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Yao ZF, Sligte IG, Ridderinkhof R. Olympic team rowers and team swimmers show altered functional brain activation during working memory and action inhibition. Neuropsychologia 2024; 203:108974. [PMID: 39182905 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2024.108974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-level expertise in team-sports is associated with superior performance on executive functions (EFs) such as working memory (WM) and action inhibition, and with altered activation of brain areas related to these EFs. In most such studies, athletes were sampled from the domain of dynamic (i.e., open-skill) team-sports (e.g., soccer players). Whether static (i.e., closed-skill) team-sports athletes (e.g., rowers and synchronized swimmers) also show superior EFs performance and differential EF-related functional brain activation remains unknown. METHODS We recruited 14 elite closed-skill athletes, all national champions, and internationally competitive in various rowing disciplines, as well as 14 controls matched on gender, age, and education, and had them perform working memory and action inhibition (stop-signal) tasks during fMRI scanning. RESULTS Group differences in performance in either task failed to obtain statistical significance, although athletes showed a numerical trend toward higher WM capacity than controls. Importantly, task-related BOLD responses suggested that Olympic closed-skill team athletes show stronger recruitment of brain areas that emphasize relatively stable task demands and weaker engagement of brain areas that emphasize rapidly changing demands imposed by extraneous stimulation. CONCLUSION Functional brain imaging data suggest elite closed-skill athletes may employ different cognitive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zai-Fu Yao
- College of Education, 521 Nanda Road, East Dist, Nanda Campus, National Tsing Hua University, 30013, Hsinchu City, Taiwan; Research Center for Education and Mind Sciences, 521 Nanda Road, East Dist, Nanda Campus, National Tsing Hua University, 30013, Hsinchu City, Taiwan; Department of Kinesiology, 521 Nanda Road, East Dist, Nanda Campus, National Tsing Hua University, 30013, Hsinchu City, Taiwan; Basic Psychology Group, Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, 521 Nanda Road, East Dist, Nanda Campus, National Tsing Hua University, 30013, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
| | - Ilja G Sligte
- Brain and Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, 1018, WS, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, University of Amsterdam, 1018, WS, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Richard Ridderinkhof
- Brain and Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, 1018, WS, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, University of Amsterdam, 1018, WS, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Weber VMR, Queiroga MR, Puranda JL, Semeniuk K, Macdonald ML, Dantas DB, da Silva DF, Adamo KB. Role of Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Aerobic, Exercise and Sports Participation in Female Cognition: A Scoping Review : Sports, Fitness, and Cognition. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:103. [PMID: 39333320 PMCID: PMC11436514 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00776-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) on cognition is thought to be mediated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Aerobic exercise can increase CRF through various activities, including sports participation. The relationship between these factors in females has yet to be elucidated. OBJECTIVE This review aims to map the current literature on the effects of aerobic exercise, sports participation, and CRF in healthy adult females, with sub-topics of pregnancy and menstrual cycle periodicity. METHODS A scoping review of the literature was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and the PCC mnemonic (population, concept, and context). The following five databases were screened: CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus. Eligible articles included healthy adult females, investigated aerobic exercise, sports participation or CRF, and linked outcomes to cognition. Data from included manuscripts was extracted and analyzed. Two sub-population groupings (pregnant individuals and menstrual cycle) were established to further aid the interpretation of the findings. RESULTS Of the 300 titles and abstracts screened, 74 were eligible for full-text screening, and 28 were included in the scoping review. Of the 28 included, 14 did not control for or report on menstrual cycle phase or sex hormones. CONCLUSION This scoping review found an inverse 'U' relationship between aerobic exercise and cognition, demonstrating an optimal dose of aerobic exercise to benefit cognitive functions. As estrogen may impact the relationship between CRF and neural growth factors, more research is needed on this pathway, independent of the menstrual cycle, to determine potential beneficial effects. It is currently unknown whether sports participation can independently impact cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius Muller Reis Weber
- Laboratory of Experimental and Applied Physiology to Physical Activity, UNICENTRO, Street Alameda Elio Antonio Dalla Vecchia, 838, Vila Carli, Guarapuava, Paraná, 85040-167, Brazil.
- Associated Graduate Program in Physical Education UEM/UEL, Londrina, Brazil.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Marcos Roberto Queiroga
- Laboratory of Experimental and Applied Physiology to Physical Activity, UNICENTRO, Street Alameda Elio Antonio Dalla Vecchia, 838, Vila Carli, Guarapuava, Paraná, 85040-167, Brazil
- Associated Graduate Program in Physical Education UEM/UEL, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Jessica L Puranda
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Semeniuk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Diego Bessa Dantas
- Laboratory of Experimental and Applied Physiology to Physical Activity, UNICENTRO, Street Alameda Elio Antonio Dalla Vecchia, 838, Vila Carli, Guarapuava, Paraná, 85040-167, Brazil
- Associated Graduate Program in Physical Education UEM/UEL, Londrina, Brazil
| | | | - Kristi Bree Adamo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Grinberg A, Hanzlíková I, Lehnert M, Abdollahipour R. The impact of maturation level, not chronological age, on attentional control: implications for sports injury prevention in female adolescents. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:195. [PMID: 39294731 PMCID: PMC11409739 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00984-5] [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: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-contact injuries are highly prevalent among young athletes and occur particularly in situations that require fast decision making and divided attention. Administering relevant neurocognitive tests could help identify deficiencies in these cognitive abilities and thus potentially mitigate injury risk. However, processes such as selective attention and response inhibition might depend to some extent on the athlete's maturation stage. We aimed to examine the effect of maturation on selective visual attention and response inhibition among adolescent volleyball players. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 52 female adolescents (age 12.3 ± 2.1 years) performed an Eriksen Flankers task. Participants were divided into subgroups based on their estimated adult stature, using the Khamis & Roche method: Pre-pubertal (PRE; n = 13, age: 9.9 ± 1.3), early-puberty (EPUB; n = 7, age: 10.5 ± 0.6), mid-puberty (MPUB; n = 8, age: 12.6 ± 0.8) and late puberty (LPUB; n = 24, age: 14.1 ± 0.9). Analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) were performed on congruent and incongruent reaction times (RT), with corresponding success rates (% correct responses) as covariate. Flanker interference effect was tested using ANOVA. Correlations were further examined between the dependent variables and participants' chronological age. RESULTS There was a significant group effect, with PRE demonstrating longer RT compared with LPUB (P < 0.001) for both congruent and incongruent RT. Moderate negative correlations were observed between age and RT (Rp = -0.695, Rp = -0.614 for congruent and incongruent RT, respectively) and low positive correlations between age and incongruent success rate (Rs = 0.318). Low to moderate correlations were also observed within the LPUB group for RT (Rp = -0.431--0.532) and success rate (negative Rs = -574 for congruent and positive Rs = 0.417 for incongruent). There were no group differences nor age associations with interference effect. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that information processing and selective visual attention are superior at late maturation compared with early maturation among female adolescents. The same cannot be said for response inhibition, which did not differ between maturation groups. Similar tendencies were observed with regards to chronological age, but not entirely explained by it. Maturation level, rather than chronological age, should guide practitioners during sport participation and injury prevention programs for young athletes, whose neurocognitive abilities are not yet fully developed, placing them at risk for non-contact injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Grinberg
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Ivana Hanzlíková
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Lehnert
- Department of Sport, Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Reza Abdollahipour
- Department of Natural Sciences in Kinanthropology, Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Yan Y, Qin X, Liu L, Zhang W, Li B. Effects of exercise interventions on Internet addiction among college students: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Addict Behav 2024; 160:108159. [PMID: 39303655 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108159] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internet addiction (IA) has gradually emerged as a significant public health concern, especially among college students. This study aims to systematically investigate and quantitatively analyze the effects of exercise interventions on IA among college students and provides an objective assessment of the available evidence. For this study, IA is defined as compulsive, excessive Internet use, including via mobile phones, that disrupts daily life and causes significant distress, and we combine Internet addiction and mobile phone addiction in our analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon. METHODS The search for eligible studies was conducted from inception until May 2024 across various databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wan Fang. The risk of bias within the included studies was assessed utilizing the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool, while methodological quality was evaluated using the modified Jadad Scale. FINDINGS A meta-analysis of 19 pairwise comparisons showed that exercise interventions significantly reduced the total IA scores (g = -1.25). Furthermore, the interventions resulted in significant reductions in anxiety (g = -1.30), loneliness (g = -1.57), stress (g = -0.77), inadequacy (g = -1.77), mental health (g = -1.08), fatigue (g = -0.66), and depression (g = -0.56). CONCLUSIONS Exercise interventions showed efficacy in decreasing levels of IA and alleviating psychological symptoms in college students with IA. The optimal types of exercise for college students suffering from IA are open motor skill and the combination of both open and closed skill. However, future work is needed given the limited randomized controlled trials and the high heterogeneity of the included studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- School of Physical Education, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Xiangrong Qin
- School of Physical Education, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Liangru Liu
- School of Physical Education, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Weiyang Zhang
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Bowen Li
- School of Sports Health, Nanjing Sport Institute, Nanjing 210014, China.
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Brinkbäumer M, Kupper C, Reichert L, Zentgraf K. Dual-task costs in speed tasks: a comparison between elite ice hockey, open-skill and closed-skill sports athletes. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1357312. [PMID: 39077212 PMCID: PMC11284104 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1357312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ice hockey is a high pace sports game that requires players to integrate multiple skills. Players face perceptive, cognitive, and motor tasks concurrently; hence, players are regularly exposed to dual- or multi-task demands. Dual-tasking has been shown to lead to decreased performance in one or both performed tasks. The degree of performance reductions might be modulated by the exhaustion of cognitive resources. Literature on dual-task paradigms that combine sport-relevant elements is scarce. Therefore, a novel paradigm combining cyclical speed of the lower extremities and concurrent visuo-verbal speed reading was tested and validated. Additionally, to understand the nature of dual-task costs, the relationship between these costs and cognitive performance was assessed. We hypothesized occurrence of dual-task costs in all athletes without relationship to single task performance. Differences in dual-task cost were expected between open-skill and closed-skill sports, as well as differing expertise levels. Level of cognitive function was expected to explain some variance in dual-task cost. Methods A total of 322 elite athletes (120 ice hockey, 165 other team sports, 37 closed-skill sports) participated in this study. Each athlete performed a tapping task, a visuo-verbal speed-reading task, and both tasks simultaneously. All ice hockey athletes performed additional cognitive tests assessing processing speed, spatial working memory, sustained attention, two choice reaction time, and motor inhibition. Results The results of paired-sample t-tests confirmed significant dual-task costs for all sport groups (p < 0.001). Single-task performance and dual-task costs correlated weakly in a positive direction. A one-way ANOVA revealed significantly greater costs in closed-skill sports athletes than in ice hockey and other sports athletes. No significant differences in dual-task costs were found between teams of differing expertise levels. Lastly, no significant regression model was found to predict dual-task costs from cognitive test performance. Discussion Our study suggests that this novel dual-task paradigm was successful in inducing dual-task costs for all elite athletes. Since it distinguishes between closed-skill and open-skill sports athletes, it might be a valuable diagnostic tool for performance and for talent development of open-skill athletes. Dual-task costs could not be relevantly predicted via cognitive performance measures, questioning cognitive resource theories as an explanation for dual-task costs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karen Zentgraf
- Department of Movement and Exercise Science, Institute for Sport Sciences, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
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Liu J, Liu Y, Wu L. Exploring the dynamics of prefrontal cortex in the interaction between orienteering experience and cognitive performance by fNIRS. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14918. [PMID: 38942820 PMCID: PMC11213913 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65747-1] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Sporting experience plays a pivotal role in shaping exercise habits, with a mutually reinforcing relationship that enhances cognitive performance. The acknowledged plasticity of cognition driven by sports necessitates a comprehensive examination. Hence, this study delves into the dynamic intricacies of the prefrontal cortex, exploring the impact of orienteering experience on cognitive performance. Our findings contribute empirical evidence regarding the functional activation of specific brain regions bridging the nexus between experiential factors and cognitive capabilities. In this cross-sectional study, a cohort of forty-nine athletes was enrolled to meticulously examine behavioral variances and prefrontal cortex dynamics among orienteering athletes of varying experience levels across diverse non-specialized scenarios. These investigations involved the utilization of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to detect alterations in oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2). The high-experience expert group exhibited neurological efficiency, demonstrating significantly diminished brain activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal, left ventral lateral prefrontal, and right orbitofrontal regions compared to the low-experience group. Within the low-experience novice group, superior performance in the spatial memory task was observed compared to the mental rotation task, with consistently lower reaction times across all conditions compared to the high-experience group. Notably, cerebral blood oxygenation activation exhibited a significant reduction in the high-experience expert group compared to the low-experience novice group, irrespective of task type. The dorsolateral prefrontal lobe exhibited activation upon task onset, irrespective of experience level. Correct rates in the spatial memory task were consistently higher than those in the mental rotation task, while brain region activation was significantly greater during the mental rotation task than the spatial memory task." This study elucidates disparities in prefrontal cortex dynamics between highly seasoned experts and neophyte novices, showcasing a cognitive edge within the highly experienced cohort and a spatial memory advantage in the inexperienced group. Our findings contribute to the comprehension of the neural mechanisms that underlie the observed cognitive advantage and provide insights into the forebrain resources mobilized by orienteering experience during spatial cognitive tasks."
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Liu
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an University of Posts and Telecommunications, Xi'an, 710199, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Physical Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710121, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Linzhen Wu
- Department of Physical Education, Xi'an University of Posts and Telecommunications, Xi'an, 710199, Shaanxi, China
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Qiu C, Zhai Q, Chen S. Effects of Practicing Closed- vs. Open-Skill Exercises on Executive Functions in Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:499. [PMID: 38920831 PMCID: PMC11200859 DOI: 10.3390/bs14060499] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Previous studies have identified discrepancies in improvements in executive functioning in typically developing children when comparing closed- and open-skill exercise interventions. However, there is limited research on executive functioning in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the impact of closed- and open-skill exercises on ADHD populations. (2) Methods: The PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed to search seven databases to evaluate and analyze studies published from 2013 to 2023. Prospero: CRD42023460452. (3) Results: A meta-analysis of 578 subjects with ADHD in 11 RCTs (Randomized control trial) and 3 NRS (Non-randomized studies) revealed that closed-skill exercise significantly improved executive function subdomains, including inhibitory control (standardized mean differences (SMD) = -1.00), cognitive flexibility (SMD = -1.33), and working memory (SMD = -0.85). Furthermore, open-skill exercise was found to have a positive effect on inhibitory control (SMD = -1.98) and cognitive flexibility (SMD = -0.97) in ADHD patients. Both types of exercise interventions demonstrated an improvement in executive function compared to controls, with open-skill exercises exhibiting superior effects (Qb = 6.26). (4) Conclusions: The review recommends a 12-week intervention cycle with exercise at least twice a week of moderate or higher intensity as suitable for ADHD individuals. This review also encourages individuals with ADHD to engage in exercises involving multiple motor skill types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qun Zhai
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sports, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao SAR, China; (C.Q.); (S.C.)
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Campanella M, Cardinali L, Ferrari D, Migliaccio S, Silvestri F, Falcioni L, Bimonte V, Curzi D, Bertollo M, Bovolon L, Gallotta M, Guidetti L, Baldari C, Bonavolontà V. Effects of Fitlight training on cognitive-motor performance in élite judo athletes. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28712. [PMID: 38689957 PMCID: PMC11059503 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims The aims of this study were to verify if a 5-week cognitive-motor training (CMT) using FitlightsTM induced changes in young adult judo athletes compared to a non-intervention group. Specifically, it was verified if CMT influenced executive functions (EFs), physical fitness and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Additionally, athletes' competitive results were compared between groups. Method Twenty-seven athletes (14 males and 13 females; age = 19.5 ± 2.0 years) were assigned to the Fitlight (FG) and control (CG) groups which performed 5 weeks of CMT, respectively, including 25 min per day of Fitlight training or traditional judo practice. All participants performed cognitive (flanker task and forward/backward digit span) and fitness tests (counter movement jump, handgrip test, dynamic and isometric chin up). In addition, BDNF was collected by saliva sampling and competitive results after the intervention period were considered. Results RM-ANOVA showed significant differences in FG for the accuracy of flanker (p = 0.028) and backward digit span (p < 0.001). Moreover, significant differences in FG were found for relative dynamic chin up (p = 0.027) and counter movement jump (p = 0.05). In addition, a significant difference in FG was found for competitive results after the intervention period (p < 0.01).No significant differences were found for BDNF and other cognitive and fitness measures (p > 0.05). Conclusion A 5-week judo-specific CMT improved EFs and motor performance in élite judo athletes. It seems that CMT with Fitlight™ could be considered an additional support to coaches during the training period.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Campanella
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
| | - L. Cardinali
- Bone Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University Sapienza of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D. Ferrari
- Department of Human Sciences, LinkCampus University, Rome, Italy
| | - S. Migliaccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University Sapienza of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University Foro Italico, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | | | - L. Falcioni
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, United States
| | - V.M. Bimonte
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University Sapienza of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D. Curzi
- Niccolò Cusano University, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Bertollo
- BIND-Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - L. Bovolon
- Department of Psychological, Humanistic and Territorial Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - M.C. Gallotta
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - C. Baldari
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
| | - V. Bonavolontà
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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Dong X, Gui X, Klich S, Zhu L, Chen D, Sun Z, Shi Y, Chen A. The effects of football juggling learning on executive function and brain functional connectivity. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1362418. [PMID: 38516307 PMCID: PMC10954781 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1362418] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the relationship between motor skill learning and executive function (EF), with an emphasis on the potential effects of football juggling learning. A randomized controlled trial involving 111 participants aged 17-19 years was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to either the football juggling learning (FJL) group or a control group. The FJL group underwent 70 sessions of football juggling learning, while the control group engaged in their normal daily activities without any exercise intervention during the same time frame. Both groups were assessed for EF performance and underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans before and after the experiment. The executive function test included three tasks, namely, inhibition, working memory, and shifting. The results showed significant improvement in inhibition and shifting in both groups, and the FJL group showed greater improvement in these aspects of EF compared to the control group. Additionally, in comparison to the control group, the FJL group exhibited increased functional connectivity within the frontal, temporal, and cerebellar regions from the pre-test to the post-test. Notably, enhanced functional connectivity between the right superior temporal gyrus (posterior division) and left cerebellum 6 was identified in the FJL group and was associated with improved EF performance induced by football juggling learning. These findings shed light on the potential causal relationship between motor skill learning, EF, and brain plasticity. Importantly, our study provides preliminary evidence supporting the use of motor skill learning, such as football juggling, as a potential avenue for cognitive enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiang Gui
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sebastian Klich
- Department of Paralympic Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Lina Zhu
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Yifan Shi
- Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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Chu CL, Chueh TY, Hung TM. Examining the effects of exercise with different cognitive loads on executive function: A systematic review. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2024; 283:167-192. [PMID: 38538187 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Executive functions (EFs) play a pivotal role in daily functioning, academic and vocational achievement, well-being, and the regulation of cognitive processes that impact the quality of life. Physical exercise has been shown to have positive effects on EFs. However, there remains some controversy regarding whether exercise with greater cognitive loads may be more effective for improving EFs. Through this systematic review, we aimed to synthesize available cross-sectional and longitudinal intervention studies concerning the effects of exercise with varying cognitive loads on EFs. The literature search was conducted across three electronic databases, retrieving cross-sectional and longitudinal intervention (randomized controlled trials) studies, using a standardized EF measurement from inception until June 2023. Our search yielded a total of 1570 potentially relevant articles, of which 53 were considered for full-text reading, and 28 were included in the review after full-text reading. The present study utilized Gentile's (2000) taxonomy classification to determine the cognitive load levels in exercises. Overall, findings from the 28 included studies suggested that exercise training interventions are a promising way to promote overall EF. Noteworthy, there is preliminary empirical evidence to suggest that exercises with higher cognitive loads resulted in greater benefits for EF than those with lower cognitive loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiung-Ling Chu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Yu Chueh
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master's Program of Transition and Leisure Education for Individuals with Disabilities, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Min Hung
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Zhu Q, Deng J, Yao M, Xu C, Liu D, Guo L, Zhu Y. Effects of physical activity on visuospatial working memory in healthy individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1103003. [PMID: 36874874 PMCID: PMC9974834 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1103003] [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: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Physical activity interventions improve cognitive performance, especially visuospatial working memory (VSWM). However, evidence on the effects of these interventions in children, adolescents, and older adults remains scant. This meta-analysis aimed to identify the effects of physical activity on VSWM improvement in healthy individuals and the best exercise intervention program to improve VSWM capacity. Methods We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise interventions targeting VSWM in healthy individuals from Web of Science, MEDLINE, BIOSIS Previews, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data (Chinese) databases, from inception to August 20, 2022. Results Among 21 articles (1,595 healthy participants), the heterogeneity test statistic was I2 = 32.3%, p = 0.053. The mean quality scores of the included articles were 6.9 points (reaction time [RT] studies) and 7.5 points (Score studies). Moreover, 28 RCTs were included (10 RT studies and 18 Score studies), and the subgroup analysis found significant effects for elderly participants, children, interventions involving a higher level of cognitive engagement, low and moderate exercise intensity, chronic exercise, exercise duration ≥60 min, and exercise period ≥90 days. Physical activity had a small but significant positive impact on VSWM in healthy individuals. Current evidence confirms the effects of physical activity on VSWM capacity only in children and seniors but not in young adults. Other age groups, including adolescents and middle-aged adults, have not been studied. Prescription of interventions involving high-level cognitive engagement, low and moderate exercise intensity, chronic exercise, exercise for >30 min per session, and exercise for more than 3 months is recommended for children and seniors. Discussion Future RCTs would be to fill the gap in studies on adolescents and middle-aged adults, and report detailed exercise intervention programs about different age groups.Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022354737). INPLASY (https://doi.org/10.37766/inplasy2022.8.0053).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Zhu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Deng
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meixi Yao
- Physical Education College, Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Chong Xu
- Ministry of Sports and National Defense Education, Chongqing College of Electronic Engineering, Chongqing, China
| | - Demin Liu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liya Guo
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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12
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Wang M, Yang X, Yu J, Zhu J, Kim HD, Cruz A. Effects of Physical Activity on Inhibitory Function in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1032. [PMID: 36673793 PMCID: PMC9859519 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to systematically evaluate the effect of physical activity (PA) on inhibitory function in children with ADHD. Experimental studies on the effect of PA on the inhibitory function of children with ADHD were retrieved. The data were obtained from PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EBSCO (MEDLINE, APA Psyclnfo, ERIC), Embase, Scopus, and ProQuest. The search period was from the date of inception of the respective databases to 4 May 2022, and Reviewer Manager software (version 5.3) was used for analysis. Eleven articles and 713 samples were included in the meta-analysis. Results revealed that PA can significantly improve the inhibitory function of children with ADHD (SMD = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.45−1.10, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the effectiveness of PA as an intervention in improving the inhibitory function of children with ADHD was moderated by the frequency, intensity, duration, type, and length of intervention. Based on the findings, PA can effectively improve interference suppression inhibitory function in children with ADHD. Longitudinal open-skill exercise for 60 min or more, two times/week has the best effect on improving inhibitory function in children with ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Physical Education, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Xinyue Yang
- College of Sports Science, Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Jing Yu
- College of Sports Science, Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Jian Zhu
- Department of Physical Education, Zhongyuan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450007, China
| | - Hyun-Duck Kim
- Department of Sport Marketing, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Angelita Cruz
- Department of Physical Education, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
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13
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Silvestri F, Campanella M, Bertollo M, Albuquerque MR, Bonavolontà V, Perroni F, Baldari C, Guidetti L, Curzi D. Acute Effects of Fitlight Training on Cognitive-Motor Processes in Young Basketball Players. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:817. [PMID: 36613139 PMCID: PMC9820121 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive-motor training could be used to improve open-skill sport performances, increasing cognitive demands to stimulate executive function (EF) development. Nevertheless, a distributed training proposal for the improvement of EFs is increasingly difficult to combine with seasonal sport commitments. This study aimed to investigate whether a massed basketball training program enriched with Fitlight training can improve EFs and motor performance. Forty-nine players (age = 15.0 ± 1.5 yrs) were assigned to the control and Fitlight-trained (FITL) groups, which performed 3 weeks of massed basketball practice, including 25 min per day of shooting sessions or Fitlight training, respectively. All athletes were tested in cognitive tasks (Flanker/Reverse Flanker; Digit Span) and fitness tests (Agility T-test; Yo-Yo IR1). During the intervention, exercise/session perceived effort (eRPE/sRPE) and enjoyment were collected. RM-ANOVA showed significant EFs scores increased in both groups over time, without differences between the groups. Moreover, an increased sRPE and eRPE appeared in the FITL group (p = 0.0001; p = 0.01), with no group differences in activity enjoyment and fitness tests. Three weeks of massed basketball training improved EFs and motor performance in young players. The additional Fitlight training increased the perceived cognitive effort without decreasing enjoyment, even if it seems unable to induce additional improvements in EFs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo Campanella
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, 22060 Novedrate, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bertollo
- BIND-Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Maicon Rodrigues Albuquerque
- Neurosciences of Physical Activity and Sports Research Group, Department of Sports, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31120-901, Brazil
| | - Valerio Bonavolontà
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Perroni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Carlo Baldari
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, 22060 Novedrate, Italy
| | - Laura Guidetti
- Department Unicusano, University “Niccolò Cusano”, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Curzi
- Department Unicusano, University “Niccolò Cusano”, 00166 Rome, Italy
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14
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Bravi R, Gavazzi G, Benedetti V, Giovannelli F, Grasso S, Panconi G, Viggiano MP, Minciacchi D. Effect of different sport environments on proactive and reactive motor inhibition: A study on open- and closed-skilled athletes via mouse-tracking procedure. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1042705. [PMID: 36578693 PMCID: PMC9791124 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1042705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of different sport environments (open-and closed-skill sports) on proactive and reactive inhibitory processes as two distinct components of motor inhibition. A mouse-tracking procedure was employed to compare behavioral performance among three groups of participants (tennis players, swimmers and non-athletes) in non-sport-specific cued Go/No-Go (GNG) and Stop Signal Task (SST), which mainly engage proactive and reactive inhibitory control, respectively. Reaction times (RTs), inhibitory failures, and Stop Signal Reaction Times (SSRTs) were measured. To investigate dynamic aspects of inhibitory control, movement trajectories classified as one-shot (absence of trajectory alteration reflected in a steep slope) or non-one-shot (non-linear/multipeaked trajectory, with one or multiple corrections) were analyzed and compared among groups. Results showed no group differences in RTs in Go/No-Go and Stop conditions. SSRTs were significant shorter for the athletes than non-athletes in SST, but no differences emerged for inhibitory failures in cued GNG. During inhibitory failures athletes showed higher proportion of non-one-shot movements than non-athletes. Higher proportion of non-one-shot profiles was observed in cued GNG compared to SST. Finally, no differences between open-and closed-skilled athletes were found in both tasks. Our findings suggest that both proactive and reactive inhibitory controls do benefit from sport practice, but open-and closed-skill sports do not differ in influencing inhibitory processes. Movement profile analysis could be a promising, complementary behavioral analysis to integrate for more fine-grained evaluation and differentiation of inhibitory motor control in athletes, specifically when using GNG tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Bravi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gioele Gavazzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy
| | - Viola Benedetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Giovannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Grasso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Panconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Viggiano
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Diego Minciacchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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15
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Contreras-Osorio F, Ramirez-Campillo R, Cerda-Vega E, Campos-Jara R, Martínez-Salazar C, Araneda R, Ebner-Karestinos D, Arellano-Roco C, Campos-Jara C. Effects of Sport-Based Exercise Interventions on Executive Function in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912573. [PMID: 36231873 PMCID: PMC9566349 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Exercise programs of moderate-to-vigorous intensity have been shown to improve the cognitive performance of older people. However, the specific effects of sports-based exercise programs on cognitive performance, particularly executive functions, remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to clarify the effects of sports-based exercise programs on executive functions in older adults using a systematic review and meta-analysis of the scientific literature. A systematic review was conducted between 1 March and 1 July 2022, to look for published scientific evidence that analyzed different sports programs that may have affected executive function in healthy older adults. Longitudinal studies, which assessed the effects of sports interventions on healthy older adults, were identified through a systematic search of the four principal electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO. A total of nine studies with a total of 398 subjects met the inclusion criteria and were classified based on one or more of the following categories: working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility. The DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software to facilitate the analysis of the studies. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. In terms of working memory, a small but positive significant effect was noted for the intervention group compared to the control group (effect size (ES) = 0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.04-0.67; p = 0.029; I2 = 36.7%); in terms of inhibition, the intervention had a small favoring but no significant effect compared to the control group (ES = 0.20, 95% CI = -0.42-0.84; p = 0.517; I2 = 78.8%); and in terms of cognitive flexibility, the intervention had a small favoring but no significant effect compared to the control group (ES = 0.39, 95% CI = -0.11-0.89; p = 0.131; I2 = 75.5%). Our findings suggest that healthy older adults should be encouraged to participate in sports to improve their working memory; however, more studies are required in this area to reach more robust conclusions. This systematic review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD42022284788).
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Affiliation(s)
- Falonn Contreras-Osorio
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
| | - Enrique Cerda-Vega
- Pedagogy in Physical Education and Health Career, Department of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
| | | | - Cristian Martínez-Salazar
- Departamento de Educación Física, Deportes y Recreación, Pedagogía en Educación Física, Facultad de Educación y Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Araneda
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
| | - Daniela Ebner-Karestinos
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
| | - Cristián Arellano-Roco
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
| | - Christian Campos-Jara
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-9-42057069
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16
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Heilmann F, Weinberg H, Wollny R. The Impact of Practicing Open- vs. Closed-Skill Sports on Executive Functions-A Meta-Analytic and Systematic Review with a Focus on Characteristics of Sports. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081071. [PMID: 36009134 PMCID: PMC9406193 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise modes can be categorized based on the skills required (open vs. closed skills), which implicates various demands on cognitive skills, especially executive functions (EFs). Thus, their practice may have varying effects on EFs. There is a lack of detailed analysis of cognitive requirements and suitable classification of sports. It is hypothesized that the amount and type of cognitive requirements of sports lead to small effect sizes when comparing open-skill exercising (OSE) and closed-skill exercising (CSE) athletes. The current meta-analysis evaluates the variances in EFs skills caused by particular sport modes. Four research databases (Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, PsychINFO) were searched for cross-sectional studies in which the authors compare the performance in EF tasks of OSE and CSE athletes. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using funnel plots and two reviewer selection process (overall and subgroup analysis; low risk of publication and selection bias). A total of 19 studies were included, revealing an overall effect size of Hedge’s g = 0.174 (p = 0.157), favoring OSE for the development of EFs. The subgroup analysis revealed the effects for the subdomains of EFs (cognitive flexibility: Hedge’s g = 0.210 > inhibitory control: Hedge’s g = 0.191 > working memory: Hedge’s g = 0.138; p > 0.05), which could be characterized as low to moderate. The hypothesis that studies with the smallest effect sizes compare sport modes with similar cognitive demands was rejected. The paper discusses the differentiation of sports into OSE and CSE and presents new approaches for their categorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Heilmann
- Movement Science Lab, Institute of Sport Science, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-345-55-24454
| | - Henrietta Weinberg
- Movement and Sport Psychology, Institute for Sport Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07749 Jena, Germany
| | - Rainer Wollny
- Movement Science Lab, Institute of Sport Science, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
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17
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The Effect of Standing Mats on Biomechanical Characteristics of Lower Limbs and Perceived Exertion for Healthy Individuals during Prolonged Standing. Appl Bionics Biomech 2022; 2022:8132402. [PMID: 35942253 PMCID: PMC9356849 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8132402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify the effect of standing mats on biomechanical characteristics of lower limbs and perceived exertion for healthy adult individuals during a prolonged standing task. Methods 32 healthy college students were recruited in the randomized and cross-over designed trial according to the effect size and statistical power. After collecting the anthropometric data, each participant was asked to finish 2 sessions of 4-hour prolonged standing tasks on standing mats (MS) and hard ground (GS) in a random order and with a 72-hour interval rest. The plantar pressure distribution, foot morphology, and scores of the BESS (balance error scoring system) would be recorded pre- and posteach task. The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) would be collected during the whole task. Paired-samples t test was adopted to analyse the before and after difference within group and independent-samples t test was adopted to analyse the difference between groups separately. Results (1) A prolonged standing task on both MS and GS have a negative effect on RPE and balance performance. (2) The negative effect on RPE and balance performance induced by MS is significantly smaller than that induced by GS. (3) Compared to GS, prolonged standing on MS has a lower peak plantar pressure and an implicit decrease in navicular drop and AHI (arch index). Conclusion Standing mat tends to alleviate the fatigue induced by prolonged standing in lower limbs, optimize the distribution of plantar pressure, and maintain the stability.
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18
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Visser A, Büchel D, Lehmann T, Baumeister J. Continuous table tennis is associated with processing in frontal brain areas: an EEG approach. Exp Brain Res 2022; 240:1899-1909. [PMID: 35467129 PMCID: PMC9142473 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-022-06366-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Coordinative challenging exercises in changing environments referred to as open-skill exercises seem to be beneficial on cognitive function. Although electroencephalographic research allows to investigate changes in cortical processing during movement, information about cortical dynamics during open-skill exercise is lacking. Therefore, the present study examines frontal brain activation during table tennis as an open-skill exercise compared to cycling exercise and a cognitive task. 21 healthy young adults conducted three blocks of table tennis, cycling and n-back task. Throughout the experiment, cortical activity was measured using 64-channel EEG system connected to a wireless amplifier. Cortical activity was analyzed calculating theta power (4-7.5 Hz) in frontocentral clusters revealed from independent component analysis. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to identify within subject differences between conditions (table tennis, cycling, n-back; p < .05). ANOVA revealed main-effects of condition on theta power in frontal (p < .01, ηp2 = 0.35) and frontocentral (p < .01, ηp2 = 0.39) brain areas. Post-hoc tests revealed increased theta power in table tennis compared to cycling in frontal brain areas (p < .05, d = 1.42). In frontocentral brain areas, theta power was significant higher in table tennis compared to cycling (p < .01, d = 1.03) and table tennis compared to the cognitive task (p < .01, d = 1.06). Increases in theta power during continuous table tennis may reflect the increased demands in perception and processing of environmental stimuli during open-skill exercise. This study provides important insights that support the beneficial effect of open-skill exercise on brain function and suggest that using open-skill exercise may serve as an intervention to induce activation of the frontal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Visser
- Exercise Science and Neuroscience Unit, Department Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33100, Paderborn, Germany.
| | - D Büchel
- Exercise Science and Neuroscience Unit, Department Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33100, Paderborn, Germany
| | - T Lehmann
- Exercise Science and Neuroscience Unit, Department Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33100, Paderborn, Germany
| | - J Baumeister
- Exercise Science and Neuroscience Unit, Department Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33100, Paderborn, Germany
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Children's Involvement in Different Sport Types Differentiates Their Motor Competence but Not Their Executive Functions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095646. [PMID: 35565039 PMCID: PMC9103227 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sports provide a context where important aspects of children’s health, such as motor skills and cognitive functions, can be enhanced. However, it is unknown which type of sport may be better for the development of motor competence (MC) and executive functions (EFs). This study investigated potential differences in MC and EFs in boys and girls, being involved in different types of sports (team, individual open skill, individual closed skill). A total of 115 children (49 boys), 8–12 years old (10.30 ± 1.19 years), participated in the study. Their MC was assessed with the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-2 Short Form, whereas for EFs, the Attention Network Test, the digits backwards test, and the how many–what number test were utilized. Significant MC differences among participants in different types of sports were revealed, favoring those from closed-skill sports; nevertheless, their EFs were at similar levels. Furthermore, no significant gender MC and EFs differences were detected. It seems that children’s participation in specific types of sports differentiates their motor skills but not their EFs, whereas boys and girls, when provided with the same opportunities, present similar levels of MC and EFs.
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Beavan A, Spielmann J, Ehmann P, Mayer J. The Development of Executive Functions in High-Level Female Soccer Players. Percept Mot Skills 2022; 129:1036-1052. [PMID: 35521695 DOI: 10.1177/00315125221096989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Executive functions (EFs) are higher-level cognitive functions that help keep an individual's goal-oriented thoughts and actions aligned. While many studies have shown the importance of EFs in sport, a limitation in this literature is that female participants have been underrepresented. In this mixed-longitudinal study, we examined the development of EFs in a cohort of high performing female athletes. We collected data over five seasons in a large sample of 175 female soccer players (aged 12-29 years old) from the U14 - senior age groups of a professional German soccer club. Players undertook a large battery of cognitive tasks aimed at measuring higher-level cognitive functioning: a sustained attention task, a stop-signal task, a Go-No-go test, an N-Back Test, and both a 180°- and 360°-multiple-object tracking task. We used linear and non-linear mixed effect regressions to examine the relationship between age and EFs. Second order polynomial curves explained many of these relationships between age and EFs compared to their linear relationships. Negatively accelerated curves reveal that these players' cognitive abilities mainly developed before players reached early adulthood, with a performance plateau evident at around 21 years of age. Age explained low to moderate proportions of the variance in EFs (<1-50%), while cognitive development across playing positions was not a strong contributor to this variance (M = 2.1, SD = 2.1%). We concluded that age has a negatively accelerated relationship with EFs in female soccer players that does not differ between playing positions. These data support the idea that athletes require only a reasonable level of EF ability to perform at the highest level of their sport. Our research raises new questions regarding the validity of current EF measurement methods for inferring information about in-game use of these cognitive abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Spielmann
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany.,Institute of Sports Science, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Paul Ehmann
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany.,153707Institute of Psychology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jan Mayer
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany.,Institute of Sports Science, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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21
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Rahimi A, Roberts SD, Baker JR, Wojtowicz M. Attention and executive control in varsity athletes engaging in strategic and static sports. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266933. [PMID: 35452468 PMCID: PMC9032374 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Examining non-sport-related cognitive tasks of attention and executive control in skilled athletes may provide insight into the acquisition of highly specific skills developed in experts as well as help identify successful performance in sport. Through a cross-sectional design, this study examined performance on aspects of attention and executive control among varsity athletes playing soccer (strategic sport) or track & field (static sport) using a computerized test of attention and executive control. Ninety-seven university athletes participating in soccer (n = 50) or track and field (n = 47) were included in the study. Domains of attention and executive control were examined using the Attention Network Test-Interactions (ANT-I). Mean reaction time (RT) and intra-individual variability (IIV) were compared between groups as measures of performance speed and performance stability respectively. Soccer players demonstrated overall faster RTs (p = 0.0499; ηp2 = .04) and higher response accuracy (p = .021, d = .48) on the ANT-I compared to track and field athletes. Faster RTs were observed for soccer players when presented with an alerting tone (p = .029, d = .45), valid orienting cue (p = .019, d = .49) and incongruent flanker (p = .031, d = .45). No significant group differences were observed in IIV (p = .083, d = .36). Athletes engaging in strategic sports (i.e., soccer) demonstrated faster performance under test conditions that required higher vigilance and conflict resolution. These findings suggest that engagement in strategic sports is associated with enhanced performance on non-sport-related cognitive tasks of attention and executive control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alma Rahimi
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Joseph R. Baker
- School of Kinesiology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Magdalena Wojtowicz
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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22
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Perrey S. Training Monitoring in Sports: It Is Time to Embrace Cognitive Demand. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:56. [PMID: 35447866 PMCID: PMC9028378 DOI: 10.3390/sports10040056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Appropriate training burden monitoring is still a challenge for the support staff, athletes, and coaches. Extensive research has been done in recent years that proposes several external and internal indicators. Among all measurements, the importance of cognitive factors has been indicated but has never been really considered in the training monitoring process. While there is strong evidence supporting the use of cognitive demand indicators in cognitive neuroscience, their importance in training monitoring for multiple sports settings must be better emphasized. The aims of this scoping review are to (1) provide an overview of the cognitive demand concept beside the physical demand in training; (2) highlight the current methods for assessing cognitive demand in an applied setting to sports in part through a neuroergonomics approach; (3) show how cognitive demand metrics can be exploited and applied to our better understanding of fatigue, sport injury, overtraining and individual performance capabilities. This review highlights also the potential new ways of brain imaging approaches for monitoring in situ. While assessment of cognitive demand is still in its infancy in sport, it may represent a very fruitful approach if applied with rigorous protocols and deep knowledge of both the neurobehavioral and cognitive aspects. It is time now to consider the cognitive demand to avoid underestimating the total training burden and its management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Perrey
- EuroMov Digital Health in Motion, University of Montpellier, IMT Mines Ales, 34090 Montpellier, France
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23
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Contreras-Osorio F, Guzmán-Guzmán IP, Cerda-Vega E, Chirosa-Ríos L, Ramírez-Campillo R, Campos-Jara C. Effects of the Type of Sports Practice on the Executive Functions of Schoolchildren. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3886. [PMID: 35409571 PMCID: PMC8998109 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
There is a close relationship between the development of complex motor skills and executive functions during childhood. This study aimed to analyze the differences in different dimensions of executive functions in children practicing an open-skill sport (handball) and a closed-skill sport (athletics) and controls who did not participate in sports activities after a 12-week intervention period. School-aged male and female subjects (n = 90; mean ± standard deviation = 11.45 ± 0.68 years) participated in a non-randomized controlled study. Data analysis was performed using the STATA V.15 statistical software. The athletics intervention promoted semantic fluency (p = 0.007), whereas handball increased inhibition (p = 0.034). Additionally, physical activity improved in both intervention groups (p = < 0.001), whereas sprint performance improved in the handball group following intervention (p = 0.008), lower body muscular power improved in athletics (p = 0.04), and evidence of improvement in upper body muscular strength was noted in handball (p = 0.037). In turn, an increase in the Physical Activity Questionnaire for older Children score showed an association with the Standard Ten scores of executive functions. In conclusion, compared to controls, both athletics and handball induced meaningful improvements in physical activity and executive functions. However, sport-specific adaptations were noted after athletics (i.e., semantic fluency and lower body muscular power) and handball (i.e., inhibition, sprint, and upper-body muscular strength).
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Affiliation(s)
- Falonn Contreras-Osorio
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (F.C.-O.); (L.C.-R.)
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile;
| | - Iris Paola Guzmán-Guzmán
- Faculty of Chemical-Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Chilpancingo de los Bravo 39087, Mexico;
| | - Enrique Cerda-Vega
- Pedagogy in Physical Education and Health Career, Department of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile 7820436, Chile;
| | - Luis Chirosa-Ríos
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (F.C.-O.); (L.C.-R.)
| | - Rodrigo Ramírez-Campillo
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile;
| | - Christian Campos-Jara
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile 7591538, Chile;
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24
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Inhibition and Calendar Age Explain Variance in Game Performance of Youth Soccer Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031138. [PMID: 35162155 PMCID: PMC8834799 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of core executive functions (EFs; i.e., inhibition, working memory, cognitive flexibility) has often been presented as a diagnostic tool for evaluating cognitive functions in recent publications. For example, EFs are essential in soccer because players must quickly adapt, change strategies, and inhibit responses in rapidly changing game situations. Previous research has shown relations between (subjectively rated) game performance and the EFs of soccer players. Nevertheless, the previous studies' samples were heterogeneous in their performance level (experts vs. amateurs), and the ratings were rather unsystematic (no validated rating protocol). Therefore, the current study aimed to predict soccer players' game performance (i.e., systematically rated by coaches) with the help of EF performance. Therefore, we assessed the game performance (small-sided game, Game Performance Assessment Instrument [GPAI]) and EFs (inhibition: flanker task; working memory: 3-back task; cognitive flexibility: number-letter task) of 94 male soccer players (12-19 years old) from Germany's highest competitive level. Multiple regression model results indicate that inhibition (i.e., flanker effect) and calendar age explain ~18% of players' game performance variance. Results have to be interpreted with regard to the age-dependency of game performance and EFs. In conclusion, even though the results are based on a cross-sectional study, it appears that calendar age needs to be considered when assessing EFs.
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25
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Condello G, Mazzoli E, Masci I, De Fano A, Ben-Soussan TD, Marchetti R, Pesce C. Fostering Holistic Development with a Designed Multisport Intervention in Physical Education: A Class-Randomized Cross-Over Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189871. [PMID: 34574794 PMCID: PMC8467800 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Physical education (PE) is acknowledged as a relevant context for holistic child and youth development promotion. However, interventional research mostly builds on individual theories focused on specific outcome domains. This study presents a multisport enriched PE intervention that capitalizes on the intersection of different theory-based approaches to motor, cognitive and socio-emotional skills development promotion. With a cross-over design, 181 fifth graders, coming from a past class-randomized trial of enriched or traditional PE in their 1st–3rd grade, were stratified (based on their previous PE experience) and class-randomized to multisport enriched PE or control group. They completed pre-post assessments in motor and sport skills, cool (inhibition, working memory) and hot (decision making) executive functions, prosocial (empathy, cooperation) and antisocial (quick-temperedness, disruptiveness) behaviors. Children in the enriched PE group showed advantages in motor and prosocial skills after the intervention, which were linked by a mediation path, and an interactive effect of past and actual PE experience on decision making but no differential effects on other variables. The results suggest that a PE intervention designed with an integrative theory base, although not allowing disentangling the contribution of individual components to its efficacy, may help pursue benefits in motor and non-motor domains relevant to whole-child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Condello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Emiliano Mazzoli
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong 3125, Australia;
| | - Ilaria Masci
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio De Fano
- Behavioral Imaging and Neural Dynamics Center, Università degli Studi G. d’Annunzio Chieti e Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education, and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, 06081 Assisi, Italy;
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Illan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | | | - Caterina Pesce
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-063-6733-3366
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26
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Guo W, Wang B, Smoter M, Yan J. Effects of Open-Skill Exercises on Cognition on Community Dwelling Older Adults: Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050609. [PMID: 34068726 PMCID: PMC8151174 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Cognitive function may benefit from physical exercise in older adults. However, controversy remains over which mode of exercise is more beneficial. (2) The aim of the proposed study is to investigate the effect of open-skill exercise training on cognitive function in community dwelling older adults compared with closed-skill exercise, cognitive training, and active control. (3) One hundred and sixty participants, aged between 60 and 80 years old, will be recruited from community senior centers in Yangzhou, China and randomly assigned to one of four groups: open-skill exercise group, closed-skill exercise group, mobile game playing group, and active control group. All participants will join a 24-week program involving 50 min sessions three times a week. The primary outcome measure is visuospatial working memory. Secondary measures include subjective memory complaint, attention network, nonverbal reasoning ability, and physical activities. All participants will be measured before, mid-way, and immediately after intervention, and three months later. (4) If successful, this study is expected to provide evidence-based recommendations for older adults to select the most efficient and effective mode of exercise to improve cognitive function. Importantly, the three intervention groups provide an opportunity to separate the cognitive activity component from the physical activity component. Comparison of these components is expected to help elucidate possible mechanisms contributing to the additional cognitive benefit of open-skill exercises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Guo
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Biye Wang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Małgorzata Smoter
- Gdańsk Academy of Physical Education and Sport, 80-001 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Jun Yan
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China; (W.G.); (B.W.)
- Correspondence:
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27
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Children Involved in Team Sports Show Superior Executive Function Compared to Their Peers Involved in Self-Paced Sports. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8040264. [PMID: 33808250 PMCID: PMC8065925 DOI: 10.3390/children8040264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Children’s motor and cognitive functions develop rapidly during childhood. Physical activity and executive function are intricately linked during this important developmental period, with physical activity interventions consistently proving to benefit children’s executive function. However, it is less clear which type of physical activity shows the strongest associations with executive function in children. Therefore, this study compared executive function performance of children aged 8 to 12 that either participated in team sports or self-paced sports or were not involved in any kind of organized sports (non-athletes). Results demonstrate that children participating in team sports show superior executive function compared to children participating in self-paced sports and non-athletes. Importantly, children participating in self-paced sports do not outperform non-athletes when it comes to executive function. This study is the first to show that even at a very young age, team sports athletes outperform athletes from self-paced sports as well as non-athletes on a multifaceted and comprehensive test battery for executive function. Furthermore, our findings support the hypothesis that cognitively engaging physical activity, such as participation in team sports, might show stronger associations with executive functioning compared to other types of sports and physical activity.
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