1
|
Navarro-Lobato I, Masmudi-Martín M, López-Aranda MF, López-Téllez JF, Delgado G, Granados-Durán P, Gaona-Romero C, Carretero-Rey M, Posadas S, Quiros-Ortega ME, Khan ZU. Promotion of structural plasticity in area V2 of visual cortex prevents against object recognition memory deficits in aging and Alzheimer's disease rodents. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1835-1841. [PMID: 38103251 PMCID: PMC10960297 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.389301] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202408000-00038/figure1/v/2023-12-16T180322Z/r/image-tiff Memory deficit, which is often associated with aging and many psychiatric, neurological, and neurodegenerative diseases, has been a challenging issue for treatment. Up till now, all potential drug candidates have failed to produce satisfactory effects. Therefore, in the search for a solution, we found that a treatment with the gene corresponding to the RGS14414 protein in visual area V2, a brain area connected with brain circuits of the ventral stream and the medial temporal lobe, which is crucial for object recognition memory (ORM), can induce enhancement of ORM. In this study, we demonstrated that the same treatment with RGS14414 in visual area V2, which is relatively unaffected in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, produced long-lasting enhancement of ORM in young animals and prevent ORM deficits in rodent models of aging and Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, we found that the prevention of memory deficits was mediated through the upregulation of neuronal arborization and spine density, as well as an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). A knockdown of BDNF gene in RGS14414-treated aging rats and Alzheimer's disease model mice caused complete loss in the upregulation of neuronal structural plasticity and in the prevention of ORM deficits. These findings suggest that BDNF-mediated neuronal structural plasticity in area V2 is crucial in the prevention of memory deficits in RGS14414-treated rodent models of aging and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, our findings of RGS14414 gene-mediated activation of neuronal circuits in visual area V2 have therapeutic relevance in the treatment of memory deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Navarro-Lobato
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Mariam Masmudi-Martín
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Manuel F. López-Aranda
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Juan F. López-Téllez
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Gloria Delgado
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Pablo Granados-Durán
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Celia Gaona-Romero
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Marta Carretero-Rey
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Sinforiano Posadas
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - María E. Quiros-Ortega
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Zafar U. Khan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico Sanitarias (CIMES), University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu Y, Liu R, Ge J, Wang Y. Advancements in brain-machine interfaces for application in the metaverse. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1383319. [PMID: 38919909 PMCID: PMC11198002 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1383319] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, with the shift of focus in metaverse research toward content exchange and social interaction, breaking through the current bottleneck of audio-visual media interaction has become an urgent issue. The use of brain-machine interfaces for sensory simulation is one of the proposed solutions. Currently, brain-machine interfaces have demonstrated irreplaceable potential as physiological signal acquisition tools in various fields within the metaverse. This study explores three application scenarios: generative art in the metaverse, serious gaming for healthcare in metaverse medicine, and brain-machine interface applications for facial expression synthesis in the virtual society of the metaverse. It investigates existing commercial products and patents (such as MindWave Mobile, GVS, and Galea), draws analogies with the development processes of network security and neurosecurity, bioethics and neuroethics, and discusses the challenges and potential issues that may arise when brain-machine interfaces mature and are widely applied. Furthermore, it looks ahead to the diverse possibilities of deep and varied applications of brain-machine interfaces in the metaverse in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shengyang, China
| | - Ruibin Liu
- Department of Clinical Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western medicine, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
- Department of General Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Jinnian Ge
- Department of General Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shengyang, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Whitehurst LN, Morehouse A, Mednick SC. Can stimulants make you smarter, despite stealing your sleep? Trends Cogn Sci 2024:S1364-6613(24)00102-5. [PMID: 38763802 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2024.04.007] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Nonmedical use of psychostimulants for cognitive enhancement is widespread and growing in neurotypical individuals, despite mixed scientific evidence of their effectiveness. Sleep benefits cognition, yet the interaction between stimulants, sleep, and cognition in neurotypical adults has received little attention. We propose that one effect of psychostimulants, namely decreased sleep, may play an important and unconsidered role in the effect of stimulants on cognition. We discuss the role of sleep in cognition, the alerting effects of stimulants in the context of sleep loss, and the conflicting findings of stimulants for complex cognitive processes. Finally, we hypothesize that sleep may be one unconsidered factor in the mythology of stimulants as cognitive enhancers and propose a methodological approach to systematically assess this relation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren N Whitehurst
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA, 40508.
| | - Allison Morehouse
- Department of Cognitive Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA, 92617
| | - Sara C Mednick
- Department of Cognitive Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA, 92617.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jafarzadeh Esfahani M, Sikder N, Ter Horst R, Daraie AH, Appel K, Weber FD, Bevelander KE, Dresler M. Citizen neuroscience: Wearable technology and open software to study the human brain in its natural habitat. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:948-965. [PMID: 38328991 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16227] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Citizen science allows the public to participate in various stages of scientific research, including study design, data acquisition, and data analysis. Citizen science has a long history in several fields of the natural sciences, and with recent developments in wearable technology, neuroscience has also become more accessible to citizen scientists. This development was largely driven by the influx of minimal sensing systems in the consumer market, allowing more do-it-yourself (DIY) and quantified-self (QS) investigations of the human brain. While most subfields of neuroscience require sophisticated monitoring devices and laboratories, the study of sleep characteristics can be performed at home with relevant noninvasive consumer devices. The strong influence of sleep quality on waking life and the accessibility of devices to measure sleep are two primary reasons citizen scientists have widely embraced sleep research. Their involvement has evolved from solely contributing to data collection to engaging in more collaborative or autonomous approaches, such as instigating ideas, formulating research inquiries, designing research protocols and methodology, acting upon their findings, and disseminating results. In this article, we introduce the emerging field of citizen neuroscience, illustrating examples of such projects in sleep research. We then provide overviews of the wearable technologies for tracking human neurophysiology and various open-source software used to analyse them. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges in citizen neuroscience projects and suggest how to improve the study of the human brain outside the laboratory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Niloy Sikder
- Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour, and Cognition, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Technology and Bionics, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Kleve, Germany
| | - Rob Ter Horst
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amir Hossein Daraie
- Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour, and Cognition, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Frederik D Weber
- Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour, and Cognition, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Sleep and Cognition, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kirsten E Bevelander
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Primary and Community Care, Radboud University and Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Dresler
- Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour, and Cognition, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bryce S, Cheng N, Dalton A, Ojinnaka A, Stainton A, Zbukvic I, Ratheesh A, O'Halloran C, Uren J, Gates J, Daglas-Georgiou R, Wood SJ, Allott K. Cognitive health treatment priorities and preferences among young people with mental illness: The your mind, your choice survey. Early Interv Psychiatry 2024; 18:94-101. [PMID: 37198726 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
AIM Cognitive impairments negatively impact the everyday functioning of young people with mental illness. However, no previous study has asked young people (1) how much of a priority cognitive functioning is within mental health treatment, and (2) what types of cognition-focused treatments are most appealing. The current study aimed to address these questions. METHODS Your Mind, Your Choice was a survey-based study involving an Australian sample of young people who were receiving mental health treatment. The survey asked participants to (1) provide demographic and mental health history, (2) rate the importance of 20 recovery domains, including cognition, when receiving mental health treatment, (3) share their experiences of cognitive functioning, and (4) rate their likelihood of trying 14 different behavioural, biochemical, and physical treatments that may address cognitive functioning. RESULTS Two-hundred and forty-three participants (Mage = 20.07, SD = 3.25, range = 15-25, 74% female) completed the survey. Participants reported that addressing cognitive functioning in mental health care was very important (M = 76.33, SD = 20.7, rated on a scale from 0 = not important to 100 = extremely important), ranking cognition among their top six treatment needs. Seventy percent of participants reported experiencing cognitive difficulties, but less than one-third had received treatment for these difficulties. Compensatory training, sleep interventions and psychoeducation were ranked as treatments that participants were most likely to try to support their cognitive functioning. CONCLUSIONS Young people with mental ill-health commonly experience cognitive difficulties and would like this to be a focus of treatment; however, this need is often unmet and should be a focus of research and implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shayden Bryce
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Alfred Mental and Addiction Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas Cheng
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | | | | | - Alexandra Stainton
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Isabel Zbukvic
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Aswin Ratheesh
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Jacquie Uren
- Alfred Mental and Addiction Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Headspace Early Psychosis, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Rothanthi Daglas-Georgiou
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kelly Allott
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mattioli F, Maglianella V, D'Antonio S, Trimarco E, Caligiore D. Non-invasive brain stimulation for patients and healthy subjects: Current challenges and future perspectives. J Neurol Sci 2024; 456:122825. [PMID: 38103417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.122825] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques have a rich historical background, yet their utilization has witnessed significant growth only recently. These techniques encompass transcranial electrical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, which were initially employed in neuroscience to explore the intricate relationship between the brain and behaviour. However, they are increasingly finding application in research contexts as a means to address various neurological, psychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. This article aims to fulfill two primary objectives. Firstly, it seeks to showcase the current state of the art in the clinical application of NIBS, highlighting how it can improve and complement existing treatments. Secondly, it provides a comprehensive overview of the utilization of NIBS in augmenting the brain function of healthy individuals, thereby enhancing their performance. Furthermore, the article delves into the points of convergence and divergence between these two techniques. It also addresses the existing challenges and future prospects associated with NIBS from ethical and research standpoints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Mattioli
- AI2Life s.r.l., Innovative Start-Up, ISTC-CNR Spin-Off, Via Sebino 32, 00199 Rome, Italy; School of Computing, Electronics and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Valerio Maglianella
- Computational and Translational Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council (CTNLab-ISTC-CNR), Via San Martino della Battaglia 44, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara D'Antonio
- Computational and Translational Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council (CTNLab-ISTC-CNR), Via San Martino della Battaglia 44, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Trimarco
- Computational and Translational Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council (CTNLab-ISTC-CNR), Via San Martino della Battaglia 44, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Caligiore
- AI2Life s.r.l., Innovative Start-Up, ISTC-CNR Spin-Off, Via Sebino 32, 00199 Rome, Italy; Computational and Translational Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council (CTNLab-ISTC-CNR), Via San Martino della Battaglia 44, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Erden YJ, Brey P. Neurotechnology and ethics guidelines for human enhancement: The case of the hippocampal cognitive prosthesis. Artif Organs 2023; 47:1235-1241. [PMID: 37533179 DOI: 10.1111/aor.14615] [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: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Neurotechnologies offer both therapeutic and enhancement potential. In this article, we demonstrate how ethics guidelines can help with critical reflection on their potential for enhancement. We do this through the case of the hippocampal cognitive prosthesis. This prothesis developed in the US, has primarily therapeutic ends, with scope for enhancement. This technology raises several ethical issues, including as related to identity and memory, autonomy and authenticity. In the first section, we outline what we mean by enhancement, and introduce neurotechnologies generally and the hippocampal cognitive prosthesis specifically, with an introduction to generally relevant ethical issues. In the second section, we outline ethical issues pertinent to the hippocampal cognitive prosthesis and explore how ethics guidelines can help to promote essential critical reflection on a technology like this. Through all this, our emphasis is to balance between technological optimism and caution, especially where technologies have enhancement potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin J Erden
- Philosophy Section, Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Philip Brey
- Philosophy Section, Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cornejo-Plaza MI, Saracini C. On pharmacological neuroenhancement as part of the new neurorights' pioneering legislation in Chile: a perspective. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1177720. [PMID: 37533709 PMCID: PMC10393253 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1177720] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The so-called neurorights are emerging human rights, or rather reconfigurations of already existing human rights, seeking to address the impact of the possible misuse of neurotechnologies, which have the potential to become more invasive and harmful in the future if not regulated. The aim of specifying neurorights is to protect the dignity and autonomy of the individual in the face of neurotechnological advances. Recently, Chile proposed a Constitutional reform inspired by the neurorights, opening a debate. One of the proposed neurorights is fair and equitable access to cognitive enhancement, which will be the specific object of this perspective article. Starting from the legal proposal, we analyse and discuss some perspectives on cognitive enhancement, or "neuroenhancement", which could be considered as part of enhancement neurotechnologies, pointing out that pharmacological enhancers, or "smart drugs", might be considered as part of these enhancers. We present a classification of the different types of cognitive enhancements as it has been proposed in the literature, into which pharmacological cognitive enhancement can be included, concluding that there is currently no agreement amongst scholars and lawyers about the ethical consideration of pharmacological cognitive enhancement. We therefore argue that it is necessary for the legislator to explicitly address the issue in the proposed regulations, in order to take a clear position on the topic, as it has been done in the United Kingdom, where the pharmacological neuroenhancers have been explicitly excluded from the regulation. If pharmacological neuroenhancers are going to be considered neurotechnologies, then new law proposals should seek harmonization with the already existing legislation regulating pharmacological health and consumer rights (both globally, taking into account international drug laws, and locally, according to each country's internal regulations) and of course, with the whole system of fundamental rights. Finally, we briefly discuss the ethical problem of equitable access to this new type of neurotechnologies (as part of the neurorights) and leave the debate open for new insights from the scientific community on the possible consequences of including (or not) pharmacological neuroenhancers as neurotechnologies for cognitive enhancement in the framework of the ethical and legal debate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Isabel Cornejo-Plaza
- Neurometa Research Center in Neurorights, Neuroethics, Metaverse, Behavioural Economics and Artificial Intelligence, School of Law, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Chiara Saracini
- The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center (CINPSI Neurocog), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Klichowski M, Wicher A, Kruszwicka A, Golebiewski R. Reverse effect of home-use binaural beats brain stimulation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11079. [PMID: 37422545 PMCID: PMC10329717 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38313-4] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Binaural beats brain stimulation is a popular strategy for supporting home-use cognitive tasks. However, such home-use brain stimulation may be neutral to cognitive processes, and any intellectual improvement may be only a placebo effect. Thus, without belief in it, it may bring no benefits. Here we test 1000 individuals at their homes as they perform a two-part fluid intelligence test. Some took the second part listening to binaural beats, while others took it in silence or listening to other sounds. The binaural beats group was divided into three subgroups. The first one was informed that they would listen to sounds that improve the brain's work, the second that neutral sounds, and the third that some sounds the nature of which was not defined. We found that listening to binaural beats was not neutral, as it dramatically deteriorated the score irrespective of the condition. Silence or other sounds had no effect. Thus, home-use binaural beats brain stimulation brings reverse effects to those assumed: instead of supporting the effectiveness of cognitive activities, it may weaken them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michal Klichowski
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland.
- Learning Laboratory, Faculty of Educational Studies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Wicher
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Acoustics, Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kruszwicka
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
- Learning Laboratory, Faculty of Educational Studies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Roman Golebiewski
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Acoustics, Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schöning J, Kettler J, Jäger MI, Gunia A. Grand Theft Auto-Based Cycling Simulator for Cognitive Enhancement Technologies in Dangerous Traffic Situations. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3672. [PMID: 37050732 PMCID: PMC10098922 DOI: 10.3390/s23073672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
While developing traffic-based cognitive enhancement technology (CET), such as bike accident prevention systems, it can be challenging to test and evaluate them properly. After all, the real-world scenario could endanger the subjects' health and safety. Therefore, a simulator is needed, preferably one that is realistic yet low cost. This paper introduces a way to use the video game Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) and its sophisticated traffic system as a base to create such a simulator, allowing for the safe and realistic testing of dangerous traffic situations involving cyclists, cars, and trucks. The open world of GTA V, which can be explored on foot and via various vehicles, serves as an immersive stand-in for the real world. Custom modification scripts of the game give the researchers control over the experiment scenario and the output data to be evaluated. An off-the-shelf bicycle equipped with three sensors serves as a realistic input device for the subject's movement direction and speed. The simulator was used to test two early-stage CET concepts enabling cyclists to sense dangerous traffic situations, such as trucks approaching from behind the cyclist. Thus, this paper also presents the user evaluation of the cycling simulator and the CET used by the subjects to sense dangerous traffic situations. With the knowledge of the first iteration of the user-centered design (UCD) process, this paper concludes by naming improvements for the cycling simulator and discussing further research directions for CET that enable users to sense dangerous situations better.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julius Schöning
- Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, DE-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Jan Kettler
- Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, DE-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Milena I. Jäger
- Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, DE-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Artur Gunia
- Faculty of Philosophy, Jagiellonian University, PL-31-007 Krakow, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gurbuz P, Duzova H, Taslidere AC, Gul CC. Effects of noopept on ocular, pancreatic and renal histopathology in streptozotocin induced prepubertal diabetic rats. Biotech Histochem 2023:1-12. [PMID: 36946173 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2023.2187460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease at all ages including childhood and puberty. Failure to treat DM can cause retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy. Endocrine and metabolic changes during the pubertal period complicate management of DM. Noopept is a cognitive enhancer that exhibits antidiabetic properties. We investigated the effect of noopept on the histopathology of the cornea, retina, kidney and pancreas in pubertal diabetic rats. We allocated 60 prepubertal male rats randomly into six groups of 10: untreated control (C), DM control (DC), noopept control (NC), DM + noopept (D + N), DM + insulin (D + I) and DM + insulin + noopept (D + I + N). DM was induced by streptozotocin in the DC, D + N, D + I and D + I + N groups. Noopept was administered to the NC, D + N and D + I + N groups; insulin was administered to the D + I and D + I + N groups for 14 days. On day 18 of the experiment, animals were sacrificed and eyes, kidneys and pancreata were excised for histological investigation. Renal tubule diameter and corneal and retinal thickness were increased significantly in DC groups compared to the control group. The D + I, D + N and D + I + N groups exhibited fewer DM induced pathological changes than the DC group. The D + I + N group exhibited no significant differences in renal tubule diameter and corneal and retinal thickness compared to the DC group. Our findings suggest that noopept is protective against DM end organ complications in streptozotocin induced diabetic pubertal rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Perihan Gurbuz
- Vocational School of Health Services, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Halil Duzova
- Physiology Department, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Asli Cetin Taslidere
- Histology and Embryology Department, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Cemile Ceren Gul
- Histology and Embryology Department, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Edgren N, Dubljević V. The ubiquity of the fallacy of composition in cognitive enhancement and in education. THEORETICAL MEDICINE AND BIOETHICS 2023; 44:41-56. [PMID: 36273366 DOI: 10.1007/s11017-022-09595-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Research into cognitive enhancement is highly controversial, and arguments for and against it have failed to identify the logical fallacy underlying this debate: the fallacy of composition. The fallacy of composition is a lesser-known fallacy of ambiguity, but it has been explored and applied extensively to other fields, including economics. The fallacy of composition, which occurs when the characteristics of the parts of the whole are incorrectly extended to apply to the whole itself, and the conclusion is false, should be addressed in the debate on cognitive enhancement and within education. Within cognitive enhancement, the premise that individual distinct cognitive processes can be enhanced by cognitive enhancers leads to the conclusion that they must enhance cognition overall, and this idea is pervasive in the literature. If the goal of cognitive enhancement is to enhance cognition or learning, and not merely individual cognitive processes, then this is a clear example of the fallacy of composition. The ambiguity of "cognitive," "cognition," and "enhancement" only perpetuates this fallacy and creates more confusion surrounding the purposes and goals of enhancement. Identifying this fallacy does not threaten the existing body of research; however, it provides a novel framework to explore new avenues for research, education, and enhancement, particularly through education reform initiatives. Education enhances and facilitates learning, and improvements to education could be considered cognitive enhancements. Furthermore, the same fallacy is ubiquitous in education; educators commit it by "teaching to the test" and prioritizing memorization over generalizable skills such as critical thinking and problem solving. We will explore these new avenues for research and highlight principles of learning success from other disciplines to create a clearer understanding of the means and ends of cognitive enhancement. Recognizing the pervasiveness of composition fallacy in cognitive enhancement and education will lead to greater clarity of normative positions and insights into student learning that steer away from fallacious reasoning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nora Edgren
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ding Y, Guo K, Wang X, Chen M, Li X, Wu Y. Brain functional connectivity and network characteristics changes after vagus nerve stimulation in patients with refractory epilepsy. Transl Neurosci 2023; 14:20220308. [PMID: 37719745 PMCID: PMC10500639 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2022-0308] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to investigate the impact of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on the connectivity and small-world metrics of brain functional networks during seizure periods. Methods Ten refractory epilepsy patients underwent video encephalographic monitoring before and after VNS treatment. The 2-min electroencephalogram segment containing the ictal was selected for each participant, resulting in a total of 20 min of seizure data. The weighted phase lag index (wPLI) and small-world metrics were calculated for the whole frequency band and different frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma). Finally, the relevant metrics were statistically analyzed, and the false discovery rate was used to correct for differences after multiple comparisons. Results In the whole band, the wPLI was notably enhanced, and the network metrics, including degree (D), clustering coefficient (CC), and global efficiency (GE), increased, while characteristic path length (CPL) decreased (P < 0.01). In different frequency bands, the wPLI between the parieto-occipital and frontal regions was significantly strengthened in the delta and beta bands, while the wPLI within the frontal region and between the frontal and parieto-occipital regions were significantly reduced in the beta and gamma bands (P < 0.01). In the low-frequency band (<13 Hz), the small-world metrics demonstrated significantly increased CC, D, and GE, with a significantly decreased CPL, indicating a more efficient network organization. In contrast, in the gamma band, the GE decreased, and the CPL increased, suggesting a shift toward less efficient network organization. Conclusion VNS treatment can significantly change the wPLI and small-world metrics. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of VNS therapy on brain networks and provide objective indicators for evaluating the efficacy of VNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kunlin Guo
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Brain–Computer Interface Technology, School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mingming Chen
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Brain–Computer Interface Technology, School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinxiao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuehui Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Burdack J, Schöllhorn WI. Cognitive Enhancement through Differential Rope Skipping after Math Lesson. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:205. [PMID: 36612527 PMCID: PMC9819879 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown cognitive enhancement through sport and physical exercise. Despite the variety of studies, the extent to which physical activity before or after a cognitive learning session leads to more effective cognitive enhancement remains largely unresolved. Moreover, little attention has been paid to the dependence of the motor learning approach then applied. In this study, we compare the influence of differential with uniformly rope skipping directly succeeding an acquisition phase in arithmetic mathematics. For three weeks 26 pupils, 14 female, 12 male, and 13.9 ± 0.7 years old, completed nine 15 min exercises in arithmetic math, each followed by 3 min rope skipping with heart rate measurement. Arithmetic performance was tested in a pre-, post- and retention test design. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the differential and the control groups within the development of arithmetic performance, especially in the retention test. There was no statistical difference in heart rate. It is suggested that the results provide evidence for sustainable improvements of cognitive learning performance by means of highly variable rope skipping.
Collapse
|
15
|
Badr el Dine FMM, Attia MH. Assessment of knowledge, perception, attitude, and use of performance-enhancing substances among students of Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt: a pilot study. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-022-00290-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The market for performance enhancement substances (PESs) is currently one of the fastest expanding sectors. Most studies have always concentrated on athletes in terms of PESs’ misuse, ignoring a critical segment of the community: the future health-care workers. Thus, the aim of the study was to probe the knowledge, perception, and attitude of medical students regarding the misuse of PESs in sports and medical academic study. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Egypt. Data were collected via self-administered electronic survey from 208 students of both sexes (aged from 18 to 26 years old). Analysis of factors affecting the consumption of PESs like gender differences, and their prior knowledge and perception was performed using logistic regression models.
Results
More than half of the participants have no idea about law concerning the use of doping substances. There were no significant disparities in knowledge and perception between males and females. Female students, on the other hand, consistently reported having a better understanding of the negative impacts of PESs’ misuse. Surprisingly, females are more prone to consume PESs for cognitive enhancement rather than the physical performance.
Conclusions
The study is the first to explore the awareness of the medical students, their attitude, and perception towards different ethical scenarios confronted in the daily practice. This finding pinpoints that the common trend of striving for fitness and an ideal body shape and weight has produced a shift in the prevalence of the PESs use according to gender in Egypt. Moreover, females in medicine academics are more prone to use PESs to improve the cognitive functions albeit it is nonsignificant statistically. Therefore, efforts should be directed to raise the awareness of medical practitioners of diverse categories of these substances, health hazards, laws, and penalties. More importantly, policy measures for their production, marketing, and misuse among university students should be reconsidered by the government.
Collapse
|
16
|
Public attitudes towards neurotechnology: Findings from two experiments concerning Brain Stimulation Devices (BSDs) and Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275454. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This study contributes to the emerging literature on public perceptions of neurotechnological devices (NTDs) in their medical and non-medical applications, depending on their invasiveness, framing effects, and interindividual differences related to personal needs and values. We conducted two web-based between-subject experiments (2×2×2) using a representative, nation-wide sample of the adult population in Germany. Using vignettes describing how two NTDs, brain stimulation devices (BSDs; NExperiment 1 = 1,090) and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs; NExperiment 2 = 1,089), function, we randomly varied the purpose (treatment vs. enhancement) and invasiveness (noninvasive vs. invasive) of the NTD, and assessed framing effects (variable order of assessing moral acceptability first vs. willingness to use first). We found a moderate moral acceptance and willingness to use BSDs and BCIs. Respondents preferred treatment over enhancement purposes and noninvasive over invasive devices. We also found a framing effect and explored the role of personal characteristics as indicators of personal needs and values (e.g., stress, religiosity, and gender). Our results suggest that the future demand for BSDs or BCIs may depend on the purpose, invasiveness, and personal needs and values. These insights can inform technology developers about the public’s needs and concerns, and enrich legal and ethical debates.
Collapse
|
17
|
Daglas-Georgiou R, Bryce S, Smith G, Kaur M, Cheng N, De Rozario M, Wood SJ, Allott K. Treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning in young people with depression: Systematic review of current evidence. Early Interv Psychiatry 2022; 16:1057-1074. [PMID: 34825492 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Cognitive deficits are recognized features of depressive disorders in youth aged 12-25. These deficits are distressing, predict functional impairment and limit the effectiveness of psychological therapies. Cognitive enhancement using behavioural, biochemical or physical treatments may be useful in young people with depression, but studies have not been synthesized. The aim was to systematically review the evidence for treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning, and their acceptability and functional outcomes in people aged 12-25 with depression. METHOD Three electronic databases were searched for articles using pre-specified criteria. Pharmacological treatments were not eligible. Risk of bias was rated using the Cochrane Collaboration's revised risk-of-bias tool. Dual full-text article screening, data extraction and quality ratings were completed. RESULTS Twelve studies were included for review (median participant age: 20.39 years), five of which were randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). Sample sizes were generally small (median = 23; range: 9-46). Eight studies investigated behavioural treatments including aerobic exercise, cognitive training and education or strategy-based methods. Four studies examined repetitive transcranial magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS). Most behavioural treatments revealed preliminary evidence of improved cognitive function in youth depression. Consent rates were greatest for exercise- and education-based approaches, which may indicate higher acceptability levels. Findings from rTMS trials were mixed, with only half showing cognitive improvement. Functional outcomes were reported by three behavioural treatment trials and one rTMS trial, with functional improvement reported only in the former. Some concern of risk of bias was found in each RCT. CONCLUSION Behavioural treatments, such as exercise, cognitive training and education/strategy-focused techniques, show encouraging results and appear to be acceptable methods of addressing cognitive deficits in youth depression based on participation rates. Brain stimulation and biochemical treatments (e.g., nutrient-based treatment) require further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rothanthi Daglas-Georgiou
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shayden Bryce
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gabriel Smith
- Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Manreena Kaur
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia.,Epworth Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, Epworth Healthcare and Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas Cheng
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Magdalene De Rozario
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Kelly Allott
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jangwan NS, Ashraf GM, Ram V, Singh V, Alghamdi BS, Abuzenadah AM, Singh MF. Brain augmentation and neuroscience technologies: current applications, challenges, ethics and future prospects. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:1000495. [PMID: 36211589 PMCID: PMC9538357 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.1000495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ever since the dawn of antiquity, people have strived to improve their cognitive abilities. From the advent of the wheel to the development of artificial intelligence, technology has had a profound leverage on civilization. Cognitive enhancement or augmentation of brain functions has become a trending topic both in academic and public debates in improving physical and mental abilities. The last years have seen a plethora of suggestions for boosting cognitive functions and biochemical, physical, and behavioral strategies are being explored in the field of cognitive enhancement. Despite expansion of behavioral and biochemical approaches, various physical strategies are known to boost mental abilities in diseased and healthy individuals. Clinical applications of neuroscience technologies offer alternatives to pharmaceutical approaches and devices for diseases that have been fatal, so far. Importantly, the distinctive aspect of these technologies, which shapes their existing and anticipated participation in brain augmentations, is used to compare and contrast them. As a preview of the next two decades of progress in brain augmentation, this article presents a plausible estimation of the many neuroscience technologies, their virtues, demerits, and applications. The review also focuses on the ethical implications and challenges linked to modern neuroscientific technology. There are times when it looks as if ethics discussions are more concerned with the hypothetical than with the factual. We conclude by providing recommendations for potential future studies and development areas, taking into account future advancements in neuroscience innovation for brain enhancement, analyzing historical patterns, considering neuroethics and looking at other related forecasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nitish Singh Jangwan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Sardar Bhagwan Singh University, Balawala, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Veerma Ram
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Sardar Bhagwan Singh University, Balawala, India
| | - Vinod Singh
- Prabha Harji Lal College of Pharmacy and Paraclinical Sciences, University of Jammu, Jammu, India
| | - Badrah S. Alghamdi
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Mohammad Abuzenadah
- Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mamta F. Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Sardar Bhagwan Singh University, Balawala, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mental and Spiritual Health Needs of Cognitively Enhanced People: A Therapeutic and Spiritual Care Model for Responding. RELIGIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rel13080701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cognitively enhanced people will have mental and possibly spiritual health needs that merit therapeutic and spiritual care response. This article addresses people who, although significantly enhanced, overlap with ordinary or “normal” (i.e., non-enhanced) people such that their status as humans is not questioned. Effective therapeutic and spiritual care approaches for these cognitively enhanced individuals will have a strong cognitive component. Cognitive therapy, originated by Aaron Beck, is an example of a therapeutic model that could prove useful with people cognitively enhanced. Four relevant elements of the cognitive therapy modality are explored: a developed cognitive structure, little consideration to unconscious factors, minimum attention to family of origin, and collaboration. Two psychological challenges with religious dimensions and import, which could be faced by individuals as a consequence of their cognitive enhancements, are concerns about physicality and fitting into community with ordinary humans and other enhanced humans.
Collapse
|
20
|
Professional attitudes toward the use of neuromodulatory technologies in Mexico: Insight for neuroethical considerations of cultural diversity. CNS Spectr 2022; 27:255-257. [PMID: 33298232 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852920002151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
21
|
Schönthaler EMD, Hofer G, Grinschgl S, Neubauer AC. Super-Men and Wonder-Women: the Relationship Between the Acceptance of Self-enhancement, Personality, and Values. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-022-00244-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractDue to ongoing technological innovations, self-enhancement methods are publicly discussed, researched from different perspectives, and part of ethical debates. However, only few studies investigated the acceptance of these methods and its relationship with personality traits and values. The present study investigated to what extent people accept different enhancement methods and whether acceptance can be predicted by Big Five and Dark Triad traits, vulnerable narcissism, and values. In an online survey (N = 450), we measured personality traits and values. Additionally, participants read scenarios about enhancement methods and answered questions about their acceptance of these scenarios. Factor analysis indicated a general factor of acceptance across scenarios. Correlation analyses showed that high agreeableness, agreeableness-compassion, conscientiousness, conscientiousness-industriousness, and conservation- and self-transcendence values are related to less acceptance of self-enhancement. Moreover, individuals high on Dark Triad traits, vulnerable narcissism, and self-enhancement values exhibit more acceptance. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that said values and Big Five traits explained unique variance in the acceptance of self-enhancement. These findings highlight the importance of considering personality and values when investigating self-enhancement—a topic that is receiving increasing attention by the public, politicians, and scientists.
Collapse
|
22
|
Sparking Religious Conversion through AI? RELIGIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rel13050413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
This paper will take the stance that cognitive enhancement promised by the use of AI could be a first step for some in bringing about moral enhancement. It will take a further step in questioning whether moral enhancement using AI could lead to moral and or religious conversion, i.e., a change in direction or behaviour reflecting changed thinking about moral or religious convictions and purpose in life. One challenge is that improved cognition leading to better moral thinking is not always sufficient to motivate a person towards the change in behaviour demanded. While some think moral bioenhancement should be imposed if necessary in urgent situations, most religions today see volition in conversion as essential. Moral and religious conversion should be voluntary and not imposed, and recent studies that show possible dangers of the use of AI here will be discussed along with a recommendation that there be regulatory requirements to counteract manipulation. It is, however, recognized that a change in moral thinking is usually a necessary step in the process of conversion and this paper concludes that voluntary, safe use of AI to help bring that about would be ethically acceptable.
Collapse
|
23
|
Yamamoto M. Pharmacological Cognitive Enhancement: Current Situation and Perspectives. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2022; 142:521-526. [DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.21-00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Midori Yamamoto
- School of Pharmacy at Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Assecondi S, Villa-Sánchez B, Shapiro K. Event-Related Potentials as Markers of Efficacy for Combined Working Memory Training and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Regimens: A Proof-of-Concept Study. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:837979. [PMID: 35547238 PMCID: PMC9083230 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.837979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Our brains are often under pressure to process a continuous flow of information in a short time, therefore facing a constantly increasing demand for cognitive resources. Recent studies have highlighted that a lasting improvement of cognitive functions may be achieved by exploiting plasticity, i.e., the brain’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing cognitive demands imposed by the environment. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), when combined with cognitive training, can promote plasticity, amplify training gains and their maintenance over time. The availability of low-cost wearable devices has made these approaches more feasible, albeit the effectiveness of combined training regimens is still unclear. To quantify the effectiveness of such protocols, many researchers have focused on behavioral measures such as accuracy or reaction time. These variables only return a global, non-specific picture of the underlying cognitive process. Electrophysiology instead has the finer grained resolution required to shed new light on the time course of the events underpinning processes critical to cognitive control, and if and how these processes are modulated by concurrent tDCS. To the best of our knowledge, research in this direction is still very limited. We investigate the electrophysiological correlates of combined 3-day working memory training and non-invasive brain stimulation in young adults. We focus on event-related potentials (ERPs), instead of other features such as oscillations or connectivity, because components can be measured on as little as one electrode. ERP components are, therefore, well suited for use with home devices, usually equipped with a limited number of recording channels. We consider short-, mid-, and long-latency components typically elicited by working memory tasks and assess if and how the amplitude of these components are modulated by the combined training regimen. We found no significant effects of tDCS either behaviorally or in brain activity, as measured by ERPs. We concluded that either tDCS was ineffective (because of the specific protocol or the sample under consideration, i.e., young adults) or brain-related changes, if present, were too subtle. Therefore, we suggest that other measures of brain activity may be more appropriate/sensitive to training- and/or tDCS-induced modulations, such as network connectivity, especially in young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Assecondi
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- Visual Experience Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Center for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Sara Assecondi, ,
| | | | - Kim Shapiro
- Visual Experience Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Center for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kostick-Quenet K, Kalwani L, Koenig B, Torgerson L, Sanchez C, Munoz K, Hsu RL, Sierra-Mercado D, Robinson JO, Outram S, Pereira S, McGuire A, Zuk P, Lazaro-Munoz G. Researchers’ Ethical Concerns About Using Adaptive Deep Brain Stimulation for Enhancement. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:813922. [PMID: 35496073 PMCID: PMC9050172 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.813922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The capacity of next-generation closed-loop or adaptive deep brain stimulation devices (aDBS) to read (measure neural activity) and write (stimulate brain regions or circuits) shows great potential to effectively manage movement, seizure, and psychiatric disorders, and also raises the possibility of using aDBS to electively (non-therapeutically) modulate mood, cognition, and prosociality. What separates aDBS from most neurotechnologies (e.g. transcranial stimulation) currently used for enhancement is that aDBS remains an invasive, surgically-implanted technology with a risk-benefit ratio significantly different when applied to diseased versus non-diseased individuals. Despite a large discourse about the ethics of enhancement, no empirical studies yet examine perspectives on enhancement from within the aDBS research community. We interviewed 23 aDBS researchers about their attitudes toward expanding aDBS use for enhancement. A thematic content analysis revealed that researchers share ethical concerns related to (1) safety and security; (2) enhancement as unnecessary, unnatural or aberrant; and (3) fairness, equality, and distributive justice. Most (70%) researchers felt that enhancement applications for DBS will eventually be technically feasible and that attempts to develop such applications for DBS are already happening (particularly for military purposes). However, researchers unanimously (100%) felt that DBS ideally should not be considered for enhancement until researchers better understand brain target localization and functioning. While many researchers acknowledged controversies highlighted by scholars and ethicists, such as potential impacts on personhood, authenticity, autonomy and privacy, their ethical concerns reflect considerations of both gravity and perceived near-term likelihood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Kostick-Quenet
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Kristin Kostick-Quenet,
| | - Lavina Kalwani
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Barbara Koenig
- Anthropology & Bioethics Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Laura Torgerson
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Clarissa Sanchez
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Katrina Munoz
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rebecca L. Hsu
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Demetrio Sierra-Mercado
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Jill Oliver Robinson
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Simon Outram
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Stacey Pereira
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Amy McGuire
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Peter Zuk
- Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Gabriel Lazaro-Munoz
- Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Schifano F, Catalani V, Sharif S, Napoletano F, Corkery JM, Arillotta D, Fergus S, Vento A, Guirguis A. Benefits and Harms of 'Smart Drugs' (Nootropics) in Healthy Individuals. Drugs 2022; 82:633-647. [PMID: 35366192 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01701-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
'Smart drugs' (also known as 'nootropics' and 'cognitive enhancers' [CEs]) are being used by healthy subjects (i.e. students and workers) typically to improve memory, attention, learning, executive functions and vigilance, hence the reference to a 'pharmaceutical cognitive doping behaviour'. While the efficacy of known CEs in individuals with memory or learning deficits is well known, their effect on non-impaired brains is still to be fully assessed. This paper aims to provide an overview on the prevalence of use; putative neuroenhancement benefits and possible harms relating to the intake of the most popular CEs (e.g. amphetamine-type stimulants, methylphenidate, donepezil, selegiline, modafinil, piracetam, benzodiazepine inverse agonists, and unifiram analogues) in healthy individuals. CEs are generally perceived by the users as effective, with related enthusiastic anecdotal reports; however, their efficacy in healthy individuals is uncertain and any reported improvement temporary. Conversely, since most CEs are stimulants, the related modulation of central noradrenaline, glutamate, and dopamine levels may lead to cardiovascular, neurological and psychopathological complications. Furthermore, use of CEs can be associated with paradoxical short- and long-term cognitive decline; decreased potential for plastic learning; and addictive behaviour. Finally, the non-medical use of any potent psychotropic raises serious ethical and legal issues, with nootropics having the potential to become a major public health concern. Further studies investigating CE-associated social, psychological, and biological outcomes are urgently needed to allow firm conclusions to be drawn on the appropriateness of CE use in healthy individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK.
| | - Valeria Catalani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Safia Sharif
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Flavia Napoletano
- East London Foundation Trust (ELFT), Newham Early Intervention Service, London, UK
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Suzanne Fergus
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
- Addictions' Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gan T, Huang Y, Hao X, Hu L, Zheng Y, Yang Z. Anodal tDCS Over the Left Frontal Eye Field Improves Sustained Visual Search Performance. Perception 2022; 51:263-275. [PMID: 35275023 DOI: 10.1177/03010066221086446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Monotonous and repetitive tasks cause vigilance, or sustained attention decrement, which possibly leads to irreparable accident consequences in the aerospace and nuclear industry. Buffering the decrement of vigilance in visual search tasks is essential for cognitive enhancement and ergonomic research. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied to the left frontal eye field (FEF) to improve the performance of the sustained visual search. Twenty-seven healthy participants received anodal and sham tDCS of 2 mA for 28.8 min and completed a visual search task lasting for approximately 40 min without any break. For the online effect, results showed that the d' hit rate and accuracy under anodal tDCS were significantly higher than those under sham conditions during 0-19.2 min time intervals. For the after-effect, compared with sham, anodal tDCS caused significantly higher d' in the 10 min after completing the tDCS. Our findings suggest that anodal tDCS over the left FEF could effectively mitigate the decline of visual vigilance performance by buffering cognitive resource depletion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian Gan
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Hao
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lina Hu
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- 12646Department of Psychology, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sharif S, Fergus S, Guirguis A, Smeeton N, Schifano F. Assessing prevalence, knowledge and use of cognitive enhancers among university students in the United Arab Emirates: A quantitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262704. [PMID: 35081158 PMCID: PMC8791475 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive enhancers (CE) are often used to improve memory, alertness and cognitive capacity. These products are commercially and pharmaceutically available. Due to high academic pressure, university students are at risk of CE misuse. However, data regarding this issue are limited, especially in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). AIMS To assess the prevalence of CE intake; evaluate students' knowledge of these substances; and identify student characteristics associated with CE usage. METHOD A cross sectional study based on a validated online survey that was distributed using university-licensed software (Qualtrics) as a direct web link via email and social media to all Medical, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing and Engineering students enrolled in six UAE universities. Associations between student characteristics and CE use were investigated using the chi-squared test and multiple logistic regression. Reasons for CE use, temporal patterns of use, details regarding purchase and types of CE used were compared by gender. RESULTS One quarter of students had used CEs. There was a clear difference between users and non-users in terms of gender (p<0.001). CE users were disproportionately represented by students from either UAE or other Arab countries (p<0.001), and by students of Medicine, followed by Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Engineering (p<0.001). CE use increased with year of study, reaching the highest level in the fourth year (p<0.001), which for most programmes is the final year. Modafinil was self-administered, especially in males, for concentration and alertness; B12 was typically taken by female students for academic performance and concentration; and high-dosage caffeine compounds were ingested to improve alertness levels. Use of the internet for both obtaining information and purchasing CEs was frequently reported. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that gender, nationality, and year of study were associated with CE use among UAE university students. CONCLUSIONS Universities need to address the prevalence of CE use amongst their students by providing effective support programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Safia Sharif
- Psychopharmacology, Substance Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Fergus
- Psychopharmacology, Substance Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Substance Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel Smeeton
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Substance Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Potential risk groups and psychological, psychosocial, and health behavioral predictors of pharmacological neuroenhancement among university students in Germany. Sci Rep 2022; 12:937. [PMID: 35042938 PMCID: PMC8766436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-04891-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aiming to develop and implement intervention strategies targeting pharmacological neuroenhancement (PN) among university students more specifically, we (1) assessed the prevalence of PN among German university students, (2) identified potential sociodemographic and study-related risk groups, and (3) investigated sociodemographic, psychological, study-related psychosocial, general psychosocial and health behavior related factors predicting the 12-month prevalence of PN. Therefore, a cross-sectional online survey was administered to students of the University of Mainz, Germany. A binary logistic regression with stepwise inclusion of the five variable groups was performed to predict PN. A total number of 4351 students out of 31,213 registered students (13.9%) participated in the survey, of which N = 3984 answered the question concerning PN. Of these, 10.4% had used one substance for PN at least once in the past 12 months. The regression analysis revealed 13 variables that were significantly related to the 12-month prevalence of PN. Specifically, the group of health behavior related variables showed the strongest relationship with PN. Therefore, an approach to the prevention of PN should be multifactorial so that it addresses social conditions, as well as education on substance use and healthy behaviors in terms of non-pharmacological strategies as alternatives of PN.
Collapse
|
30
|
Booth SJ, Taylor JR, Brown LJE, Pobric G. The effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation on memory performance in healthy adults: A systematic review. Cortex 2021; 147:112-139. [PMID: 35032750 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The recent introduction of Transcranial Alternating Current stimulation (tACS) in research on memory modulation has yielded some exciting findings. Whilst evidence suggests small but significant modulatory effects of tACS on perception and cognition, it is unclear how effective tACS is at modulating memory, and the neural oscillations underlying memory. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the efficacy with which tACS, compared to sham stimulation, can modify working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM) performance in healthy adults. We examined how these effects may be moderated by specific tACS parameters and study/participant characteristics. Our secondary goal was to investigate the neural correlates of tACS' effects on memory performance in healthy adults. A systematic search of eight databases yielded 11,413 records, resulting in 34 papers that included 104 eligible studies. The results were synthesised by memory type (WM/LTM) and according to the specific parameters of frequency band, stimulation montage, individual variability, cognitive demand, and phase. A second synthesis examined the correspondence between tACS' effects on memory performance and the oscillatory features of electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetencephalography (MEG) recordings in a subset of 26 studies. The results showed a small-to-medium effect of tACS on WM and LTM performance overall. There was strong evidence to suggest that posterior theta-tACS modulates WM performance, whilst the modulation of LTM is achieved by anterior gamma-tACS. Moreover, there was a correspondence between tACS effects on memory performance and oscillatory outcomes at the stimulation frequency. We discuss limitations in the field and suggest ways to improve our understanding of tACS efficacy to ensure a transition of tACS from an investigative method to a therapeutic tool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Booth
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, England, UK.
| | - Jason R Taylor
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, England, UK.
| | - Laura J E Brown
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, England, UK.
| | - Gorana Pobric
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, England, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ter Horst R, Dresler M. The Quantified Scientist: Citizen Neuroscience and Neurotechnology. AJOB Neurosci 2021; 13:63-65. [PMID: 34931959 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2021.2001090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rob Ter Horst
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Memory performance is crucial across the human life, from early education to age-related decline. A new study in PLOS Biology found that verbal learning can be enhanced by applying repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the left prefrontal cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yevgenia Rosenblum
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Sackler School of Medicine, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Martin Dresler
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Moghimi N, Di Napoli M, Biller J, Siegler JE, Shekhar R, McCullough LD, Harkins MS, Hong E, Alaouieh DA, Mansueto G, Divani AA. The Neurological Manifestations of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2021; 21:44. [PMID: 34181102 PMCID: PMC8237541 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-021-01130-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a global health challenge. This review aims to summarize the incidence, risk factors, possible pathophysiology, and proposed management of neurological manifestations of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) or neuro-PASC based on the published literature. Recent Findings The National Institutes of Health has noted that PASC is a multi-organ disorder ranging from mild symptoms to an incapacitating state that can last for weeks or longer following recovery from initial infection with SARS-CoV-2. Various pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed as the culprit for the development of PASC. These include, but are not limited to, direct or indirect invasion of the virus into the brain, immune dysregulation, hormonal disturbances, elevated cytokine levels due to immune reaction leading to chronic inflammation, direct tissue damage to other organs, and persistent low-grade infection. A multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of neuro-PASC will be required to diagnose and address these symptoms. Tailored rehabilitation and novel cognitive therapy protocols are as important as pharmacological treatments to treat neuro-PASC effectively. Summary With recognizing the growing numbers of COVID-19 patients suffering from neuro-PASC, there is an urgent need to identify affected individuals early to provide the most appropriate and efficient treatments. Awareness among the general population and health care professionals about PASC is rising, and more efforts are needed to understand and treat this new emerging challenge. In this review, we summarize the relevant scientific literature about neuro-PASC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narges Moghimi
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC10-5620, Albuquerque, NM 87131 USA
| | - Mario Di Napoli
- Neurological Service, SS Annunziata Hospital, Sulmona, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - José Biller
- Department of Neurology, Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL USA
| | - James E. Siegler
- Cooper Neurological Institute, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, NJ 08103 USA
| | - Rahul Shekhar
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Louise D. McCullough
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas USA
| | - Michelle S. Harkins
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Emily Hong
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC10-5620, Albuquerque, NM 87131 USA
| | - Danielle A. Alaouieh
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC10-5620, Albuquerque, NM 87131 USA
| | - Gelsomina Mansueto
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Afshin A. Divani
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC10-5620, Albuquerque, NM 87131 USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
In Pursuit of Healthy Aging: Effects of Nutrition on Brain Function. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22095026. [PMID: 34068525 PMCID: PMC8126018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22095026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Consuming a balanced, nutritious diet is important for maintaining health, especially as individuals age. Several studies suggest that consuming a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components such as those found in fruits, nuts, vegetables, and fish may reduce age-related cognitive decline and the risk of developing various neurodegenerative diseases. Numerous studies have been published over the last decade focusing on nutrition and how this impacts health. The main objective of the current article is to review the data linking the role of diet and nutrition with aging and age-related cognitive decline. Specifically, we discuss the roles of micronutrients and macronutrients and provide an overview of how the gut microbiota-gut-brain axis and nutrition impact brain function in general and cognitive processes in particular during aging. We propose that dietary interventions designed to optimize the levels of macro and micronutrients and maximize the functioning of the microbiota-gut-brain axis can be of therapeutic value for improving cognitive functioning, particularly during aging.
Collapse
|
35
|
Racine E, Sattler S, Boehlen W. Cognitive Enhancement: Unanswered Questions About Human Psychology and Social Behavior. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2021; 27:19. [PMID: 33759032 PMCID: PMC7987623 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-021-00294-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Stimulant drugs, transcranial magnetic stimulation, brain-computer interfaces, and even genetic modifications are all discussed as forms of potential cognitive enhancement. Cognitive enhancement can be conceived as a benefit-seeking strategy used by healthy individuals to enhance cognitive abilities such as learning, memory, attention, or vigilance. This phenomenon is hotly debated in the public, professional, and scientific literature. Many of the statements favoring cognitive enhancement (e.g., related to greater productivity and autonomy) or opposing it (e.g., related to health-risks and social expectations) rely on claims about human welfare and human flourishing. But with real-world evidence from the social and psychological sciences often missing to support (or invalidate) these claims, the debate about cognitive enhancement is stalled. In this paper, we describe a set of crucial debated questions about psychological and social aspects of cognitive enhancement (e.g., intrinsic motivation, well-being) and explain why they are of fundamental importance to address in the cognitive enhancement debate and in future research. We propose studies targeting social and psychological outcomes associated with cognitive enhancers (e.g., stigmatization, burnout, mental well-being, work motivation). We also voice a call for scientific evidence, inclusive of but not limited to biological health outcomes, to thoroughly assess the impact of enhancement. This evidence is needed to engage in empirically informed policymaking, as well as to promote the mental and physical health of users and non-users of enhancement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Racine
- Pragmatic Health Ethics Research Unit, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM), 110, avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.
- Department of Medicine and Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, 7101, Av du Parc, Montréal, QC, H3N 1X9, Canada.
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Experimental Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, 3801, University Street, Montréal, QC, H3A 1X1, Canada.
| | - Sebastian Sattler
- Pragmatic Health Ethics Research Unit, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM), 110, avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada.
- Department of Sociology, University of Cologne, Universitätsstrasse 24, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Wren Boehlen
- Pragmatic Health Ethics Research Unit, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM), 110, avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Jebrini T, Manz K, Koller G, Krause D, Soyka M, Franke AG. Psychiatric Comorbidity and Stress in Medical Students Using Neuroenhancers. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:771126. [PMID: 34975573 PMCID: PMC8716814 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.771126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacological neuroenhancement (PN) is a common healthcare problem at least among students. PN seems to be associated with stressful situations. There is a lack of data about personal characteristics, comorbidities, and coping strategies regarding stress and factors of resilience in students and medical staff. Methods: A web-based survey about the non-medical use of PN drugs with a focus on neuroenhancement was developed and distributed among medical students throughout Germany; the questionnaire was open in April and May of 2020. The survey contained questions about the use of well-known PN drugs, frequency, special purposes, reasons for the use, psychiatric disorders, use of psychotropic drugs apart from PN purposes, and factors of resilience using the brief resilience scale. Results: Data of 1,159 students of medicine were analyzed. The most frequently used substances for PN were coffee (78.8% lifetime prevalence rate), energy drinks (45.7%), caffeine tablets (24.3%), methylphenidate (5.2%), illicit amphetamines (2.0%), and cocaine (1.7%). 98.4% suspected that PN drug use could lead to addiction. PN drug use specifically for PN was significantly associated with the use of (a) any psychotropic drug (other than neuroenhancers), (b) any psychiatric disorder, and (c) higher values of feeling pressure to perform in professional/students' life and in private life as well as (d) the subjective feeling of pressure to perform to be burdening and (e) harmful to one's own health. PN drug use in general was significantly associated with being less resilient. The use of illicit PN drugs, over the counter drugs and prescription drugs was associated with being less resilient. Conclusion: This study indicates that PN with legal and illegal drugs is a widespread phenomenon among German medical students. Users seem to be more often burdened by psychiatric disorders, especially addictive disorders, the perception of stress, pressure to perform and low levels of resilience. These aspects should be considered in further investigation of PN drug use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Jebrini
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kirsi Manz
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE), LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriele Koller
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniela Krause
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Soyka
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas G Franke
- Hochschule der Bundesagentur für Arbeit (HdBA), University of Applied Labour Studies, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zawadzki P, Adamczyk AK. Personality and Authenticity in Light of the Memory-Modifying Potential of Optogenetics. AJOB Neurosci 2021; 12:3-21. [PMID: 33528319 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2020.1866097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
There has been a growing interest in research concerning memory modification technologies (MMTs) in recent years. Neuroscientists and psychologists are beginning to explore the prospect of controllable and intentional modification of human memory. One of the technologies with the greatest potential to this end is optogenetics-an invasive neuromodulation technique involving the use of light to control the activity of individual brain cells. It has recently shown the potential to modify specific long-term memories in animal models in ways not yet possible with other MMTs. As the therapeutic potential of optogenetics has already prompted approval of the first human trials, it is especially important and timely to consider the opportunities and dangers this technology may entail. In this article, we focus on possible consequences of optogenetics as an MMT by analyzing fundamental threats potentially associated with memory modifications: the potential disruption of personality and authenticity.
Collapse
|
38
|
Repantis D, Bovy L, Ohla K, Kühn S, Dresler M. Cognitive enhancement effects of stimulants: a randomized controlled trial testing methylphenidate, modafinil, and caffeine. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:441-451. [PMID: 33201262 PMCID: PMC7826302 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05691-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONAL At all times humans have made attempts to improve their cognitive abilities by different means, among others, with the use of stimulants. Widely available stimulants such as caffeine, but also prescription substances such as methylphenidate and modafinil, are being used by healthy individuals to enhance cognitive performance. OBJECTIVES There is a lack of knowledge on the effects of prescription stimulants when taken by healthy individuals (as compared with patients) and especially on the effects of different substances across different cognitive domains. METHODS We conducted a pilot study with three arms in which male participants received placebo and one of three stimulants (caffeine, methylphenidate, modafinil) and assessed cognitive performance with a test battery that captures various cognitive domains. RESULTS Our study showed some moderate effects of the three stimulants tested. Methylphenidate had positive effects on self-reported fatigue as well as on declarative memory 24 hours after learning; caffeine had a positive effect on sustained attention; there was no significant effect of modafinil in any of the instruments of our test battery. All stimulants were well tolerated, and no trade-off negative effects on other cognitive domains were found. CONCLUSIONS The few observed significant positive effects of the tested stimulants were domain-specific and of rather low magnitude. The results can inform the use of stimulants for cognitive enhancement purposes as well as direct further research to investigate the effects of stimulants on specific cognitive domains that seem most promising, possibly by using tasks that are more demanding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Repantis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany. .,Lise Meitner Group for Environmental Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Leonore Bovy
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kathrin Ohla
- grid.8385.60000 0001 2297 375XInstitute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Jülich Research Centre, Jülich, Germany
| | - Simone Kühn
- grid.419526.d0000 0000 9859 7917Lise Meitner Group for Environmental Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany ,grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Dresler
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Napoletano F, Schifano F, Corkery JM, Guirguis A, Arillotta D, Zangani C, Vento A. The Psychonauts' World of Cognitive Enhancers. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:546796. [PMID: 33024436 PMCID: PMC7516264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.546796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing availability of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), including cognitive enhancers (CEs) which can be used in the treatment of certain mental health disorders. While treating cognitive deficit symptoms in neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders using CEs might have significant benefits for patients, the increasing recreational use of these substances by healthy individuals raises many clinical, medico-legal, and ethical issues. Moreover, it has become very challenging for clinicians to keep up-to-date with CEs currently available as comprehensive official lists do not exist. METHODS Using a web crawler (NPSfinder®), the present study aimed at assessing psychonaut fora/platforms to better understand the online situation regarding CEs. We compared NPSfinder® entries with those from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) NPS databases up to spring 2019. Any substance that was identified by NPSfinder® was considered a CE if it was either described as having nootropic abilities by psychonauts or if it was listed among the known CEs by Froestl and colleagues. RESULTS A total of 142 unique CEs were identified by NPSfinder®. They were divided into 10 categories, including plants/herbs/products (29%), prescribed drugs (17%), image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs) (15%), psychostimulants (15%), miscellaneous (8%), Phenethylamines (6%), GABAergic drugs (5%), cannabimimetic (4%), tryptamines derivatives (0.5%), and piperazine derivatives (0.5%). A total of 105 chemically different substances were uniquely identified by NPSfinder®. Only one CE was uniquely identified by the EMCDDA; no CE was uniquely identified by the UNODC. CONCLUSIONS These results show that NPSfinder® is helpful as part of an Early Warning System, which could update clinicians with the growing numbers and types of nootropics in the increasingly difficult-to-follow internet world. Improving clinicians' knowledge of NPS could promote more effective prevention and harm reduction measures in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Napoletano
- Department of Mental Health, Homerton University Hospital, East London Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences 2, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Caroline Zangani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Department of Mental Health, Addictions’ Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, Guglielmo Marconi” University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Izzetoglu M, Shewokis PA, Tsai K, Dantoin P, Sparango K, Min K. Short-Term Effects of Meditation on Sustained Attention as Measured by fNIRS. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E608. [PMID: 32899656 PMCID: PMC7564228 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10090608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, processing time, perception, and reasoning can be augmented using some type of intervention. Within the broad range of conventional and unconventional intervention methods used in cognitive enhancement, meditation is one of those that is safe, widely practiced by many since ancient times, and has been shown to reduce stress and improve psychological health and cognitive functioning. Various neuroimaging studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) have shown functional and structural changes due to meditation in different types of meditation practices and on various groups of meditators. Recently, a few studies on meditation have used functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to study the effects of meditation on cerebral hemodynamics. In this study, we examined the short-term effects of loving-kindness (LK) meditation on sustained attention using behavioral performance measures, physiological outcomes, and cognitive activity as measured by fNIRS in first-time meditators during Stroop color word task (SCWT) performance. Our results indicated that behavioral outcomes, assessed mainly on response time (RT) during SCWT performance, showed a significant decrease after meditation. As expected, physiological measures, primarily pulse pressure (PP) measured after meditation dropped significantly as compared to the before meditation measurement. For the hemodynamic measures of oxygenated-hemoglobin (HbO2), deoxygenated-hemoglobin (Hb), and total-hemoglobin (HbT), our findings show significant differences in SCWT performance before and after meditation. Our results suggest that LK meditation can result in improvements in cognitive, physiological, and behavioral outcomes of first-time meditators after a short-term session.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meltem Izzetoglu
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA; (K.T.); (P.D.); (K.S.); (K.M.)
| | - Patricia A. Shewokis
- Nutrition Sciences Dept., College of Nursing and Health Professions; School of Biomedical Engineering Science and Health Systems, & School of Education, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Kathryn Tsai
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA; (K.T.); (P.D.); (K.S.); (K.M.)
| | - Phillip Dantoin
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA; (K.T.); (P.D.); (K.S.); (K.M.)
| | - Kathryn Sparango
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA; (K.T.); (P.D.); (K.S.); (K.M.)
| | - Katherine Min
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA; (K.T.); (P.D.); (K.S.); (K.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Eberwine J, Kahn J. The BRAIN Initiative and Neuroethics: Enabling and Enhancing Neuroscience Advances for Society. AJOB Neurosci 2020; 11:135-139. [DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2020.1778121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
|
42
|
Ricci G. Pharmacological Human Enhancement: An Overview of the Looming Bioethical and Regulatory Challenges. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:53. [PMID: 32127792 PMCID: PMC7037021 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive enhancement, a rather broad-ranging principle, can be achieved in various ways: healthy eating and consistent physical exercise can lead to long-term improvements in many cognitive domains; commonplace stimulants such as caffeine, on the other hand, temporarily raise levels of alertness, attentiveness, and concentration; sedative substances are also used as an indirect form of enhancement to relax before an exam or an important meeting. Such approaches raise no ethical issue. Nonetheless, clinical research has led to the off-label use of drugs called nootropics or "smart drugs", which can, under certain conditions, elicit some degree of cognition-improving effects: methylphenidate and modafinil can enhance working memory and concentration in healthy individuals, although the significance and effectiveness of such applications are dubious. Such "cognitive enhancement" methods, however, do raise multiple ethical issues, and their contentious nature has caused bioethical authorities to lay out opinions and recommendations meant to regulate their use. Most notably, the Italian Committee on Bioethics has extensively dealt with the spread of nootropics, which resulted in the Italian Code of Medical Ethics including "cognitive enhancement" drugs and their prescription by doctors as critical points, along with cosmetic surgery (the latest version of the Code, updated in December 2017, deals with the two separately, in Article 76 and 76 BIS). The United States Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues broadened the scope of cognitive enhancement techniques so as to include neural modifiers, i.e. mechanisms of brain and nervous system change: a much wider array of interventions, technologies, behaviors, and environmental conditions that may potentially affect several aspects of the human brain and nervous system. The potential of neuroscience to profoundly reshape society is nothing short of mind-blowing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Ricci
- Section of Forensic Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
Sporting authorities and policy makers have warned of a radical increase in the availability and use of so-called 'smart' drugs, which putatively deliver cognitive enhancements in the form of improved focus, concentration, alertness, and rapid decision-making. Although the potential for health risks is well documented when it comes to performance enhancing drugs in sport, the health implications of cognitive enhancing drugs (CEDs) remain unclear. Objectives: This article aims to provide a foundational understanding about CEDs and their application in sport. It considers what little is known about the types, nature, impact, and implications of their use for athletes and sport policy. Method: A narrative literature review was undertaken to ascertain the emerging role of CEDs beyond their clinical use to treat prescribed disorders, including the limited studies in the sporting domain. This review also considered literature pertinent to the impact of CEDs in sport and the challenges for sport policy. Results: Given the prospects of negative health impacts, policy-makers interested in preventing and controlling the use of CEDs, as well as reducing harm to athletes at all levels of performance, need guidance. This article highlights multi-faceted concerns and shines a spotlight on key issues for sporting bodies to consider regarding the critical impact that widespread use and adoption of these substances might entail. Conclusion: While the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is seemingly awake to the threat posed, actions to circumvent the spread of CEDs throughout sport are nascent and require greater understanding and attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C T Smith
- Institute for Sport Business, Loughborough University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Constantino Stavros
- School of Economics, Finance & Marketing, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate Westberg
- School of Economics, Finance & Marketing, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lavazza A. The Two-Fold Ethical Challenge in the Use of Neural Electrical Modulation. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:678. [PMID: 31316345 PMCID: PMC6611379 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
|
45
|
Baird B, Mota-Rolim SA, Dresler M. The cognitive neuroscience of lucid dreaming. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 100:305-323. [PMID: 30880167 PMCID: PMC6451677 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Lucid dreaming refers to the phenomenon of becoming aware of the fact that one is dreaming during ongoing sleep. Despite having been physiologically validated for decades, the neurobiology of lucid dreaming is still incompletely characterized. Here we review the neuroscientific literature on lucid dreaming, including electroencephalographic, neuroimaging, brain lesion, pharmacological and brain stimulation studies. Electroencephalographic studies of lucid dreaming are mostly underpowered and show mixed results. Neuroimaging data is scant but preliminary results suggest that prefrontal and parietal regions are involved in lucid dreaming. A focus of research is also to develop methods to induce lucid dreams. Combining training in mental set with cholinergic stimulation has shown promising results, while it remains unclear whether electrical brain stimulation could be used to induce lucid dreams. Finally, we discuss strategies to measure lucid dreaming, including best-practice procedures for the sleep laboratory. Lucid dreaming has clinical and scientific applications, and shows emerging potential as a methodology in the cognitive neuroscience of consciousness. Further research with larger sample sizes and refined methodology is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Baird
- Wisconsin Institute for Sleep and Consciousness, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Sergio A Mota-Rolim
- Brain Institute, Physiology Department and Onofre Lopes University Hospital - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Martin Dresler
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|