensatory and detrimental mechanisms underlying these components.
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