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Oldrati V, Gasparroni V, Michelutti A, Ciricugno A, Borgatti R, Orcesi S, Fazzi E, Morandi A, Galli J, Piccinini L, Maghini C, Arioli M, Cattaneo Z, Urgesi C, Finisguerra A. Pairing transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation with an intensive bimanual training in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: study protocol of a randomized sham-controlled trial. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1441128. [PMID: 39220734 PMCID: PMC11361968 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1441128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gross motor function impairments and manual dexterity deficits are frequently observed in children and adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP), having a major impact on their activity level and autonomy. Improving manual dexterity and activity level of patients with CP is often the focus of rehabilitation. Novel and adjuvant treatment methods that could support the standard training also in chronic conditions are a research priority. The transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, which provides a bottom-up stimulation of subcortical and cortical brain structures, enhancing brain GABA and Noradrenaline levels. This technique may play a pivotal role in brain plasticity, which has not been tested in CP patients before. Methods 44 children and adolescents with CP will be involved, treated in pairs in a randomized, double-blind, pre-post test study. The two groups will undergo the Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy Including Lower Extremities (HABIT-ILE) for 2 consecutive weeks, with 3 h daily sessions for 5 days per week, for an overall time interval of 30 h; the training will be combined with the application for 75 min/day of active or sham tVNS, in separate, randomly allocated groups. The primary outcome measure will include the scores at the Assisting Hand Assessment and Box and Block Test, and at an ad-hoc visuomotor task evaluating manual visuomotor control. Secondary outcomes will include the scores at the Children's Hand Experience Questionnaire, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function, Gross Motor Function Measure, Vineland, Pediatric quality of life inventory. The evaluation points will include pre (T0), post (T1) and 3-month follow up (T2) assessments. Safety and tolerability will also be assessed. Results The results of this trial will assess whether tVNS can effectively boost the effects of an intensive two-week bimanual training, in improving manual dexterity in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, ensuring safety and tolerability throughout the intervention period.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06372028.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Oldrati
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Ciricugno
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Renato Borgatti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Orcesi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Fazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Morandi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jessica Galli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luigi Piccinini
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Cristina Maghini
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Maria Arioli
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Zaira Cattaneo
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Cosimo Urgesi
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Cibulcova V, Koenig J, Jackowska M, Jandackova VK. Influence of a 2-week transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on memory: findings from a randomized placebo controlled trial in non-clinical adults. Clin Auton Res 2024; 34:447-462. [PMID: 39039354 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-024-01053-0] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Memory plays an essential role in daily life and is one of the first functions to deteriorate in cognitive impairment and dementia. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a promising therapeutic method; however, its ability to enhance memory is underexplored, especially considering long-term stimulation. We aimed to investigate the effect of a 2-week course of auricular tVNS (taVNS) on memory in a non-clinical population. METHODS This single-blind randomized placebo-wait-list controlled trial recruited 76 participants (30 men; mean age 48.32 years) and randomized them into four groups: early active/sham taVNS and late active/sham taVNS. Participation in the study lasted 4 weeks; early groups underwent 2 weeks intervention immediately following the first study site visit (days 0-13) and late groups 2 weeks after the first study site visit (days 14-27). Active and sham taVNS included 2 weeks of daily 4-h neurostimulation at the tragus or earlobe, respectively. To assess memory, we used the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. RESULTS Two weeks of active taVNS, but not sham taVNS, improved immediate recall and short-term memory score both in early and late groups. Furthermore, the improvements persisted over subsequent follow-up in early active taVNS. Importantly, the effect of active taVNS was superior to sham for immediate recall in both early and late groups. There were no statistical differences in delayed recall. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that taVNS has potential to improve memory, particularly immediate recall, and may be an effective method in preventing memory loss and mitigating cognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Cibulcova
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, Ostrava, 703 00, Czech Republic.
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Julian Koenig
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Vera Kr Jandackova
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, Ostrava, 703 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
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Miyatsu T, Oviedo V, Reynaga J, Karuzis VP, Martinez D, O'Rourke P, Key M, McIntire L, Aue W, McKinley R, Pirolli P, Broderick T. Transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation enhances second-language vocabulary acquisition while simultaneously mitigating fatigue and promoting focus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17177. [PMID: 39060415 PMCID: PMC11282064 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68015-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a promising technique for enhancing cognitive performance and skill acquisition. Yet, its efficacy for enhancing learning rate and long-term retention in an ecologically valid learning environment has not been demonstrated. We conducted two double-blind sham-controlled experiments examining the efficacy of auricular tVNS (taVNS: Experiment (1) and cervical tVNS (tcVNS: Experiment (2), on a 5 day second-language vocabulary acquisition protocol among highly selected career linguists at the US Department of Defense's premier language school. tcVNS produced accelerated recall performance during training (Day 2-4), benefits of which were maintained across a 24 h retention interval with no stimulation at the final test. Consistent with prior work, tcVNS also produced fatigue-mitigating and focus-promoting effects as measured by the Air Force Research Laboratory Mood Questionnaire. Based on the current and the previous findings supporting tVNS' efficacy on performance, training enhancement, and fatigue mitigation, we believe tcVNS to be an effective learning acceleration tool that can be utilized at language-teaching and other institutions focused on intensive training of cognitive skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiya Miyatsu
- Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, USA.
| | - Vanessa Oviedo
- Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, USA
- University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Jajaira Reynaga
- Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, USA
- University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Valerie P Karuzis
- University of Maryland Applied Research Lab for Intelligence & Security, College Park, USA
| | - David Martinez
- University of Maryland Applied Research Lab for Intelligence & Security, College Park, USA
| | - Polly O'Rourke
- University of Maryland Applied Research Lab for Intelligence & Security, College Park, USA
| | - Melissa Key
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, USA
- DCS Corp., Alexandria, USA
| | - Lindsey McIntire
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, USA
- DCS Corp., Alexandria, USA
| | - William Aue
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, USA
| | | | - Peter Pirolli
- Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, USA
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Giraudier M, Ventura-Bort C, Weymar M. Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on the P300: Do Stimulation Duration and Stimulation Type Matter? Brain Sci 2024; 14:690. [PMID: 39061430 PMCID: PMC11274684 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070690] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has attracted increasing interest as a neurostimulation tool with potential applications in modulating cognitive processes such as attention and memory, possibly through the modulation of the locus-coeruleus noradrenaline system. Studies examining the P300 brain-related component as a correlate of noradrenergic activity, however, have yielded inconsistent findings, possibly due to differences in stimulation parameters, thus necessitating further investigation. In this event-related potential study involving 61 participants, therefore, we examined how changes in taVNS parameters, specifically stimulation type (interval vs. continuous stimulation) and duration, influence P300 amplitudes during a visual novelty oddball task. Although no effects of stimulation were found over the whole cluster and time window of the P300, cluster-based permutation tests revealed a distinct impact of taVNS on the P300 response for a small electrode cluster, characterized by larger amplitudes observed for easy targets (i.e., stimuli that are easily discernible from standards) following taVNS compared to sham stimulation. Notably, our findings suggested that the type of stimulation significantly modulated taVNS effects on the P300, with continuous stimulation showing larger P300 differences (taVNS vs. sham) for hard targets and standards compared to interval stimulation. We observed no interaction effects of stimulation duration on the target-related P300. While our findings align with previous research, further investigation is warranted to fully elucidate the influence of taVNS on the P300 component and its potential utility as a reliable marker for neuromodulation in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Giraudier
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Campus Golm, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24/25, 14476 Potsdam, Germany; (C.V.-B.); (M.W.)
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Zheng ZS, Simonian N, Wang J, Rosario ER. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation improves Long COVID symptoms in a female cohort: a pilot study. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1393371. [PMID: 38756213 PMCID: PMC11097097 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1393371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Long COVID, also known as Post-COVID-19 syndrome, is characterized by multisystemic symptoms that persists for weeks to years beyond acute infection. It disproportionately affects women and those with pre-existing anxiety/depression, conditions more prevalent in females. The vagus nerve, with its extensive innervation and regulation of critical bodily functions, has become a focal point for therapeutic interventions. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (t-VNS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment for COVID-19 conditions. Methods This pilot study assessed the efficacy of t-VNS in 24 female Long COVID patients (45.8 ± 11.7 years old; 20.2 ± 7.1 months since infection), who underwent a 10-day t-VNS intervention at home (30 min/session, twice a day). Cognition was considered the primary outcome, with anxiety, depression, sleep, fatigue, and smell as secondary outcomes. Outcomes were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Results Significant improvements were observed in various cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, and sleep at post-intervention, with benefits remaining or progressing at 1-month follow-up. Improvements in fatigue were delayed, reaching statistical significance at 1-month follow-up compared to baseline. No significant changes were noted in olfactory performance. Conclusion This pilot study provides preliminary evidence supporting the potential of t-VNS as a therapeutic intervention for female Long COVID patients. The encouraging results justify further rigorous investigation through larger, randomized controlled trials to confirm the efficacy of t-VNS, assess its generalizability to male cohorts, and explore biological markers to inform personalized treatment approaches. Our findings support the allocation of resources to conduct such trials and advance the understanding of t-VNS as a potential treatment for Long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Sheng Zheng
- Research Institute, Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Ninette Simonian
- Institute of Advanced Consciousness Studies, Santa Monica, CA, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- Research Institute, Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Emily R. Rosario
- Research Institute, Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare, Pomona, CA, United States
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Sommer A, Fischer R, Borges U, Laborde S, Achtzehn S, Liepelt R. The effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on cognitive control in multitasking. Neuropsychologia 2023; 187:108614. [PMID: 37295553 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2023.108614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Current research in brain stimulation suggests transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) as a promising tool to modulate cognitive functions in healthy populations, such as attention, memory, and executive functions. Empirical evidence in single-task contexts, suggests that taVNS promotes holistic task processing, which strengthens the integration of multiple stimulus features in task processing. However, it is unclear how taVNS might affect performance in multitasking, where the integration of multiple stimuli leads to an overlap in stimulus response translation processes, increasing the risk of between-task interference (crosstalk). In a single-blinded, sham-controlled, within-subject design, participants underwent taVNS while performing a dual task. To assess the effects of taVNS, behavioral (reaction times), physiological (heart rate variability, salivary alpha-amylase), and subjective psychological variables (e.g., arousal) were recorded over three cognitive test blocks. Our results revealed no overall significant effect of taVNS on physiological and subjective psychological variables. However, the results showed a significant increase in between-task interference under taVNS in the first test block, but not in the subsequent test blocks. Our findings therefore suggest that taVNS increased integrative processing of both tasks early during active stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Sommer
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany; Department of Exercise Physiology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Rico Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uirassu Borges
- Department of Health and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sylvain Laborde
- Department of Performance Psychology, Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Normandie Université, UFR STAPS, EA 4260 CESAMS, Caen, France
| | - Silvia Achtzehn
- Department of Exercise Physiology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roman Liepelt
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany
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Dolphin H, Dyer AH, Dukelow T, Finucane C, Commins S, Kennelly SP. Safety and feasibility of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in mild cognitive impairment: VINCI-AD study protocol. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:289. [PMID: 37532979 PMCID: PMC10394887 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03320-5] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 55 million adults are living with dementia globally, which is projected to reach 157 million by 2050. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a syndrome of memory impairment with intact activities of daily living, may precede dementia by several years. Around 5-15% of individuals with MCI convert to dementia annually. Novel treatments which delay progression of MCI to dementia are urgently needed. Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that targets the vagus nerve. Importantly, tVNS has been shown to improve cognition in healthy volunteers, but has not been extensively examined as a potential therapeutic approach in MCI. VINCI-AD will examine the safety and feasibility of tVNS in older adults with MCI. DESIGN VINCI-AD is an investigator-led, single-site, single-blind, sham-controlled crossover pilot study which aims to assess the safety and feasibility of tVNS in 40 participants with amnestic MCI. All participants will attend for three consecutive study visits during which they will be randomised to receive no stimulation (baseline), active tVNS stimulation (stimulation at cymba conchae of left ear) or sham tVNS stimulation (at earlobe). Safety will be primarily assessed by ascertainment of adverse events. Further safety assessment will examine the impact of acute tVNS on subjective (orthostatic symptoms), peripheral (finometry-based blood pressure) and central (assessed via Near Infrared Spectroscopy [NIRS]) haemodynamic responses to active stand. Feasibility will be determined using a custom-designed occupational assessment of device usability. Exploratory secondary analysis in VINCI-AD will examine the potential impact of acute tVNS on associative memory, spatial memory and inhibitory control to inform sample size estimates for future trials of tVNS in older adults with MCI. DISCUSSION VINCI-AD will report on the safety (adverse events/haemodynamic responses to active stand) and feasibility of tVNS as a potential therapeutic option in MCI. Detailed reporting of study eligibility and completion rates will be reported. Exploratory analysis will examine the potential cognitive benefits of acute tVNS on cognitive function in MCI to report potential effect sizes that may inform future clinical trials in this cohort. TRIAL REGISTRATION https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05514756 . Trial Registration Number NCT05514756 (24th August 2022 for this protocol, version 1.0.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Dolphin
- Department of Medical Gerontology, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland.
- Institute of Memory and Cognition, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin 24, Tallaght, Ireland.
- Age-Related Healthcare Department, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Ireland.
| | - Adam H Dyer
- Department of Medical Gerontology, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Memory and Cognition, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin 24, Tallaght, Ireland
| | - Tim Dukelow
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Finucane
- Department of Medical Gerontology, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Physics, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Commins
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Sean P Kennelly
- Department of Medical Gerontology, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Memory and Cognition, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin 24, Tallaght, Ireland
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Warren CV, Kroll CF, Kopp B. Dopaminergic and norepinephrinergic modulation of endogenous event-related potentials: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 151:105221. [PMID: 37150485 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105221] [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: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Event-related potentials (ERPs) represent the cortical processing of sensory, motor or cognitive functions invoked by particular events or stimuli. A current theory posits that the catecholaminergic neurotransmitters dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) modulate a number of endogenous ERPs during various cognitive processes. This manuscript aims to evaluate a leading neurotransmitter hypothesis with a systematic overview and meta-analysis of pharmacologic DA and NE manipulation of specific ERPs in healthy subjects during executive function. Specifically, the frontally-distributed P3a, N2, and Ne/ERN (or error-related negativity) are supposedly modulated primarily by DA, whereas the parietally-distributed P3b is thought to be modulated by NE. Based on preceding research, we refer to this distinction between frontally-distributed DA-sensitive and parietally-distributed NE-sensitive ERP components as the Extended Neurobiological Polich (ENP) hypothesis. Our systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that this distinction is too simplistic and many factors interact with DA and NE to influence these specific ERPs. These may include genetic factors, the specific cognitive processes engaged, or elements of study design, i.e. session or sequence effects or data-analysis strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire V Warren
- Charlotte Fresenius Hochschule, Alte Rabenstraße 32, 20148 Hamburg, Germany; Professorship for Clinical Psychology, Helmut-Schmidt University/ Bundeswehr University Hamburg, Holstenhofweg 85, 22043 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Charlotte F Kroll
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6. P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, MD, 6200, The Netherlands
| | - Bruno Kopp
- Clinic für Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
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Naparstek S, Yeh AK, Mills-Finnerty C. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) applications in cognitive aging: a review and commentary. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1145207. [PMID: 37496757 PMCID: PMC10366452 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1145207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiating healthy from pathological aging trajectories is extremely timely, as the global population faces an inversion where older adults will soon outnumber younger 5:1. Many cognitive functions (e.g., memory, executive functions, and processing speed) decline with age, a process that can begin as early as midlife, and which predicts subsequent diagnosis with dementia. Although dementia is a devastating and costly diagnosis, there remains limited evidence for medications, therapies, and devices that improve cognition or attenuate the transition into dementia. There is an urgent need to intervene early in neurodegenerative processes leading to dementia (e.g., depression and mild cognitive impairment). In this targeted review and commentary, we highlight transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) as a neurostimulation method with unique opportunities for applications in diseases of aging, reviewing recent literature, feasibility of use with remote data collection methods/telehealth, as well as limitations and conflicts in the literature. In particular, small sample sizes, uneven age distributions of participants, lack of standardized protocols, and oversampling of non-representative groups (e.g., older adults with no comorbid diagnoses) limit our understanding of the potential of this method. We offer recommendations for how to improve representativeness, statistical power, and generalizability of tVNS research by integrating remote data collection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Naparstek
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ashley K. Yeh
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Colleen Mills-Finnerty
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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Zhang H, Guo Z, Qu Y, Zhao Y, Yang Y, Du J, Yang C. Cognitive function and brain activation before and after transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation in healthy adults: A concurrent tcVNS-fMRI study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1003411. [PMID: 36438376 PMCID: PMC9691850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1003411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, which involves the application of electrical currents to the cervical (tcVNS) or auricular (taVNS) branches of the vagus nerve, may be a potential treatment for improving cognitive dysfunction. taVNS may improve cognitive performance in healthy adults, and fewer studies have been performed on the effects of tcVNS on cognition in healthy subjects. We conducted a randomized, single-blind, crossover-controlled trial to investigate the effects of tcVNS stimulation on cognitive function and neural activity in the brains of healthy adults. This study provides support for further tcVNS studies for the treatment of cognitive impairment. Twenty-one participants were randomly divided into two groups, A and B. Group A received tcVNS first and then sham-tcVNS, while group B received the intervention in the reverse order, receiving sham stimulation first and then true stimulation. All subjects were required to perform cognitive function tests before and after receiving intervention, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed concurrently during the intervention. We hypothesized that tcVNS would have an effect on the cognitive performance of the subjects and alter the neural activity of the brain. The present study showed that tcVNS had beneficial effects on cognitive performance, mainly improving memory and language skills and attention. tcVNS intervention produced significant spontaneous neural activity in the calcarine gyrus, fusiform gyrus, lingual gyrus, and parahippocampal gyrus of the brain. Future tcVNS/fMRI trials will need to explore the effects of changes in stimulus parameters on the neural activity response of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- School of Rehabilitation, West China Medical College, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiwei Guo
- Brain Function Rehabilitation and Development Institute, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yun Qu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- School of Rehabilitation, West China Medical College, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yuxuan Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Chunlan Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- School of Rehabilitation, West China Medical College, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Giraudier M, Ventura-Bort C, Burger AM, Claes N, D'Agostini M, Fischer R, Franssen M, Kaess M, Koenig J, Liepelt R, Nieuwenhuis S, Sommer A, Usichenko T, Van Diest I, von Leupoldt A, Warren CM, Weymar M. Evidence for a modulating effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on salivary alpha-amylase as indirect noradrenergic marker: A pooled mega-analysis. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:1378-1388. [PMID: 36183953 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has received tremendous attention as a potential neuromodulator of cognitive and affective functions, which likely exerts its effects via activation of the locus coeruleus-noradrenaline (LC-NA) system. Reliable effects of taVNS on markers of LC-NA system activity, however, have not been demonstrated yet. METHODS The aim of the present study was to overcome previous limitations by pooling raw data from a large sample of ten taVNS studies (371 healthy participants) that collected salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) as a potential marker of central NA release. RESULTS While a meta-analytic approach using summary statistics did not yield any significant effects, linear mixed model analyses showed that afferent stimulation of the vagus nerve via taVNS increased sAA levels compared to sham stimulation (b = 0.16, SE = 0.05, p = 0.001). When considering potential confounders of sAA, we further replicated previous findings on the diurnal trajectory of sAA activity. CONCLUSION(S) Vagal activation via taVNS increases sAA release compared to sham stimulation, which likely substantiates the assumption that taVNS triggers NA release. Moreover, our results highlight the benefits of data pooling and data sharing in order to allow stronger conclusions in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Giraudier
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Carlos Ventura-Bort
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | | | - Nathalie Claes
- Research Group Health Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Rico Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Michael Kaess
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julian Koenig
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roman Liepelt
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany
| | - Sander Nieuwenhuis
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Netherlands
| | - Aldo Sommer
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany; Department of Exercise Physiology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Taras Usichenko
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medicine of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Ilse Van Diest
- Research Group Health Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Christopher M Warren
- Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, Utah State University, United States
| | - Mathias Weymar
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
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12
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Wang L, Zhang J, Guo C, He J, Zhang S, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Li L, Wang J, Hou L, Li S, Wang Y, Hao L, Zhao Y, Wu M, Fang J, Rong P. The efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in patients with mild cognitive impairment: A double blinded randomized clinical trial. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:1405-1414. [PMID: 36150665 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are 9.9 million new cases of dementia in the world every year. Short-term conversion rate from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia is between 20% and 40%, but long-term in 5-10 years ranges from 60% to 100%. It is particularly important to prevent or prolong the development of MCI into dementia. Both auriculotherapy and vagus nerve stimulation are effective on improving cognitive functions. However, there is no double blinded randomized clinical trial to support the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical stimulation of auricular acupoints in patients with MCI. METHODS This randomized controlled trial involved patients with MCI, aged from 55 to 75 years old. Patients were randomly allocated to transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) group or sham taVNS group. In the taVNS group, two auricular acupoints were stimulated, including heart (concha, CO15) and kidney (CO10), which are in the distribution of vagus nerve. While in the sham taVNS group, two other auricular acupoints were stimulated, including elbow (scaphoid fossa, SF3) and shoulder (SF4,5), which are out of the distribution of vagus nerve. The primary outcome was the Montreal cognitive assessment-basic, MOCA-B. The secondary outcomes included auditory verbal learning test-HuaShan version (AVLT-H), shape trails test A&B (STT-A&B), animal fluence test (AFT), Boston naming test (BNT), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder screening questionnaire (RBDSQ), Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and functional activities questionnaire (FAQ). These outcome measures were taken at baseline, 24 weeks later. RESULTS After 24 weeks of intervention, the data of 52 patients were intended for analysis. After intervention, there was significant difference in the overall scores of MoCA-B between taVNS group and sham taVNS group (p = 0.033 < 0.05). In taVNS group, compared with before intervention, the overall scores of MOCA-B increased significantly after intervention (p < 0.001). As for N5 and N7, the two sub-indicators of AVLT-H, in taVNS group, compared with before intervention, both N5 and N7 increased significantly after intervention (both ps < 0.001). As for STTB, in taVNS group, compared with before intervention, STTB was significantly reduced after intervention (p = 0.016). For BNT, in taVNS group, compared with before intervention, BNT increased significantly after intervention (p < 0.001). In taVNS group, compared with before intervention, PSQI, RBDSQ, ESS and FAQ decreased significantly after intervention (p = 0.002, 0.025, <0.001, 0.006 respectively). 1 patient with a history of tympanic membrane perforation in taVNS group was reported with mild adverse reactions which disappeared a week after termination of taVNS. The intervention of taVNS is effective on increasing the overall scores of MoCA-B, N5 and N7. CONCLUSION The clinical trial demonstrated that taVNS can improve cognitive performance in patients with MCI. This inexpensive, effective and innovative method can be recommended as a therapy for more patients with MCI in the prevention or prolonging of its development into dementia, but it is still required to be further investigated. TRIAL REGISTRATION http://www.chictr.org.cn. (ID: ChiCTR2000038868).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Jinling Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Chunlei Guo
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Jiakai He
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Yanan Zhao
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Liang Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Junying Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Liwei Hou
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Shaoyuan Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Lixiao Hao
- Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Yufeng Zhao
- National Data Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Mozheng Wu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Jiliang Fang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Peijing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
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13
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Marano M, Anzini G, Musumeci G, Magliozzi A, Pozzilli V, Capone F, Di Lazzaro V. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Stimulation Improves Gait and Reaction Time in Parkinson's Disease. Mov Disord 2022; 37:2163-2164. [PMID: 35861362 PMCID: PMC9796229 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Marano
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Gaia Anzini
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Gabriella Musumeci
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Alessandro Magliozzi
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Valeria Pozzilli
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Fioravante Capone
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
| | - Vincenzo Di Lazzaro
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and NeurobiologyDepartment of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‐MedicoRomeItaly
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14
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Dolphin H, Dukelow T, Finucane C, Commins S, McElwaine P, Kennelly SP. “The Wandering Nerve Linking Heart and Mind” – The Complementary Role of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Modulating Neuro-Cardiovascular and Cognitive Performance. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:897303. [PMID: 35784842 PMCID: PMC9245542 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.897303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, providing afferent information about visceral sensation, integrity and somatic sensations to the CNS via brainstem nuclei to subcortical and cortical structures. Its efferent arm influences GI motility and secretion, cardiac ionotropy, chonotropy and heart rate variability, blood pressure responses, bronchoconstriction and modulates gag and cough responses via palatine and pharyngeal innervation. Vagus nerve stimulation has been utilized as a successful treatment for intractable epilepsy and treatment-resistant depression, and new non-invasive transcutaneous (t-VNS) devices offer equivalent therapeutic potential as invasive devices without the surgical risks. t-VNS offers exciting potential as a therapeutic intervention in cognitive decline and aging populations, classically affected by reduced cerebral perfusion by modulating both limbic and frontal cortical structures, regulating cerebral perfusion and improving parasympathetic modulation of the cardiovascular system. In this narrative review we summarize the research to date investigating the cognitive effects of VNS therapy, and its effects on neurocardiovascular stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Dolphin
- Department of Age-Related Healthcare, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Helena Dolphin,
| | - Tim Dukelow
- Department of Age-Related Healthcare, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Finucane
- Department of Medical Physics, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Commins
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Paul McElwaine
- Department of Age-Related Healthcare, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean P. Kennelly
- Department of Age-Related Healthcare, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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15
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Wang Y, Li L, Li S, Fang J, Zhang J, Wang J, Zhang Z, Wang Y, He J, Zhang Y, Rong P. Toward Diverse or Standardized: A Systematic Review Identifying Transcutaneous Stimulation of Auricular Branch of the Vagus Nerve in Nomenclature. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:366-379. [PMID: 35396069 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES After 20 years of development, there is confusion in the nomenclature of transcutaneous stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN). We performed a systematic review of transcutaneous stimulation of ABVN in nomenclature. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search of the literature was carried out, using the bibliographic search engine PubMed. The search covered articles published up until June 11, 2020. We recorded the full nomenclature and abbreviated nomenclature same or similar to transcutaneous stimulation of ABVN in the selected eligible studies, as well as the time and author information of this nomenclature. RESULTS From 261 studies, 67 full nomenclatures and 27 abbreviated nomenclatures were finally screened out, transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation and tVNS are the most common nomenclature, accounting for 38.38% and 42.06%, respectively. In a total of 97 combinations of full nomenclatures and abbreviations, the most commonly used nomenclature for the combination of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation and tVNS, accounting for 30.28%. Interestingly, the combination of full nomenclatures and abbreviations is not always a one-to-one relationship, there are ten abbreviated nomenclatures corresponding to transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, and five full nomenclatures corresponding to tVNS. In addition, based on the analysis of the usage habits of nomenclature in 21 teams, it is found that only three teams have fixed habits, while other different teams or the same team do not always use the same nomenclature in their paper. CONCLUSIONS The phenomenon of confusion in the nomenclature of transcutaneous stimulation of ABVN is obvious and shows a trend of diversity. The nomenclature of transcutaneous stimulation of ABVN needs to become more standardized in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoyuan Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiliang Fang
- Department of Radiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinling Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junying Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zixuan Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiakai He
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peijing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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16
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Klaming R, Simmons AN, Spadoni AD, Lerman I. Effects of Noninvasive Cervical Vagal Nerve Stimulation on Cognitive Performance But Not Brain Activation in Healthy Adults. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:424-432. [PMID: 35396072 PMCID: PMC8144242 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13313] [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: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES While preliminary evidence suggests that noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation (nVNS) may enhance cognition, to our knowledge, no study has directly assessed the effects of nVNS on brain function and cognitive performance in healthy individuals. The aim of this study was therefore to assess whether nVNS enhances complex visuospatial problem solving in a normative sample. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine underlying neural substrates. MATERIAL AND METHODS Participants received transcutaneous cervical nVNS (N = 15) or sham (N = 15) stimulation during a 3 T fMRI scan. Stimulation lasted for 2 min at 24 V for nVNS and at 4.5 V for sham. Subjects completed a matrix reasoning (MR) task in the scanner and a forced-choice recognition task outside the scanner. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess group differences in cognitive performance. And linear mixed effects (LMEs) regression analysis was used to assess main and interaction effects of experimental groups, level of MR task difficulty, and recall accuracy on changes in blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal. RESULTS Subjects who received nVNS showed higher accuracy for both easy (p = 0.017) and hard (p = 0.013) items of the MR task, slower reaction times for hard items (p = 0.014), and fewer false negative errors during the forced-choice recognition task (p = 0.047). MR task difficulty related to increased activation in frontoparietal regions (p < 0.001). No difference between nVNS and sham stimulation was found on BOLD response during performance of the MR task. CONCLUSIONS We hypothesize that nVNS increased attention compared to sham, and that this effect led to enhanced executive functions, and consequently to better performance on visuospatial reasoning and recognition tasks. Results provide initial support that nVNS may be a low-risk, low-cost treatment for cognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Klaming
- San Diego Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Alan N Simmons
- San Diego Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Andrea D Spadoni
- San Diego Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Imanuel Lerman
- San Diego Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
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17
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Mertens A, Gadeyne S, Lescrauwaet E, Carrette E, Meurs A, De Herdt V, Dewaele F, Raedt R, Miatton M, Boon P, Vonck K. The potential of invasive and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation to improve verbal memory performance in epilepsy patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1984. [PMID: 35132096 PMCID: PMC8821667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05842-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that acute vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) improves word recognition memory in epilepsy patients. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has gained interest as a non-invasive alternative to improve cognition. In this prospective randomized cross-over study, we investigated the effect of both invasive VNS and taVNS on verbal memory performance in 15 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. All patients conducted a word recognition memory paradigm in 3 conditions: VNS ON, VNS OFF and taVNS (3-period 3-treatment cross-over study design). For each condition, patients memorized 21 highlighted words from text paragraphs. Afterwards, the intervention was delivered for 30 s. Immediate recall and delayed recognition scores were obtained for each condition. This memory paradigm was repeated after 6 weeks of VNS therapy in 2 conditions: VNS ON and VNS OFF (2-period 2-treatment cross-over study design). Acute VNS and taVNS did not improve verbal memory performance. Immediate recall and delayed recognition scores were significantly improved after 6 weeks of VNS treatment irrespective of the acute intervention. We can conclude that the previously described positive effects of invasive VNS on verbal memory performance could not be replicated with invasive VNS and taVNS. An improved verbal memory performance was seen after 6 weeks of VNS treatment, suggesting that longer and more repetitive stimulation of the vagal pathway is required to modulate verbal memory performance.Clinical trial registration number: NCT05031208.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mertens
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefanie Gadeyne
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Emma Lescrauwaet
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Carrette
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alfred Meurs
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veerle De Herdt
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frank Dewaele
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke Miatton
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Boon
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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18
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Sun JB, Cheng C, Tian QQ, Yuan H, Yang XJ, Deng H, Guo XY, Cui YP, Zhang MK, Yin ZX, Wang C, Qin W. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Spatial Working Memory in Healthy Young Adults. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:790793. [PMID: 35002607 PMCID: PMC8733384 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.790793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Working memory (WM) is one of the core components of higher cognitive functions. There exists debate regarding the extent to which current techniques can enhance human WM capacity. Here, we examined the WM modulation effects of a previously less studied technique, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). In experiment 1, a within-subject study, we aimed to investigate whether and which stimulation protocols of taVNS can modulate spatial WM performance in healthy adults. Forty-eight participants performed baseline spatial n-back tasks (1, 3-back) and then received online taVNS, offline taVNS, or sham stimulation before or during (online group) the posttest of spatial n-back tasks in random order. Results showed that offline taVNS could significantly increase hits in spatial 3-back task, whereas no effect was found in online taVNS or sham group. No significant taVNS effects were found on correct rejections or reaction time of accurate trials (aRT) in both online and offline protocols. To replicate the results found in experiment 1 and further investigate the generalization effect of offline taVNS, we carried out experiment 2. Sixty participants were recruited and received offline taVNS or offline earlobe stimulation in random order between baseline and posttests of behavioral tests (spatial/digit 3-back tasks). Results replicated the findings; offline taVNS could improve hits but not correct rejections or aRT in spatial WM performance, which were found in experiment 1. However, there were no significant stimulation effects on digit 3-back task. Overall, the findings suggest that offline taVNS has potential on modulating WM performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Bo Sun
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China.,Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Cheng
- Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qian-Qian Tian
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hang Yuan
- Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xue-Juan Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China.,Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Deng
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China.,Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Guo
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ya-Peng Cui
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Meng-Kai Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zi-Xin Yin
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Qin
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China.,Intelligent Non-invasive Neuromodulation Technology and Transformation Joint Laboratory, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
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19
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Patel ABU, Weber V, Gourine AV, Ackland GL. The potential for autonomic neuromodulation to reduce perioperative complications and pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Anaesth 2022; 128:135-149. [PMID: 34801224 PMCID: PMC8787777 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2021.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autonomic dysfunction promotes organ injury after major surgery through numerous pathological mechanisms. Vagal withdrawal is a key feature of autonomic dysfunction, and it may increase the severity of pain. We systematically evaluated studies that examined whether vagal neuromodulation can reduce perioperative complications and pain. METHODS Two independent reviewers searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Clinical Trials for studies of vagal neuromodulation in humans. Risk of bias was assessed; I2 index quantified heterogeneity. Primary outcomes were organ dysfunction (assessed by measures of cognition, cardiovascular function, and inflammation) and pain. Secondary outcomes were autonomic measures. Standardised mean difference (SMD) using the inverse variance random-effects model with 95% confidence interval (CI) summarised effect sizes for continuous outcomes. RESULTS From 1258 records, 166 full-text articles were retrieved, of which 31 studies involving patients (n=721) or volunteers (n=679) met the inclusion criteria. Six studies involved interventional cardiology or surgical patients. Indirect stimulation modalities (auricular [n=23] or cervical transcutaneous [n=5]) were most common. Vagal neuromodulation reduced pain (n=10 studies; SMD=2.29 [95% CI, 1.08-3.50]; P=0.0002; I2=97%) and inflammation (n=6 studies; SMD=1.31 [0.45-2.18]; P=0.003; I2=91%), and improved cognition (n=11 studies; SMD=1.74 [0.96-2.52]; P<0.0001; I2=94%) and cardiovascular function (n=6 studies; SMD=3.28 [1.96-4.59]; P<0.00001; I2=96%). Five of six studies demonstrated autonomic changes after vagal neuromodulation by measuring heart rate variability, muscle sympathetic nerve activity, or both. CONCLUSIONS Indirect vagal neuromodulation improves physiological measures associated with limiting organ dysfunction, although studies are of low quality, are susceptible to bias and lack specific focus on perioperative patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amour B U Patel
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Valentin Weber
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Alexander V Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gareth L Ackland
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK.
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20
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Zhu S, Zhang X, Zhou M, Kendrick KM, Zhao W. Therapeutic applications of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation with potential for application in neurodevelopmental or other pediatric disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1000758. [PMID: 36313768 PMCID: PMC9596914 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1000758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) as a newly developed technique involves stimulating the cutaneous receptive field formed by the auricular branch of the vagus nerve in the outer ear, with resulting activation of vagal connections to central and peripheral nervous systems. Increasing evidence indicates that maladaptive neural plasticity may underlie the pathology of several pediatric neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, disruptive behavioral disorder and stress-related disorder. Vagal stimulation may therefore provide a useful intervention for treating maladaptive neural plasticity. In the current review we summarize the current literature primarily on therapeutic use in adults and discuss the prospects of applying taVNS as a therapeutic intervention in specific pediatric neurodevelopmental and other psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, we also briefly discuss factors that would help optimize taVNS protocols in future clinical applications. We conclude from these initial findings that taVNS may be a promising alternative treatment for pediatric disorders which do not respond to other interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Zhu
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, Key Laboratory for NeuroInformation of Ministry of Education, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, Key Laboratory for NeuroInformation of Ministry of Education, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Menghan Zhou
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, Key Laboratory for NeuroInformation of Ministry of Education, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Keith M. Kendrick
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, Key Laboratory for NeuroInformation of Ministry of Education, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Weihua Zhao
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, Key Laboratory for NeuroInformation of Ministry of Education, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Electronic and Information Engineering of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Guangdong, Dongguan, China
- *Correspondence: Weihua Zhao,
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21
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Wang L, Wang Y, Wang Y, Wang F, Zhang J, Li S, Wu M, Li L, Rong P. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulators: a review of past, present and future devices. Expert Rev Med Devices 2021; 19:43-61. [PMID: 34937487 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2022.2020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As an emerging neuromodulation therapy, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has been proven to be safe and effective for epilepsy, major depressive disorders, insomnia, glucose metabolic disorders, pain, stroke, post stroke rehabilitation, anxiety, fear, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disorders, tinnitus, Prader-Willi Syndrome and COVID-19. AREAS COVERED Although the history of taVNS is only two decades, the devices carrying taVNS technique have been constantly updated. Especially in recent years, the development of taVNS devices has presented a new trend. To conclude, the development of taVNS devices has entered a new era, thus the update speed and quality of taVNS devices will be considerably improved in the future. This article reviewed the history and classification of taVNS devices. EXPERT OPINION The correlation between the effectiveness and stimulation parameters from taVNS devices still remains unclear. There is a lack of standard or harmonization among different taVNS devices. Strategies, including further comparative research and establishment of standard, have been recommended in this article to promote the future development of taVNS devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jinling Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Shaoyuan Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Mozheng Wu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Liang Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Peijing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
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22
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Shen LL, Sun JB, Yang XJ, Deng H, Qin W, Du MY, Meng LX, Li N, Guo XY, Qiao WZ, Yang WQ, Liu P, Zeng X. Reassessment of the Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Using a Novel Burst Paradigm on Cardiac Autonomic Function in Healthy Young Adults. Neuromodulation 2021; 25:433-442. [PMID: 35396073 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) may modulate cardiac autonomic function. However, the response rate of the traditional tonic paradigm is low, and the results remain inconsistent. A recent pilot study presented a novel burst paradigm to activate the cardiac parasympathetic system, which might offer a new approach to treat cardiac autonomic function. The present study reassessed the effect of burst taVNS on modulating heart rate variability and explored the difference between burst and traditional tonic paradigms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-two young adults were recruited for this study. Each participant underwent three types of taVNS with sham (30 sec of stimulation), tonic (25 Hz, 500 μsec), and burst (five pulses at 500 Hz every 200 msec) paradigms, respectively, with simultaneous electrocardiogram recording. One-way analysis of variance, multivariate analysis of variance, and linear regression were used for analysis. Multiple testing was performed using Bonferroni correction. RESULTS Both burst and tonic paradigms induced a significant decrease in heart rate, which continued until poststimulation, and increased cardiac parasympathetic activity. Moreover, two parasympathetic system indicators showed significant increase only in burst taVNS. The response rates during burst (35.7%) and tonic (38.1%) stimulations were both higher than that during sham stimulation (11.9%). The response to taVNS showed parameter specificity with few nonresponders to the tonic paradigm responding to the burst paradigm. The overall response rate increased from 38.1% in tonic taVNS to 54.8% in taVNS using both burst and tonic paradigms. For both burst and tonic responders, baseline cardiac parasympathetic activity was found to be significantly negatively correlated with changes during stimulation. CONCLUSION The burst parameter could be used as an alternative strategy for regulating cardiac parasympathetic function by taVNS, which has the potential to be used as a complementary paradigm to traditional tonic taVNS for promoting clinical treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Lin Shen
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jin-Bo Sun
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xue-Juan Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Deng
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Qin
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Meng-Yu Du
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ling-Xia Meng
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nan Li
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Guo
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen-Zhou Qiao
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei-Qi Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao Zeng
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging of Ministry of Education, Intelligent Non-Invasive Neuromodulation and Transformation Joint Laboratory, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, China
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23
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Urbin MA, Lafe CW, Simpson TW, Wittenberg GF, Chandrasekaran B, Weber DJ. Electrical stimulation of the external ear acutely activates noradrenergic mechanisms in humans. Brain Stimul 2021; 14:990-1001. [PMID: 34154980 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous stimulation of the external ear is thought to recruit afferents of the auricular vagus nerve, providing a means to activate noradrenergic pathways in the central nervous system. Findings from human studies examining the effects of auricular stimulation on noradrenergic biomarkers have been mixed, possibly relating to the limited and variable parameter space explored to date. OBJECTIVE We tested the extent to which brief pulse trains applied to locations of auricular innervation (canal and concha) elicit acute pupillary responses (PRs) compared to a sham location (lobe). Pulse amplitude and frequency were varied systematically to examine effects on PR features. METHODS Participants (n = 19) underwent testing in three separate experiments, each with stimulation applied to a different external ear location. Perceptual threshold (PT) was measured at the beginning of each experiment. Pulse trains (∼600 ms) consisting of different amplitude (0.0xPT, 0.8xPT, 1.0xPT, 1.5xPT, 2.0xPT) and frequency (25 Hz, 300 Hz) combinations were administered during eye tracking procedures. RESULTS Stimulation to all locations elicited PRs which began approximately halfway through the pulse train and peaked shortly after the final pulse (≤1 s). PR size and incidence increased with pulse amplitude and tended to be greatest with canal stimulation. Higher pulse frequency shortened the latency of PR onset and peak dilation. Changes in pupil diameter elicited by pulse trains were weakly associated with baseline pupil diameter. CONCLUSION (s): Auricular stimulation elicits acute PRs, providing a basis to synchronize neuromodulator release with task-related neural spiking which preclinical studies show is a critical determinant of therapeutic effects. Further work is needed to dissociate contributions from vagal and non-vagal afferents mediating activation of the biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Urbin
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Charles W Lafe
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tyler W Simpson
- Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - George F Wittenberg
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bharath Chandrasekaran
- Department of Communication Science and Disorders, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Douglas J Weber
- Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Neuroscience Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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24
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Farmer AD, Strzelczyk A, Finisguerra A, Gourine AV, Gharabaghi A, Hasan A, Burger AM, Jaramillo AM, Mertens A, Majid A, Verkuil B, Badran BW, Ventura-Bort C, Gaul C, Beste C, Warren CM, Quintana DS, Hämmerer D, Freri E, Frangos E, Tobaldini E, Kaniusas E, Rosenow F, Capone F, Panetsos F, Ackland GL, Kaithwas G, O'Leary GH, Genheimer H, Jacobs HIL, Van Diest I, Schoenen J, Redgrave J, Fang J, Deuchars J, Széles JC, Thayer JF, More K, Vonck K, Steenbergen L, Vianna LC, McTeague LM, Ludwig M, Veldhuizen MG, De Couck M, Casazza M, Keute M, Bikson M, Andreatta M, D'Agostini M, Weymar M, Betts M, Prigge M, Kaess M, Roden M, Thai M, Schuster NM, Montano N, Hansen N, Kroemer NB, Rong P, Fischer R, Howland RH, Sclocco R, Sellaro R, Garcia RG, Bauer S, Gancheva S, Stavrakis S, Kampusch S, Deuchars SA, Wehner S, Laborde S, Usichenko T, Polak T, Zaehle T, Borges U, Teckentrup V, Jandackova VK, Napadow V, Koenig J. International Consensus Based Review and Recommendations for Minimum Reporting Standards in Research on Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (Version 2020). Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 14:568051. [PMID: 33854421 PMCID: PMC8040977 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.568051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Given its non-invasive nature, there is increasing interest in the use of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) across basic, translational and clinical research. Contemporaneously, tVNS can be achieved by stimulating either the auricular branch or the cervical bundle of the vagus nerve, referred to as transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation(VNS) and transcutaneous cervical VNS, respectively. In order to advance the field in a systematic manner, studies using these technologies need to adequately report sufficient methodological detail to enable comparison of results between studies, replication of studies, as well as enhancing study participant safety. We systematically reviewed the existing tVNS literature to evaluate current reporting practices. Based on this review, and consensus among participating authors, we propose a set of minimal reporting items to guide future tVNS studies. The suggested items address specific technical aspects of the device and stimulation parameters. We also cover general recommendations including inclusion and exclusion criteria for participants, outcome parameters and the detailed reporting of side effects. Furthermore, we review strategies used to identify the optimal stimulation parameters for a given research setting and summarize ongoing developments in animal research with potential implications for the application of tVNS in humans. Finally, we discuss the potential of tVNS in future research as well as the associated challenges across several disciplines in research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam D. Farmer
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, Stoke on Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | - Alexander V. Gourine
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alireza Gharabaghi
- Institute for Neuromodulation and Neurotechnology, University Hospital and University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Alkomiet Hasan
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas M. Burger
- Laboratory for Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Ann Mertens
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Arshad Majid
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Bart Verkuil
- Clinical Psychology and the Leiden Institute of Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Bashar W. Badran
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Carlos Ventura-Bort
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Charly Gaul
- Migraine and Headache Clinic Koenigstein, Königstein im Taunus, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Daniel S. Quintana
- NORMENT, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- KG Jebsen Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dorothea Hämmerer
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences Magdeburg (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Elena Freri
- Department of Pediatric Neuroscience, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleni Frangos
- Pain and Integrative Neuroscience Branch, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Eleonora Tobaldini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenijus Kaniusas
- Institute of Electrodynamics, Microwave and Circuit Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
- SzeleSTIM GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Fioravante Capone
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Faculty of Biology and Faculty of Optics, Complutense University of Madrid and Institute for Health Research, San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gareth L. Ackland
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gaurav Kaithwas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Lucknow, India
| | - Georgia H. O'Leary
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Hannah Genheimer
- Department of Biological Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Heidi I. L. Jacobs
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ilse Van Diest
- Research Group Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean Schoenen
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology-Citadelle Hospital, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jessica Redgrave
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Jiliang Fang
- Functional Imaging Lab, Department of Radiology, Guang An Men Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jim Deuchars
- School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Jozsef C. Széles
- Division for Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian F. Thayer
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Kaushik More
- Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Neuromodulatory Networks, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Laura Steenbergen
- Clinical and Cognitive Psychology and the Leiden Institute of Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lauro C. Vianna
- NeuroV̇ASQ̇ - Integrative Physiology Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Education, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Lisa M. McTeague
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mareike Ludwig
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Maria G. Veldhuizen
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Couck
- Faculty of Health Care, University College Odisee, Aalst, Belgium
- Division of Epileptology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Casazza
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marius Keute
- Institute for Neuromodulation and Neurotechnology, University Hospital and University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Marom Bikson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marta Andreatta
- Department of Biological Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martina D'Agostini
- Research Group Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mathias Weymar
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Matthew Betts
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Prigge
- Neuromodulatory Networks, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Michael Kaess
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Section for Translational Psychobiology in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Roden
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, Munich, Germany
| | - Michelle Thai
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Nathaniel M. Schuster
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, University of California, San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicola Montano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Niels Hansen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience and Imaging in Psychiatry (SNIPLab), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nils B. Kroemer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peijing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rico Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robert H. Howland
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Roberta Sclocco
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
- Department of Radiology, Logan University, Chesterfield, MO, United States
| | - Roberta Sellaro
- Cognitive Psychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ronald G. Garcia
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sofiya Gancheva
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Heart Rhythm Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Faculty of Biological Science, School of Biomedical Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Kampusch
- Institute of Electrodynamics, Microwave and Circuit Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
- SzeleSTIM GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Susan A. Deuchars
- School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Sven Wehner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sylvain Laborde
- Department of Performance Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Deutsche Sporthochschule, Köln, Germany
| | - Taras Usichenko
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas Polak
- Laboratory of Functional Neurovascular Diagnostics, AG Early Diagnosis of Dementia, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Uirassu Borges
- Department of Performance Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Deutsche Sporthochschule, Köln, Germany
- Department of Social and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Deutsche Sporthochschule, Köln, Germany
| | - Vanessa Teckentrup
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Vera K. Jandackova
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
- Department of Radiology, Logan University, Chesterfield, MO, United States
| | - Julian Koenig
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Section for Experimental Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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25
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Weber I, Niehaus H, Krause K, Molitor L, Peper M, Schmidt L, Hakel L, Timmermann L, Menzler K, Knake S, Oehrn CR. Trust your gut: vagal nerve stimulation in humans improves reinforcement learning. Brain Commun 2021; 3:fcab039. [PMID: 33928247 PMCID: PMC8066886 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas the effect of vagal nerve stimulation on emotional states is well established, its effect on cognitive functions is still unclear. Recent rodent studies show that vagal activation enhances reinforcement learning and neuronal dopamine release. The influence of vagal nerve stimulation on reinforcement learning in humans is still unknown. Here, we studied the effect of transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation on reinforcement learning in eight long-standing seizure-free epilepsy patients, using a well-established forced-choice reward-based paradigm in a cross-sectional, within-subject study design. We investigated vagal nerve stimulation effects on overall accuracy using non-parametric cluster-based permutation tests. Furthermore, we modelled sub-components of the decision process using drift-diffusion modelling. We found higher accuracies in the vagal nerve stimulation condition compared to sham stimulation. Modelling suggests a stimulation-dependent increase in reward sensitivity and shift of accuracy-speed trade-offs towards maximizing rewards. Moreover, vagal nerve stimulation was associated with increased non-decision times suggesting enhanced sensory or attentional processes. No differences of starting bias were detected for both conditions. Accuracies in the extinction phase were higher in later trials of the vagal nerve stimulation condition, suggesting a perseverative effect compared to sham. Together, our results provide first evidence of causal vagal influence on human reinforcement learning and might have clinical implications for the usage of vagal stimulation in learning deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immo Weber
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Niehaus
- Faculty of Psychology, Neuropsychology Section, Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Faculty of Psychology, Theoretical Neuroscience Section, Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Krause
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lena Molitor
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Martin Peper
- Faculty of Psychology, Neuropsychology Section, Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Laura Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Hakel
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lars Timmermann
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Katja Menzler
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Knake
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Carina R Oehrn
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
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26
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Borges U, Pfannenstiel M, Tsukahara J, Laborde S, Klatt S, Raab M. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation via tragus or cymba conchae: Are its psychophysiological effects dependent on the stimulation area? Int J Psychophysiol 2021; 161:64-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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27
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Guo ZP, Sörös P, Zhang ZQ, Yang MH, Liao D, Liu CH. Use of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation as an Adjuvant Therapy for the Depressive Symptoms of COVID-19: A Literature Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:765106. [PMID: 34975571 PMCID: PMC8714783 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.765106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) comprises more than just severe acute respiratory syndrome. It also interacts with the cardiovascular, nervous, renal, and immune systems at multiple levels, increasing morbidity in patients with underlying cardiometabolic conditions and inducing myocardial injury or dysfunction. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), which is derived from auricular acupuncture, has become a popular therapy that is increasingly accessible to the general public in modern China. Here, we begin by outlining the historical background of taVNS, and then describe important links between dysfunction in proinflammatory cytokine release and related multiorgan damage in COVID-19. Furthermore, we emphasize the important relationships between proinflammatory cytokines and depressive symptoms. Finally, we discuss how taVNS improves immune function via the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway and modulates brain circuits via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, making taVNS an important treatment for depressive symptoms on post-COVID-19 sequelae. Our review suggests that the link between anti-inflammatory processes and brain circuits could be a potential target for treating COVID-19-related multiorgan damage, as well as depressive symptoms using taVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Peng Guo
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peter Sörös
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Zhu-Qing Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Hao Yang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Liao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Hong Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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28
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Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Humans Induces Pupil Dilation and Attenuates Alpha Oscillations. J Neurosci 2020; 41:320-330. [PMID: 33214317 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1361-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is widely used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy and depression. While the precise mechanisms mediating its long-term therapeutic effects are not fully resolved, they likely involve locus coeruleus (LC) stimulation via the nucleus of the solitary tract, which receives afferent vagal inputs. In rats, VNS elevates LC firing and forebrain noradrenaline levels, whereas LC lesions suppress VNS therapeutic efficacy. Noninvasive transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) uses electrical stimulation that targets the auricular branch of the vagus nerve at the cymba conchae of the ear. However, the extent to which tVNS mimics VNS remains unclear. Here, we investigated the short-term effects of tVNS in healthy human male volunteers (n = 24), using high-density EEG and pupillometry during visual fixation at rest. We compared short (3.4 s) trials of tVNS to sham electrical stimulation at the earlobe (far from the vagus nerve branch) to control for somatosensory stimulation. Although tVNS and sham stimulation did not differ in subjective intensity ratings, tVNS led to robust pupil dilation (peaking 4-5 s after trial onset) that was significantly higher than following sham stimulation. We further quantified, using parallel factor analysis, how tVNS modulates idle occipital alpha (8-13Hz) activity identified in each participant. We found greater attenuation of alpha oscillations by tVNS than by sham stimulation. This demonstrates that tVNS reliably induces pupillary and EEG markers of arousal beyond the effects of somatosensory stimulation, thus supporting the hypothesis that tVNS elevates noradrenaline and other arousal-promoting neuromodulatory signaling, and mimics invasive VNS.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Current noninvasive brain stimulation techniques are mostly confined to modulating cortical activity, as is typical with transcranial magnetic or transcranial direct/alternating current electrical stimulation. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) has been proposed to stimulate subcortical arousal-promoting nuclei, though previous studies yielded inconsistent results. Here we show that short (3.4 s) tVNS pulses in naive healthy male volunteers induced transient pupil dilation and attenuation of occipital alpha oscillations. These markers of brain arousal are in line with the established effects of invasive VNS on locus coeruleus-noradrenaline signaling, and support that tVNS mimics VNS. Therefore, tVNS can be used as a tool for studying how endogenous subcortical neuromodulatory signaling affects human cognition, including perception, attention, memory, and decision-making; and also for developing novel clinical applications.
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29
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Pihlaja M, Failla L, Peräkylä J, Hartikainen KM. Reduced Frontal Nogo-N2 With Uncompromised Response Inhibition During Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation-More Efficient Cognitive Control? Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:561780. [PMID: 33132877 PMCID: PMC7573492 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.561780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown invasive vagus nerve stimulation to improve attention and working memory and alter emotion-attention interaction in patients with refractory epilepsy, suggesting that VNS might be useful in the treatment of cognitive impairment. The current research focuses on whether non-invasive, transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) has similar effects to VNS. Furthermore, we aimed to assess whether tVNS has an impact on cognitive control in general or on underlying brain physiology in a task that mimics everyday life demands where multiple executive functions are engaged while encountering intervening emotional stimuli. Event-related potentials (ERP) evoked in such a task, specifically centro-parietal P3 and frontal N2 were used as biomarkers for attention allocation and cognitive control required to carry out the task. A single-blinded, sham-controlled, within-subject study on healthy subjects (n = 25) was conducted using Executive Reaction Time Test (RT-test), a Go/NoGo task engaging multiple executive functions along with intervening threat-related distractors while EEG was recorded. tVNS at the left tragus and sham stimulation at the left ear lobe was alternately delivered throughout the task. To assess the impact of tVNS on neural activity underlying attention and cognitive control, centro-parietal P3 and frontal N2 peak amplitudes were measured in Go and NoGo conditions. Task performance was assessed with RTs and different error types reflecting cognitive control in general and distinct executive functions, such as working memory and response inhibition.No significant effects due to tVNS on performance in the Executive RT-test were observed. For N2 there was a main effect of stimulator status and a significant interaction of trial type (Go, NoGo) and stimulator status. Post hoc analysis revealed that tVNS resulted in a significant reduction of frontal N2 only in the NoGo condition. No significant effects were observed for P3 nor were there any effects of emotion. Diminished NoGo-N2 potential along with unaltered task performance during tVNS suggests fewer cognitive control resources were required to successfully withhold a prepotent response. Though caution is warranted, we suggest that tVNS may lead to more efficient neural processing with fewer resources needed for successful cognitive control, providing promise for its potential use in cognitive enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Pihlaja
- Behavioral Neurology Research Unit, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Laura Failla
- Behavioral Neurology Research Unit, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Peräkylä
- Behavioral Neurology Research Unit, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Kaisa M Hartikainen
- Behavioral Neurology Research Unit, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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30
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Possible links between gut-microbiota and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders in children and adolescents. Eur J Nutr 2020; 59:3391-3403. [PMID: 32918136 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-020-02383-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
An association between gut-microbiota and several neuropsychiatric conditions including autism, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been observed. Despite being the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents worldwide, the etiology and curative approaches to treatment of ADHD remain unclear. There is a probability that gut-microbiota may contribute to ADHD via bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, a system known as the "gut-brain axis". Although a mechanistic link in the gut-brain axis in ADHD has been proposed, there is still a lack of information about the correlation of the microbiome profile with the mechanisms involved. The objective of this review was to summarize the diversity of the gut-microbiota and taxonomic profiles in children and adolescents with ADHD. In this review, we have provided an overview of the association between ADHD and gut-microbiota. The evidence pertinent to potentially distinctive gut-microbiota in children and adolescents with ADHD is also discussed and compared to that of their non-ADHD peers. Finally, the implications and future directions for investigation into the gut microbiome in ADHD patients are proposed.
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31
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Abstract
This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the effect of heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV BFB) on performance of athletes. Six electronic databases (Springerlink, SportDiscus, Web of Science, PROQUEST Academic Research Library, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect) and article references were searched. Eligibility criteria were: 1. experimental studies involving athletes randomly allocated among groups (randomized control trial); 2. availability of HRV BFB as a treatment compared to a control condition (CON) that involves regular sport/dance training, a placebo (PLA) or other methods of BFB; 3. performance-related variables such as a dependent index; and, 4. peer-reviewed articles written in English. Out of 660 articles, six studies were included in the systematic review which involved 187 athletes (females: n = 89; males n = 98). Six studies compared HRV BFB with a CON, three studies compared HRV BFB with a PLA, and two studies differentiated HRV BFB with other methods of BFB. Findings support HRV BFB as a potential intervention to improve fine and gross motor function in athletes.
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32
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Giraudier M, Ventura-Bort C, Weymar M. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) Improves High-Confidence Recognition Memory but Not Emotional Word Processing. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1276. [PMID: 32733306 PMCID: PMC7363946 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous clinical research found that invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) enhanced word recognition memory in epileptic patients, an effect assumed to be related to the activation of brainstem arousal systems. In this study, we applied non-invasive transcutaneous auricular VNS (tVNS) to replicate and extend the previous work. Using a single-blind, randomized, between-subject design, 60 healthy volunteers received active or sham stimulation during a lexical decision task, in which emotional and neutral stimuli were classified as words or non-words. In a subsequent recognition memory task (1 day after stimulation), participants' memory performance on these words and their subjective memory confidence were tested. Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) levels, a putative indirect measure of central noradrenergic activation, were also measured before and after stimulation. During encoding, pleasant words were more accurately detected than neutral and unpleasant words. However, no tVNS effects were observed on task performance or on overall sAA level changes. tVNS also did not modulate overall recognition memory, which was particularly enhanced for pleasant emotional words. However, when hit rates were split based on confidence ratings reflecting familiarity- and recollection-based memory, higher recollection-based memory performance (irrespective of emotional category) was observed during active stimulation than during sham stimulation. To summarize, we replicated prior findings of enhanced processing and memory for emotional (pleasant) words. Whereas tVNS showed no effects on word processing, subtle effects on recollection-based memory performance emerged, which may indicate that tVNS facilitates hippocampus-mediated consolidation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Giraudier
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Carlos Ventura-Bort
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Mathias Weymar
- Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
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33
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Tona KD, Revers H, Verkuil B, Nieuwenhuis S. Noradrenergic Regulation of Cognitive Flexibility: No Effects of Stress, Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation, and Atomoxetine on Task-switching in Humans. J Cogn Neurosci 2020; 32:1881-1895. [PMID: 32644883 DOI: 10.1162/jocn_a_01603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility allows us to adaptively switch between different responsibilities in important domains of our daily life. Previous work has elucidated the neurochemical basis underlying the ability to switch responses to a previously nonreinforced exemplar and to switch between attentional sets. However, the role of neuromodulators in task switching, the ability to rapidly switch between two or more cognitive tasks afforded by the same stimuli, is still poorly understood. We attempted to fill this gap by manipulating norepinephrine levels using stress manipulation (Study 1a, n = 48; between-group design), transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation at two different intensities (Study 1b, n = 48; sham-controlled between-group design), and pharmacological manipulation (Study 2, n = 24; double-blind crossover design), all of which increased salivary cortisol measures. Participants repeatedly switched between two cognitive tasks (classifying a digit as high/low [Task 1] or as odd/even [Task 2]), depending on the preceding cue. On each trial, a cue indicated the task to be performed. The cue-stimulus interval was varied to manipulate the time to prepare for the switch. Participants showed typical switch costs, which decreased with the time available for preparation. None of the manipulations modulated the size of the switch costs or the preparation effect, as supported by frequentist and Bayesian model comparisons. Task-switching performance reflects a complex mix of cognitive control and bottom-up dynamics of task-set representations. Our findings suggest that norepinephrine does not affect either of these aspects of cognitive flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bart Verkuil
- Leiden University.,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition
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34
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The Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) on P3 Event-Related Potentials during a Bayesian Oddball Task. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10060404. [PMID: 32630571 PMCID: PMC7349824 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10060404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique associated with possible modulation of norepinephrinergic (NE) activity. NE is suspected to contribute to generation of the P3 event-related potential. Recent evidence has produced equivocal evidence whether taVNS influences the P3 in healthy individuals during oddball tasks. We examined the effect of taVNS on P3 amplitudes using a novel visual Bayesian oddball task, which presented 200 sequences of three stimuli. The three consecutive stimuli in each sequence are labelled Draw 1, Draw 2 and Draw 3. In total, 47 Subjects completed this visual Bayesian oddball task under randomised sham and active taVNS stimulation in parallel with an electroencephalographic (EEG) recording. We conducted exploratory analyses of the effect of taVNS on P3 amplitudes separately for Draws. We found typical oddball effects on P3 amplitudes at Draws 1 and 2, but not Draw 3. At Draw 2, the oddball effect was enhanced during active compared to sham taVNS stimulation. These data provide evidence that taVNS influences parietal P3 amplitudes under specific circumstances. Only P3 amplitudes at Draw 2 were affected, which may relate to closure of Bayesian inference after Draw 2. Our findings seemingly support previously reported links between taVNS and the NE system.
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35
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Stimulation of the vagus nerve reduces learning in a go/no-go reinforcement learning task. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 35:17-29. [PMID: 32404279 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
When facing decisions to approach rewards or to avoid punishments, we often figuratively go with our gut, and the impact of metabolic states such as hunger on motivation are well documented. However, whether and how vagal feedback signals from the gut influence instrumental actions is unknown. Here, we investigated the effect of non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) vs. sham (randomized cross-over design) on approach and avoidance behavior using an established go/no-go reinforcement learning paradigm in 39 healthy human participants (23 female) after an overnight fast. First, mixed-effects logistic regression analysis of choice accuracy showed that taVNS acutely impaired decision-making, p = .041. Computational reinforcement learning models identified the cause of this as a reduction in the learning rate through taVNS (∆α = -0.092, pboot = .002), particularly after punishment (∆αPun = -0.081, pboot = .012 vs. ∆αRew =-0.031, pboot = .22). However, taVNS had no effect on go biases, Pavlovian response biases or response time. Hence, taVNS appeared to influence learning rather than action execution. These results highlight a novel role of vagal afferent input in modulating reinforcement learning by tuning the learning rate according to homeostatic needs.
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36
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Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation modulates attentional resource deployment towards social cues. Neuropsychologia 2020; 143:107465. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2020.107465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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37
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Adair D, Truong D, Esmaeilpour Z, Gebodh N, Borges H, Ho L, Bremner JD, Badran BW, Napadow V, Clark VP, Bikson M. Electrical stimulation of cranial nerves in cognition and disease. Brain Stimul 2020; 13:717-750. [PMID: 32289703 PMCID: PMC7196013 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2020.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cranial nerves are the pathways through which environmental information (sensation) is directly communicated to the brain, leading to perception, and giving rise to higher cognition. Because cranial nerves determine and modulate brain function, invasive and non-invasive cranial nerve electrical stimulation methods have applications in the clinical, behavioral, and cognitive domains. Among other neuromodulation approaches such as peripheral, transcranial and deep brain stimulation, cranial nerve stimulation is unique in allowing axon pathway-specific engagement of brain circuits, including thalamo-cortical networks. In this review we amalgamate relevant knowledge of 1) cranial nerve anatomy and biophysics; 2) evidence of the modulatory effects of cranial nerves on cognition; 3) clinical and behavioral outcomes of cranial nerve stimulation; and 4) biomarkers of nerve target engagement including physiology, electroencephalography, neuroimaging, and behavioral metrics. Existing non-invasive stimulation methods cannot feasibly activate the axons of only individual cranial nerves. Even with invasive stimulation methods, selective targeting of one nerve fiber type requires nuance since each nerve is composed of functionally distinct axon-types that differentially branch and can anastomose onto other nerves. None-the-less, precisely controlling stimulation parameters can aid in affecting distinct sets of axons, thus supporting specific actions on cognition and behavior. To this end, a rubric for reproducible dose-response stimulation parameters is defined here. Given that afferent cranial nerve axons project directly to the brain, targeting structures (e.g. thalamus, cortex) that are critical nodes in higher order brain networks, potent effects on cognition are plausible. We propose an intervention design framework based on driving cranial nerve pathways in targeted brain circuits, which are in turn linked to specific higher cognitive processes. State-of-the-art current flow models that are used to explain and design cranial-nerve-activating stimulation technology require multi-scale detail that includes: gross anatomy; skull foramina and superficial tissue layers; and precise nerve morphology. Detailed simulations also predict that some non-invasive electrical or magnetic stimulation approaches that do not intend to modulate cranial nerves per se, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), may also modulate activity of specific cranial nerves. Much prior cranial nerve stimulation work was conceptually limited to the production of sensory perception, with individual titration of intensity based on the level of perception and tolerability. However, disregarding sensory emulation allows consideration of temporal stimulation patterns (axon recruitment) that modulate the tone of cortical networks independent of sensory cortices, without necessarily titrating perception. For example, leveraging the role of the thalamus as a gatekeeper for information to the cerebral cortex, preventing or enhancing the passage of specific information depending on the behavioral state. We show that properly parameterized computational models at multiple scales are needed to rationally optimize neuromodulation that target sets of cranial nerves, determining which and how specific brain circuitries are modulated, which can in turn influence cognition in a designed manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Adair
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dennis Truong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zeinab Esmaeilpour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Nigel Gebodh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Helen Borges
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Libby Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - J Douglas Bremner
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Bashar W Badran
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, MGH, Harvard medical school, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vincent P Clark
- Psychology Clinical Neuroscience Center, Dept. Psychology, MSC03-2220, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA; Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA; The Mind Research Network of the Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, 1101 Yale Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87106, USA
| | - Marom Bikson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA.
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Yap JYY, Keatch C, Lambert E, Woods W, Stoddart PR, Kameneva T. Critical Review of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Challenges for Translation to Clinical Practice. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:284. [PMID: 32410932 PMCID: PMC7199464 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have illustrated that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) can elicit therapeutic effects that are similar to those produced by its invasive counterpart, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). VNS is an FDA-approved therapy for the treatment of both depression and epilepsy, but it is limited to the management of more severe, intervention-resistant cases as a second or third-line treatment option due to perioperative risks involved with device implantation. In contrast, tVNS is a non-invasive technique that involves the application of electrical currents through surface electrodes at select locations, most commonly targeting the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) and the cervical branch of the vagus nerve in the neck. Although it has been shown that tVNS elicits hypo- and hyperactivation in various regions of the brain associated with anxiety and mood regulation, the mechanism of action and influence of stimulation parameters on clinical outcomes remains predominantly hypothetical. Suppositions are largely based on correlations between the neurobiology of the vagus nerve and its effects on neural activity. However, tVNS has also been investigated for several other disorders, including tinnitus, migraine and pain, by targeting the vagus nerve at sites in both the ear and the neck. As most of the described methods differ in the parameters and protocols applied, there is currently no firm evidence on the optimal location for tVNS or the stimulation parameters that provide the greatest therapeutic effects for a specific condition. This review presents the current status of tVNS with a focus on stimulation parameters, stimulation sites, and available devices. For tVNS to reach its full potential as a non-invasive and clinically relevant therapy, it is imperative that systematic studies be undertaken to reveal the mechanism of action and optimal stimulation modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Y. Y. Yap
- ARC Training Centre in Biodevices, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Charlotte Keatch
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisabeth Lambert
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Will Woods
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul R. Stoddart
- ARC Training Centre in Biodevices, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Tatiana Kameneva
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Mertens A, Naert L, Miatton M, Poppa T, Carrette E, Gadeyne S, Raedt R, Boon P, Vonck K. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Does Not Affect Verbal Memory Performance in Healthy Volunteers. Front Psychol 2020; 11:551. [PMID: 32351421 PMCID: PMC7174665 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) improves word recognition memory in patients with epilepsy. Recent studies with transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) have also shown positive effects on various subdomains of cognitive functioning in healthy volunteers. In this randomized, controlled, crossover study, we investigated the effect of tVNS on a word recognition memory paradigm in healthy volunteers to further investigate the potential of tVNS in the treatment of cognitive disorders. Methods We included 41 healthy participants aged between 18 and 30 years (young age group) and 24 healthy participants aged between 45 and 80 years (older age group). Each participant completed a word recognition memory paradigm during three different conditions: true tVNS, sham, and control. During true tVNS, stimulation was delivered at the cymba conchae. Sham stimulation was delivered by stimulating the earlobe. In the control condition, no stimulation was given. In each condition, participants were asked to remember highlighted words from three test paragraphs. Accuracy scores were calculated for immediate recall after each test paragraph and for delayed recognition at the end of the paradigm. We hypothesized that highlighted words from paragraphs in the true tVNS condition would be more accurately recalled and/or recognized compared to highlighted words from paragraphs in the sham or control condition. Results In this randomized study, tVNS did not affect the accuracy scores for immediate recall or delayed recognition in both age groups. The younger group showed significantly higher accuracy scores than the older group. The accuracy scores improved over time, and the most recently learned words were better recognized. Participants rated true tVNS as significantly more painful; however, pain was not found to affect accuracy scores. Conclusion In this study, tVNS did not affect verbal memory performance in healthy volunteers. Our results could not replicate the positive effects of invasive VNS on word recognition memory in epilepsy patients. Future research with the aim of improving cognitive function should focus on the rational identification of optimized and individualized stimulation settings primarily in patients with cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mertens
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lien Naert
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke Miatton
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tasha Poppa
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Evelien Carrette
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Gadeyne
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Boon
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristl Vonck
- 4Brain, Department of Neurology, Institute for Neuroscience, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Burger A, Van der Does W, Brosschot J, Verkuil B. From ear to eye? No effect of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation on human pupil dilation: A report of three studies. Biol Psychol 2020; 152:107863. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2020.107863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Colzato L, Beste C. A literature review on the neurophysiological underpinnings and cognitive effects of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation: challenges and future directions. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:1739-1755. [PMID: 32208895 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00057.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain stimulation approaches are important to gain causal mechanistic insights into the relevance of functional brain regions and/or neurophysiological systems for human cognitive functions. In recent years, transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) has attracted considerable popularity. It is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique based on the stimulation of the vagus nerve. The stimulation of this nerve activates subcortical nuclei, such as the locus coeruleus and the nucleus of the solitary tract, and from there, the activation propagates to the cortex. Since tVNS is a novel stimulation technique, this literature review outlines a brief historical background of tVNS, before detailing underlying neurophysiological mechanisms of action, stimulation parameters, cognitive effects of tVNS on healthy humans, and, lastly, current challenges and future directions of tVNS research in cognitive functions. Although more research is needed, we conclude that tVNS, by increasing norepineprine (NE) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, affects NE- and GABA-related cognitive performance. The review provides detailed background information how to use tVNS as a neuromodulatory tool in cognitive neuroscience and outlines important future leads of research on tVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Colzato
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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A Review of US Army Research Contributing to Cognitive Enhancement in Military Contexts. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-020-00167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vidal F, Burle B, Hasbroucq T. Errors and Action Monitoring: Errare Humanum Est Sed Corrigere Possibile. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 13:453. [PMID: 31998101 PMCID: PMC6962188 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
It was recognized long ago by Seneca through his famous "errare humanum est." that the human information processing system is intrinsically fallible. What is newer is the fact that, at least in sensorimotor information processing realized under time pressure, errors are largely dealt with by several (psycho)physiological-specific mechanisms: prevention, detection, inhibition, correction, and, if these mechanisms finally fail, strategic behavioral adjustments following errors. In this article, we review several datasets from laboratory experiments, showing that the human information processing system is well equipped not only to detect and correct errors when they occur but also to detect, inhibit, and correct them even before they fully develop. We argue that these (psycho)physiological mechanisms are important to consider when the brain works in everyday settings in order to render work systems more resilient to human errors and, thus, safer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Vidal
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, LNC UMR 7291, Marseille, France
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Bellato A, Arora I, Hollis C, Groom MJ. Is autonomic nervous system function atypical in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? A systematic review of the evidence. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 108:182-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Effects of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) on Conflict-Related Behavioral Performance and Frontal Midline Theta Activity. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-019-00152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Borges U, Laborde S, Raab M. Influence of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation on cardiac vagal activity: Not different from sham stimulation and no effect of stimulation intensity. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223848. [PMID: 31603939 PMCID: PMC6788680 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation on cardiac vagal activity, the activity of the vagus nerve regulating cardiac functioning. We applied stimulation on the left cymba conchae and tested the effects of different stimulation intensities on a vagally-mediated heart rate variability pagerameter (i.e., the root mean square of successive differences) as well as on subjective ratings of strength of perceived stimulation intensity and unpleasantness due to the stimulation. Three experiments (within-subject designs, M = 61 healthy participants each) were carried out: In Experiment 1, to choose one fixed stimulation intensity for the subsequent studies, we compared three preset stimulation intensities (i.e., 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mA) with each other. In Experiment 2, we compared the set stimulation method with the free stimulation method, in which the participants were instructed to freely choose an intensity. In Experiment 3, to control for placebo effects, we compared both methods (i.e., set stimulation vs. free stimulation) with their respective sham stimulations. In the three experiments, an increase of cardiac vagal activity was found from resting to the stimulation phases. However, this increase in cardiac vagal activity was not dependent on stimulation intensity (Experiment 1), the method used to stimulate (i.e., set vs. free; Experiment 2), or whether stimulation was active or sham (Experiment 3). This pattern of results was solidly supported by Bayesian estimations. On the subjective level, higher stimulation intensities were perceived as significantly stronger and a stronger stimulation was generally also perceived as more unpleasant. The results suggest that cardiac vagal activity may be similarly influenced by afferent vagal stimuli triggered by active and sham stimulation with different stimulation intensities. Potential explanations for these findings and its implications for future research with tVNS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvain Laborde
- German Sport University Cologne, Germany
- Normandie University, France
| | - Markus Raab
- German Sport University Cologne, Germany
- London South Bank University, England
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Repetitive TMS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex modulates the error positivity: An ERP study. Neuropsychologia 2019; 133:107153. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2019.107153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Finisguerra A, Crescentini C, Urgesi C. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Affects Implicit Spiritual Self-Representations. Neuroscience 2019; 412:144-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) enhances conflict-triggered adjustment of cognitive control. COGNITIVE AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2019; 18:680-693. [PMID: 29693214 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-018-0596-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Response conflicts play a prominent role in the flexible adaptation of behavior as they represent context-signals that indicate the necessity for the recruitment of cognitive control. Previous studies have highlighted the functional roles of the affectively aversive and arousing quality of the conflict signal in triggering the adaptation process. To further test this potential link with arousal, participants performed a response conflict task in two separate sessions with either transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), which is assumed to activate the locus coeruleus-noradrenaline (LC-NE) system, or with neutral sham stimulation. In both sessions the N2 and P3 event-related potentials (ERP) were assessed. In line with previous findings, conflict interference, the N2 and P3 amplitude were reduced after conflict. Most importantly, this adaptation to conflict was enhanced under tVNS compared to sham stimulation for conflict interference and the N2 amplitude. No effect of tVNS on the P3 component was found. These findings suggest that tVNS increases behavioral and electrophysiological markers of adaptation to conflict. Results are discussed in the context of the potentially underlying LC-NE and other neuromodulatory (e.g., GABA) systems. The present findings add important pieces to the understanding of the neurophysiological mechanisms of conflict-triggered adjustment of cognitive control.
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Burger A, Van der Does W, Thayer J, Brosschot J, Verkuil B. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation reduces spontaneous but not induced negative thought intrusions in high worriers. Biol Psychol 2019; 142:80-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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