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Polverino A, Troisi Lopez E, Minino R, Romano A, Miranda A, Facchiano A, Cipriano L, Sorrentino P. Brain network topological changes in inflammatory bowel disease: an exploratory study. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:4409-4420. [PMID: 38858102 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Although the aetio-pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is not entirely clear, the interaction between genetic and adverse environmental factors may induce an intestinal dysbiosis, resulting in chronic inflammation having effects on the large-scale brain network. Here, we hypothesized inflammation-related changes in brain topology of IBD patients, regardless of the clinical form [ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn's disease (CD)]. To test this hypothesis, we analysed source-reconstructed magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals in 25 IBD patients (15 males, 10 females; mean age ± SD, 42.28 ± 13.15; mean education ± SD, 14.36 ± 3.58) and 28 healthy controls (HC) (16 males, 12 females; mean age ± SD, 45.18 ± 12.26; mean education ± SD, 16.25 ± 2.59), evaluating the brain topology. The betweenness centrality (BC) of the left hippocampus was higher in patients as compared with controls, in the gamma frequency band. It indicates how much a brain region is involved in the flow of information through the brain network. Furthermore, the comparison among UC, CD and HC showed statistically significant differences between UC and HC and between CD and HC, but not between the two clinical forms. Our results demonstrated that these topological changes were not dependent on the specific clinical form, but due to the inflammatory process itself. Broader future studies involving panels of inflammatory factors and metabolomic analyses on biological samples could help to monitor the brain involvement in IBD and to clarify the clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Polverino
- Institute for Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Minino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Romano
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Miranda
- Hepato-Gastroenterology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Facchiano
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Umberto I General Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cipriano
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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2
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Stecher C, Pagni BA, Cloonan S, Vink S, Hill E, Ogbeama D, Delaney S, Braden BB. App-based meditation habits maintain reductions in depression symptoms among autistic adults. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1487-1502. [PMID: 37837362 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231200679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Existing research has identified an increased risk of depression among autistic adults, which can negatively impact their adaptive functioning abilities and socioeconomic outcomes. Mobile app-based meditation is a feasible, accessible, and effective self-care solution for depression among neurotypical adults, but there is limited evidence for the long-term benefits of app-based meditation among autistic adults. Habits are a key behavioral strategy for maintaining behavior change, and anchoring is one effective habit formation intervention that has yet to be tested among autistic adults. This study demonstrates that it is both feasible and effective to integrate the anchoring habit formation strategy into an app-based meditation intervention for establishing meditation habits among autistic adults. In addition, the study shows that app-based meditation habits were successful at maintaining reductions in depressive symptoms over 6 months. These results demonstrate the power of anchoring-based habit formation interventions for establishing healthy habits among autistic adults, which offers a promising behavioral intervention technique for establishing other healthy habits among autistic adults. The study also shows that app-based meditation habits are an effective long-term self-care solution for managing depressive symptoms among autistic adults that should be used by mental health providers and policymakers. Future research should test this combined anchoring and app-based meditation intervention technique among larger samples of autistic adults and over longer durations to better understand the mechanisms underlying the success of this intervention.
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Lee E, Hong JK, Choi H, Yoon IY. Modest Effects of Neurofeedback-Assisted Meditation Using a Wearable Device on Stress Reduction: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Controlled Study. J Korean Med Sci 2024; 39:e94. [PMID: 38469966 PMCID: PMC10927393 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2024.39.e94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of a neurofeedback wearable device for stress reduction. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, controlled study was designed. Participants had psychological stress with depression or sleep disturbances. They practiced either neurofeedback-assisted meditation (n = 20; female, 15 [75.0%]; age, 49.40 ± 11.76 years) or neurofeedback non-assisted meditation (n = 18; female, 11 [61.1%]; age, 48.67 ± 12.90 years) for 12 minutes twice a day for two weeks. Outcome variables were self-reported questionnaires, including the Korean version of the Perceived Stress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Insomnia Severity Index, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and State Trait Anxiety Index, quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG), and blood tests. Satisfaction with device use was measured at the final visit. RESULTS The experimental group had a significant change in PSS score after two weeks of intervention compared with the control group (6.45 ± 0.95 vs. 3.00 ± 5.54, P = 0.037). State anxiety tended to have a greater effect in the experimental group than in the control group (P = 0.078). Depressive mood and sleep also improved in each group, with no significant difference between the two groups. There were no significant differences in stress-related physiological parameters, such as stress hormones or qEEG, between the two groups. Subjective device satisfaction was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (P = 0.008). CONCLUSION Neurofeedback-assisted meditation using a wearable device can help improve subjective stress reduction compared with non-assisted meditation. These results support neurofeedback as an effective adjunct to meditation for relieving stress. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0007413.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunyoung Lee
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jung Kyung Hong
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hayun Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Veteran Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - In-Young Yoon
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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4
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Mora Álvarez MG, Hölzel BK, Bremer B, Wilhelm M, Hell E, Tavacioglu EE, Koch K, Torske A. Effects of web-based mindfulness training on psychological outcomes, attention, and neuroplasticity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22635. [PMID: 38114554 PMCID: PMC10730881 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48706-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation training (MMT) reliably reduces stress and anxiety while also improving attention. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between MMT, stress and anxiety reduction, and its impact upon improvements in attention on the behavioral and neuronal levels. As a second aim, we sought to explore any relationship between MMT, attention, and modified states of mind such as flow. 118 healthy, meditation-naïve, participants were either assigned to a 31-day, web-based, MMT or an active control, health training (HT). Participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while performing the attention network test (ANT) to assess functional and behavioural attentional changes, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to assess microstructural neuronal changes and completed relevant questionnaires to explore changes in psychological outcomes. Results confirmed a reduction in perceived stress and anxiety levels in the MMT group and significant improvements in the overall reaction time during the ANT, albeit no specific effects on the attentional components were observed. No statistically significant changes were found in the HT group. Interestingly, a significant group-by-time interaction was seen in flow experience. Functional data exhibited an increased activity in the superior frontal gyrus, posterior cingulate cortex, and right hippocampus during the alerting condition of the ANT after the MMT; decreased stress and trait anxiety were significantly correlated with the activation in the right hippocampus, and increased flow was also significantly correlated with all the aforementioned areas. DTI data showed increased fractional anisotropy values in the right uncinate fasciculus indicating white matter microarchitecture improvement between the right hippocampus and frontal areas of the brain. This study, therefore, demonstrates the effectiveness of web-based MMT on overall well-being and attentional performance, while also providing insight into the relationship between psychological outcomes, attention, and neuroplastic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Guadalupe Mora Álvarez
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Britta Karen Hölzel
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Benno Bremer
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Wilhelm
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elena Hell
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ebru Ecem Tavacioglu
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Koch
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Alyssa Torske
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, Martinsried, Germany
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5
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Ramminger JJ, Peper M, Wendt AN. Neuropsychological assessment methodology revisited: metatheoretical reflections. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1170283. [PMID: 38046127 PMCID: PMC10690759 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1170283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Theory building in neuropsychology, similar to other disciplines, rests on metatheoretical assumptions of philosophical origin. Such assumptions regarding the relation of psychological and physiological variables influence research methodologies as well as assessment strategies in fields of application. Here, we revisit the classic procedure of Double Dissociation (DD) to illustrate the connection of metatheory and methodology. In a seemingly unbridgeable opposition, the classical neuropsychological procedure of DD can be understood as either presupposing localizationism and a modular view of the brain, or as a special case of the generalized neuro-lens model for neuropsychological assessment. In the latter case, it is more easily compatible with a perspective that emphasizes the systemic-network, rather than the modular, nature of the brain, which as part of the organism, proportionately mediates the situatedness of the human being in the world. This perspective not only makes it possible to structure ecological validation processes and give them a metatheoretical foundation, but also to interlace it with the phenomenological insight that the laboratory as one context of empirical research may be analyzed in terms of situated experience. We conclude with showing that both the localizationist and the system science approach can agree on a view of the brain as a dynamical network, and that metatheory may thus offer important new perspectives of reconciliation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Joseph Ramminger
- Department of Psychology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Peper
- Department of Psychology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Nicolai Wendt
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Psychology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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6
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Troisi Lopez E, Liparoti M, Passarello N, Lucidi F, Mandolesi L. Multimodal Physical Exercise Affects Visuo-Spatial Working Memory: Preliminary Evidence from a Descriptive Study on Tai-Chi Practitioners and Runners. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1400. [PMID: 37891768 PMCID: PMC10605525 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13101400] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence has shown a relationship between physical exercise (PE) and cognitive functioning. However, it is unknown if unimodal and multimodal modalities of PE affect cognitive abilities in different ways. To fill this gap, we analyzed the effects of unimodal PE (running) and multimodal PE (Tai Chi) on specific cognitive abilities. A sample of 33 participants (mean age = 52.6 ± 7.2) divided into eleven runners, eleven Tai Chi practitioners, and eleven age-matched sedentary individuals were subjected to a neuropsychological tests battery to assess shifting and problem solving abilities (Rule Shift Cards, BADS-RS, and Key Search tasks), verbal fluency (semantic and phonemic verbal fluency tasks), verbal memory (Rey's 15 words test), visuo-spatial working memory (Corsi test), and global cognitive functioning (clock-drawing test). The results showed significantly higher BADS-RS scores in runners and Tai Chi practitioners in comparison to the sedentary participants, thus evidencing improved shifting abilities for active individuals. Interestingly, post hoc analysis showed significantly higher span scores of Corsi test only in Tai Chi practitioners as compared to sedentary participants, suggesting how multimodal PE facilitates the visuo-spatial working memory processes. Although preliminary, our descriptive study indicates that the type of PE could modulate specific cognitive domains, even if the practice of motor activity favors a global cognitive improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy;
| | - Marianna Liparoti
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Noemi Passarello
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Fabio Lucidi
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Laura Mandolesi
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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7
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Paley CA, Johnson MI. Perspective on salutogenic approaches to persistent pain with a focus on mindfulness interventions. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1188758. [PMID: 37706030 PMCID: PMC10495576 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1188758] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this article, we provide a unique perspective on the use of mindfulness interventions in a whole health framework embedded within the theory of salutogenesis and the concept of painogenic environments. We argue that mindfulness is a valuable tool to bridge exploration of inner experiences of bodily pain with socio-ecological influences on thoughts and emotions. We outline research from neuroimaging studies that mindfulness techniques mediate neural processing and neuroplastic changes that alleviate pain and related symptoms. We also review evidence examining behavioural changes associated with mindfulness meditation providing evidence that it promotes self-regulatory activity, including the regulation and control of emotion and catalysation of health behaviour changes; both of which are important in chronic illness. Our viewpoint is that mindfulness could be a core element of salutogenic approaches to promote health and well-being for people living with pain because it rebuilds a fractured sense of cohesion. Mindfulness empowers people in pain to embrace their existence; shifting the focus away from pain and giving their lives meaning. We propose that integrating mindfulness into activities of daily living and individual or community-based activities will promote living well in the modern world, with or without pain; thus, promoting individual potential for fulfilment. Future research should consider the effects of mindfulness on people with pain in real-life settings, considering social, environmental, and economic factors using a broader set of outcomes, including self-efficacy, sense of coherence and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole A. Paley
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Mark I. Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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8
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Bitton S, Chatburn A, Immink MA. The Influence of Focused Attention and Open Monitoring Mindfulness Meditation States on True and False Memory. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2023; 7:1-16. [PMID: 37363054 PMCID: PMC10061380 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-023-00259-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Previous investigations into the effect of mindfulness meditation on false memory have reported mixed findings. One potential issue is that mindfulness meditation involves different styles that establish distinct cognitive control states. The present work aimed to address this issue by comparing the effects of single-session focused attention (FAM) and open monitoring (OMM) mindfulness meditation styles on true and false memory recall. Strengthened cognitive control states associated with FAM were predicted to increase true memory recall and decrease false memory recall. Conversely, weakened cognitive control established by OMM was predicted to increase false memory recall. Thirty-four meditation-naïve participants (23 females, mean age = 23.4 years, range = 18-33) first completed pre-meditation learning and recall phases of the Deese-Roediger-McDermott (DRM) task. Participants then completed a single session of FAM or OMM prior to a second, post-meditation, round of DRM task learning and recall phases with a novel word list. Finally, participants completed a recognition test with true and false memory, and distractor words. Both FAM and OMM groups demonstrated significant increase in false memory recall between pre- and post-meditation recall tests but these groups did not differ with respect to true and false memory recall and recognition. The present findings are consistent with previous reports of increased false memory arising from mindfulness meditation. Distinct cognitive control states associated with FAM and OMM states do not result in distinct true and false memory formation, at least in meditation-naïve adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bitton
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Maarten A. Immink
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
- Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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9
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Sorrentino P, Petkoski S, Sparaco M, Troisi Lopez E, Signoriello E, Baselice F, Bonavita S, Pirozzi MA, Quarantelli M, Sorrentino G, Jirsa V. Whole-Brain Propagation Delays in Multiple Sclerosis, a Combined Tractography-Magnetoencephalography Study. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8807-8816. [PMID: 36241383 PMCID: PMC9698668 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0938-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Two structurally connected brain regions are more likely to interact, with the lengths of the structural bundles, their widths, myelination, and the topology of the structural connectome influencing the timing of the interactions. We introduce an in vivo approach for measuring functional delays across the whole brain in humans (of either sex) using magneto/electroencephalography (MEG/EEG) and integrating them with the structural bundles. The resulting topochronic map of the functional delays/velocities shows that larger bundles have faster velocities. We estimated the topochronic map in multiple sclerosis patients, who have damaged myelin sheaths, and controls, demonstrating greater delays in patients across the network and that structurally lesioned tracts were slowed down more than unaffected ones. We provide a novel framework for estimating functional transmission delays in vivo at the single-subject and single-tract level.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT This article provides a straightforward way to estimate patient-specific delays and conduction velocities in the CNS, at the individual level, in healthy and diseased subjects. To do so, it uses a principled way to merge magnetoencephalography (MEG)/electroencephalography (EEG) and tractography.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Sorrentino
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - S Petkoski
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - M Sparaco
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - E Troisi Lopez
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - E Signoriello
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - F Baselice
- Department of Engineering, Parthenope University of Naples, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - S Bonavita
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - M A Pirozzi
- Biostructure and Bioimaging Institute, National Research Council, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - M Quarantelli
- Biostructure and Bioimaging Institute, National Research Council, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - G Sorrentino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy
- Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - V Jirsa
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
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10
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Han A. Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Older Adults with Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis. Clin Gerontol 2022; 45:763-776. [PMID: 34693892 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2021.1995561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on psychological symptoms, cognitive functions, and quality of life in older adults with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted within four databases to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Depending on I2 statistic values, either a random effects model or fixed effects model was used. RESULTS 10 RCTs published in 11 articles met the eligibility criteria. The present meta-analysis study found no significant effect of MBIs on depressive symptoms, anxiety, quality of life, memory, and overall cognitive functions compared to control groups. CONCLUSIONS Future high-quality studies involving different types of MBIs are needed to better understand the effects of MBIs on psychological symptoms, quality of life, and cognitive functions in older adults with MCI and dementia and examine effective intervention features. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS There is insufficient evidence to determine whether or not practitioners should be routinely providing MBIs to older adults with MCI and dementia due to the lack of studies currently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areum Han
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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11
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Cheron G, Ristori D, Petieau M, Simar C, Zarka D, Cebolla AM. Effects of Pulsed-Wave Chromotherapy and Guided Relaxation on the Theta-Alpha Oscillation During Arrest Reaction. Front Psychol 2022; 13:792872. [PMID: 35310269 PMCID: PMC8929400 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.792872] [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: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for the best wellness practice has promoted the development of devices integrating different technologies and guided meditation. However, the final effects on the electrical activity of the brain remain relatively sparse. Here, we have analyzed of the alpha and theta electroencephalographic oscillations during the realization of the arrest reaction (AR; eyes close/eyes open transition) when a chromotherapy session performed in a dedicated room [Rebalance (RB) device], with an ergonomic bed integrating pulsed-wave light (PWL) stimulation, guided breathing, and body scan exercises. We demonstrated that the PWL induced an evoked-related potential characterized by the N2-P3 components maximally recorded on the fronto-central areas and accompanied by an event-related synchronization (ERS) of the delta–theta–alpha oscillations. The power of the alpha and theta oscillations was analyzed during repeated ARs testing realized along with the whole RB session. We showed that the power of the alpha and theta oscillations was significantly increased during the session in comparison to their values recorded before. Of the 14 participants, 11 and 6 showed a significant power increase of the alpha and theta oscillations, respectively. These increased powers were not observed in two different control groups (n = 28) who stayed passively outside or inside the RB room but without any type of stimulation. These preliminary results suggest that PWL chromotherapy and guided relaxation induce measurable electrical brain changes that could be beneficial under neuropsychiatric perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Cheron
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neuroscience, Université de Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Dominique Ristori
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Petieau
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cédric Simar
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Machine Learning Group, Computer Science Department, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - David Zarka
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ana-Maria Cebolla
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Juraga D, Rukavina T, Bilajac L, Marinović Glavić M, Roviš D, Raat H, Vasiljev V. Comparison of conventional (face-to-face) and online approach in mindfulness-based chronic disease self-management interventions for older adults. J Public Health Res 2022; 11. [PMID: 35262302 PMCID: PMC8958445 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2022.2779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To compare the effectiveness between conventional (face-to-face) and online public health approaches focused on mental health, self-efficacy of health management and quality of life of older adults. Design and methods: Participants will be 65+ residents of the city of Rijeka and the wider urban area and will be divided into three groups. The first group consists of participants who will be included in the conventional (face-to-face) form of public health intervention, the second group consists of participants who will be involved in online public health intervention and the third group consists of participants from the control group. A total of 450 participants will participate in a pretest-posttest non-equivalent groups design research, with 150 participants per group. A series of questionnaires will be administered to evaluate effect of the interventions on mental health, self-efficacy of health management and quality of life. Results of this research will provide insight into the effectiveness of the electronic way of implementing chronic disease self-management interventions compared to conventional (face-to-face) which can be useful to policy makers and public authorities in the organization and implementation of health policies. Expected impact of the study for public health: This research will contribute to the definition, implementation and adaptation of future public health interventions related to mental health, selfefficacy of health management and quality of life in the context of various epidemiological situations such as the current one caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Significance for public health Social distancing, curfews and quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a deterioration in mental health, especially in vulnerable population groups. Older adults were and are still greatly impacted by the pandemic in terms of mental health, socialization aspect and loneliness. Therefore, new approaches in public health interventions should be implemented. Innovative public health approaches related to resilience enhancement and chronic disease self-management in combination with modern technologies should be implemented and evaluated. Evidence-based results of this research will provide insight into the effectiveness of the electronic way of implementing public health interventions compared to conventional (face-to-face) which can be a useful tool to policy makers and public authorities in planning and adapting future mindfulness-based and chronic disease self-management interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Juraga
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka.
| | - Tomislav Rukavina
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka; Teaching Institute of Public Health of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Rijeka.
| | - Lovorka Bilajac
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka; Teaching Institute of Public Health of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Rijeka; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka.
| | | | - Darko Roviš
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka; Teaching Institute of Public Health of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Rijeka; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka.
| | - Hein Raat
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC-University Medical Centre Rotterdam.
| | - Vanja Vasiljev
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka.
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13
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Pesoli M, Rucco R, Liparoti M, Lardone A, D'Aurizio G, Minino R, Troisi Lopez E, Paccone A, Granata C, Curcio G, Sorrentino G, Mandolesi L, Sorrentino P. A night of sleep deprivation alters brain connectivity and affects specific executive functions. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:1025-1034. [PMID: 34244891 PMCID: PMC8789640 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05437-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sleep is a fundamental physiological process necessary for efficient cognitive functioning especially in relation to memory consolidation and executive functions, such as attentional and switching abilities. The lack of sleep strongly alters the connectivity of some resting-state networks, such as default mode network and attentional network. In this study, by means of magnetoencephalography (MEG) and specific cognitive tasks, we investigated how brain topology and cognitive functioning are affected by 24 h of sleep deprivation (SD). Thirty-two young men underwent resting-state MEG recording and evaluated in letter cancellation task (LCT) and task switching (TS) before and after SD. Results showed a worsening in the accuracy and speed of execution in the LCT and a reduction of reaction times in the TS, evidencing thus a worsening of attentional but not of switching abilities. Moreover, we observed that 24 h of SD induced large-scale rearrangements in the functional network. These findings evidence that 24 h of SD is able to alter brain connectivity and selectively affects cognitive domains which are under the control of different brain networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Pesoli
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Marianna Liparoti
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Lardone
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia D'Aurizio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Roberta Minino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Paccone
- Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Granata
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Curcio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
- Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Mandolesi
- Department of Humanities Studies, University Federico II, Via Porta di Massa 1, 80133, Naples, Italy.
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
- Institut de Neurosciences Des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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14
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Pimenta LDS, de Araújo ELM, Silva JPDS, França JJ, Brito PNA, de Holanda LJ, Lindquist AR, Lopez LCS, Andrade SM. Effects of Synergism of Mindfulness Practice Associated With Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation in Chronic Migraine: Pilot, Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind Clinical Trial. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:769619. [PMID: 34955789 PMCID: PMC8692277 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.769619] [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: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic migraine is a difficult disease to diagnose, and its pathophysiology remains undefined. Its symptoms affect the quality of life and daily living tasks of the affected person, leading to momentary disability. This is a pilot, randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial study with female patients between 18 and 65 years old with chronic migraine. The patients underwent twelve mindfulness sessions paired with anodal transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), with current intensity of 2 mA applied for 20 min, three times a week for 4 weeks. In addition, 20 min of mindfulness home practices were performed by guided meditation audio files. A total of 30 participants were evaluated after the treatment, and these were subdivided into two groups—active tDCS and sham tDCS, both set to mindfulness practice. The FFMQ-BR (Five Facet of Mindfulness Questionnaire), MIDAS (Migraine Disability Assessment), and HIT-6 (Headache Impact Test) questionnaires were used to evaluate the outcomes. After the treatment, the active mindfulness and tDCS group showed better results in all outcomes. The sham group also showed improvements, but with smaller effect sizes compared to the active group. The only significant difference in the intergroup analysis was the outcome evaluated by HIT-6 in the post treatment result. Our results provide the first therapeutic evidence of mindfulness practices associated with left DLPFC anodal tDCS with a consequent increase in the level of full attention and analgesic benefits in the clinical symptoms of patients with chronic migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ana Raquel Lindquist
- Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Suellen Marinho Andrade
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
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15
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Stecher C, Sullivan M, Huberty J. Using Personalized Anchors to Establish Routine Meditation Practice With a Mobile App: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e32794. [PMID: 34941558 PMCID: PMC8734923 DOI: 10.2196/32794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical and mental health benefits can be attained from persistent, long-term performance of mindfulness meditation with a mobile meditation app, but in general, few mobile health app users persistently engage at a level necessary to attain the corresponding health benefits. Anchoring or pairing meditation with a mobile app to an existing daily routine can establish an unconsciously initiated meditation routine that may improve meditation persistence. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to test the use of either personalized anchors or fixed anchors for establishing a persistent meditation app routine with the mobile app, Calm. METHODS We conducted a randomized controlled trial and randomly assigned participants to one of 3 study groups: (1) a personalized anchor (PA) group, (2) fixed anchor (FA) group, or (3) control group that did not use the anchoring strategy. All participants received app-delivered reminder messages to meditate for at least 10 minutes a day using the Calm app for an 8-week intervention period, and app usage data continued to be collected for an additional 8-week follow-up period to measure meditation persistence. Baseline, week 8, and week 16 surveys were administered to assess demographics, socioeconomic status, and changes in self-reported habit strength. RESULTS A total of 101 participants across the 3 study groups were included in the final analysis: (1) PA (n=56), (2) FA (n=49), and (3) control group (n=62). Participants were predominantly White (83/101, 82.2%), female (77/101, 76.2%), and college educated (ie, bachelor's or graduate degree; 82/101, 81.2%). The FA group had a significantly higher average odds of daily meditation during the intervention (1.14 odds ratio [OR]; 95% CI 1.02-1.33; P=.04), and all participants experienced a linear decline in their odds of daily meditation during the 8-week intervention (0.96 OR; 95% CI 0.95-0.96; P<.001). Importantly, the FA group showed a significantly smaller decline in the linear trend of their odds of daily meditation during the 8-week follow-up (their daily trend increased by 1.04 OR from their trend during the intervention; 95% CI 1.01-1.06; P=.03). Additionally, those who more frequently adhered to their anchoring strategy during the intervention typically used anchors that occurred in the morning and showed a significantly smaller decline in their odds of daily meditation during the 8-week follow-up period (1.13 OR; 95% CI 1.02-1.35; P=.007). CONCLUSIONS The FA group had more persistent meditation with the app, but participants in the FA or PA groups who more frequently adhered to their anchoring strategy during the intervention had the most persistent meditation routines, and almost all of these high anchorers used morning anchors. These findings suggest that the anchoring strategy can create persistent meditation routines with a mobile app. However, future studies should combine anchoring with additional intervention tools (eg, incentives) to help more participants successfully establish an anchored meditation routine. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04378530; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04378530.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Stecher
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Mariah Sullivan
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Jennifer Huberty
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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16
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Rucco R, Lardone A, Liparoti M, Troisi Lopez E, De Micco R, Tessitore A, Granata C, Mandolesi L, Sorrentino G, Sorrentino P. Brain networks and cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease. Brain Connect 2021; 12:465-475. [PMID: 34269602 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2020.0985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim of the present study is to investigate the relations between both functional connectivity and brain networks with cognitive decline, in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Introduction PD phenotype is not limited to motor impairment but, rather, a wide range of non-motor disturbances can occur, cognitive impairment being one of the commonest. However, how the large-scale organization of brain activity differs in cognitively impaired patients, as opposed to cognitively preserved ones, remains poorly understood. Methods Starting from source-reconstructed resting-state magnetoencephalography data, we applied the PLM to estimate functional connectivity, globally and between brain areas, in PD patients with and without cognitive impairment (respectively PD-CI and PD-NC), as compared to healthy subjects (HS). Furthermore, using graph analysis, we characterized the alterations in brain network topology and related these, as well as the functional connectivity, to cognitive performance. Results We found reduced global and nodal PLM in several temporal (fusiform gyrus, Heschl's gyrus and inferior temporal gyrus), parietal (postcentral gyrus), and occipital (lingual gyrus) areas within the left hemisphere, in the gamma band, in PD-CI patients, as compared to PD-NC and HS. With regard to the global topological features, PD-CI patients, as compared to HS and PD-NC patients, showed differences in multi frequencies bands (delta, alpha, gamma) in the Leaf fraction, Tree hierarchy (both higher in PD-CI) and Diameter (lower in PD-CI). Finally, we found statistically significant correlations between the MoCA test and both the Diameter in delta band and the Tree Hierarchy in the alpha band. Conclusion Our work points to specific large-scale rearrangements that occur selectively in cognitively compromised PD patients and correlated to cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Rucco
- University of Naples - Parthenope, 18993, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Napoli, Campania, Italy.,Eduardo Caianiello Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems National Research Council, 96973, Pozzuoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Anna Lardone
- University of Rome La Sapienza Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, 247818, Roma, Lazio, Italy;
| | - Marianna Liparoti
- University of Naples - Parthenope, 18993, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Napoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- University of Naples - Parthenope, 18993, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Napoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Rosa De Micco
- University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 217742, Napoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Tessitore
- University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, 217742, Napoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Carmine Granata
- Eduardo Caianiello Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems National Research Council, 96973, Pozzuoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Laura Mandolesi
- University of Naples Federico II, 9307, Department of Humanistic Studies, Napoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- University of Naples - Parthenope, 18993, Department of Motor and Wellness Sciences, Via Medina 40, 3, Napoli, Italy, 80133.,Institute of Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage Capodimont, Naples, Campania, Italy.,National Research Council Research Area Naples 3 - Pozzuoli, 462880, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems , Pozzuoli, Campania, Italy;
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Eduardo Caianiello Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems National Research Council, 96973, Pozzuoli, Campania, Italy.,Aix-Marseille Universite, 128791, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Marseille, France;
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17
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Sorrentino P, Seguin C, Rucco R, Liparoti M, Troisi Lopez E, Bonavita S, Quarantelli M, Sorrentino G, Jirsa V, Zalesky A. The structural connectome constrains fast brain dynamics. eLife 2021; 10:67400. [PMID: 34240702 PMCID: PMC8294846 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain activity during rest displays complex, rapidly evolving patterns in space and time. Structural connections comprising the human connectome are hypothesized to impose constraints on the dynamics of this activity. Here, we use magnetoencephalography (MEG) to quantify the extent to which fast neural dynamics in the human brain are constrained by structural connections inferred from diffusion MRI tractography. We characterize the spatio-temporal unfolding of whole-brain activity at the millisecond scale from source-reconstructed MEG data, estimating the probability that any two brain regions will significantly deviate from baseline activity in consecutive time epochs. We find that the structural connectome relates to, and likely affects, the rapid spreading of neuronal avalanches, evidenced by a significant association between these transition probabilities and structural connectivity strengths (r = 0.37, p<0.0001). This finding opens new avenues to study the relationship between brain structure and neural dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Aix-Marseille University, Inserm, INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Marseille, France.,Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Caio Seguin
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Liparoti
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Institute for Diagnosis and Cure Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Mario Quarantelli
- Biostructure and Bioimaging Institute, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Viktor Jirsa
- Aix-Marseille University, Inserm, INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Marseille, France
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18
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Liparoti M, Troisi Lopez E, Sarno L, Rucco R, Minino R, Pesoli M, Perruolo G, Formisano P, Lucidi F, Sorrentino G, Sorrentino P. Functional brain network topology across the menstrual cycle is estradiol dependent and correlates with individual well-being. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2271-2286. [PMID: 34110041 PMCID: PMC8453714 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle (MC) is a sex hormone‐related phenomenon that repeats itself cyclically during the woman's reproductive life. In this explorative study, we hypothesized that coordinated variations of multiple sex hormones may affect the large‐scale organization of the brain functional network and that, in turn, such changes might have psychological correlates, even in the absence of overt clinical signs of anxiety and/or depression. To test our hypothesis, we investigated longitudinally, across the MC, the relationship between the sex hormones and both brain network and psychological changes. We enrolled 24 naturally cycling women and, at the early‐follicular, peri‐ovulatory, and mid‐luteal phases of the MC, we performed: (a) sex hormone dosage, (b) magnetoencephalography recording to study the brain network topology, and (c) psychological questionnaires to quantify anxiety, depression, self‐esteem, and well‐being. We showed that during the peri‐ovulatory phase, in the alpha band, the leaf fraction and the tree hierarchy of the brain network were reduced, while the betweenness centrality (BC) of the right posterior cingulate gyrus (rPCG) was increased. Furthermore, the increase in BC was predicted by estradiol levels. Moreover, during the luteal phase, the variation of estradiol correlated positively with the variations of both the topological change and environmental mastery dimension of the well‐being test, which, in turn, was related to the increase in the BC of rPCG. Our results highlight the effects of sex hormones on the large‐scale brain network organization as well as on their possible relationship with the psychological state across the MC. Moreover, the fact that physiological changes in the brain topology occur throughout the MC has widespread implications for neuroimaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Liparoti
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Emahnuel Troisi Lopez
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Sarno
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Minino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Pesoli
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Perruolo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.,URT "Genomic of Diabetes" of Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, National Council of Research, CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.,URT "Genomic of Diabetes" of Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, National Council of Research, CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Lucidi
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Hermitage Capodimonte Clinic, Naples, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Faculty of Medicine, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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19
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Sorrentino P, Rucco R, Lardone A, Liparoti M, Troisi Lopez E, Cavaliere C, Soricelli A, Jirsa V, Sorrentino G, Amico E. Clinical connectome fingerprints of cognitive decline. Neuroimage 2021; 238:118253. [PMID: 34116156 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2021.118253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain connectome fingerprinting is rapidly rising as a novel influential field in brain network analysis. Yet, it is still unclear whether connectivity fingerprints could be effectively used for mapping and predicting disease progression from human brain data. We hypothesize that dysregulation of brain activity in disease would reflect in worse subject identification. We propose a novel framework, Clinical Connectome Fingerprinting, to detect individual connectome features from clinical populations. We show that "clinical fingerprints" can map individual variations between elderly healthy subjects and patients with mild cognitive impairment in functional connectomes extracted from magnetoencephalography data. We find that identifiability is reduced in patients as compared to controls, and show that these connectivity features are predictive of the individual Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score in patients. We hope that the proposed methodology can help in bridging the gap between connectivity features and biomarkers of brain dysfunction in large-scale brain networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy; Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Italy
| | - Anna Lardone
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza, Italy
| | - Marianna Liparoti
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Soricelli
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Italy; IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy
| | - Viktor Jirsa
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy; Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Italy; Hermitage Capodimonte Clinic, Naples, Italy.
| | - Enrico Amico
- Institute of Bioengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, EPFL, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, University of Geneva (UNIGE), Geneva, Switzerland.
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20
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Tortella GR, Seabra AB, Padrão J, Díaz-San Juan R. Mindfulness and Other Simple Neuroscience-Based Proposals to Promote the Learning Performance and Mental Health of Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Brain Sci 2021; 11:552. [PMID: 33925627 PMCID: PMC8145019 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on education. The restrictions imposed have undoubtedly led to impairment of the psychological well-being of both teachers and students, and of the way they experience interpersonal relationships. As reported previously in the literature, adverse effects such as loneliness, anxiety, and stress have resulted in a decrease in the cognitive performance of school and higher education students. Therefore, the objective of this work is to present a general overview of the reported adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which may potentially influence the learning performance of students. Some neuroscientific findings related to memory and cognition, such as neuroplasticity and long-term potentiation, are also shown. We also discuss the positive effects of the practice of mindfulness, as well as other simple recommendations based on neuroscientific findings such as restful sleep, physical activity, and nutrition, which can act on memory and cognition. Finally, we propose some practical recommendations on how to achieve more effective student learning in the context of the pandemic. The aim of this review is to provide some assistance in this changing and uncertain situation in which we all find ourselves, and we hope that some of the information could serve as a starting point for hypotheses to be tested in educational research and their association with neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo R. Tortella
- Center of Excellence (CIBAMA-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
- PhD Program in Natural Resource Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Amedea B. Seabra
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences (CCNH), Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Av. dos Estados, 5001-Bangú, Santo André 09210-580, SP, Brazil;
| | - Jorge Padrão
- Centre for Textile Science and Technology (2C2T), University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
| | - Rodrigo Díaz-San Juan
- Educational Neurosciences and Psychology Department, Centenario School, Temuco 4810936, Chile;
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21
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Sorrentino P, Rucco R, Baselice F, De Micco R, Tessitore A, Hillebrand A, Mandolesi L, Breakspear M, Gollo LL, Sorrentino G. Flexible brain dynamics underpins complex behaviours as observed in Parkinson's disease. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4051. [PMID: 33602980 PMCID: PMC7892831 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83425-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid reconfigurations of brain activity support efficient neuronal communication and flexible behaviour. Suboptimal brain dynamics is associated to impaired adaptability, possibly leading to functional deficiencies. We hypothesize that impaired flexibility in brain activity can lead to motor and cognitive symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). To test this hypothesis, we studied the ‘functional repertoire’—the number of distinct configurations of neural activity—using source-reconstructed magnetoencephalography in PD patients and controls. We found stereotyped brain dynamics and reduced flexibility in PD. The intensity of this reduction was proportional to symptoms severity, which can be explained by beta-band hyper-synchronization. Moreover, the basal ganglia were prominently involved in the abnormal patterns of brain activity. Our findings support the hypotheses that: symptoms in PD relate to impaired brain flexibility, this impairment preferentially involves the basal ganglia, and beta-band hypersynchronization is associated with reduced brain flexibility. These findings highlight the importance of extensive functional repertoires for correct behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Department of Engineering, University of Naples Parthenope, Centro Direzionale, Isola C4, 80143, Naples, Italy. .,QIMR Berghofer, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia. .,Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples Parthenope, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, 38, 80133, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Baselice
- Department of Engineering, University of Naples Parthenope, Centro Direzionale, Isola C4, 80143, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa De Micco
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Luciano Armanni 5, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tessitore
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Luciano Armanni 5, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Arjan Hillebrand
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and MEG Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, The Netherlands, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Mandolesi
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, via Porta di Massa 1, 80133, Naples, Italy
| | - Michael Breakspear
- Priority Research Centre for Brain and Mind, The University of Newcastle, Medical Sciences, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Leonardo L Gollo
- QIMR Berghofer, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.,The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Institute for Applied Science and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples Parthenope, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, 38, 80133, Naples, Italy.,Hermitage-Capodimonte Hospital, via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples, Italy
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22
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Rucco R, Bernardo P, Lardone A, Baselice F, Pesoli M, Polverino A, Bravaccio C, Granata C, Mandolesi L, Sorrentino G, Sorrentino P. Neuronal Avalanches to Study the Coordination of Large-Scale Brain Activity: Application to Rett Syndrome. Front Psychol 2020; 11:550749. [PMID: 33192799 PMCID: PMC7656905 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.550749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many complex systems, such as the brain, display large-scale coordinated interactions that create ordered patterns. Classically, such patterns have been studied using the framework of criticality, i.e., at a transition point between two qualitatively distinct patterns. This kind of system is generally characterized by a scale-invariant organization, in space and time, optimally described by a power-law distribution whose slope is quantified by an exponent α. The dynamics of these systems is characterized by alternating periods of activations, called avalanches, with quiescent periods. To maximize its efficiency, the system must find a trade-off between its stability and ease of propagation of activation, which is achieved by a branching process. It is quantified by a branching parameter σ defined as the average ratio between the number of activations in consecutive time bins. The brain is itself a complex system and its activity can be described as a series of neuronal avalanches. It is known that critical aspects of brain dynamics are modeled with a branching parameter σ = , and the neuronal avalanches distribution fits well with a power law distribution exponent α = -3/2. The aim of our work was to study a self-organized criticality system in which there was a change in neuronal circuits due to genetic causes. To this end, we have compared the characteristics of neuronal avalanches in a group of 10 patients affected by Rett syndrome, during an open-eye resting-state condition estimated using magnetoencephalography, with respect to 10 healthy subjects. The analysis was performed both in broadband and in the five canonical frequency bands. We found, for both groups, a branching parameter close to 1. In this critical condition, Rett patients show a lower distribution parameter α in the delta and broadband. These results suggest that the large-scale coordination of activity occurs to a lesser extent in RTT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Rucco
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Pia Bernardo
- Department of Medical and Translational Science, Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Pediatric Psychiatry and Neurology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Lardone
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Baselice
- Department of Engineering, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Pesoli
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Carmela Bravaccio
- Department of Medical and Translational Science, Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Granata
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Laura Mandolesi
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Hermitage Capodimonte Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Engineering, University of Naples "Parthenope," Naples, Italy.,Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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23
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Polverino A, Rucco R, Stillitano I, Bonavita S, Grimaldi M, Minino R, Pesoli M, Trojsi F, D'Ursi AM, Sorrentino G, Sorrentino P. In Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Blood Cytokines Are Altered, but Do Not Correlate with Changes in Brain Topology. Brain Connect 2020; 10:411-421. [PMID: 32731760 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2020.0741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The present study aims at investigating the possible correlation between peripheral markers of inflammation and brain networks. Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease dominated by progressive motor impairment. Among the complex mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease, neuroinflammation, which is associated with altered circulating cytokine levels, is suggested to play a prominent role. Methods: Based on magnetoencephalography data, we estimated topological properties of the brain networks in ALS patients and healthy controls. Subsequently, the blood levels of a subset of cytokines were assayed. Finally, we modeled the brain topological features in the function of the cytokine levels. Results: Significant differences were found in the levels of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-1β, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) between patients and controls. In particular, IL-4 and IL-1β levels increased in ALS patients, while the IFN-γ level was higher in healthy controls. We also detected modifications in brain global topological parameters in terms of hyperconnectedness. Despite both blood cytokines and brain topology being altered in ALS patients, such changes do not appear to be in a direct relationship. Conclusion: Our results would be in line with the idea that topological changes relate to neurodegenerative processes. However, the absence of correlation between blood cytokines and topological parameters of brain networks does not preclude that inflammatory processes contribute to the alterations of the brain networks. Impact statement The progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis entails both neurodegenerative and inflammatory processes. Furthermore, disease progression induces global modifications of the brain networks, with advanced stages showing a more compact, hyperconnected network topology. The pathophysiological processes underlying topological changes are unknown. In this article, we hypothesized that the global inflammatory profile would relate to the topological alterations. Our results showed that this is not the case, as modeling the topological properties as a function of the inflammatory state did not yield good predictions. Hence, our results suggest that topological changes might directly relate to neurodegenerative processes instead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Polverino
- Institute of Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Rucco
- Department of Motor and Wellness Sciences, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems of National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | | | - Simona Bonavita
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Minino
- Department of Motor and Wellness Sciences, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Pesoli
- Department of Motor and Wellness Sciences, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Trojsi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Institute of Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy.,Department of Motor and Wellness Sciences, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy.,Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems of National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Sorrentino
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems of National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Engineering, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
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24
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Routley B, Shaw A, Muthukumaraswamy SD, Singh KD, Hamandi K. Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy shows increased posterior theta, and reduced sensorimotor beta resting connectivity. Epilepsy Res 2020; 163:106324. [PMID: 32335503 PMCID: PMC7684644 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whole brain source space connectivity in JME using across standard MEG frequency bands. Connectivity was increased in posterior theta and alpha bands in JME, and decreased in sensorimotor beta band. Our findings highlight altered interactions between posterior networks of arousal and attention and the motor system in JME.
Background Widespread structural and functional brain network changes have been shown in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) despite normal clinical neuroimaging. We sought to better define these changes using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and source space connectivity analysis for optimal neurophysiological and anatomical localisation. Methods We consecutively recruited 26 patients with JME who underwent resting state MEG recording, along with 26 age-and-sex matched controls. Whole brain connectivity was determined through correlation of Automated Anatomical Labelling (AAL) atlas source space MEG timeseries in conventional frequency bands of interest delta (1−4 Hz), theta (4−8 Hz), alpha (8−13 Hz), beta (13−30 Hz) and gamma (40−60 Hz). We used a Linearly Constrained Minimum Variance (LCMV) beamformer to extract voxel wise time series of ‘virtual sensors’ for the desired frequency bands, followed by connectivity analysis using correlation between frequency- and node-specific power fluctuations, for the voxel maxima in each AAL atlas label, correcting for noise, potentially spurious connections and multiple comparisons. Results We found increased connectivity in the theta band in posterior brain regions, surviving statistical correction for multiple comparisons (corrected p < 0.05), and decreased connectivity in the beta band in sensorimotor cortex, between right pre- and post- central gyrus (p < 0.05) in JME compared to controls. Conclusions Altered resting-state MEG connectivity in JME comprised increased connectivity in posterior theta – the frequency band associated with long range connections affecting attention and arousal - and decreased beta-band sensorimotor connectivity. These findings likely relate to altered regulation of the sensorimotor network and seizure prone states in JME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Routley
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Shaw
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
| | - Suresh D Muthukumaraswamy
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Krish D Singh
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
| | - Khalid Hamandi
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, United Kingdom; The Wales Epilepsy Unit, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
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25
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Fam J, Sun Y, Qi P, Lau RC, Feng L, Kua EH, Mahendran R. Mindfulness practice alters brain connectivity in community-living elders with mild cognitive impairment. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 74:257-262. [PMID: 31876024 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM There is increasing evidence that mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is associated with widespread brain dysconnectivity. Mindfulness practice, which involves focused attention to experience the present moment in a purposeful way, has been shown to confer positive psychological and functional brain changes in healthy practitioners. It is unclear whether mindfulness practice could improve functional brain connectivity in older adults with cognitive impairment. METHODS Forty-seven participants with MCI were randomized into two groups: a mindfulness practice group and a control group. Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and neurocognitive tests were performed before and after the 3-month intervention. A temporal efficiency analysis approach was used to examine the spatiotemporal networks of the brain. RESULTS Participants in the mindfulness group had significantly better temporal global efficiency than controls after 3-months of intervention. Localized changes of temporal nodal properties were present in the right cingulate gyrus, insula, and left superior temporal gyrus. Together, these results suggest greater information transmission efficiency at both the global and local spatiotemporal level. In terms of cognitive function, verbal recognition memory improved in the mindfulness group compared to the controls. CONCLUSION Elders who practiced mindfulness had better brain network efficiency and neurocognitive function relative to controls in this study, suggesting that mindfulness may be of benefit to aging adults with early cognitive degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnson Fam
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peng Qi
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Regine Cassandra Lau
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lei Feng
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ee Heok Kua
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rathi Mahendran
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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26
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Millon EM, Shors TJ. Taking neurogenesis out of the lab and into the world with MAP Train My Brain™. Behav Brain Res 2019; 376:112154. [PMID: 31421141 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus was rediscovered in the 1990's after being reported in the 1960's. Since then, thousands upon thousands of laboratories have reported on the characteristics and presumed functional significance of new neurons in the adult brain. In 1999, we reported that mental training with effortful learning could extend the survival of these new cells and in the same year, others reported that physical training with exercise could increase their proliferation. Based on these studies and others, we developed MAP Train My Brain™, which is a brain fitness program for humans. The program combines mental and physical (MAP) training through 30-min of effortful meditation followed by 30-min of aerobic exercise. This program, when practiced twice a week for eight weeks reduced depressive symptoms and ruminative thoughts in men and women with major depressive disorder (MDD) while increasing synchronized brain activity during cognitive control. It also reduced anxiety and depression and increased oxygen consumption in young mothers who had been homeless. Moreover, engaging in the program reduced trauma-related cognitions and ruminative thoughts while increasing self-worth in adult women with a history of sexual trauma. And finally, the combination of mental and physical training together was more effective than either activity alone. Albeit effortful, this program does not require inordinate amounts of time or money to practice and can be easily adopted into everyday life. MAP Training exemplifies how we as neuroscientists can take discoveries made in the laboratory out into the world for the benefit of others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Millon
- Department of Psychology and Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Tracey J Shors
- Department of Psychology and Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA.
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27
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Sherzai D, Sherzai A. Preventing Alzheimer's: Our Most Urgent Health Care Priority. Am J Lifestyle Med 2019; 13:451-461. [PMID: 31523210 DOI: 10.1177/1559827619843465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia is the fastest growing epidemic in the developed nations, and if not curtailed, it will single handedly collapse our health care system. The prevalence of dementia is 1 in 10 individuals older than 65 years and increases to 50% of all individuals older than 85 years. The prevalence of Alzheimer's dementia (AD), the most common form of dementia, has been increasing rapidly and is projected to reach 16 million individuals by the year 2050. Several prevailing myths about the science of dementia are discussed, such as that AD is inevitable and that it is exclusively a genetic disease. The fact is that AD is dependent on a multitude of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors that interact with one another. In fact, 4 core drivers represent 90% of what determines disease progression in AD. These are (1) glucose or energy dysregulation, (2) lipid dysregulation, (3) inflammation, and (4) oxidation. Lifestyle change can significantly alter the course of AD. The authors have created an acronym-NEURO-to help lifestyle practitioners and the public remember the most important lifestyle elements in the treatment and prevention of AD based on the evidence. "N" is for Nutrition, "E" for Exercise, "U" for Unwind (stress management), "R" for Restorative Sleep, and "O" for Optimizing mental and social activity. The evidence base for each of the components is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean Sherzai
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Prevention Program, Loma Linda University Health, California
| | - Ayesha Sherzai
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Prevention Program, Loma Linda University Health, California
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