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Zhong X, Wang C, Xu M, Yuan X, Jiang C. Physical training improves inhibitory control in children aged 7-12 years: An fNIRS study. Behav Brain Res 2024; 463:114902. [PMID: 38341102 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Physical exercise plays a crucial role in the development of cognition and brain functions in children. Inhibitory control is an advanced cognition that affects children's life and learning. In the current study, the relationship between physical training and inhibitory control was explored. In total, 80 children were randomly but equally assigned to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent physical training (volleyball) for 60 min, thrice a week for 12 weeks. In contrast, the control group did not undergo any training and continued with their daily routines. The flanker task and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) were employed to investigate the effects of 12-week physical training on inhibitory control and changes in the oxy-Hb concentration in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during the task. The behavioral results revealed that the experimental group performed better on the flanker task (e.g., shorter response time [F(1,74) = 18.420, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.199] and higher accuracy [F(1,74) = 15.00, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.169] than the control group. The oxy-Hb concentration in the right dorsolateral PFC (R-DLPFC) was higher and the activation level of this region was higher during the flanker task [F(1,74) = 6.216, p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.077]. Moreover, the McNemar test revealed improved cognitive performance in response time or accuracy and R-DLPFC activation induced by physical exercise coincided significantly (χ2 = 5.49, p < 0.05; χ2 = 6.081, p < 0.05). These findings suggest that the R-DLPFC is likely the neural substrate for improved cognitive performance elicited by 12-week physical training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Zhong
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Mingchao Xu
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaoxia Yuan
- Graduate Department, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Changhao Jiang
- The Center of Neuroscience and Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing 100089, China.
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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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3
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Mora-Gonzalez J, Esteban-Cornejo I, Solis-Urra P, Rodriguez-Ayllon M, Cadenas-Sanchez C, Hillman CH, Kramer AF, Catena A, Ortega FB. The effects of an exercise intervention on neuroelectric activity and executive function in children with overweight/obesity: The ActiveBrains randomized controlled trial. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14486. [PMID: 37691352 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether a 20-week aerobic and resistance exercise program induces changes in brain current density underlying working memory and inhibitory control in children with overweight/obesity. METHODS A total of 67 children (10.00 ± 1.10 years) were randomized into an exercise or control group. Electroencephalography (EEG)-based current density (μA/mm2 ) was estimated using standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) during a working memory task (Delayed non-matched-to-sample task, DNMS) and inhibitory control task (Modified flanker task, MFT). In DNMS, participants had to memorize four stimuli (Pokemons) and then select between two of them, one of which had not been previously shown. In MFT, participants had to indicate whether the centered cow (i.e., target) of five faced the right or left. RESULTS The exercise group had significantly greater increases in brain activation in comparison with the control group during the encoding phase of DNMS, particularly during retention of second stimuli in temporal and frontal areas (peak t = from 3.4 to 3.8, cluster size [k] = from 11 to 39), during the retention of the third stimuli in frontal areas (peak t = from 3.7 to 3.9, k = from 15 to 26), and during the retention of the fourth stimuli in temporal and occipital areas (peak t = from 2.7 to 4.3, k = from 13 to 101). In MFT, the exercise group presented a lower current density change in the middle frontal gyrus (peak t = -4.1, k = 5). No significant change was observed between groups for behavioral performance (p ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSION A 20-week exercise program modulates brain activity which might provide a positive influence on working memory and inhibitory control in children with overweight/obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Mora-Gonzalez
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Irene Esteban-Cornejo
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricio Solis-Urra
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Viña del Mar, Chile
| | - María Rodriguez-Ayllon
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cristina Cadenas-Sanchez
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Charles H Hillman
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy, Movement & Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arthur F Kramer
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrés Catena
- School of Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco B Ortega
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Zhang M, Jia J, Yang Y, Zhang L, Wang X. Effects of exercise interventions on cognitive functions in healthy populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102116. [PMID: 37924980 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102116] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic exercise intervention is a non-pharmacological therapy suggested to improve cognitive function in various populations. However, few meta-analyses have assessed the cognitive benefits associated with all FITT-VP variables (exercise frequency, intensity, bout duration time, type, volume or total intervention length, and progression) in healthy populations by age. Thus, this meta-analysis assessed the effects of each FITT-VP variable on cognitive function in healthy children, adults, and older adults. This study followed PRISMA guidelines. After searching PubMed and the Web of Science, we included 54 randomized controlled trials to examined the effects of FITT-VP variables on five cognitive domains: global cognition, executive function, memory, attention, and information processing. Moderation analyses assessed the effects by age and by each exercise variables. Exercise benefitted overall cognition and all subcognitive domains. Aerobic and resistance exercise showed the greatest benefits on global cognition and executive function respectively, whereas mind-body exercise benefitted memory. Among all populations, older adults showed the greatest benefits of exercise on global cognition, executive function, and memory compared with controls. Additional studies are needed to assess the effects of exercise on attention and information processing. This meta-analysis offers new insights on the relationships between cognition and FITT-VP exercise variables in healthy populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minggang Zhang
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Jiafeng Jia
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lepu Zhang
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiaochun Wang
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China.
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The role of inhibitory control in sport performance: Systematic review and meta-analysis in stop-signal paradigm. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 147:105108. [PMID: 36828162 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitory control is an executive function that is closely and bidirectionally related to sports practice. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to study the effect of this relationship when response suppression is assessed within the Stop-Signal Paradigm. Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria and were selected for qualitative analysis, of which 11 studies were further analyzed through meta-analytic techniques. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was estimated for the stop-signal reaction time, and the influence of moderator variables was assessed. Athletes showed shorter stop-signal reaction time than non-athlete controls (SMD=0.44; 95% CI=0.14, 0.73), and this effect was mediated by age (SMD=-0.56; 95% CI=-1.11, -0.01). Athletes' superior stop-signal reaction time may be a result of extensive practice in cognitively demanding competitive environments. Young athletes can benefit the most from sports practice. In addition, engaging individuals in more cognitively demanding activities may obtain better response suppression enhancements, although the evidence in the stop-signal task is limited. Finally, some stop-signal task methodological aspects should be considered in future research.
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Rico-González M. The Effect of Primary School-Based Physical Education Programs: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Phys Act Health 2023; 20:317-347. [PMID: 36870346 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2022-0452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The present article aimed to systematically summarize primary school-based intervention programs and their effects evaluated through randomized-controlled trial design. A systematic review of relevant articles was carried out using 4 electronic databases. From a total of 193 studies initially found, 30 were included in the qualitative synthesis. Main results: (1) Intensive interval training or jump/strength exercises may positively influence physical fitness, promoting challenging task, psychological needs, and guided styles to a greater extent; (2) Games that demand more cognitive function seem more beneficial than those based on repetitive aerobic exertion to improve fundamental motor skills; (3) The jumping/strength exercises may cause benefits in bone area and bone mineral density, while flexibility and balance may reduce the risk of muscle injury; and (4) Programming a greater dose of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity seems to be related to positive effects in core executive function and academic performance. Additionally, providing information and involving the social environment may enhance the positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markel Rico-González
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, University of the Basque Country, Leioa,Spain
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Schmid D, Qazi A, Scott NM, Tomporowski PD. The effects of physical activity timing and complexity on episodic memory: A randomized controlled trial. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2023; 64:102332. [PMID: 37665816 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2022.102332] [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: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The role of two types of acute physical activity (PA) bouts were assessed on young adults' free-recall and recognition memory in two experiments, which differed in the temporal relation of PA and word encoding. Before or following training on the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Task, participants performed a simple two-step dance, a complex four-step dance, or remained seated. Hypotheses proposed that PA prior to encoding and complex PA would enhance PA's mnemonic benefits. Memory assessed post-PA, 24 h, and 7 days after training indicated that timing and complexity of PA did not impact free-recall or recognition memory. Findings differ from a previous study showing complex PA benefited motor learning more than simple PA (Tomporowski & Pendleton, 2018). The inconsistency may be due to different working memory processes underlying consolidation and retrieval of procedural or episodic information. Theory-based explanations regarding memory storage and retrieval are proposed to elucidate this selective process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Qazi
- Kinesiology Department, University of Georgia, USA
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8
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Effect of Physical Exercise in Real-World Settings on Executive Function of Typical Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121734. [PMID: 36552193 PMCID: PMC9775424 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper is to provide a systematic review of research on physical exercise in real-world settings on executive function of typical children and adolescents. METHODS The CNKI, WOS, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched by computer. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias in the included literature. Statistical analysis was performed using frequency and percentage and the χ2 test. RESULTS A total of 49 articles was included. Acute (moderate intensity lasting 30-50 min) and long-term (interventions of moderate intensity of 30-50 min at least 3 times a week for 17 weeks or more) physical exercises in real-world settings have positive intervention effects on executive function. Furthermore, for acute interventions, closed skills are more efficient for inhibitory control, open skills are more efficient for working memory and cognitive flexibility, and open-continuous and closed-sequential skills are the most efficient; long-term interventions with open skills, sequential skills, and open-sequential skills are more effective. CONCLUSION Physical exercise in real-world settings has a good promotion effect on typical children and adolescents, and motor skills with open and/or sequential attributes are more helpful in improving executive function.
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Drozdowska A, Jendrusch G, Platen P, Lücke T, Kersting M, Sinningen K. Dose-Related Effects of Endurance, Strength and Coordination Training on Executive Functions in School-Aged Children: A Systematic Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9111651. [PMID: 36360379 PMCID: PMC9688908 DOI: 10.3390/children9111651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to evaluate previous findings on the dose-related effects of short- and long-term physical activities (PA) on executive functions (EF) using a new approach by considering the success of experimental manipulation. Eight electronic databases were searched between May 2021 and September 2021. Randomized control trials among healthy children (6-12 years) were screened. Data extraction included the measurement of experimental manipulations and pre-post measurements of physical fitness. After identifying 1774 records, 17 studies were included (nine short-term PA and eight long-term PA). The overall results suggest that a single 20-min PA may be overwhelming for short-term EF in children up to 9 years of age but may be beneficial for children 9 years and older. A dose-related relationship between PA and EF could not be verified in long-term studies, which is possibly due to insufficient fitness gains and participation in the intervention. Short- and long-term endurance and coordination training could improve children's executive functions, but so far, there is no specific evidence on the duration, frequency, and intensity of PA. Not quantity but quality of intervention seems to be important in this context. Further intervention studies are needed that control for the characteristics of the experimental manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Drozdowska
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-234-509-2615
| | - Gernot Jendrusch
- Department of Sports Medicine and Sports Nutrition, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Petra Platen
- Department of Sports Medicine and Sports Nutrition, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Lücke
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Mathilde Kersting
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Kathrin Sinningen
- Research Department of Child Nutrition, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44791 Bochum, Germany
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Xu Y, Zhang W, Zhang H, Wang L, Luo Y, Ni G. Association between tennis training experience and executive function in children aged 8–12. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:924809. [PMID: 35992939 PMCID: PMC9381735 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.924809] [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: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitively engaging activities have been shown to facilitate the improvement of executive functions in children. However, a limited number of studies have investigated whether the relationship between dose parameters of physical activities and executive functions, and heterogeneity exists. In the present study, we aim to explore the association between tennis training experience and executive functions in children. Sixty children between the ages of 8 and 12 were recruited in this study and were allocated to the short-term (ST) group (<12 months, n = 30) and the long-term (LT) group (more than 12 months, n = 30). The abilities of inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and working memory were measured by the Stop-signal task, Switching task, and N-back task, respectively. There was no significant group difference in either the accuracy or reaction time of the Stop-signal task. No significant difference between the groups' accuracy in the Switching task was observed. However, the LT group presented a shorter reaction time than the ST group (731.69 ± 149.23 ms vs. 857.15 ± 157.99 ms, P < 0.01) in the Switching task. Additionally, training experience was positively associated with the reaction time of the Switching task. As for the N-back task, in comparison with the LT group, the ST group showed a longer reaction time (711.37 ± 168.14 ms vs. 164.75 ± 635.88 ms, P < 0.05). Moreover, training experience was also positively associated with the reaction time of the N-back task. But there was no significant group difference in the accuracy of the N-back task. In conclusion, children trained for over 1 year have better performance in cognitive flexibility and working memory than those trained in <1 year; thus, tennis experience is positively associated with executive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xu
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Wanxia Zhang
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Hanfeng Zhang
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Sports Education Department, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlin Luo
- Department of Neurobiology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yanlin Luo
| | - Guoxin Ni
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Guoxin Ni
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Meijer A, Königs M, Pouwels PJW, Smith J, Visscher C, Bosker RJ, Hartman E, Oosterlaan J. Effects of aerobic versus cognitively demanding exercise interventions on brain structure and function in healthy children-Results from a cluster randomized controlled trial. Psychophysiology 2022; 59:e14034. [PMID: 35292978 PMCID: PMC9541584 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The beneficial effects of physical activity on neurocognitive functioning in children are considered to be facilitated by physical activity-induced changes in brain structure and functioning. In this study, we examined the effects of two 14-week school-based exercise interventions in healthy children on white matter microstructure and brain activity in resting-state networks (RSNs) and whether changes in white matter microstructure and RSN activity mediate the effects of the exercise interventions on neurocognitive functioning. A total of 93 children were included in this study (51% girls, mean age 9.13 years). The exercise interventions consisted of four physical education lessons per week, focusing on either aerobic or cognitively demanding exercise and were compared with a control group that followed their regular physical education program of two lessons per week. White matter microstructure was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging in combination with tract-based spatial statistics. Independent component analysis was performed on resting-state data to identify RSNs. Furthermore, neurocognitive functioning (information processing and attention, working memory, motor response inhibition, interference control) was assessed by a set of computerized tasks. Results indicated no Group × Time effects on white matter microstructure or RSN activity, indicating no effects of the exercise interventions on these aspects of brain structure and function. Likewise, no Group × Time effects were found for neurocognitive performance. This study indicated that 14-week school-based interventions regarding neither aerobic exercise nor cognitive-demanding exercise interventions influence brain structure and brain function in healthy children. This study was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR5341).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Meijer
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marsh Königs
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Emma Neuroscience GroupEmma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Petra J. W. Pouwels
- Radiology and Nuclear medicine, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, Vrije UniversiteitAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Joanne Smith
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Chris Visscher
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Roel J. Bosker
- Groningen Institute for Educational ResearchUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Esther Hartman
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Emma Neuroscience GroupEmma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Play Smart, Be Smart? Effect of Cognitively Engaging Physical Activity Interventions on Executive Function among Children 4~12 Years Old: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060762. [PMID: 35741648 PMCID: PMC9220861 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060762] [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: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper aims to collect a compendium of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring the effects of cognitively engaging physical activity (PA) interventions (basketball and floorball) on various domain-specific executive functions (EFs) in children aged 4 to 12. Following the PRISMA principle, 11 articles (total sample size: 2053) were analyzed for effect size and moderating impact with Stata 13.0 software. Overall EFs (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.32, p < 0.05), updating (SMD = 0.17, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.30, p < 0.05) and shifting (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.61, p < 0.05) were enhanced by cognitively engaging PA interventions. Age and BMI were found to have no effect on overall EFs performance in Meta regression. Overall EFs performance was improved by interventions with a session length (≥35 min) (SMD = 0.30, 95 % CI 0.10 to 0.49, p = 0.033). The review suggests that despite the moderate effect sizes, cognitively engaging PA may be an effective approach to improving EFs in children aged 4 to 12, especially updating and shifting.
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13
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Slattery EJ, O'Callaghan E, Ryan P, Fortune DG, McAvinue LP. Popular interventions to enhance sustained attention in children and adolescents: A critical systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 137:104633. [PMID: 35337900 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There are a myriad of interventions promoting activities designed to help enhance sustained attention in children and adolescents. In this systematic review, we critically evaluate the evidence behind three popular sustained attention training approaches - cognitive attention training, meditation, and physical activity. Seven databases were searched in addition to secondary searches. Cognitive attention training, meditation training or physical activity intervention studies aimed at improving sustained attention (randomised-controlled or non-randomised-controlled designs) in samples of children and adolescents (3-18 years) were included. We screened 3437 unique articles. Thirty-seven studies satisfied inclusion criteria. In general, cognitive attention training (n = 14) did not reliably improve sustained attention. Physical activity (n = 15) and meditation interventions (n = 8) demonstrated somewhat more potential in enhancing sustained attention, but these effects should be considered preliminary and need to be replicated with greater methodological rigour. Cognitive attention training demonstrated very limited transfer to other aspects of attention. Notably, mindfulness training had rather consistent positive effects on selective attention. Across all three intervention types, there was very weak evidence for transfer to other aspects of cognition, behaviour, and academic achievement. The paper concludes with methodological recommendations for future studies to strengthen the evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eadaoin J Slattery
- Centre for Assessment Research, Policy and Practice in Education, Institute of Education, Dublin City University, Ireland; Dept. of Psychology, University of Limerick, Ireland.
| | | | - Patrick Ryan
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Limerick, Ireland
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14
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Ludyga S, Gerber M, Kamijo K. Exercise types and working memory components during development. Trends Cogn Sci 2022; 26:191-203. [PMID: 35031211 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Working memory is crucial to learning and academic success. Exercise has been found to benefit working memory in late life, but its effects during cognitive development are less clear. Building on findings that working memory is supported by the motor system, we highlight the sensitivity of different working memory components to acute and long-term exercise in children and adolescents. We also consider how the specific skill demands of endurance and coordinative exercise influence this sensitivity. Distinct effects of these exercise types are further linked with neurocognitive and neuroendocrine pathways. Our review suggests long-term rather than acute benefits of exercise for children and adolescents' working memory, which are more pronounced and specific for exercise with high coordinative demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Ludyga
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Markus Gerber
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Keita Kamijo
- Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Chukyo University, Nagoya, Japan
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15
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Meijer A, Pouwels PJW, Smith J, Visscher C, Bosker RJ, Hartman E, Oosterlaan J, Königs M. The relationship between white matter microstructure, cardiovascular fitness, gross motor skills, and neurocognitive functioning in children. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2201-2215. [PMID: 34019710 PMCID: PMC8453576 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence indicates that both cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skill performance are related to enhanced neurocognitive functioning in children by influencing brain structure and functioning. This study investigates the role of white matter microstructure in the relationship of both cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skills with neurocognitive functioning in healthy children. In total 92 children (mean age 9.1 years, range 8.0-10.7) were included in this study. Cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skill performance were assessed using performance-based tests. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed using computerized tests (working memory, inhibition, interference control, information processing, and attention). Diffusion tensor imaging was used in combination with tract-based spatial statistics to assess white matter microstructure as defined by fractional anisotropy (FA), axial and radial diffusivity (AD, RD). The results revealed positive associations of both cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skills with neurocognitive functioning. Information processing and motor response inhibition were associated with FA in a cluster located in the corpus callosum. Within this cluster, higher cardiovascular fitness and better gross motor skills were both associated with greater FA, greater AD, and lower RD. No mediating role was found for FA in the relationship of both cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skills with neurocognitive functioning. The results indicate that cardiovascular fitness and gross motor skills are related to neurocognitive functioning as well as white matter microstructure in children. However, this study provides no evidence for a mediating role of white matter microstructure in these relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Meijer
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Petra J. W. Pouwels
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear MedicineAmsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Joanne Smith
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Chris Visscher
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Roel J. Bosker
- Groningen Institute for Educational ResearchUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Esther Hartman
- Center for Human Movement SciencesUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Emma Neuroscience GroupEmma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marsh Königs
- Emma Neuroscience GroupEmma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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16
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Meijer A, Königs M, de Bruijn AGM, Visscher C, Bosker RJ, Hartman E, Oosterlaan J. Cardiovascular fitness and executive functioning in primary school-aged children. Dev Sci 2021; 24:e13019. [PMID: 32673418 PMCID: PMC7988586 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Previous research in children has shown that higher cardiovascular fitness is related to better executive functioning. However, the available literature is hampered by methodological limitations. The present study investigates the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and executive functioning in a large sample of healthy children (N = 814). Cardiovascular fitness was assessed with estimated VO2Max from 20 m Shuttle Run Test performance. Executive functioning was assessed using a set of computerized neurocognitive tasks aimed at executive functions (working memory, motor inhibition, interference control) and lower-level neurocognitive functions (information processing and attention). Dependent measures derived from the neurocognitive tests were subjected to principal component analysis. Mixed model analyses tested the relation between cardiovascular fitness and neurocognitive functioning components. Results showed that children with higher cardiovascular fitness performed better on the neurocognitive function components Information Processing and Control, Visuospatial Working Memory and Attention Efficiency. The following measures contained in these components contributed to the observed relations: information processing measures, visuospatial working memory, and speed of alerting attention. No relationship was found between cardiovascular fitness and the other components: Verbal Working Memory, Attention Accuracy, and Interference Control. The present study suggests that there is a relationship between cardiovascular fitness and a specific set of executive functions and lower level neurocognitive functions. These findings highlight the importance of cardiovascular fitness for the overall health of school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Meijer
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marsh Königs
- Emma Neuroscience GroupDepartment of PediatricsAmsterdam Reproduction & DevelopmentEmma Children's HospitalAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Anne G. M. de Bruijn
- Groningen Institute for Educational ResearchUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Chris Visscher
- University Medical Center GroningenCenter for Human Movement SciencesUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Roel J. Bosker
- Groningen Institute for Educational ResearchUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Esther Hartman
- University Medical Center GroningenCenter for Human Movement SciencesUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Clinical Neuropsychology SectionVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Emma Neuroscience GroupDepartment of PediatricsAmsterdam Reproduction & DevelopmentEmma Children's HospitalAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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