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Scognamiglio S, Aljohani YM, Olson TT, Forcelli PA, Dezfuli G, Kellar KJ. Restoration of norepinephrine release, cognitive performance, and dendritic spines by amphetamine in aged rat brain. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14087. [PMID: 38332648 PMCID: PMC11019150 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14087] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related dysfunctions in specific neurotransmitter systems likely play an important role in cognitive decline even in its most subtle forms. Therefore, preservation or improvement of cognition via augmentation of neurotransmission is a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent further cognitive deficits. Here we identified a particular neuronal vulnerability in the aged Fischer 344 rat brain, an animal model of neurocognitive aging. Specifically, we demonstrated a marked impairment in glutamate-stimulated release of norepinephrine (NE) in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of aged rats, and established that this release was mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Further, we also demonstrated that this decrease in NE release is fully rescued by the psychostimulant drug amphetamine (AMPH). Moreover, we showed that AMPH increases dendritic spine maturation, and importantly shows preclinical efficacy in restoring memory deficits in the aged rat through its actions to potentiate NE neurotransmission at β-adrenergic receptors. Taken together, our results suggest that deficits in glutamate-stimulated release of NE may contribute to and possibly be a determinant of neuronal vulnerability underlying cognitive decline during aging, and that these deficits can be corrected with currently available drugs. Overall these studies suggest that repurposing of psychostimulants for age-associated cognitive deficits is a potential avenue to delay or prevent cognitive decline and/or frank dementia later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Scognamiglio
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
| | - Yousef M. Aljohani
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
| | - Thao T. Olson
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
| | - Patrick A. Forcelli
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
| | - Ghazaul Dezfuli
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
| | - Kenneth J. Kellar
- Department of Pharmacology & PhysiologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashington, DCUSA
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Xavier Hall CD, Okantey B, Meng Z, Sabuncu C, Lane B, Millender E, Queiroz A, Kim JH, Okada L, Gillespie A, Simoncini G, Barile J‘JP, Ma GX, Wong F‘FY. Examining biopsychosocial predictors of risk for cognitive impairment among a racially diverse sample of men who have sex with men living with HIV. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2024; 11:20499361241249657. [PMID: 38751756 PMCID: PMC11095190 DOI: 10.1177/20499361241249657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cognitive decline among people living with HIV (PLWH) is growing concern as world populations become increasing older including higher proportions of PLWH. It is vitally important to understand psychosocial predictors of age-related cognitive decline men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. Objectives The current study seeks to examine psychosocial risk factors the contribute to the risk of age-related cognitive impairment as measured by Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE) score in a racially diverse sample of MSM living with HIV. Design The present analysis utilizes data from the baseline (n = 196) and 6-month follow-up (n = 135) time points of a longitudinal cohort study of PLWH. Methods Using a self-report survey, we examine the associations between psychosocial predictors (e.g. trauma, mental health, chronic pain, sleep disturbance, etc.) and risk of dementia using the CAIDE risk score. Analyses include linear and logistic regression. Results In adjusted model stress, chronic pain, Black racial identity, and having a sexual identity that is bisexual or another category are all positively associated with CAIDE scores. Childhood sexual abuse history was negatively associated with CAIDE scores indicating a protective effect. Sleep disorder has a positive association with CAIDE scores after adjusting for the baseline CAIDE scores. Conclusion These results indicate modifiable correlates of cognitive risk (stress and chronic pain). Interventions should seek to address these comorbid factors including the consideration of minority stress and stigma. Interventions should seek to reach Black and bisexual men living with HIV, including possible cultural tailoring to interventions and messaging. Lastly, future research should examine the impact of variation within childhood sexual abuse histories to better understand their association with cognitive impairment later in life. This may include considering the nature, severity, and potential treatment of trauma symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey D. Xavier Hall
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, 2010 Levy Avenue, Innovation Park, Building B, Suite 3600, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Beth Okantey
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Zhuo Meng
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Crim Sabuncu
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Brittany Lane
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Eugenia Millender
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Artur Queiroz
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jung Hyo Kim
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Lorie Okada
- University of Hawaii, Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Avrum Gillespie
- Department of Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gina Simoncini
- Center of Asian Health, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- AIDS Healthcare Foundation Healthcare Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Grace X. Ma
- Center of Asian Health, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Urban Health and Population Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Frank ‘Frankie’ Y. Wong
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Goelman G, Dan R, Bezdicek O, Jech R. Directed functional connectivity of the sensorimotor system in young and older individuals. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1222352. [PMID: 37881361 PMCID: PMC10597721 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1222352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Studies in the sensorimotor system of older versus young individuals have shown alterations in functional connectivity and organization. Our objective was to explore the implications of these differences in terms of local organizations, and to identify processes that correlate with neuropsychological parameters. Methods Using a novel multivariate analysis method on resting-state functional MRI data obtained from 50 young and 31 older healthy individuals, we identified directed 4-node functional pathways within the sensorimotor system and examined their correlations with neuropsychological assessments. Results In young individuals, the functional pathways were unidirectional, flowing from the primary motor and sensory cortices to higher motor and visual regions. In older individuals, the functional pathways were more complex. They originated either from the calcarine sulcus or the insula and passed through mutually coupled high-order motor areas before reaching the primary sensory and motor cortices. Additionally, the pathways in older individuals that resembled those found in young individuals exhibited a positive correlation with years of education. Discussion The flow pattern of young individuals suggests efficient and fast information transfer. In contrast, the mutual coupling of high-order motor regions in older individuals suggests an inefficient and slow transfer, a less segregated and a more integrated organization. The differences in the number of sensorimotor pathways and of their directionality suggests reduced efferent degenerated pathways and increased afferent compensated pathways. Furthermore, the positive effect of years of education may be associated with the Cognitive Reserve Hypothesis, implying that cognitive reserve could be maintained through specific information transfer pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gadi Goelman
- Department of Neurology, Ginges Center of Neurogenetics Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rotem Dan
- Department of Neurology, Ginges Center of Neurogenetics Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ondrej Bezdicek
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Robert Jech
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Rena M, Fancourt D, Bu F, Paul E, Sonke JK, Bone JK. Receptive and participatory arts engagement and subsequent healthy aging: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study. Soc Sci Med 2023; 334:116198. [PMID: 37672847 PMCID: PMC11157693 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Arts engagement is associated with prolonged longevity, but it remains unclear whether it is also associated with increases in the portion of people's lives for which they remain healthy. We investigated whether receptive and participatory arts engagement were associated with healthy aging two and four years later. METHOD We included 1269 older adults from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal study of individuals aged 50 and above in the United States. Participants who completed the HRS 2014 Culture and the Arts Module and who were alive in 2016 and 2018 were eligible. We measured the number of participatory arts activities engaged in (e.g., crafts, dancing) and frequency of receptive arts engagement (e.g., going to a gallery or performance) in the past year. Healthy aging was a binary outcome, conceptualized as no major chronic diseases, no cognitive impairment, good physical functioning, and good mental health. RESULTS In logistic regression models, doing receptive arts once a month or more was associated with higher odds of healthy aging four years later compared to never engaging (odds ratio [OR] = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.10, 2.96). However, this evidence was attenuated after adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic covariates (adjusted OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 0.84, 2.46). The number of participatory arts activities engaged in was not associated with healthy aging two or four years later. In sensitivity analyses, there was some evidence that receptive engagement was associated specifically with higher odds of good physical functioning four years later. CONCLUSIONS The lack of consistent associations between receptive and participatory arts engagement and healthy aging was unexpected given previous evidence for links between arts engagement and each of the four domains of healthy aging. Our findings highlight key methodological issues that should be explored in further research with larger nationally representative samples, longer follow-ups, and more detailed measures of arts engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Rena
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Feifei Bu
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Elise Paul
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jill K Sonke
- Center for Arts in Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jessica K Bone
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK.
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Bone JK, Fancourt D, Sonke JK, Bu F. Participatory and Receptive Arts Engagement in Older Adults: Associations with Cognition Over a Seven-Year Period. CREATIVITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 2023; 36:436-450. [PMID: 39140023 PMCID: PMC11318508 DOI: 10.1080/10400419.2023.2247241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
There is growing evidence for the impact of arts engagement on later life cognition. However, confounding by socioeconomic factors may have led to an overestimation of this association. We analyzed data from 4,344 older adults in the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study. We measured participatory (e.g. painting, making music, crafts) and receptive (e.g. concert, play, museum) arts engagement separately. Participants completed six neurocognitive tests measuring two distinct domains of cognitive function (episodic/working memory and executive function/language) concurrently and seven years later. We used inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to remove confounding by a range of demographic and socioeconomic factors. Engaging in participatory or receptive arts for up to one hour per week (but not more frequently) was associated with better subsequent executive function/language. Similarly, engaging in receptive arts activities for up to three hours per week (but not more frequently) was associated with better subsequent episodic/working memory. These effects were of similar sizes to doing vigorous physical activity for up to one hour per week. However, our findings also highlight key methodological issues when exploring the relationship between arts engagement and cognition that should be considered in future studies, including measurement bias, life-course stage, length of follow-up, variation in outcomes, attrition, and missing data.
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Ahmadzadeh M, Christie GJ, Cosco TD, Arab A, Mansouri M, Wagner KR, DiPaola S, Moreno S. Neuroimaging and machine learning for studying the pathways from mild cognitive impairment to alzheimer's disease: a systematic review. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:309. [PMID: 37608251 PMCID: PMC10463866 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03323-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review synthesizes the most recent neuroimaging procedures and machine learning approaches for the prediction of conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease dementia. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematic review guidelines. RESULTS Our search returned 2572 articles, 56 of which met the criteria for inclusion in the final selection. The multimodality framework and deep learning techniques showed potential for predicting the conversion of MCI to AD dementia. CONCLUSION Findings of this systematic review identified that the possibility of using neuroimaging data processed by advanced learning algorithms is promising for the prediction of AD progression. We also provided a detailed description of the challenges that researchers are faced along with future research directions. The protocol has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews- CRD42019133402 and published in the Systematic Reviews journal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ahmadzadeh
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, 250 - 13450 102 Ave, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Gregory J Christie
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, 250 - 13450 102 Ave, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Theodore D Cosco
- Gerontology Research Center, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ali Arab
- Department of Computing Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Mehrdad Mansouri
- Department of Computing Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Kevin R Wagner
- Gerontology Research Center, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Steve DiPaola
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, 250 - 13450 102 Ave, Surrey, BC, Canada.
| | - Sylvain Moreno
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, 250 - 13450 102 Ave, Surrey, BC, Canada
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Ahmadzadeh M, Cosco TD, Best JR, Christie GJ, DiPaola S. Predictors of the rate of cognitive decline in older adults using machine learning. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280029. [PMID: 36867596 PMCID: PMC9983884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The longitudinal rates of cognitive decline among aging populations are heterogeneous. Few studies have investigated the possibility of implementing prognostic models to predict cognitive changes with the combination of categorical and continuous data from multiple domains. OBJECTIVE Implement a multivariate robust model to predict longitudinal cognitive changes over 12 years among older adults and to identify the most significant predictors of cognitive changes using machine learning techniques. METHOD In total, data of 2733 participants aged 50-85 years from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing are included. Two categories of cognitive changes were determined including minor cognitive decliners (2361 participants, 86.4%) and major cognitive decliners (372 participants, 13.6%) over 12 years from wave 2 (2004-2005) to wave 8 (2016-2017). Machine learning methods were used to implement the predictive models and to identify the predictors of cognitive decline using 43 baseline features from seven domains including sociodemographic, social engagement, health, physical functioning, psychological, health-related behaviors, and baseline cognitive tests. RESULTS The model predicted future major cognitive decliners from those with the minor cognitive decline with a relatively high performance. The overall AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of prediction were 72.84%, 78.23%, and 67.41%, respectively. Furthermore, the top 7 ranked features with an important role in predicting major vs minor cognitive decliners included age, employment status, socioeconomic status, self-rated memory changes, immediate word recall, the feeling of loneliness, and vigorous physical activity. In contrast, the five least important baseline features consisted of smoking, instrumental activities of daily living, eye disease, life satisfaction, and cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSION The present study indicated the possibility of identifying individuals at high risk of future major cognitive decline as well as potential risk/protective factors of cognitive decline among older adults. The findings could assist in improving the effective interventions to delay cognitive decline among aging populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ahmadzadeh
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Theodore David Cosco
- Gerontology Research Center, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - John R. Best
- Gerontology Research Center, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Steve DiPaola
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Song S, Gaynor AM, Gazes Y, Lee S, Xu Q, Habeck C, Stern Y, Gu Y. Physical activity moderates the association between white matter hyperintensity burden and cognitive change. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:945645. [PMID: 36313016 PMCID: PMC9610117 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.945645] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Greater physical activity (PA) could delay cognitive decline, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. White matter hyperintensity (WMH) burden is one of the key brain pathologies that have been shown to predict faster cognitive decline at a late age. One possible pathway is that PA may help maintain cognition by mitigating the detrimental effects of brain pathologies, like WMH, on cognitive change. This study aims to examine whether PA moderates the association between WMH burden and cognitive change. Materials and methods This population-based longitudinal study included 198 dementia-free adults aged 20-80 years. Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) was assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. Occupational physical activity (OPA) was a factor score measuring the physical demands of each job. Total physical activity (TPA) was operationalized as the average of z-scores of LTPA and OPA. Outcome variables included 5-year changes in global cognition and in four reference abilities (fluid reasoning, processing speed, memory, and vocabulary). Multivariable linear regression models were used to estimate the moderation effect of PA on the association between white matter hyperintensities and cognitive change, adjusting for age, sex, education, and baseline cognition. Results Over approximately 5 years, global cognition (p < 0.001), reasoning (p < 0.001), speed (p < 0.001), and memory (p < 0.05) scores declined, and vocabulary (p < 0.001) increased. Higher WMH burden was correlated with more decline in global cognition (Spearman's rho = -0.229, p = 0.001), reasoning (rho = -0.402, p < 0.001), and speed (rho = -0.319, p < 0.001), and less increase in vocabulary (rho = -0.316, p < 0.001). Greater TPA attenuated the association between WMH burden and changes in reasoning (βTPA^*WMH = 0.029, 95% CI = 0.006-0.052, p = 0.013), speed (βTPA^*WMH = 0.035, 95% CI = -0.004-0.065, p = 0.028), and vocabulary (βTPA^*WMH = 0.034, 95% CI = 0.004-0.065, p = 0.029). OPA seemed to be the factor that exerted a stronger moderation on the relationship between WMH burden and cognitive change. Conclusion Physical activity may help maintain reasoning, speed, and vocabulary abilities in face of WMH burden. The cognitive reserve potential of PA warrants further examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhang Song
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Alexandra M. Gaynor
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yunglin Gazes
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Seonjoo Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Qianhui Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, Joseph P. Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Christian Habeck
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yaakov Stern
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yian Gu
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Joseph P. Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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Rodrigues EA, Christie GJ, Farzan F, Moreno S. Does cognitive aging follow an orchid and dandelion phenomenon? Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:986262. [PMID: 36299615 PMCID: PMC9588970 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.986262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive reserve reflects the brain’s intrinsic adaptive capacity against the neurodegenerative effects of aging. The maintenance or enhancement of the brain’s cognitive reserve plays a crucial role in mitigating the severity of pathologies associated with aging. A new movement, social prescribing, which focuses on prescribing lifestyle activities as a treatment for patients, is growing in popularity as a solution against aging pathologies. However, few studies have demonstrated a clear impact of lifestyle activities on individual cognitive health, outside of floor and ceiling effects. Understanding who benefits from which lifestyle factors remains unclear. Here, we investigated the potential effects of lifestyle activities on individuals’ cognitive health from more than 3,530 older adults using a stratification method and advanced analysis technique. Our stratification methods allowed us to observe a new result: older adults who had relatively average cognitive scores were not impacted by lifestyle factors. By comparison, older adults with very high or very low cognitive scores were highly impacted by lifestyle factors. These findings expand the orchid and dandelion theory to the aging field, regarding the biological sensitivity of individuals to harmful and protective environmental effects. Our discoveries demonstrate the role of individual differences in the aging process and its importance for social prescribing programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma A. Rodrigues
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | | | - Faranak Farzan
- School of Mechatronics and Systems Engineering, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Sylvain Moreno
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
- Circle Innovation, Surrey, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Sylvain Moreno,
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The effectiveness of physical exercise interventions in the management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia patients: a systematic review. Int Psychogeriatr 2022; 34:177-190. [PMID: 33818342 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610221000193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in patients with dementia is a major challenge. Since no effective therapy has been found to date and drug treatments are associatedwith significant side effects, there seems to be a pressing need for alternative non-pharmacological interventions. OBJECTIVES The current study aims to investigate and compare the effect of different types of physical exercise on the NPS. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Five databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, SPORT Discus, Web of science and ScienceDirect) were searched using the appropriate algorithm. What was sought out was randomized control trials (RCTs) that applied physical activity interventions with specific characteristics (type, frequency, intensity, and duration) in patients with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, studied the effect of exercise on their NPS and compared this effect with a control group that did not follow an exercise program. RESULTS From 512 articles, 13 studies were included in this review, involving a total of 1,925 patients. The results were analyzed and synthesized according to the type of exercise applied - aerobic exercise, multidimensional interventions and muscular strength training programs. In particular, the results showed that repetitive aerobic exercise three to five times a week had a positive effect on NPS, whereas multidimensional interventions combining different types of exercise did not appear to be as effective. Strength training programs have been found to significantly reduce depression symptoms and behavioral problems in demented patients with mobility problems. CONCLUSIONS There is clear evidence that physical activity and especially aerobic exercise may be effective in the management of NPS. However, it is necessary to apply specific practical recommendations and specially designed programs to incorporate physical exercise into the daily routine of these patients.
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Krakovska O, Christie GJ, Farzan F, Sixsmith A, Ester M, Moreno S. Healthy memory aging - the benefits of regular daily activities increase with age. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:25643-25652. [PMID: 34915450 PMCID: PMC8751597 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
As the number of older adults increases, so does the pressure on health care systems due to age-related disorders. Attempts to reduce cognitive decline have focused on individual interventions such as exercise or diet, with limited success. This study adopted a different approach by investigating the impact of combined daily activities on memory decline. We used data from the National Institute of Aging’s Health and Retirement Study to explore two new questions: does combining activities affect memory decline, and if yes, does this impact change across the lifespan? We created a new machine learning model using 33 daily activities and involving 3210 participants. Our results showed that the effect of combined activities on memory decline was stronger than any individual activity’s impact. Moreover, this effect increased with age, whereas the importance of historical factors such as education, and baseline memory decreased. The present findings point out the importance of selecting multiple, diverse activities for older adults as they age. These results could have a significant impact on aging health policies promoting new programs such as social prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Krakovska
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Faranak Farzan
- Centre for Engineering-led Brain Research (eBrain Lab), Surrey, BC, Canada
- School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew Sixsmith
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Martin Ester
- School of Computer Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Sylvain Moreno
- The School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
- AGE-WELL National Innovation Hub: Digital Health Circle, Surrey, BC, Canada
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12
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Montejo L, Solé B, Verdolini N, Martínez-Arán A, Bonnín CDM, Radua J, Martín-Villalba I, Williams E, García-Rizo C, Mezquida G, Bernardo M, Vieta E, Torrent C, Amoretti S. Self-reported neurocognitive symptoms during COVID-19 lockdown and its associated factors in a sample of psychiatric patients. Results from the BRIS-MHC study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 53:7-18. [PMID: 34348213 PMCID: PMC8619656 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Lockdown caused by COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on mental health. The aim was to assess self-reported neurocognitive symptoms during the lockdown and identify associated vulnerable and protective factors in a sample of psychiatric patients in a Spanish population. These results are part of the Barcelona ResIlience Survey for Mental Health COVID-19 (BRIS-MHC) project. Neurocognitive symptoms were assessed through an online survey considering the five items that represented self-reported neurocognitive complaints. We split the sample into two groups based on the severity of the self-reported neurocognitive complaints: intact cognitive function/mild cognitive impairment (CI-) and moderate/severe cognitive impairment (CI+). Univariate analyses were used to compare both groups in terms of sociodemographic and clinical variables. Multiple logistic regression models were carried out to identify clinical variables and coping strategies associated with neurocognitive symptoms. 198 patients with different psychiatric diagnoses were included in this study. One hundred seventeen patients were classified in the CI- group and 81 in the CI+ group. Depressive symptoms and negative psychotic-like symptoms were vulnerable factors for neurocognitive impairment. Coping strategies of performing physical activity, carrying out relaxing activities and maintaining a routine were protective factors against cognitive impairment. Lockdown situation negatively impact on neurocognitive function. Psychopathological symptoms and coping strategies were associated with neurocognitive symptoms during lockdown in subjects with psychiatric illness. The early treatment of psychopathological symptoms in psychiatric patients and promoting coping strategies during lockdown should be considered an intervention strategy against cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Montejo
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Brisa Solé
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Norma Verdolini
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Anabel Martínez-Arán
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Caterina Del Mar Bonnín
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Radua
- Imaging of Mood- and Anxiety-Related Disorders (IMARD) Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-detection (EPIC) Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Inés Martín-Villalba
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Evelin Williams
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Clemente García-Rizo
- Barcelona Clinic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Neuroscience Institute, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gisela Mezquida
- Barcelona Clinic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Neuroscience Institute, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Bernardo
- Barcelona Clinic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Neuroscience Institute, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Carla Torrent
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Silvia Amoretti
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institute of Neuroscience, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, c/Villarroel, 170, 12-0, 08036 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Barcelona Clinic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Neuroscience Institute, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
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13
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Yang CH, Hakun JG, Roque N, Sliwinski MJ, Conroy DE. Mindful walking and cognition in older adults: A proof of concept study using in-lab and ambulatory cognitive measures. Prev Med Rep 2021; 23:101490. [PMID: 34336559 PMCID: PMC8313589 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness practice and walking have been linked individually to sustain cognition in older adults. This early-phase study aimed to establish proof-of-concept by evaluating whether an intervention that integrates light-intensity walking with mindfulness practices shows promising signs of improving cognition in older adults. Participants (N = 25, Mage = 72.4 ± 6.45) were community-dwelling older adults who engaged in a supervised mindful walking program over one month (8 sessions total, 2 sessions per week, 30-minute slow walking containing mindfulness skills). They completed performance-based and subjective ratings of cognitive measures in field before and after two mindful walking bouts using a smartphone app. They also completed in-lab performance-based and self-report cognitive measures at baseline and after the entire program. Controlling for demographics, potential covariates, and time trends, short-term improvements in perceived cognition and processing speed were observed from pre- to post-mindful walking sessions (i.e., 30 min) across multiple ambulatory cognitive measures (Cohen's ds range = 0.46-0.66). Longer-term improvements in processing speed and executive function were observed between baseline and end of the program (i.e., one month) across various performance-based cognitive measures (ds range = 0.43-1.28). No significant changes were observed for other cognitive domains. This early-phase study (Phase IIa) provides preliminary support that mindful walking activity is promising for sustaining cognition in older adults. Our promising findings form the building blocks of evidence needed to advance this intervention to a fully powered randomized controlled trial that examines program efficacy with a comparator. Favorable outcomes will inform the development of this lifestyle behavioral strategy for promoting healthy brain aging in late adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Hsiang Yang
- Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, USA
| | - Jonathan G. Hakun
- Departments of Neurology, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
- Departments of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - Nelson Roque
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - Martin J. Sliwinski
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - David E. Conroy
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
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14
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Arab A, Christie GJ, Mansouri M, Ahmadzadeh M, Sixsmith A, Ester M, Moreno S. Moderate-Intensity Physical Activity, Music and Art Activities Preserved Cognitive Health in Older Adults: An Argument for Social Prescribing Solution. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:693791. [PMID: 34483879 PMCID: PMC8415746 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.693791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Rates of dementia are projected to increase over the coming years as global populations age. Without a treatment to slow the progression of dementia, many health policies are focusing on preventing dementia by slowing the rate of cognitive decline with age. However, it is unclear which lifestyle changes in old age meaningfully reduce the rate of cognitive decline associated with aging. Objectives: Use existing, multi-year longitudinal health data to determine if engagement in a variety of different lifestyle activities can slow the rate of cognitive decline as older adults age. Method: Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging was analyzed using a quasi-experimental, efficient matched-pair design inspired by the clinical trial methodology. Changes in short-term memory scores were assessed over a multi-year interval for groups who undertook one of 11 different lifestyle activities, compared to control groups matched across confounding socioeconomic and lifestyle factors. Results: Two factors, moderate-intensity physical activity and learning activities, resulted in significant positive impact on cognitive function. Conclusion: Our analysis brings cognitive benefit arguments in favor of two lifestyle activities, moderate-intensity physical activity and learning activities, while rejecting other factors advanced by the literature such as vigorous-intensity physical activity. Those findings justify and encourage the development of new lifestyle health programs by health authorities and bring forward the new health system solution, social prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Arab
- School of Computing Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Gregory J. Christie
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Science and Technology for Aging Research Institute, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Mehrdad Mansouri
- School of Computing Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Maryam Ahmadzadeh
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew Sixsmith
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Martin Ester
- School of Computing Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Sylvain Moreno
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Science and Technology for Aging Research Institute, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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15
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Kokubun K, Pineda JCD, Yamakawa Y. Unhealthy lifestyles and brain condition: Examining the relations of BMI, living alone, alcohol intake, short sleep, smoking, and lack of exercise with gray matter volume. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255285. [PMID: 34329345 PMCID: PMC8323871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Unhealthy lifestyles are damaging to the brain. Previous studies have indicated that body mass index (BMI), alcohol intake, short sleep, smoking, and lack of exercise are negatively associated with gray matter volume (GMV). Living alone has also been found to be related to GMV through lowered subjective happiness. However, to our knowledge, no GMV study has dealt with these unhealthy lifestyles simultaneously. By our analyses based on 142 healthy Japanese participants, BMI, alcohol intake, living alone, and short sleep were negatively associated with the gray-matter brain healthcare quotient (GM-BHQ), an MRI-based normalized GMV, after controlling for age, sex, and facility, not only individually but also when they were entered into a single regression model. Moreover, there were small but significant differences in the proportion of the variance for GM-BHQ explained by variables in a regression model (measured by R squared) between when these unhealthy variables were entered in an equation at the same time and when they were entered separately, with the former larger than the latter. However, smoking and lack of exercise were not significantly associated with GM-BHQ. Results indicate that some kinds of unhealthy lifestyles are somewhat harmful on their own, but may become more noxious to brain condition if practiced simultaneously, although its difference may not be large. To our knowledge, this study is the first to show that overlapping unhealthy lifestyles affects the brains of healthy adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Kokubun
- Open Innovation Institute, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Yoshinori Yamakawa
- Open Innovation Institute, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- ImPACT Program of Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (Cabinet Office, Government of Japan), Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan
- Office for Academic and Industrial Innovation, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
- Brain Impact, Kyoto, Japan
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16
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McGurk SR, Otto MW, Fulford D, Cutler Z, Mulcahy LP, Talluri SS, Qiu WQ, Gan Q, Tran I, Turner L, DeTore NR, Zawacki SA, Khare C, Pillai A, Mueser KT. A randomized controlled trial of exercise on augmenting the effects of cognitive remediation in persons with severe mental illness. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 139:38-46. [PMID: 34022474 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary evidence suggests that aerobic exercise may augment the effects of cognitive remediation on improving cognitive functioning in severe mental illness. It has also been hypothesized that increases in cognitive functioning associated with adding exercise are mediated by increases in brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). However, rigorous controlled trials are lacking. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted to explore whether adding a 30-h aerobic exercise program over 10 weeks to an equally intensive cognitive remediation program (CR + E) improved cognitive functioning more than cognitive remediation alone (CR-Only). Thirty-four participants with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder were randomly assigned to CR + E or CR-Only, and cognitive functioning was assessed at baseline and post-treatment. Total and mature BDNF were measured in blood serum at baseline, Week-5 pre- and post-exercise, and Week-10 pre- and post-exercise. RESULTS Participants in both conditions had high levels of engagement in the interventions and improved significantly in cognitive functioning, but did not differ in amount of cognitive change. The groups also did not differ in changes in BDNF from pre-to post-exercise at Weeks 5 or 10, nor in resting BDNF levels. Exploratory analyses indicated that higher body mass index (BMI) significantly predicted attenuated improvement in cognitive functioning for both groups. DISCUSSION Exercise did not augment the effects of cognitive remediation in persons with severe mental illness, possibly because the cognitive remediation program resulted in strong gains in cognitive functioning. Moderate aerobic exercise does not appear to reliably increase BDNF levels in persons with severe mental illness. CLINICALTRIALS. GOV IDENTIFIER NCT02326389.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R McGurk
- Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Boston University, United States; Department of Occupational Therapy and Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, United States
| | - Michael W Otto
- Department Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, United States
| | - Daniel Fulford
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, United States
| | - Zachary Cutler
- Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Boston University, United States
| | - Leonard P Mulcahy
- Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Boston University, United States
| | - Sai Snigdha Talluri
- Chicago Health Disparities Program, Department of Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, United States
| | - Wei Qiao Qiu
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, United States; Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Qini Gan
- Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Ivy Tran
- Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, United States
| | - Laura Turner
- Franciscan Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nicole R DeTore
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, United States
| | | | - Chitra Khare
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, United States
| | - Anilkumar Pillai
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, United States
| | - Kim T Mueser
- Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Boston University, United States; Department of Occupational Therapy and Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, United States.
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17
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Muniz-Terrera G, Robitaille A, Goerdten J, Massa F, Johansson B. Do I lose cognitive function as fast as my twin partner? Analyses based on classes of MMSE trajectories of twins aged 80 and older. Age Ageing 2021; 50:847-853. [PMID: 33128547 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afaa239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging is associated with an increasing risk of decline in cognitive abilities. The decline is, however, not a homogeneous process. There are substantial differences across individuals although previous investigations have identified individuals with distinct cognitive trajectories. Evidence is accumulating that lifestyle contributes significantly to the classification of individuals into various clusters. How and whether genetically related individuals, like twins, change in a more similar manner is yet not fully understood. METHODS In this study, we fitted growth mixture models to Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) scores from participants of the Swedish OCTO twin study of oldest-old monozygotic and same-sex dizygotic twins with the purpose of investigating whether twin pairs can be assigned to the same class of cognitive change. RESULTS We identified four distinct groups (latent classes) whose MMSE trajectories followed different patterns of change over time: two classes of high performing individuals who remained stable and declined slowly, respectively, a group of mildly impaired individuals with a fast decline and a small group of impaired individuals who declined more rapidly. Notably, our analyses show no association between zygosity and class assignment. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence for a more substantial impact of environmental, rather than genetic, influences on cognitive change trajectories in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graciela Muniz-Terrera
- Edinburgh Dementia Prevention & Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Annie Robitaille
- Department of Psychology, University du Quebec a Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jantje Goerdten
- Edinburgh Dementia Prevention & Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Department of Epidemiological Methods and Etiological Research, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology–BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Fernando Massa
- Instituto de Estadistica, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Boo Johansson
- Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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18
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Moussavi Z, Kimura K, Kehler L, de Oliveira Francisco C, Lithgow B. A Novel Program to Improve Cognitive Function in Individuals With Dementia Using Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) and Tutored Cognitive Exercises. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2021; 2:632545. [PMID: 35822057 PMCID: PMC9261296 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2021.632545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The effects of cognitive exercises on the healthy aging population is controversial. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is considered a promising tool for modulating brain oscillation. Research is lacking on its long-lasting cognitive/therapeutic effect. This is the first pilot study to explore the effect of a regimen of cognitive exercises with and without tACS on older adults with dementia. The study groups were 28 individuals (age 56–83 years) enrolled into two groups: Exr Group, who received cognitive exercises only and the Exr + tACS Group who received tACS at 40 Hz simultaneously with cognitive exercises for a period of 4 consecutive weeks, 5 days/week, two 30 min-sessions/day; all the training sessions were tutored. The cognitive exercises were applied using the MindTriggers app. They were assessed at pre and post intervention and also one month after the end of trial (follow-up) with an independent assessment (WMS-IV) as the primary outcome measure. The results show significant cognitive improvement at post-intervention in both groups, while the Exr + tACS protocol lead to superior cognitive improvement at follow-up session. The most important outcomes of this study are: 1) The tutored repeated practice of the MindTriggers app exercises does significantly improve the cognitive functions of older adults with dementia and that that improvement lasts for at least one month after the end of the intervention, and 2) The application of tACS increases the positive effects of cognitive exercises with the positive effect lasting an even longer period of time than exercises alone; in other words we speculate that it may lead to long-term potentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Moussavi
- University of Manitoba, Biomedical Engineering, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Kazushige Kimura
- University of Manitoba, Biomedical Engineering, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Lonnie Kehler
- University of Manitoba, Biomedical Engineering, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Brian Lithgow
- University of Manitoba, Biomedical Engineering, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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19
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Music Playing and Interhemispheric Communication: Older Professional Musicians Outperform Age-Matched Non-Musicians in Fingertip Cross-Localization Test. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2021; 27:282-292. [PMID: 32967757 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617720000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Numerous investigations have documented that age-related changes in the integrity of the corpus callosum are associated with age-related decline in the interhemispheric transfer of information. Conversely, there is accumulating evidence for more efficient white matter organization of the corpus callosum in individuals with extensive musical training. However, the relationship between making music and accuracy in interhemispheric transfer remains poorly explored. METHODS To test the hypothesis that musicians show enhanced functional connectivity between the two hemispheres, 65 professional musicians (aged 56-90 years) and 65 age- and sex-matched non-musicians performed the fingertip cross-localization test. In this task, subjects must respond to a tactile stimulus presented to one hand using the ipsilateral (intra-hemispheric test) or contralateral (inter-hemispheric test) hand. Because the transfer of information from one hemisphere to another may imply a loss of accuracy, the value of the difference between the intrahemispheric and interhemispheric tests can be utilized as a reliable measure of the effectiveness of hemispheric interactions. RESULTS Older professional musicians show significantly greater accuracy in tactile interhemispheric transfer than non-musicians who suffer from age-related decline. CONCLUSIONS Musicians have more efficient interhemispheric communication than age-matched non-musicians. This finding is in keeping with studies showing that individuals with extensive musical training have a larger corpus callosum. The results are discussed in relation to relevant data suggesting that music positively influences aging brain plasticity.
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20
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Bittner N, Jockwitz C, Franke K, Gaser C, Moebus S, Bayen UJ, Amunts K, Caspers S. When your brain looks older than expected: combined lifestyle risk and BrainAGE. Brain Struct Funct 2021; 226:621-645. [PMID: 33423086 PMCID: PMC7981332 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-020-02184-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Lifestyle may be one source of unexplained variance in the great interindividual variability of the brain in age-related structural differences. While physical and social activity may protect against structural decline, other lifestyle behaviors may be accelerating factors. We examined whether riskier lifestyle correlates with accelerated brain aging using the BrainAGE score in 622 older adults from the 1000BRAINS cohort. Lifestyle was measured using a combined lifestyle risk score, composed of risk (smoking, alcohol intake) and protective variables (social integration and physical activity). We estimated individual BrainAGE from T1-weighted MRI data indicating accelerated brain atrophy by higher values. Then, the effect of combined lifestyle risk and individual lifestyle variables was regressed against BrainAGE. One unit increase in combined lifestyle risk predicted 5.04 months of additional BrainAGE. This prediction was driven by smoking (0.6 additional months of BrainAGE per pack-year) and physical activity (0.55 less months in BrainAGE per metabolic equivalent). Stratification by sex revealed a stronger association between physical activity and BrainAGE in males than females. Overall, our observations may be helpful with regard to lifestyle-related tailored prevention measures that slow changes in brain structure in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Bittner
- Institute for Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Christiane Jockwitz
- Institute for Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Katja Franke
- Structural Brain Mapping Group, University Hospital Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Gaser
- Structural Brain Mapping Group, University Hospital Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Susanne Moebus
- Institute of Urban Public Health, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Ute J Bayen
- Mathematical and Cognitive Psychology, Institute for Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katrin Amunts
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany.,Cecile and Oskar Vogt Institute for Brain Research, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.,JARA-BRAIN, Juelich-Aachen Research Alliance, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Svenja Caspers
- Institute for Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Universitätstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany. .,Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany. .,JARA-BRAIN, Juelich-Aachen Research Alliance, 52425, Jülich, Germany.
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21
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Meeuwsen KD, Groeneveld KM, Walker LA, Mennenga AM, Tittle RK, White EK. Z-score neurofeedback, heart rate variability biofeedback, and brain coaching for older adults with memory concerns. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2021; 39:9-37. [PMID: 33386829 PMCID: PMC7990441 DOI: 10.3233/rnn-201053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The three-month, multi-domain Memory Boot Camp program incorporates z-score neurofeedback (NFB), heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback, and one-on-one coaching to teach memory skills and encourage behavior change in diet, sleep, physical fitness, and stress reduction. OBJECTIVE This prospective trial evaluates the Memory Boot Camp program for adults ages 55 to 85 with symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and subjective memory complaints. METHODS Participants were evaluated via the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), NeuroTrax Global Cognitive Score, measures of anxiety, depression, sleep, quality of life, quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG), and HRV parameters at four timepoints: baseline, pre-program, post-program, and follow-up. The trial included a three-month waiting period between baseline and pre-program, such that each participant acted as their own control, and follow-up took place six months after completion of the program. RESULTS Participants' MoCA scores and self-reported measures of anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life improved after treatment, and these changes were maintained at follow-up. Physiological changes in HRV parameters after treatment were not significant, however, breathing rate and QEEG parameters were improved at post-program and maintained at follow-up. Finally, participants' improvement in MoCA score over the treatment period was correlated with their improvement in two brain oscillation parameters targeted by the z-score NFB protocol: relative power of delta and relative power of theta. CONCLUSIONS Trial results suggest that the Memory Boot Camp program is a promising treatment strategy for older adults with symptoms of MCI and subjective memory complaints.
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Abdelrahman NG, Haque R, Polverento ME, Wendling A, Goetz CM, Arnetz BB. Brain Health: Attitudes towards Technology Adoption in Older Adults. Healthcare (Basel) 2020; 9:healthcare9010023. [PMID: 33379363 PMCID: PMC7823644 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: There is increasing scholarly support for the notion that properly implemented and used, technology can be of substantial benefit for older adults. Use of technology has been associated with improved self-rating of health and fewer chronic conditions. Use of technology such as handheld devices by older adults has the potential to improve engagement and promote cognitive and physical health. However, although, literature suggests some willingness by older adults to use technology, simultaneously there are reports of a more cautious attitude to its adoption. Our objective was to determine the opinions towards information technologies, with special reference to brain health, in healthy older adults either fully retired or still working in some capacity including older adult workers and retired adults living in an independent elderly living community. We were especially interested in further our understanding of factors that may play a role in technology adoption and its relevance to addressing health related issues in this population; (2) Methods: Two focus groups were conducted in an inner-city community. Participants were older adults with an interest in their general health and prevention of cognitive decline. They were asked to discuss their perceptions of and preferences for the use of technology. Transcripts were coded for thematic analysis; (3) Results: Seven common themes emerged from the focus group interviews: physical health, cognitive health, social engagement, organizing information, desire to learn new technology, advancing technology, and privacy/security; and (4) Conclusions: This study suggests that in order to promote the use of technology in older adults, one needs to consider wider contextual issues, not only device design per se, but the older adult's rationale for using technology and their socio-ecological context.
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Determinants of unemployment in multiple sclerosis (MS): The role of disease, person-specific factors, and engagement in positive health-related behaviors. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 46:102487. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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24
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Dahan L, Rampon C, Florian C. Age-related memory decline, dysfunction of the hippocampus and therapeutic opportunities. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 102:109943. [PMID: 32298784 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While the aging of the population is a sign of progress for societies, it also carries its load of negative aspects. Among them, cognitive decline and in particular memory loss is a common feature of non-pathological aging. Autobiographical memories, which rely on the hippocampus, are a primary target of age-related cognitive decline. Here, focusing on the neurobiological mechanisms of memory formation and storage, we describe how hippocampal functions are altered across time in non-pathological mammalian brains. Several hallmarks of aging have been well described over the last decades; among them, we consider altered synaptic communication and plasticity, reduction of adult neurogenesis and epigenetic alterations. Building on the neurobiological processes of cognitive aging that have been identified to date, we review some of the strategies based on lifestyle manupulation allowing to address age-related cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Dahan
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France
| | - Claire Rampon
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France
| | - Cédrick Florian
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France.
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25
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Vaquero L, Rousseau PN, Vozian D, Klein D, Penhune V. What you learn & when you learn it: Impact of early bilingual & music experience on the structural characteristics of auditory-motor pathways. Neuroimage 2020; 213:116689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2020.116689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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26
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de Oliveira Matos F, Vido A, Garcia WF, Lopes WA, Pereira A. A Neurovisceral Integrative Study on Cognition, Heart Rate Variability, and Fitness in the Elderly. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:51. [PMID: 32210785 PMCID: PMC7068733 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between physical fitness and cognitive performance has been widely investigated in the literature. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying this relationship are not yet clear. Here, we aim to evaluate the interactions between executive function measures, heart rate variability (HRV), and physical fitness in the context of the neurovisceral integration (NVI) theory. Twenty-eight healthy elderly subjects (>60 years) were submitted to evaluation of executive performance with three computerized tests: the N-back test measured working memory capacity, the Stroop Color test evaluated inhibitory control and selective attention, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) evaluated abstract reasoning and cognitive flexibility. We also used the Physical Testing Battery for the Elderly to measure aerobic capacity, dynamic balance, upper body flexibility, and handgrip strength. Our results confirm the relationship between executive function and physical fitness, particularly between working memory, cardiorespiratory fitness, and dynamic balance. We also demonstrate an association between executive performance and HRV in older people, corroborating previous results from other groups obtained in young adults. However, our regression models did not indicate that HRV mediates the relationship between cognition and physical fitness in the elderly, suggesting that age-related degeneration of autonomic control can affect aspects of NVI in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe de Oliveira Matos
- Departament of Physical Education, Health Sciences Center, State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, Brazil
| | - Amanda Vido
- Departament of Physical Education, Health Sciences Center, State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, Brazil
| | - William Fernando Garcia
- Departament of Physical Education, Health Sciences Center, State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, Brazil
| | - Wendell Arthur Lopes
- Departament of Physical Education, Health Sciences Center, State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, Brazil
| | - Antonio Pereira
- Institute of Technology, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
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27
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D’Amico D, Huang V, Fiocco AJ. Examining the Moderating Role of a Mediterranean Diet in the Relationship Between Perceived Stress and Cognitive Function in Older Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 76:435-443. [DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Perceived stress and adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern have been identified as independent predictors of cognitive function in older adulthood; however, no studies to date have examined the interaction between perceived stress and diet adherence on cognitive health. This cross-sectional study investigated the synergistic effect of perceived stress and adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern on cognitive function in 192 nondemented older adults aged 60–95 years.
Method
Participants completed a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Executive functioning was assessed using the Trail Making Test-Part B (TMT-B) and episodic memory was assessed using the immediate and delayed free recall subscales from the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II).
Results
Moderation analyses revealed that higher perceived stress was associated with worse executive functioning at low levels of Mediterranean diet adherence (B = 1.75, SE = 0.67, p = .009), but not at moderate and high levels of Mediterranean diet adherence (ps > .05). Perceived stress was not associated with episodic memory, irrespective of Mediterranean diet adherence.
Discussion
Findings provide preliminary evidence that the association between higher perceived stress and poorer executive function may be dependent on diet intake. Additional research is needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle D’Amico
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vivian Huang
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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28
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Piccirilli M, Pigliautile M, Arcelli P, Baratta I, Ferretti S. Improvement in cognitive performance and mood in healthy older adults: a multimodal approach. Eur J Ageing 2019; 16:327-336. [PMID: 31543727 PMCID: PMC6728443 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00503-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate if being involved in a programme that integrates physical, mental, and social activities could help to reduce the impacts of cerebral ageing on cognitive functions. Fifty healthy adults over 65 years of age and without cognitive impairment were randomly assigned to either an experimental or a control group; subjects were equally divided by age, sex, schooling, physical health, mood, and social integration. For 6 months, the experimental group had biweekly meetings, participating in a multimodal approach based on a combination of simultaneous physical, mental, and social activities. At pre-test and post-test, both experimental and control subjects underwent a neuropsychological assessment, including tests to measure attention, verbal and spatial memory, language, constructional praxis, executive functions, processing speed, and intelligence. Furthermore, a visual analogue scale was used to examine well-being and mood states. Compared to the pre-test levels and the control subjects, the performance of subjects in the experimental group significantly improved in several neuropsychological tests, including attention, processing speed, memory, and executive functions, as well as mood state. Even in older subjects without cognitive impairments, a multimodal approach based on simultaneous physical, mental, and social activity can be a useful strategy that has beneficial effects on mood and cognition. The results suggest that an active lifestyle may protect against cognitive decline in ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Piccirilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Martina Pigliautile
- Department of Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Arcelli
- Degree Course in Speech and Language Therapy, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Irene Baratta
- Speech and Language Therapist, USL Umbria 1, Perugia, Italy
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29
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Myrum C, Rossi SL, Perez EJ, Rapp PR. Cortical network dynamics are coupled with cognitive aging in rats. Hippocampus 2019; 29:1165-1177. [PMID: 31334577 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Changes in neuronal network activity and increased interindividual variability in memory are among the most consistent features of growing older. Here, we examined the relationship between these hallmarks of aging. Young and aged rats were trained on a water maze task where aged individuals reliably display an increased range of spatial memory capacities relative to young. Two weeks later, neuronal activity was induced pharmacologically with a low dose of pilocarpine and control animals received vehicle. Activity levels were proxied by quantifying the immediate early gene products Arc and c-Fos. While no relationship was observed between basal, resting activity, and individual differences in spatial memory in any brain region, pilocarpine-induced marker expression was tightly coupled with memory in all areas of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus examined. The nature of this association, however, differed across regions and in relation to age-related cognitive outcome. Specifically, in the medial PFC, induced activity was greatest in aged rats with cognitive impairment and correlated with water maze performance across all subjects. In the hippocampus, the range of induced marker expression was comparable between groups and similarly coupled with memory in both impaired and unimpaired aged rats. Together the findings highlight that the dynamic range of neural network activity across multiple brain regions is a critical component of neurocognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Myrum
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurocognitive Aging Section, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sharyn L Rossi
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurocognitive Aging Section, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Evelyn J Perez
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurocognitive Aging Section, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Peter R Rapp
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurocognitive Aging Section, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
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30
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Barnes J, Bartlett JW, Wolk DA, van der Flier WM, Frost C. Disease Course Varies According to Age and Symptom Length in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 64:631-642. [PMID: 29914016 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Health-care professionals, patients, and families seek as much information as possible about prognosis for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, we do not yet have a robust understanding of how demographic factors predict prognosis. We evaluated associations between age at presentation, age of onset, and symptom length with cognitive decline as measured using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating sum-of-boxes (CDR-SOB) in a large dataset of AD patients. Age at presentation was associated with post-presentation decline in MMSE (p < 0.001), with younger patients showing faster decline. There was little evidence of an association with change in CDR-SOB. Symptom length, rather than age, was the strongest predictor of MMSE and CDR-SOB at presentation, with increasing symptom length associated with worse outcomes. The evidence that younger AD patients have a more aggressive disease course implies that early diagnosis is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Barnes
- Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
| | | | - David A Wolk
- Penn Memory Center, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wiesje M van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center, Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chris Frost
- Department of Medical Statistics, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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31
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Gelfo F. Does Experience Enhance Cognitive Flexibility? An Overview of the Evidence Provided by the Environmental Enrichment Studies. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:150. [PMID: 31338030 PMCID: PMC6629767 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity accounts for the ability of the brain to change in both structure and function in consequence of life experiences. An enhanced stimulation provided by the environment is able to create a form of brain, neural, and cognitive reserve, which allows an individual to cope better with the environmental demands, also in case of neural damage leading to cognitive decline. With its complex manipulation of several stimuli, the animal experimental paradigm of environmental enrichment (EE) appears particularly effective in modulating the ability to successfully respond to the ever-changing characteristics of the environment. According to this point, it could be very relevant to analyze the specific effects of EE on cognitive flexibility (CF). CF could be defined as the ability to effectively change behavior in response to the environmental condition changing. This review article is specifically aimed to summarize and focus on the available evidence in relation to the effects of EE on CF. To this aim, findings obtained in behavioral tasks specifically structured to investigate animal CF, such as reversal learning and attentional set-shifting tests (tasks based on the request of responding to a rewarding rule that changes, within one or multiple perceptual dimensions), are reviewed. Data provided on the structural and biochemical correlates of these findings are also enumerated. Studies realized in healthy animals and also in pathological models are considered. On the whole, the summarized evidence clearly supports the specific beneficial effects of EE on CF. However, further studies on this key topic are strictly required to gain a comprehensive and detailed framework on the mechanisms by which an enhanced stimulation could improve CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gelfo
- Department of Human Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Behavioural Neurology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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32
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Vaccaro MG, Izzo G, Ilacqua A, Migliaccio S, Baldari C, Guidetti L, Lenzi A, Quattrone A, Aversa A, Emerenziani GP. Characterization of the Effects of a Six-Month Dancing as Approach for Successful Aging. Int J Endocrinol 2019; 2019:2048391. [PMID: 31316562 PMCID: PMC6601485 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2048391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by a decline in multiple domains. Positive effects of dance practice on several health issues have been evaluated in young adults, while the effects of regular social dance practice on physical fitness, sexual health, and cognitive functions have not been studied yet in older experienced dancers. Thus, the aim of this study has been to investigate whether a 6-month social dance practice might influence fitness performance, sexual health, and specific cognitive functions and/or mood characteristics in older experienced dancers. Thirty experienced dancers (age: 71.2±5.1 years, 18 females/12 males) were enrolled from the dance school "NonSoloLiscio" of Catanzaro. Body composition, physical fitness, sexual health, and cognitive functions were assessed before (T0) and after (T6) intervention. After 6 months of dance practice, percent of fat mass (%FM) significantly decreased (p<0.01), while fat-free mass (FFM) significantly increased (p<0.01) in both genders. Moreover, significant main effects of time on physical fitness tests, such as chair stand test (CST) (p<0.01), gait speed (p<0.05), and timed up and go (p<0.05), were found. Sexual health was significantly higher in males than in females at T0 and no significant effects of dance on subjects' sexual health were found. Interestingly, trait of anxiety significant decreased (p<0.05) and perception of retrospective memory significantly increased (p=0.05) after training independently of gender. Our preliminary results suggest that, even in older intermediate-level dancer, the practice of social dance might positively influence body composition and also increase fitness performance, memory functions, and anxiety. In contrast, no effects on sexual health were observed after 6 months of dancing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Izzo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, “Magna Graecia” University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ilacqua
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, “Foro Italico” University, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Migliaccio
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, “Foro Italico” University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Guidetti
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, “Foro Italico” University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University, Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Quattrone
- Neuroscience Centre, “Magna Graecia” University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, “Magna Graecia” University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Gian Pietro Emerenziani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, “Magna Graecia” University, Catanzaro, Italy
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33
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Schott N, Krull K. Stability of Lifestyle Behavior - The Answer to Successful Cognitive Aging? A Comparison of Nuns, Monks, Master Athletes and Non-active Older Adults. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1347. [PMID: 31231291 PMCID: PMC6567482 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epidemiological studies of the effect of physical activity on cognition demonstrated an inverse relationship between physical activity and cognitive decline. However, such health behaviors are hardly invariable over time. The relative homogeneity of the adult lifestyle of nuns/monks as well as master athletes reduces the likelihood of confounding due to differences in their participation in regular life-long physical activities. The purpose of this study was to determine if there were differences in cognitive functions between nuns/monks, master athletes and sedentary, but otherwise healthy older adults. Additionally, we examined associations between demographic variables (education, sex, age), BMI, physical activity, exercise, and fitness and cognitive performance. Methods: We recruited three groups of healthy participants without cognitive deficits: (1) Nuns/Monks (n = 20; age 77.5 ± 5.56; 5 M, 15 W), (2) Master Athletes (n = 20; age 76.5 ± 5.33; 12 M, 8 W), and (3) Sedentary (n = 20; 76.4 ± 5.96, 6 M, 14 W). Cognitive performance (working memory, inhibition) was measured with a n-back task and a flanker task, participation in physical activities with the "German-PAQ-50+," and physical fitness with the 30s chair stand and arm curl test. Results: As predicted, ANOVA comparing groups revealed the three groups differed in cognition, physical activity, and physical fitness with inactive older adults performing lower on all tests than the other two groups. Hierarchical regression analyses showed a positive influence of lifestyle stability on accuracy and reaction time for working memory and inhibitory performance. The highest correlation coefficients for fitness and cognitive performance emerged for the group of nuns and monks. Conclusion: Life-long stability of an active lifestyle may confer benefits to some aspects of working memory, attention, and inhibitory control. Longitudinal studies are recommended to further examine the causal relationship of lifestyle stability and cognitive function in such specific cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Schott
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Katja Krull
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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34
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Diaz Abrahan V, Shifres F, Justel N. Cognitive Benefits From a Musical Activity in Older Adults. Front Psychol 2019; 10:652. [PMID: 30984074 PMCID: PMC6447697 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aging population is growing rapidly. Proposing interventions that enhance the cognitive functions or strategies that delay the onset of disabilities associated with age is a topic of capital interest for the biopsychosocial health of our species. In this work, we employed musical improvisation as a focal environmental activity to explore its ability to improve memory in older adults. We present two studies: the first one evaluated neutral memory using the Rey Complex Figure (RCF) and the second one evaluated emotional memory using International Affective Picture System (IAPS). A group of 132 volunteers, between the ages of 60 and 90, participated in this investigation. Fifty-one of them were musicians with more than 5 years of formal musical training. After acquisition of neutral (Study 1) or emotional (Study 2) information, the groups of older adults were exposed to music improvisation (experimental intervention) or music imitation (control intervention) for 3 min. We then evaluated memory through two tasks (free recall and recognition), by means of immediate and deferred measures (after a week). We found a significant improvement in memory among participants involved in music improvisation, who remembered more items of the RCF and images from IAPS than the imitation group, both in the immediate and deferred evaluation. On the other hand, participants who had musical knowledge had a better performance in neutral visual memory than non-musicians. Our results suggest that a focal musical activity can be a useful intervention in older adults to promote an enhancement in memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Diaz Abrahan
- Laboratorio Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia Cognitiva (LINC), Centro de Estudios Multidisciplinarios en Sistemas Complejos y Ciencias del Cerebro (CEMSC3), Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología (ECyT), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Favio Shifres
- Departamento de Música, Facultad de Bellas Artes (FBA), Laboratorio para el Estudio de la Experiencia Musical (LEEM), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
| | - Nadia Justel
- Laboratorio Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia Cognitiva (LINC), Centro de Estudios Multidisciplinarios en Sistemas Complejos y Ciencias del Cerebro (CEMSC3), Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología (ECyT), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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35
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Perneczky R, Kempermann G, Korczyn AD, Matthews FE, Ikram MA, Scarmeas N, Chetelat G, Stern Y, Ewers M. Translational research on reserve against neurodegenerative disease: consensus report of the International Conference on Cognitive Reserve in the Dementias and the Alzheimer's Association Reserve, Resilience and Protective Factors Professional Interest Area working groups. BMC Med 2019; 17:47. [PMID: 30808345 PMCID: PMC6391801 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-019-1283-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The concept of reserve was established to account for the observation that a given degree of neurodegenerative pathology may result in varying degrees of symptoms in different individuals. There is a large amount of evidence on epidemiological risk and protective factors for neurodegenerative diseases and dementia, yet the biological mechanisms that underpin the protective effects of certain lifestyle and physiological variables remain poorly understood, limiting the development of more effective preventive and treatment strategies. Additionally, different definitions and concepts of reserve exist, which hampers the coordination of research and comparison of results across studies. DISCUSSION This paper represents the consensus of a multidisciplinary group of experts from different areas of research related to reserve, including clinical, epidemiological and basic sciences. The consensus was developed during meetings of the working groups of the first International Conference on Cognitive Reserve in the Dementias (24-25 November 2017, Munich, Germany) and the Alzheimer's Association Reserve and Resilience Professional Interest Area (25 July 2018, Chicago, USA). The main objective of the present paper is to develop a translational perspective on putative mechanisms underlying reserve against neurodegenerative disease, combining evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies with knowledge from animal and basic research. The potential brain functional and structural basis of reserve in Alzheimer's disease and other brain disorders are discussed, as well as relevant lifestyle and genetic factors assessed in both humans and animal models. CONCLUSION There is an urgent need to advance our concept of reserve from a hypothetical model to a more concrete approach that can be used to improve the development of effective interventions aimed at preventing dementia. Our group recommends agreement on a common dictionary of terms referring to different aspects of reserve, the improvement of opportunities for data sharing across individual cohorts, harmonising research approaches across laboratories and groups to reduce heterogeneity associated with human data, global coordination of clinical trials to more effectively explore whether reducing epidemiological risk factors leads to a reduced burden of neurodegenerative diseases in the population, and an increase in our understanding of the appropriateness of animal models for reserve research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Perneczky
- Division of Mental Health in Older Adults and Alzheimer Therapy and Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany. .,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany. .,Ageing Epidemiology (AGE) Research Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK. .,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany.
| | - Gerd Kempermann
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Amos D Korczyn
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel- Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Fiona E Matthews
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University Institute for Ageing, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK.,MRC Biostatistics Unit, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nikolaos Scarmeas
- Department of Social Medicine, Psychiatry and Neurology, 1st Department of Neurology, Aeginition University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Department of Neurology and The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gael Chetelat
- Université Normandie, Inserm, Université de Caen-Normandie, Inserm UMR-S U1237, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Yaakov Stern
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Department of Neurology and The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael Ewers
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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36
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Jockwitz C, Mérillat S, Liem F, Oschwald J, Amunts K, Caspers S, Jäncke L. Generalizing age effects on brain structure and cognition: A two-study comparison approach. Hum Brain Mapp 2019; 40:2305-2319. [PMID: 30666760 PMCID: PMC6590363 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.24524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal aging is accompanied by an interindividually variable decline in cognitive abilities and brain structure. This variability, in combination with methodical differences and differences in sample characteristics across studies, pose a major challenge for generalizability of results from different studies. Therefore, the current study aimed at cross-validating age-related differences in cognitive abilities and brain structure (measured using cortical thickness [CT]) in two large independent samples, each consisting of 228 healthy older adults aged between 65 and 85 years: the Longitudinal Healthy Aging Brain (LHAB) database (University of Zurich, Switzerland) and the 1000BRAINS (Research Centre Jülich, Germany). Participants from LHAB showed significantly higher education, physical well-being, and cognitive abilities (processing speed, concept shifting, reasoning, semantic verbal fluency, and vocabulary). In contrast, CT values were larger for participants of 1000BRAINS. Though, both samples showed highly similar age-related differences in both, cognitive abilities and CT. These effects were in accordance with functional aging theories, for example, posterior to anterior shift in aging as was shown for the default mode network. Thus, the current two-study approach provides evidence that independently on heterogeneous metrics of brain structure or cognition across studies, age-related effects on cognitive ability and brain structure can be generalized over different samples, assuming the same methodology is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Jockwitz
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Susan Mérillat
- University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Franziskus Liem
- University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Oschwald
- University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katrin Amunts
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.,JARA-BRAIN, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany.,C. & O. Vogt Institute for Brain Research, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Svenja Caspers
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany.,JARA-BRAIN, Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance, Jülich, Germany.,Institute for Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lutz Jäncke
- University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Division of Neuropsychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Strober LB, Becker A, Randolph JJ. Role of positive lifestyle activities on mood, cognition, well-being, and disease characteristics in multiple sclerosis. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2018; 25:304-311. [PMID: 29781732 PMCID: PMC6278614 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2018.1458518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition associated with a wide variety of physical, cognitive, and mood-related symptoms. While disease-modifying treatment has been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of MS symptom relapses, engagement in certain daily activities holds promise as an adjunctive treatment to better manage disease sequelae. The present study sought to determine whether healthy nutritional choices, exercise, and social/intellectual engagement impacts functioning in individuals with MS. Two hundred and forty-eight (248) MS participants completed a questionnaire assessing factors related to cognitive health (Cognitive Health Questionnaire; CHQ). They also endorsed measures assessing disease symptoms and management, mood, and well-being/quality of life. A measure of information processing speed was administered to a subset of participants. Findings indicated that a previously derived CHQ factor comprised of healthy nutritional habits and exercise items was associated with less fatigue, better sleep, reduced pain, and improved mood and disease management. A factor with items assessing social and intellectual engagement correlated with mood, disease management, and well-being. Endorsement of items in both CHQ factors was associated with better information processing speed. Subsequent regression analyses indicated that education and mood were most predictive of nutritional habits and exercise, while MS self-efficacy was particularly associated with engagement in social and intellectual activities. In sum, these findings suggest that self-reported engagement in healthy lifestyle habits has far-reaching effects on multiple aspects of daily living and disease management in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren B. Strober
- Kessler Foundation
- Rutgers –State University of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School
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