Physical activity and brain plasticity in late adulthood

Tai Chi-Induced Exosomal LRP1 is Associated With Memory Function and Hippocampus Plasticity in aMCI Patients

OBJECTIVES

The study was designed to identify the potential peripheral processes of circulating exosome in response to Tai Chi (TC) exercise and the possibility of its loaded cargos in mediating the effects of TC training on cognitive function among older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a multicenter randomized controlled trial. One hundred community-dwelling old adults with aMCI were randomly assigned (1:1) to experimental (n = 50) and control groups (n = 50).

INTERVENTION

The experimental group participated in TC exercise 5 times/week, with each session lasting 60 minutes for 12 weeks. Both experimental and control groups received health education every 4 weeks.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was global cognitive function. Neurocognitive assessments, MRI examination, and large-scale proteomics analysis of peripheric exosome were conducted at baseline and after 12-week training. Outcome assessors and statisticians were blinded to group allocation.

RESULTS

A total of 96 participants (96%) completed all outcome measurements. TC training improved global cognitive function (adjusted mean difference [MD] = 1.9, 95%CI 0.93-2.87, p <0.001) and memory (adjusted MD = 6.42, 95%CI 2.09-10.74, p = 0.004), increased right hippocampus volume (adjusted MD = 88.52, 95%CI 13.63-163.4, p = 0.021), and enhanced rest state functional connectivity (rsFC) between hippocampus and cuneus, which mediated the group effect on global cognitive function (bootstrapping CIs: [0.0208, 1.2826], [0.0689, 1.2211]) and verbal delay recall (bootstrapping CI: [0.0002, 0.6277]). Simultaneously, 24 differentially expressed exosomal proteins were detected in tandem mass tag-labelling proteomic analysis. Of which, the candidate protein low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) was further confirmed by parallel reaction monitoring and ELISA. Moreover, the up-regulated LRP1 was both positively associated with verbal delay recall and rsFC (left hippocampus-right cuneus).

CONCLUSION

TC promotes LRP1 release via exosome, which was associated with enhanced memory function and hippocampus plasticity in aMCI patients. Our findings provided an insight into potential therapeutic neurobiological targets focusing on peripheric exosome in respond to TC exercise.

Graded Intensity Aerobic Exercise to Improve Cerebrovascular Function and Performance in Older Veterans: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Growing health care challenges resulting from a rapidly expanding aging population necessitate examining effective rehabilitation techniques that mitigate age-related comorbidity and improve quality of life. To date, exercise is one of a few proven interventions known to attenuate age-related declines in cognitive and sensorimotor functions critical to sustained independence.

OBJECTIVE

This work aims to implement a multimodal imaging approach to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of the beneficial exercise-induced adaptations to sedentary older adults' brains and behaviors. Due to the complex cerebral and vascular dynamics that encompass neuroplastic change with aging and exercise, we propose an imaging protocol that will model exercise-induced changes to cerebral perfusion, cerebral vascular reactivity (CVR), and cognitive and sensorimotor task-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) after prescribed exercise.

METHODS

Sedentary older adults (aged 65-80 years) were randomly assigned to either a 12-week aerobic-based interval-based cycling intervention or a 12-week balance and stretching intervention. Assessments of cardiovascular fitness used the YMCA submaximal VO2 test, basal cerebral perfusion using arterial spin labeling (ASL), CVR using hypercapnic fMRI, and cortical activation using fMRI during verbal fluency and motor tapping tasks. A battery of cognitive-executive and motor function tasks outside the scanning environment will be performed before and after the interventions.

RESULTS

Our studies and others show that improved cardiovascular fitness in older adults results in improved outcomes related to physical and cognitive health as well as quality of life. A consistent but unexplained finding in many of these studies is a change in cortical activation patterns during task-based fMRI, which corresponds with improved task performance (cognitive-executive and motor). We hypothesize that the 12-week aerobic exercise intervention will increase basal perfusion and improve CVR through a greater magnitude of reactivity in brain areas susceptible to neural and vascular decline (inferior frontal and motor cortices) in previously sedentary older adults. To differentiate between neural and vascular adaptations in these regions, we will map changes in basal perfusion and CVR over the inferior frontal and the motor cortices-regions we have previously shown to be beneficially altered during fMRI BOLD (blood oxygen level dependent), such as verbal fluency and motor tapping, through improved cardiovascular fitness.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise is one of the most impactful interventions for improving physical and cognitive health in aging. This study aims to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of improved health and function of the cerebrovascular system. If our hypothesis of improved perfusion and cerebrovascular reactivity following a 12-week aerobic exercise intervention is supported, it would add critically important insights into the potential of exercise to improve brain health in aging and could inform exercise prescription for older adults at risk for neurodegenerative disease brought on by cerebrovascular dysfunction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05932069; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05932069.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/58316.

From inflammatory signaling to neuronal damage: Exploring NLR inflammasomes in ageing neurological disorders

The persistence of neuronal degeneration and damage is a major obstacle in ageing medicine. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors detect environmental stressors and trigger the maturation and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines that can cause neuronal damage and accelerate cell death. NLR (NOD-like receptors) inflammasomes are protein complexes that contain NOD-like receptors. Studying the role of NLR inflammasomes in ageing-related neurological disorders can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. This includes investigating their activation of inflammasomes, transcription, and capacity to promote or inhibit inflammatory signaling, as well as exploring strategies to regulate NLR inflammasomes levels. This review summarizes the use of NLR inflammasomes in guiding neuronal degeneration and injury during the ageing process, covering several neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, and peripheral neuropathies. To improve the quality of life and slow the progression of neurological damage, NLR-based treatment strategies, including inhibitor-related therapies and physical therapy, are presented. Additionally, important connections between age-related neurological disorders and NLR inflammasomes are highlighted to guide future research and facilitate the development of new treatment options.

The Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training and Moderate Alcohol Consumption on Cognitive Performance-A Multidisciplinary Intervention in Young Healthy Adults

BACKGROUND

The main purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention in the context of moderate alcohol consumption on cognitive performance in healthy young adults.

METHODS

We conducted a 10-week HIIT program along with four types of beverages with/without alcohol content. A total of 75 healthy adults (18-40 years old; 46% female) were allocated to either a control Non-Training group or an HIIT program group (2 days/week). Using block randomization, participants in the HIIT group were further allocated to an HIIT-Alcohol group (alcohol beer or sparkling water with vodka added, 5.4%) or an HIIT-NonAlcohol group (sparkling water or non-alcohol beer, 0.0%). The control group was instructed to maintain an active lifestyle but did not undergo any regular training. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was used to evaluate cognitive performance (i.e., memory, working memory, processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency). Changes from baseline to week 10 were included in the main analyses.

RESULTS

All groups improved in all neuropsychological measures (all p ≤ 0.001), independent of sex and alcohol consumption, with no statistical differences between groups (all p > 0.05). Furthermore, larger increases in maximal oxygen uptake were associated with greater improvements in processing speed, inhibitory control, and verbal fluency (all p < 0.050).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the improvements found in cognitive performance cannot be attributed to the HIIT intervention, no significant impairments in cognitive functions were noted due to moderate alcohol intake. Furthermore, our results confirmed that exercise-induced physical fitness improvements were associated with cognitive performance enhancements in young healthy adults.

Changes in EEG Activity and Cognition Related to Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Aging is generally associated with a decline in important cognitive functions that can be observed in EEG. Physical activity in older adults should be considered one of the main strategies to promote health and prevent disease in the elderly. The present study aimed to systematically review studies of EEG activity and cognitive function changes associated with physical activity in older adults. Records from PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO databases were searched and, following the PRISMA guidelines, nine studies were included in the present systematic review. A risk of bias assessment was performed using the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool for Case-control Studies instrument. The studies analyzed used two main strategies to determine the effects of physical activity on cognition and EEG: (1) multiscale entropy and power frequencies; and (2) event-related potentials. In terms of EEG activity, it can be concluded that exercise-induced neuroplasticity underlies improvements in cognitive function in healthy older adults.

Cross-sectional associations between 24-hour time-use composition, grey matter volume and cognitive function in healthy older adults

BACKGROUND

Increasing physical activity (PA) is an effective strategy to slow reductions in cortical volume and maintain cognitive function in older adulthood. However, PA does not exist in isolation, but coexists with sleep and sedentary behaviour to make up the 24-hour day. We investigated how the balance of all three behaviours (24-hour time-use composition) is associated with grey matter volume in healthy older adults, and whether grey matter volume influences the relationship between 24-hour time-use composition and cognitive function.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 378 older adults (65.6 ± 3.0 years old, 123 male) from the ACTIVate study across two Australian sites (Adelaide and Newcastle). Time-use composition was captured using 7-day accelerometry, and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure grey matter volume both globally and across regions of interest (ROI: frontal lobe, temporal lobe, hippocampi, and lateral ventricles). Pairwise correlations were used to explore univariate associations between time-use variables, grey matter volumes and cognitive outcomes. Compositional data analysis linear regression models were used to quantify associations between ROI volumes and time-use composition, and explore potential associations between the interaction between ROI volumes and time-use composition with cognitive outcomes.

RESULTS

After adjusting for covariates (age, sex, education), there were no significant associations between time-use composition and any volumetric outcomes. There were significant interactions between time-use composition and frontal lobe volume for long-term memory (p = 0.018) and executive function (p = 0.018), and between time-use composition and total grey matter volume for executive function (p = 0.028). Spending more time in moderate-vigorous PA was associated with better long-term memory scores, but only for those with smaller frontal lobe volume (below the sample mean). Conversely, spending more time in sleep and less time in sedentary behaviour was associated with better executive function in those with smaller total grey matter volume.

CONCLUSIONS

Although 24-hour time use was not associated with total or regional grey matter independently, total grey matter and frontal lobe grey matter volume moderated the relationship between time-use composition and several cognitive outcomes. Future studies should investigate these relationships longitudinally to assess whether changes in time-use composition correspond to changes in grey matter volume and cognition.

Effects of Exercise on Urinary AD7c-NTP (Alzheimer-Associated Neuronal Thread Protein) Levels and Cognitive Function Among Active Korean Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Alzheimer-associated neuronal thread protein (AD7c-NTP) has been demonstrated to have high diagnostic accuracy in differentiating Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients from healthy individuals. However, it is yet unclear whether exercise can lower the level of AD7c-NTP in urine among active Korean elderly.

Objective

To assess the effect of exercise on AD7c-ntp levels in urine and cognitive function among active Korean elderly.

Methods

In total, 40 Korean elderly (≥65 years) were divided into Active Control group (CG, n = 10), Aerobic exercise group (AG, n = 18), and combined Resistance/Aerobic exercise group (RAG, n = 12). A total of 12 weeks of exercise intervention was implemented. At week 0 and 12, cognitive performance (Korean Mini-Mental State Examination, Korean-Color Word Stroop test), grip strength, and body composition (muscle mass and body fat percentage) were measured. Also, a morning urine sample was obtained from each subject. The level of AD7c-NTP was measured using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

After 12 weeks of exercise intervention, there was a significant difference of AD7c-NTP levels between RAG and CG (p = 0.026), AG and CG (p = 0.032), respectively. Furthermore, the AD7c-NTP levels in urine showed negative correlation with K-MMSE scores (r = -0.390, p = 0.013) and grip strength (r = -0.376, p = 0.017), among all participants after exercise intervention.

Conclusions

This is the first study to investigate urine biomarker through exercise intervention. In future stuides, participants who have low cognitive function and low activity levels need to be recruited to observe more significant 'Exercise' effect.

Oxidative damage in neurodegeneration: roles in the pathogenesis and progression of Alzheimer disease

Alzheimer disease (AD) is associated with multiple etiologies and pathological mechanisms, among which oxidative stress (OS) appears as a major determinant. Intriguingly, OS arises in various pathways regulating brain functions, and it seems to link different hypotheses and mechanisms of AD neuropathology with high fidelity. The brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage, mainly because of its unique lipid composition, resulting in an amplified cascade of redox reactions that target several cellular components/functions ultimately leading to neurodegeneration. The present review highlights the "OS hypothesis of AD," including amyloid beta-peptide-associated mechanisms, the role of lipid and protein oxidation unraveled by redox proteomics, and the antioxidant strategies that have been investigated to modulate the progression of AD. Collected studies from our groups and others have contributed to unraveling the close relationships between perturbation of redox homeostasis in the brain and AD neuropathology by elucidating redox-regulated events potentially involved in both the pathogenesis and progression of AD. However, the complexity of AD pathological mechanisms requires an in-depth understanding of several major intracellular pathways affecting redox homeostasis and relevant for brain functions. This understanding is crucial to developing pharmacological strategies targeting OS-mediated toxicity that may potentially contribute to slow AD progression as well as improve the quality of life of persons with this severe dementing disorder.

I CAN Intervention to Increase Grit and Self-Efficacy: A Pilot Study

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in increasing motivational factors within the domain of psychology. Among these factors, Grit, Mindset, Self-Efficacy, and Well-Being (Flourishing) have been suggested to play an important role in individuals' performance and Well-Being. Thus, cultivating these factors in the general population is important. Previous interventions have displayed substantial effects in certain areas. However, these interventions have primarily been Mindset oriented. This paper presents a novel intervention approach by also emphasizing the importance of brain development; the importance of stimuli for building a network in the brain; the importance of repetition for strengthening the network; and the importance of perseverance and deliberate practice for achievement. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of a 35-40 min online intervention to increase the beliefs of 'I CAN' for 38 university students in Norway. The mean age of the 38 participants was 22.55 (SD = 1.59) and they completed a pre-test assessment of the Grit-S Scale, Theories of Intelligence Scale (Mindset), General Self-Efficacy Scale, and Flourishing Scale (Well-Being). This was followed up by the novel intervention and finally a post-test of the scales eight weeks later. The results showed an increase in Grit, Self-Efficacy, and Well-Being. However, only Grit displayed a significant increase. We aimed at creating an intervention where the participants would "turn on the switch", meaning that they develop stronger beliefs. These promising results warrant a further development of the intervention, and studies with a larger group.

Executive function elevated by long term high-intensity physical activity and the regulation role of beta-band activity in human frontal region

The importance of physical activity (PA) to people's health has become a consensus around the world, and regular long-term PA has been accepted as an alternative preventive measure for many chronic medical conditions. Although the daily PA have several benefits for the public, the systematic research on its effect in human physiology, cognition and cerebral nerve level is not fully studied. Hence, in this study, we aim to investigate this question in several specific aspects: basal heart rate, executive function, and neural oscillatory activity in the brain. A total of 146 subjects participated in this study and they were divided into two groups. One group (SG) is the long-term training (more than 8 years) subjects in soccer (n = 31), and the other group (CG) is a normal control group (n = 115). The heart rate was monitored with a portable equipment. Besides, 24 subjects (14 in SG and 10 in CG) participated the Go/No-Go task and EEG recording before and after exercise fatigue task. In the physiology level, we found that in the non-training time, the heart rate in CG group is significantly higher than that of the SG group (P < 0.001). In the cognition level, we found that the SG group has a faster reaction time that that of CG group (P < 0.01), while for the accuracy, two groups did show significant difference. In the neural level in the brain, we found a significant abnormal increased beta-band (around 25 Hz) activity in CG group after the exercise fatigue task immediately. Long-term high-intensity physical activity reduces basal heart rate, improves executive function, and improve the central tolerance of the body under the stimulation of fatigue and stress. These benefits of long-term activity could be used as a manual to guide people's healthy life.

Keeping Things Positive: Affect as a Mediator between Physical Activity and Psychological Functioning

Higher physical activity is generally associated with more favorable psychological functioning. However, the role of positive and negative affect in such associations is unclear. Accordingly, this cross-sectional study explored whether affect mediated the relationship of physical activity with psychological well-being (PWB) and psychological dysfunctioning (PD). Young Iranian adults (N = 200) completed self-rating questionnaires covering physical activity, positive and negative affect, and proxies of PWB and PD. Regression analyses indicated that higher physical activity levels and higher positive and lower negative affect predicted proxies of PWB. The same (albeit in the opposite direction) applied to proxies of PD. Structural equation modeling indicated that positive and negative affect mediated the relationship between physical activity and PWB/PD. Accordingly, change in affect might be an important mechanism behind the association of physical activity and PWB/PD. Future research should further explore this across target populations and cultural contexts. Longitudinal and/or experimental studies are needed to disentangle causality.

Changes in stress pathways as a possible mechanism of aerobic exercise training on brain health: a scoping review of existing studies

Physical activity (PA) in the form of aerobic exercise (AE) preserves and improves neurocognitive function across the lifespan. However, a mechanistic understanding of the pathways by which aerobic exercise impacts brain health is still lacking, particularly with respect to stress-related pathways. One mechanistic hypothesis is that AE improves neurocognitive health in part by modifying circulating levels of stress-related hormones and signaling factors associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and autonomic nervous system (ANS), as commonly measured by the biomarkers cortisol (CORT) and salivary α-amylase (sAA). Thus, this hypothesis predicts that changes in stress biomarkers, such as CORT and sAA, are possible explanatory pathways mediating the positive effects of AE on neurocognitive health. In the present review article, we provide a summary of available studies examining the possibility that exercise-induced changes to stress biomarkers could partly account for exercise-related improvements in neurocognitive health. Our review indicates that despite the intuitive appeal of this hypothesis, there is insufficient evidence available to conclude that chronic and habitual AE affects neurocognitive health by altering stress biomarker pathways. The cross-sectional nature of the majority of reviewed studies highlights the need for well-controlled studies to adequately test this hypothesis.

Association of Physical Activity and Parkinson Disease in Women: Long-term Follow-up of the E3N Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Previous cohort studies reported that a single measure of physical activity (PA) assessed at baseline was associated with lower Parkinson disease (PD) incidence, but a meta-analysis suggested that this association was restricted to men. Because of the long prodromal phase of the disease, reverse causation could not be excluded as a potential explanation. Our objective was to study the association between time-varying PA and PD in women using lagged analyses to address the potential for reverse causation and to compare PA trajectories in patients before diagnosis and matched controls.

METHODS

We used data from the Etude Epidémiologique auprès de femmes de la Mutuelle Générale de l'Education Nationale (1990-2018), a cohort study of women affiliated with a national health insurance plan for persons working in education. PA was self-reported in 6 questionnaires over the follow-up. As questions changed across questionnaires, we created a time-varying latent PA (LPA) variable using latent process mixed models. PD was ascertained using a multistep validation process based on medical records or a validated algorithm based on drug claims. We set up a nested case-control study to examine differences in LPA trajectories using multivariable linear mixed models with a retrospective timescale. Cox proportional hazards models with age as the timescale and adjusted for confounders were used to estimate the association between time-varying LPA and PD incidence. Our main analysis used a 10-year lag to account for reverse causation; sensitivity analyses used 5-, 15-, and 20-year lags.

RESULTS

Analyses of trajectories (1,196 cases and 23,879 controls) showed that LPA was significantly lower in cases than in controls throughout the follow-up, including 29 years before diagnosis; the difference between cases and controls started to increase ∼10 years before diagnosis (p interaction = 0.003). In our main survival analysis, of 95,354 women free of PD in 2000, 1,074 women developed PD over a mean follow-up of 17.2 years. PD incidence decreased with increasing LPA (p trend = 0.001), with 25% lower incidence in those in the highest quartile compared with the lowest (adjusted hazard ratio 0.75, 95% CI 0.63-0.89). Using longer lags yielded similar conclusions.

DISCUSSION

Higher PA level is associated with lower PD incidence in women, not explained by reverse causation. These results are important for planning interventions for PD prevention.

Cross-sectional associations between cortical thickness and physical activity in older adults with spontaneous memory complaints: The MAPT Study

BACKGROUND

Age-related changes in brain structure may constitute the starting point for cerebral function alteration. Physical activity (PA) demonstrated favorable associations with total brain volume, but its relationship with cortical thickness (CT) remains unclear. We investigated the cross-sectional associations between PA level and CT in community-dwelling people aged 70 years and older.

METHODS

A total of 403 older adults aged 74.8 ± 4.0 years (mean ± SD) who underwent a baseline magnetic resonance imaging examination and who had data on PA and confounders were included. PA was assessed with a questionnaire. Participants were categorized according to PA levels. Multiple linear regressions were used to compare the brain CT (mm) of the inactive group (no PA at all) with 6 active groups (growing PA levels) in 34 regions of interest.

RESULTS

Compared with inactive persons, people who achieved PA at a level of 1500-1999 metabolic equivalent task-min/week (i.e., about 6-7 h of brisk walking for exercise and those who achieved it at 2000-2999 metabolic equivalent task-min/week (i.e., 8-11 h of brisk walking for exercise) had higher CT in the fusiform gyrus and the temporal pole. Additionally, dose-response associations between PA and CT were found in the fusiform gyrus (B = 0.011, SE = 0.004, adj. p = 0.035), the temporal pole (B = 0.026, SE = 0.009, adj. p = 0.048), and the caudal middle frontal gyrus, the entorhinal, medial orbitofrontal, lateral occipital, and insular cortices.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a positive association between PA level and CT in temporal areas such as the fusiform gyrus, a brain region often associated to Alzheimer's disease in people aged 70 years and older. Future investigations focusing on PA type may help to fulfil remaining knowledge gaps in this field.

Does bimanual coordination training benefit inhibitory function in older adults?

Introduction

Whether complex movement training benefits inhibitory functions and transfers the effects to non-practiced motor and cognitive tasks is still unknown. The present experiment addressed this issue using a bimanual coordination paradigm. The main hypothesis was that bimanual coordination training allows for improving the involved cognitive (i.e., inhibition) mechanisms and then, transferring to non-practiced cognitive and motor tasks, that share common processes.

Methods

17 older participants (72.1 ± 4.0 years) underwent 2 training and 3 test sessions (pre, post, and retention one week after) over three weeks. Training included maintaining bimanual coordination anti-phase pattern (AP) at high frequency while inhibiting the in-phase pattern (IP). During the test sessions, participants performed two bimanual coordination tasks and two cognitive tasks involving inhibition mechanisms. Transfer benefits of training on reaction time (RT), and total switching time (TST) were measured. In the cognitive tasks (i.e., the Colour Word Stroop Task (CWST) and the Motor and Perceptual Inhibition Test (MAPIT)), transfer effects were measured on response times and error rates. Repeated one-way measures ANOVAs and mediation analyses were conducted.

Results

Results confirmed that training was effective on the trained task and delayed the spontaneous transition frequency. Moreover, it transferred the benefits to untrained bimanual coordination and cognitive tasks that also involve inhibition functions. Mediation analyses confirmed that the improvement of inhibitory functions mediated the transfer of training in both the motor and cognitive tasks.

Discussion

This study confirmed that bimanual coordination practice can transfer training benefits to non-practiced cognitive and motor tasks since presumably they all share the same cognitive processes.

No signs of neurodegenerative effects in 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 copy number variant carriers in the UK Biobank

The 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 copy number variant (CNV) is associated with altered brain morphology and risk for atypical development, including increased risk for schizophrenia and learning difficulties for the deletion. However, it is still unclear whether differences in brain morphology are associated with neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative processes. This study derived morphological brain MRI measures in 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 deletion (n = 124) and duplication carriers (n = 142), and matched deletion-controls (n = 496) and duplication-controls (n = 568) from the UK Biobank study to investigate the association with brain morphology and estimates of brain ageing. Further, we examined the ageing trajectory of age-affected measures (i.e., cortical thickness, surface area, subcortical volume, reaction time, hand grip strength, lung function, and blood pressure) in 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 CNV carriers compared to non-carriers. In this ageing population, the results from the machine learning models showed that the estimated brain age gaps did not differ between the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 CNV carriers and non-carriers, despite deletion carriers displaying thicker cortex and lower subcortical volume compared to the deletion-controls and duplication carriers, and lower surface area compared to the deletion-controls. Likewise, the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 CNV carriers did not deviate from the ageing trajectory on any of the age-affected measures examined compared to non-carriers. Despite altered brain morphology in 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 CNV carriers, the results did not show any clear signs of apparent altered ageing in brain structure, nor in motor, lung or heart function. The results do not indicate neurodegenerative effects in 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 CNV carriers.

Acupuncture on mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review of neuroimaging studies

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a multifactorial and complex central neurodegenerative disease. Acupuncture appears to be an effective method for cognitive function improvement in MCI patients. Neural plasticity remaining in the MCI brain implies that acupuncture-associated benefits may not be limited to the cognitive function. Instead, neurological alternations in the brain play a vital role in corresponding to the cognitive improvement. However, previous studies have mainly focused on the effects of cognitive function, leaving neurological findings relatively unclear. This systematic review summarized existing studies that used various brain imaging techniques to explore the neurological effect regarding acupuncture use for MCI treatment. Potential neuroimaging trials were searched, collected, and identified independently by two researchers. Four Chinese databases, four English databases, and additional sources were searched to identify studies reporting the use of acupuncture for MCI from the inception of databases until 1 June 2022. Methodological quality was appraised using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. In addition, general, methodological, and brain neuroimaging information was extracted and summarized to investigate the potential neural mechanisms by which acupuncture affects patients with MCI. In total, 22 studies involving 647 participants were included. The methodological quality of the included studies was moderate to high. The methods used included functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, functional near-infrared spectroscopy, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Acupuncture-induced brain alterations observed in those patients with MCI tended to be observable in the cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. The effect of acupuncture on MCI may play a role in regulating the default mode network, central executive network, and salience network. Based on these studies, researchers could extend the recent research focus from the cognitive domain to the neurological level. Future researches should develop additional relevant, well-designed, high-quality, and multimodal neuroimaging researches to detect the effects of acupuncture on the brains of MCI patients.

A Tutorial for Speech-Language Pathologists: Physical Activity and Social Engagement to Prevent or Slow Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

PURPOSE

This tutorial provides an overview of two behavioral approaches, physical activity and social engagement, to prevent or slow cognitive decline in older adults and to increase awareness in the field of speech-language pathology of the important role that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play in an interprofessional team working with this population.

METHOD

A review of exercise science, neuroscience, and social science literature was used to synthesize evidence and to outline the impact of physical activity and social engagement on cognition. The following topics were explored: How do exercise and social engagement support cognition? What are modifiable risk factors of dementia? What is the impact of inactivity and isolation on cognition? What is the potential role of the SLP on an interprofessional team focusing on preventive measures for cognitive decline? What is the impact of physical exercise and social engagement on nursing home residents?

RESULTS

Research increasingly points to the critical importance of physical activity and social engagement to prevent cognitive decline in normal aging and to slow cognitive decline associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Research suggests that physical activity maintains or improves memory, attention, executive function, visuospatial function, speed of processing, and general cognitive function. Social engagement has been found to maintain and improve general cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

Behavioral interventions are an effective strategy to prevent or slow cognitive decline in the older adult population. SLPs have a role to play on an interprofessional team that works to prevent cognitive decline. By considering factors that play a role in the prevention of cognitive decline, such as physical activity and social engagement, the quality of life and overall health of older adults can be improved. Areas of improvement include memory, attention, executive function, visuospatial function, speed of processing, and general cognitive function.

The effects of a moderate physical activity intervention on physical fitness and cognition in healthy elderly with low levels of physical activity: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Increasing physical activity is one of the most promising and challenging interventions to delay or prevent cognitive decline and dementia.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of a physical activity intervention, aimed at increasing step count, in elderly with low levels of physical activity on measures of strength, balance, aerobic capacity, and cognition. Participants were assigned to 9 months of exercise counseling or active control.

RESULTS

The intention-to-treat analyses show that the intervention, compared to control, increases the level of physical activity, but has no significant effect on physical fitness and cognition. Those who increased their physical activity with 35% or more show significant improvements in aerobic capacity, gait speed, verbal memory, executive functioning, and global cognition, compared to those who did not achieve a 35% increase.

LIMITATIONS

The number of participants that achieved the intended improvement was lower than expected.

CONCLUSION

Responder analyses suggest an improvement of physical fitness and cognition in those who achieved an increase in physical activity of at least 35%.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial protocol is registered at the Dutch Trial Register NL5675, August 1, 2016.

A Decade Later on How to "Use It" So We Don't "Lose It": An Update on the Unanswered Questions about the Influence of Activity Participation on Cognitive Performance in Older Age

Activity engagement is a modifiable factor that has been widely-cited as being good for the aging brain and cognition and represents a valuable target for reducing dementia risk. However, specific issues about activity engagement (mental, social, and physical) and cognition in older adulthood remain, and Bielak [Gerontology 2010;56: 507-519] reviewed seven major methodological and theoretical questions about this relationship. We present an updated reflection on these key questions, focusing on research published in the last 10 years. For some questions, a significant amount of work has been done and conclusions have become clearer; for others, there have been few additions to the literature and our knowledge remains much the same as it was a decade ago. We review the issues identified in the 2010 paper including the directionality and temporal nature of the relationship; whether specific activity domains offer different benefits to cognition and what domain(s) of cognition are affected; variation in the relation by age, gender, or education; potential mechanisms involved; and how activity engagement is assessed. For each, we present the most up-to-date research, discuss remaining challenges and possible future directions. This formal unifying of the information in the field is intended as a guide to support continued progress by spurring on studies addressing specific questions while reminding researchers of critical issues. We conclude with recommendations that future studies investigating the link between activity engagement and cognitive performance in adulthood should consider.

Time-restricted feeding and cognitive function in sedentary and physically active elderly individuals: Ramadan diurnal intermittent fasting as a model

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Ramadan diurnal intermittent fasting (RDIF) on cognitive performance, sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and insomnia in physically active and sedentary elderly individuals.

Methods

A total of 58 participants (62.93 ± 3.99 years) were assigned to one of the following two groups: a sedentary group (control group) who observed Ramadan (n = 32) and a physically active group (n = 26) who continued to train while observing Ramadan. Participants were assessed 2 weeks before Ramadan and during the fourth week of Ramadan. On each occasion, participants completed a digital assessment of their cognitive performance and responded to the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), the insomnia severity index (ISI) and the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) questionnaires to assess sleep parameters.

Results

Compared to before Ramadan, performance in executive function (p = 0.035), attention (p = 0.005), inhibition (p = 0.02), associative memory (p = 0.041), and recognition memory (p = 0.025) increased significantly during Ramadan in the physically active group. For the sedentary group, associative learning performance decreased (p = 0.041), whilst performances in the remaining domains remained unchanged during Ramadan. Global PSQI, ISI, and ESS scores indicated both groups suffered from poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness, with significantly higher negative effects of RDIF observed in the sedentary group.

Conclusion

Older adults who continue to train at least three times per week during Ramadan may improve their cognitive performance, despite the impairment of sleep quality. Future studies in older adults during Ramadan including objective measures of sleep (e.g., polysomnography, actigraphy) and brain function (e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging) are warranted.

Running from Stress: Neurobiological Mechanisms of Exercise-Induced Stress Resilience

Chronic stress, even stress of a moderate intensity related to daily life, is widely acknowledged to be a predisposing or precipitating factor in neuropsychiatric diseases. There is a clear relationship between disturbances induced by stressful stimuli, especially long-lasting stimuli, and cognitive deficits in rodent models of affective disorders. Regular physical activity has a positive effect on the central nervous system (CNS) functions, contributes to an improvement in mood and of cognitive abilities (including memory and learning), and is correlated with an increase in the expression of the neurotrophic factors and markers of synaptic plasticity as well as a reduction in the inflammatory factors. Studies published so far show that the energy challenge caused by physical exercise can affect the CNS by improving cellular bioenergetics, stimulating the processes responsible for the removal of damaged organelles and molecules, and attenuating inflammation processes. Regular physical activity brings another important benefit: increased stress robustness. The evidence from animal studies is that a sedentary lifestyle is associated with stress vulnerability, whereas a physically active lifestyle is associated with stress resilience. Here, we have performed a comprehensive PubMed Search Strategy for accomplishing an exhaustive literature review. In this review, we discuss the findings from experimental studies on the molecular and neurobiological mechanisms underlying the impact of exercise on brain resilience. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective potential of preconditioning exercise and of the role of exercise in stress resilience, among other things, may open further options for prevention and therapy in the treatment of CNS diseases.

Processing speed mediates the association between physical activity and executive functioning in elderly adults

Advanced aging is associated with cognitive decline. To decrease the healthcare system and socio-economic burdens as well as to promote better quality of life, is important to uncover the factors that may be related to the delay of cognitive impairments in older adults. This study investigated the relationship between physical activity levels, sedentary behavior and cardiorespiratory fitness with cognitive functioning in healthy older adults. Furthermore, it examined the mediating role of processing speed on the association between physical activity and executive functions and long-term memory. Thirty-two individuals aged between 63 and 77 years (M = 68.16, SD = 3.73) underwent measurements of maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂peak), 1-week of PA accelerometer measurement and a comprehensive cognitive assessment. Significant associations were observed between MVPA and cognitive processing speed. Equally, a significant positive indirect effect of MVPA on executive functioning and long-term memory was mediated by processing speed. Also, MVPA levels differentiated cognitive functioning in older adults – the physical active group outperformed the physical inactive group in processing speed, executive functions, and language abilities. Our results contribute to the literature on the MVPA levels as an important tool to promote healthier cognitive aging.

Training intervention effects on cognitive performance and neuronal plasticity—A pilot study

Studies suggest that people suffering from chronic pain may have altered brain plasticity, along with altered functional connectivity between pain-processing brain regions. These may be related to decreased mood and cognitive performance. There is some debate as to whether physical activity combined with behavioral therapy (e.g. cognitive distraction, body scan) may counteract these changes. However, underlying neuronal mechanisms are unclear. The aim of the current pilot study with a 3-armed randomized controlled trial design was to examine the effects of sensorimotor training for nonspecific chronic low back pain on (1) cognitive performance; (2) fMRI activity co-fluctuations (functional connectivity) between pain-related brain regions; and (3) the relationship between functional connectivity and subjective variables (pain and depression). Six hundred and sixty two volunteers with non-specific chronic low back pain were randomly allocated to a unimodal (sensorimotor training), multidisciplinary (sensorimotor training and behavioral therapy) intervention, or to a control group within a multicenter study. A subsample of patients (n = 21) from one study center participated in the pilot study presented here. Measurements were at baseline, during (3 weeks, M2) and after intervention (12 weeks, M4 and 24 weeks, M5). Cognitive performance was measured by the Trail Making Test and functional connectivity by MRI. Pain perception and depression were assessed by the Von Korff questionnaire and the Hospital and Anxiety. Group differences were calculated by univariate and repeated ANOVA measures and Bayesian statistics; correlations by Pearson's r. Change and correlation of functional connection were analyzed within a pooled intervention group (uni-, multidisciplinary group). Results revealed that participants with increased pain intensity at baseline showed higher functional connectivity between pain-related brain areas used as ROIs in this study. Though small sample sizes limit generalization, cognitive performance increased in the multimodal group. Increased functional connectivity was observed in participants with increased pain ratings. Pain ratings and connectivity in pain-related brain regions decreased after the intervention. The results provide preliminary indication that intervention effects can potentially be achieved on the cognitive and neuronal level. The intervention may be suitable for therapy and prevention of non-specific chronic low back pain.

Aerobic exercise as a promising nonpharmacological therapy for the treatment of substance use disorders

Despite the prevalence and public health impact of substance use disorders (SUDs), effective long-term treatments remain elusive. Aerobic exercise is a promising, nonpharmacological treatment currently under investigation as a strategy for preventing drug relapse. Aerobic exercise could be incorporated into the comprehensive treatment regimens for people with substance abuse disorders. Preclinical studies of SUD with animal models have shown that aerobic exercise diminishes drug-seeking behavior, which leads to relapse, in both male and female rats. Nevertheless, little is known regarding the effects of substance abuse-induced cellular and physiological adaptations believed to be responsible for drug-seeking behavior. Accordingly, the overall goal of this review is to provide a summary and an assessment of findings to date, highlighting evidence of the molecular and neurological effects of exercise on adaptations associated with SUD.

The impact of aerobic and resistance training intensity on markers of neuroplasticity in health and disease

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of low- vs. high-intensity aerobic and resistance training on motor and cognitive function, brain activation, brain structure, and neurochemical markers of neuroplasticity and the association thereof in healthy young and older adults and in patients with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and stroke.

DESIGN

Systematic review and robust variance estimation meta-analysis with meta-regression.

DATA SOURCES

Systematic search of MEDLINE, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases.

RESULTS

Fifty studies with 60 intervention arms and 2283 in-analyses participants were included. Due to the low number of studies, the three patient groups were combined and analyzed as a single group. Overall, low- (g=0.19, p = 0.024) and high-intensity exercise (g=0.40, p = 0.001) improved neuroplasticity. Exercise intensity scaled with neuroplasticity only in healthy young adults but not in healthy older adults or patient groups. Exercise-induced improvements in neuroplasticity were associated with changes in motor but not cognitive outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Exercise intensity is an important variable to dose and individualize the exercise stimulus for healthy young individuals but not necessarily for healthy older adults and neurological patients. This conclusion warrants caution because studies are needed that directly compare the effects of low- vs. high-intensity exercise on neuroplasticity to determine if such changes are mechanistically and incrementally linked to improved cognition and motor function.

Brain ventricles, CSF and cognition: a narrative review

The brain ventricles are structures that have been related to cognition since antiquity. They are essential components in the development and maintenance of brain functions. The aging process runs with the enlargement of ventricles and is related to a less selective blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and then a more toxic cerebrospinal fluid environment. The study of brain ventricles as a biological marker of aging is promissing because they are structures easily identified in neuroimaging studies, present good inter-rater reliability, and measures of them can identify brain atrophy earlier than cortical structures. The ventricular system also plays roles in the development of dementia, since dysfunction in the clearance of beta-amyloid protein is a key mechanism in sporadic Alzheimer's disease. The morphometric and volumetric studies of the brain ventricles can help to distinguish between healthy elderly and persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Brain ventricle data may contribute to the appropriate allocation of individuals in groups at higher risk for MCI-dementia progression in clinical trials and to measuring therapeutic responses in these studies, as well as providing differential diagnosis, such as normal pressure hydrocephalus. Here, we reviewed the pathophysiology of healthy aging and cognitive decline, focusing on the role of the choroid plexus and brain ventricles in this process.

Pre-pandemic Physical Function and Social Network in Relation to COVID-19-Associated Depressive Burden in Older Adults in Sweden

Background and Objectives

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as the measures intended to limit its spread, have likely affected older adults’ depressive burden. Good physical functioning and a rich social network may benefit older adults’ mental health. We examined whether pre-pandemic physical functioning and social network were associated with depressive burden during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Stockholm, Sweden.

Research Design and Methods

A telephone assessment of depressive burden using the symptoms of sadness, anxiety, worrying, reduced sleep, and reduced appetite was conducted in May–September 2020 in 930 older adults from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K), an ongoing population-based study. Objective measures of gait speed, muscle strength, and balance; and self-reports of social connections and support were collected in 2016–2019. Logistic models were adjusted for sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, and pandemic-related factors (loneliness, change in physical and social engagement, and experience of death due to COVID-19).

Results

Only good muscle strength (odds ratio [OR]: 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–0.85; ref: poor strength, ≥17 s) and rich social support (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.45–0.99; ref: poor support) exhibited an independent association with depressive burden, even after accounting for pandemic-related factors. A combination of good muscle strength and rich social support were associated with the greatest reduction in depressive burden (OR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.18–0.66; ref: poor social support and poor muscle strength).

Discussion and Implications

Prepandemic social support and muscle strength could supply older adults with resilience against the depressive burden associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

APOE ε4 and exercise interact in a sex-specific manner to modulate dementia risk factors

Introduction

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 is the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs), affecting many different pathways that lead to cognitive decline. Exercise is one of the most widely proposed prevention and intervention strategies to mitigate risk and symptomology of ADRDs. Importantly, exercise and APOE ε4 affect similar processes in the body and brain. While both APOE ε4 and exercise have been studied extensively, their interactive effects are not well understood.

Methods

To address this, male and female APOE ε3/ε3, APOE ε3/ε4, and APOE ε4/ε4 mice ran voluntarily from wean (1 month) to midlife (12 months). Longitudinal and cross-sectional phenotyping were performed on the periphery and the brain, assessing markers of risk for dementia such as weight, body composition, circulating cholesterol composition, murine daily activities, energy expenditure, and cortical and hippocampal transcriptional profiling.

Results

Data revealed chronic running decreased age-dependent weight gain, lean and fat mass, and serum low-density lipoprotein concentration dependent on APOE genotype. Additionally, murine daily activities and energy expenditure were significantly influenced by an interaction between APOE genotype and running in both sexes. Transcriptional profiling of the cortex and hippocampus predicted that APOE genotype and running interact to affect numerous biological processes including vascular integrity, synaptic/neuronal health, cell motility, and mitochondrial metabolism, in a sex-specific manner.

Discussion

These data in humanized mouse models provide compelling evidence that APOE genotype should be considered for population-based strategies that incorporate exercise to prevent ADRDs and other APOE-relevant diseases.

Effects of a 5-Year Exercise Intervention on White Matter Microstructural Organization in Older Adults. A Generation 100 Substudy

Aerobic fitness and exercise could preserve white matter (WM) integrity in older adults. This study investigated the effect on WM microstructural organization of 5 years of exercise intervention with either supervised moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or following the national physical activity guidelines. A total of 105 participants (70-77 years at baseline), participating in the randomized controlled trial Generation 100 Study, volunteered to take part in this longitudinal 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study. The HIIT group (n = 33) exercised for four intervals of 4 min at 90% of peak heart rate two times a week, the MICT group (n = 24) exercised continuously for 50 min at 70% peak heart rate two times a week, and the control group (n = 48) followed the national guidelines of ≥30 min of physical activity almost every day. At baseline and at 1-, 3-, and 5-year follow-ups, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans were performed, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) was measured as peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) with ergospirometry, and information on exercise habits was collected. There was no group*time or group effect on any of the DTI indices at any time point during the intervention. Across all groups, CRF was positively associated with fractional anisotropy (FA) and axial diffusivity (AxD) at the follow-ups, and the effect became smaller with time. Exercise intensity was associated with mean diffusivity (MD)/FA, with the greatest effect at 1-year and no effect at 5-year follow-up. There was an association between exercise duration and FA and radial diffusivity (RD) only after 1 year. Despite the lack of group*time interaction or group effect, both higher CRF and exercise intensity was associated with better WM microstructural organization throughout the intervention, but the effect became attenuated over time. Different aspects of exercising affected the WM metrics and WM tracts differently with the greatest and most overlapping effects in the corpus callosum. The current study indicates not only that high CRF and exercise intensity are associated with WM microstructural organization in aging but also that exercise's positive effects on WM may decline with increasing age.

Role of Cardiovascular Risk Factors on the Association Between Physical Activity and Brain Integrity Markers in Older Adults

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Physical activity has been associated with a decreased risk for dementia, but the mechanisms underlying this association remain to be determined. Our objective was to assess whether cardiovascular risk factors mediate the association between physical activity and brain integrity markers in older adults.

METHODS

At baseline, participants from the Age-Well study completed a physical activity questionnaire and underwent cardiovascular risk factors collection (systolic blood pressure, body mass index [BMI], current smoker status, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and insulin levels) and multimodal neuroimaging (structural MRI, diffusion MRI, FDG-PET, and florbetapir PET). Multiple regressions were conducted to assess the association among physical activity, cardiovascular risk factors, and neuroimaging. Mediation analyses were performed to test whether cardiovascular risk factors mediated the associations between physical activity and neuroimaging.

RESULTS

A total of 134 cognitively unimpaired older adults (≥65 years) were included. Higher physical activity was associated with higher gray matter (GM) volume (β = 0.174, p = 0.030) and cerebral glucose metabolism (β = 0.247, p = 0.019) but not with amyloid deposition or white matter integrity. Higher physical activity was associated with lower insulin level and BMI but not with the other cardiovascular risk factors. Lower insulin level and BMI were related to higher GM volume but not to cerebral glucose metabolism. When controlling for insulin level and BMI, the association between physical activity and cerebral glucose metabolism remained unchanged, while the association with GM volume was lost. When insulin level and BMI were entered in the same model, only BMI remained a significant predictor of GM volume. Mediation analyses confirmed that insulin level and BMI mediated the association between physical activity and GM volume. Analyses were replicated within Alzheimer disease-sensitive regions and results remained overall similar.

DISCUSSION

The association between physical activity and GM volume is mediated by changes in insulin level and BMI. In contrast, the association with cerebral glucose metabolism seems to be independent from cardiovascular risk factors. Older adults engaging in physical activity experience cardiovascular benefits through the maintenance of a lower BMI and insulin level, resulting in greater structural brain integrity. This study has implications for understanding how physical activity affects brain health and may help in developing strategies to prevent or delay age-related decline.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

EudraCT: 2016-002,441-36; IDRCB: 2016-A01767-44; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02977819.

Motor Skill, Motor Planning, and Motor Performance in Adults with Severe Mental Illnesses and Obesity

Motor functioning in persons with serious mental illness (SMI) is not well studied. We assessed motor functioning in people with SMI (n = 15) vs. adults with obesity (n = 15) and healthy controls (n = 15). Motor skills were assessed using balance and coordination tests. Motor planning and performance were assessed in Obstacle and Metronome Walking Tasks. The SMI group scored lower on balance and coordination tests (all ps < 0.001), and took longer steps when approaching obstacles (all ps < 0.001), but had unimpaired motor performance on the Metronome Walking Task. In obesity, excess body mass impairs motor skills, which adversely impacts motor performance. In persons with SMI, motor performance was unimpaired, with cognitive and neuroanatomical abnormalities likely underlying balance, coordination, and motor skill challenges.

Effects of Simultaneous Exposure to a Western Diet and Wheel-Running Training on Brain Energy Metabolism in Female Rats

BACKGROUND

In the pathogenesis of central nervous system disorders (e.g., neurodegenerative), an important role is attributed to an unhealthy lifestyle affecting brain energy metabolism. Physical activity in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases is getting increasing attention.

METHODS

We performed a series of assessments in adult female Long Evans rats subjected to 6 weeks of Western diet feeding and wheel-running training. A control group of lean rats was fed with a standard diet. In all experimental groups, we measured physiological parameters (animal weights, body composition, serum metabolic parameters). We assessed the impact of simultaneous exposure to a Western diet and wheel-running on the cerebrocortical protein expression (global proteomic profiling), and in the second part of the experiment, we measured the cortical levels of protein related to brain metabolism (Western blot).

RESULTS

Western diet led to an obese phenotype and induced changes in the serum metabolic parameters. Wheel-running did not reduce animal weights or fat mass but significantly decreased serum glucose level. The global proteome analysis revealed that the altered proteins were functionally annotated as they were involved mostly in metabolic pathways. Western blot analysis showed the downregulation of the mitochondrial protein-Acyl-CoA dehydrogenase family member 9, hexokinase 1 (HK1)-enzyme involved in principal glucose metabolism pathways and monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2). Wheel-running reversed this decline in the cortical levels of HK1 and MCT2.

CONCLUSION

The cerebrocortical proteome is affected by a combination of physical activity and Western diet in female rats. An analysis of the cortical proteins involved in brain energy metabolism provides a valuable basis for the deeper investigation of changes in the brain structure and function induced by simultaneous exposure to a Western diet and physical activity.

Effect of Physical Exercise Program Based on Active Breaks on Physical Fitness and Vigilance Performance

Simple Summary

Our study aimed to analyze the effects of 8 weeks physical training on vigilance performance in high school students. Forty-two healthy students were assigned for convenience and matched into two groups, a Control Group (CG) and an Active-Break Group (ABG). The participants were assessed before the training program using the Alpha-Fitness test battery and Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) to observe their physical fitness and vigilance performance. Compared with the pre-test, significant different were observed in the post-test PVT. Results showed a main effect of ABG responding faster than students in the CG group. This demonstrated that 8 weeks physical training have an effect on vigilance performance and improve the efficiency of vigilance in high school students.

Abstract

The scientific literature has shown the beneficial effects of chronic Physical Exercise (PE) on a wide range of tasks that involve high-order functioning. For this reason, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of active breaks on physical fitness and vigilance performance in high school students through eight weeks of physical training. A total of 42 healthy students (age = 16.50 ± 0.59 years; height = 171.08 ± 8.07 cm; weight = 67.10 ± 13.76 kg) from one Andalusian high school (Spain) were assigned for convenience and matched into two groups, a Control Group (CG) and an Active-Break Group (ABG). The ABG performed two active breaks (based on strength and self-loading exercises) during the school day, first at 10:00 a.m. and second at 12:30 p.m. The participants were assessed before and after the training program using the Alpha-Fitness test battery and the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT). Significant differences were observed in the post-training PVT results, compared with the pretraining PVT, showing ABG responding faster than CG. Thus, the presents study demonstrated that eight weeks of physical training affects vigilance performance (compared to CG) and improves the efficiency of vigilance in high school students, contributing to enhancement of quality of education.

Physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and cognitive function in postmenopausal women with breast cancer

Physical activity may improve cognitive function in women with breast cancer. In a cross-sectional study, we explored the relationship between cognitive function and physical activity (actigraph) and cardiorespiratory fitness (sub-maximal graded exercise test) in 73 postmenopausal women with early stage breast cancer prior to the initiation of systemic adjuvant therapy. Cognitive function was assessed with a standardized battery of neurocognitive measures assessing eight domains. Data were analyzed using partial correlations, controlling for age and total hours of actigraph wear-time. Women were, on average, 63.71 (± 5.3) years of age with 15.47 (± 2.48) years of education. For physical activity, greater average number of steps per day were associated with better attention (r = .262, p = .032) and psychomotor speed (r = .301, p = .011); greater average hours of moderate and moderate/vigorous intensity physical activity were associated with better visual memory (r = .241, p = .049; r = .241, p = .049, respectively); and greater average daily energy expenditure was associated with better visual memory (r = .270, p = .027) and psychomotor speed (r = .292, p = .017). For fitness, higher peak maximum VO2 was associated with better concentration (r = .330, p = .006), verbal memory (r = .241, p = .048), and working memory (r = .281, p = .019). These results suggest that higher levels of physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with better cognitive function in postmenopausal women with breast cancer. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) to examine whether physical activity improves cognitive function in women with breast cancer are warranted. These RCTs should also determine the mechanisms of the influence of physical activity on cognitive function. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02793921; Date: May 20, 2016.

Effects of Two Physical Training Programs on the Cognitive Status of a Group of Older Adults in Chile

Introduction: The effect of two physical training methods on older adults should be investigated in greater depth and its results shared with the community. Objective: To determine the effects of two types of physical training on the functional features associated with the cognitive state and the effect on a physiological mediator of growth hormone (IGF-1) in older women. Material and Methods: Quasi-experimental study that included 12 weeks of training in two groups divided into resistance and aerobic training. The study included a population of 113 women aged 69.39 ± 6.48 years from Talcahuano, Chile. All participants were randomly assigned to either group. The MINIMENTAL test was used to examine the executive functions of cognitive state and blood concentration of IGF-1, which was also used to examine neurotrophic factors. For the assessment of physical condition, an indirect test was used for the maximum mass displaced in one repetition (1RM) by the limbs and the TM6 test to estimate maximal oxygen consumption. Results: Significant differences between the groups with respect to the total score obtained in the MINIMENTAL test (EG1 = 28.13 ± 2.26; EG2 = 28.57 ± 1.83 and CG = 23.47 ± 2.80; ANOVA; p = 0.000) were observed. A post hoc analysis revealed no significant differences when examining executive functions individually between groups (Bonferroni; p > 0.05). An increase in the neurotrophic factor IGF-1 was also recorded in the training groups (EG1 p = 0.014 and EG2 p = 0.005). The pre- and post-test showed large differences in magnitude in the resistance training group (ES = 0.9; 20.41% change). Conclusion: Both workouts produce an overall improvement in the functions associated with cognitive status and increase blood concentrations of IGF-1 in older adults.

Physical capacities and leisure activities are related with cognitive functions in older adults

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between physical activity habits, physical performance and cognitive capacity in older adults' population of Italy and Slovenia.

METHODS

Anthropometric characteristics and body composition bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were evaluated in 892 older adults (60-80 y). Aerobic capacity was measured using the 2km walking test and handgrip and flexibility tests were performed. Physical activity habits and cognitive functions were evaluated by the Global-Physical-Activity-Questionnaires (GPAQ) and by Montreal-Cognitive-Assessment (MoCA) questionnaires, respectively.

RESULTS

GPAQ scores were associated with lower BMI (r=-0.096; p=0.005), lower percentage of fat-mass (r=-0.138; p=0.001), better results in the 2km-walk test (r=-0.175; p=0.001) and a higher percentage of fat-free mass (r=0.138; p=0.001). We also evaluated that, a higher MoCA score correlates with age (r=-0.208; p=0.001), 2km-walk test (r=-0.166; p=0.001), waist-hip ratio (r=-0.200; p=0.001), resting heart-rate (r=-0.087; p=0.025) and heart-rate at the end of 2km-walk test (r=0.189; p=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults with a higher level of daily physical activity showed reduction in fat mass and BMI, and higher aerobic fitness; these characteristics have a protection effect on cognitive function.

FNDC5/Irisin System in Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Update and Novel Perspective

Irisin, the circulating peptide originating from fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), is mainly expressed by muscle fibers under peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α) control during exercise. In addition to several beneficial effects on health, physical activity positively affects nervous system functioning, particularly the hippocampus, resulting in amelioration of cognition impairments. Recently, FNDC5/irisin detection in hippocampal neurons and the presence of irisin in the cerebrospinal fluid opened a new intriguing chapter in irisin history. Interestingly, in the hippocampus of mice, exercise increases FNDC5 levels and upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. BDNF, displaying neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory effects, is mainly produced by microglia and astrocytes. In this review, we discuss how these glial cells can morphologically and functionally switch during neuroinflammation by modulating the expression of a plethora of neuroprotective or neurotoxic factors. We also focus on studies investigating the irisin role in neurodegenerative diseases (ND). The emerging involvement of irisin as a mediator of the multiple positive effects of exercise on the brain needs further studies to better deepen this issue and the potential use in therapeutic approaches for neuroinflammation and ND.

Exercise interventions do not impact brain volume change in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Exercise interventions have been shown to positively impact cognitive function in older adults, but the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of exercise on the brain are not well understood. Here, we aimed to synthesize and quantitatively analyze the current literature on exercise interventions and brain volume change in older adults and to examine the impact of key demographic and intervention features as well as study quality. This study was pre-registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018091866). EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, Embase, and reference lists were searched to identify randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise interventions for healthy older adults and older adults (60+) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A total of 69 effects from 14 studies were pooled and expressed as Hedge's g using a random-effects model. Results indicated that there was no significant difference in brain volume outcomes for older adults that completed an exercise intervention compared to older adults in control groups (g = 0.012, p = 0.728, 95% CI = -0.055, .078). These results were confirmed using multilevel analysis to account for nesting of effects within studies (g = 0.009, p = 0.826, 95% CI = -0.072, 0.090) and using conservative post-hoc models to address possible non-independence of multiple outcome domains and sample nonindependence. No significant heterogeneity was detected, limiting moderator analyses. The implications for future research are discussed.

Impact of aerobic exercise on cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia during daily nursing: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of aerobic exercise (AE) on cognition function in people with schizophrenia (SZ) during daily nursing.

METHODS

The literature search will be conducted via PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Weighted mean difference (WMD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) will be adopted to calculate the association between AE and cognitive function in patients with SZ. Publication bias will be performed by Begg test. When there is publication bias, "cut-and-fill method" will be adopted to adjust publication bias. Sensitivity analysis will be used to test the stability of the result. When the heterogeneity is large (I2 ≥ 50%), meta regression will be used to explore the source of inter-study heterogeneity. When the heterogeneity is large (I2 ≥ 50%) and the results are statistically significant (P < .05), age, sex, duration of disease, duration of intervention, amount of exercise per week, improvement of cardiopulmonary health, and other factors will be sub-analyzed.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis will evaluate the impact of aerobic exercise on cognitive function in patients with SZ during daily nursing on the basis of existing evidence.

OSF REGISTRATION NUMBER

10.17605/OSF.IO/C8ABX.

Health-promoting behaviours and concussion history are associated with cognitive function, mood-related symptoms and emotional-behavioural dyscontrol in former NFL players: an NFL-LONG Study

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relationships among self-reported sport-related concussion (SRC) history and current health-promoting behaviours (exercise frequency, diet quality and sleep duration) with self-reported measures of brain health (cognitive function, symptoms of depression and anxiety and emotional-behavioural dyscontrol) in former NFL players.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was sent to former NFL players. Respondents reported SRC history (categorical: 0; 1-2; 3-5; 6-9; 10+ concussions), number of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic and resistance exercise sessions per week, diet quality (Rapid Eating Assessment for Participants-Shortened) and average nightly sleep duration. Outcomes were Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Cognitive Function, Depression, and Anxiety, and Neuro-QoL Emotional-Behavioral Dyscontrol domain T-scores. Multivariable linear regression models were fit for each outcome with SRC history, exercise frequency, diet quality and sleep duration as explanatory variables alongside select covariates.

RESULTS

Multivariable regression models (n=1784) explained approximately 33%-38% of the variance in each outcome. For all outcomes, SRC history (0.144≤|β|≤0.217) was associated with poorer functioning, while exercise frequency (0.064≤|β|≤0.088) and diet quality (0.057≤|β|≤0.086) were associated with better functioning. Sleeping under 6 hours per night (0.061≤|β|≤0.093) was associated with worse depressive symptoms, anxiety and emotional-behavioural dyscontrol.

CONCLUSION

Several variables appear to be associated with mood and perceived cognitive function in former NFL players. SRC history is non-modifiable in former athletes; however, the effects of increasing postplaying career exercise frequency, making dietary improvements, and obtaining adequate sleep represent important potential opportunities for preventative and therapeutic interventions.

Possible Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Physical Exercise in Neurodegeneration

Physical exercise (PE) improves physical performance, mental status, general health, and well-being. It does so by affecting many mechanisms at the cellular and molecular level. PE is beneficial for people suffering from neuro-degenerative diseases because it improves the production of neurotrophic factors, neurotransmitters, and hormones. PE promotes neuronal survival and neuroplasticity and also optimizes neuroendocrine and physiological responses to psychosocial and physical stress. PE sensitizes the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and central nervous system (CNS) by promoting many processes such as synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and autophagy. Overall, it carries out many protective and preventive activities such as improvements in memory, cognition, sleep and mood; growth of new blood vessels in nervous system; and the reduction of stress, anxiety, neuro-inflammation, and insulin resistance. In the present work, the protective effects of PE were overviewed. Suitable examples from the current research work in this context are also given in the article.

MRI-based biomarkers of accelerated aging and dementia risk in midlife: how close are we?

The global population is aging, leading to an increasing burden of age-related neurodegenerative disease. Efforts to intervene against age-related dementias in older adults have generally proven ineffective. These failures suggest that a lifetime of brain aging may be difficult to reverse once widespread deterioration has occurred. To test interventions in younger populations, biomarkers of brain aging are needed that index subtle signs of accelerated brain deterioration that are part of the putative pathway to dementia. Here I review potential MRI-based biomarkers that could connect midlife brain aging to later life dementia. I survey the literature with three questions in mind, 1) Does the biomarker index age-related changes across the lifespan? 2) Does the biomarker index cognitive ability and cognitive decline? 3) Is the biomarker sensitive to known risk factors for dementia? I find that while there is preliminary support for some midlife MRI-based biomarkers for accelerated aging, the longitudinal research that would best answer these questions is still in its infancy and needs to be further developed. I conclude with suggestions for future research.

Better Executive Function Is Associated With Faster On-Transition Aerobic Metabolism Among Older Adults

The present study aimed to examine relationships between executive function (EF) and variables of aerobic fitness. Participants were 32 healthy older adults (M age = 65.1, SD = 6.6 years). We measured the first ventilatory threshold (VeT₁) and the kinetics of oxygen uptake (V˙O₂), heart rate (HR), and muscle deoxygenation [HHb] during treadmill walking of either constant, moderate intensity, or increasing intensity. We assessed EF with a computerized Stroop test and Stroop measures of correct answers, reaction time, and percent interference. We found the Stroop interference score to be negatively associated with the VeT₁ (r = -0.387, p = 0.031) and positively associated with the on-transition aerobic metabolism time constant (τ) of HR (r = 0.519, p = 0.003), V˙O₂ (r = 0.454; p = 0.010), and [HHb] (r = 0.644, p = 0.001). Correct responses were negatively related with τHR (r = -0.372, p = 0.039) and τV˙O₂ (r = -0.500, p = 0.004). The Stroop average reaction time, congruent reaction time and incongruent reaction time were positively related to τ[HHb] (r = 0.507, p = 0.010; r = 0.437, p = 0.029; r = 0.558, p = 0.004, respectively). Better EF was associated with faster on-transition aerobic metabolism and higher aerobic fitness among older adults.

Effects of 12-month exercise intervention on physical and cognitive functions of nursing home residents requiring long-term care: a non-randomised pilot study

AIMS

We performed a 12-month exercise intervention for 'nursing home for the elderly' residents requiring long-term care. We evaluated changes in their muscular strength, muscle mass, and cognitive function.

METHODS

Thirty-seven nursing home residents (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): 14.7 ± 7.0, Barthel Index: 44.2 ± 18.9) were enrolled. We divided the participants into the exercise intervention group (n = 19) and non-intervention group (n = 18) ensuring no significant difference in the participants' characteristics at baseline. For the exercise intervention group, exercise was performed for about 40 min twice a week for 12 months. Skeletal Mass Index and grip force were determined to evaluate muscle mass and muscle strength, respectively. MMSE, Trail Making Test (TMT) part A, and Geriatric Depression Scale 15 (GDS15) were used for cognitive function evaluation, with their changes investigated.

RESULTS

After 12 months, the MMSE scores were significantly improved in the exercise intervention group compared with the non-intervention group (change from baseline to 12 months: Non-intervention: -1.0 ± 2.8, Intervention: 1.2 ± 3.0; P = 0.04). Moreover, the grip force of the dominant arm was significantly improved in the exercise intervention group compared with the non-intervention group (change from baseline to 12 months: Non-intervention: -1.3 ± 2.8 kg, Intervention: 1.4 ± 4.6 kg; P = 0.007). The prevalence of sarcopenia was significantly increased after 12 months compared with baseline in the non-intervention group (Non-intervention: 61.1% → 75.0%, Intervention: 77.8% → 71.4%; P < 0.02). There were no significant changes in GDS15, Barthel Index and TMT after 12 months in intervention and non-intervention groups.

CONCLUSION

Exercise intervention may be effectively used for improving the physical and cognitive functions of nursing home residents requiring long-term care.

Mindfulness, Education, and Exercise for age-related cognitive decline: Study protocol, pilot study results, and description of the baseline sample

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Age-related cognitive decline is a pervasive problem in our aging population. To date, no pharmacological treatments to halt or reverse cognitive decline are available. Behavioral interventions, such as physical exercise and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, may reduce or reverse cognitive decline, but rigorously designed randomized controlled trials are needed to test the efficacy of such interventions.

METHODS

Here, we describe the design of the Mindfulness, Education, and Exercise study, an 18-month randomized controlled trial that will assess the effect of two interventions-mindfulness training plus moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise or moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise alone-compared with a health education control group on cognitive function in older adults. An extensive battery of biobehavioral assessments will be used to understand the mechanisms of cognitive remediation, by using structural and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and metabolic and behavioral assessments.

RESULTS

We provide the results from a preliminary study (n = 29) of non-randomized pilot participants who received both the exercise and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction interventions. We also provide details on the recruitment and baseline characteristics of the randomized controlled trial sample (n = 585).

CONCLUSION

When complete, the Mindfulness, Education, and Exercise study will inform the research community on the efficacy of these widely available interventions improve cognitive functioning in older adults.

The Impact of Physical Activities on Cognitive Performance among Healthy Older Individuals

The population is aging in developed countries. This aging process results in many changes, both physical and mental. Over the years, there has been a gradual decline in the level of cognitive functions closely related to the ageing process, which is most often connected with ageing diseases such as dementia. So far, pharmacological treatment has not yet been able to cure this neurological disorder. Health policies around the world seek to find alternative programs and strategies to help a healthy population prevent cognitive decline and prolong active life. One such strategy appears to be physical activity. The aim of this review is to discuss the impact of physical activity on cognitive performance among healthy older individuals. The methodology of this study is based on a systematic electronic literature search of available studies found in three databases: PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. The findings suggest that any physical activity in older age seems to have a positive impact on the improvement of cognitive function. Furthermore, it appears that dancing, due to its multiple mechanisms, might have the biggest effect on the enhancement of cognitive performance in healthy older individuals. However, controlled clinical trials of physical activity intervention in older adults are rare. Therefore, further research in this area (particularly on the amount of physical activity, its intensity and type) is needed.

Potential Indirect Mechanisms of Cognitive Enhancement After Long-Term Resistance Training in Older Adults

The prevalence of dementia and other age-associated cognitive disorders is steadily increasing worldwide. With no cure after diagnosis, successful treatment likely requires maximum adherence to preventative countermeasures. Many potential risk factors are modifiable through exercise. Specifically, mounting evidence suggests that long-term resistance training (RT) can help maintain cognitive abilities with aging and have additional benefits to overall brain health. Physical therapists are uniquely positioned to administer such clinical interventions designed to slow disease progression. However, a neuroscientific foundation for these benefits must be established to justify the integration of RT for brain health into practice. The mechanisms of cognitive decline are commonly linked to fundamental processes of aging. Even healthy older adults experience decreases in physical capacity, vascular function, brain structure and function, glucose regulation, inflammation, mood, and sleep quality. Yet, clinical trials involving RT in older adults have consistently demonstrated improvements in each of these systems with concomitant enhancement of cognitive performance. Beneficial adaptations may indirectly or directly mediate benefits to brain function, and understanding this relationship can help us develop optimal intervention strategies for the aging population.