1
|
Winker M, Hoffmann S, Laborde S, Javelle F. The acute effects of motor cortex transcranial direct current stimulation on athletic performance in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Neurosci 2024. [PMID: 39120435 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16488] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses independently the acute effects of anodal and cathodal motor cortex transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on athletic performance in healthy adults. Besides, it evaluates the unique and conjoint effects of potential moderators (i.e., stimulation parameters, exercise type, subjects' training status and risk of bias). Online database search was performed from inception until March 18th 2024 (PROSPERO: CRD42023355461). Forty-three controlled trials were included in the systematic review, 40 in the anodal tDCS meta-analysis (68 effects), and 9 (11 effects) in the cathodal tDCS meta-analysis. Performance enhancement between pre- and post-stimulation was the main outcome measure considered. The anodal tDCS effects on physical performance were small to moderate (g = .29, 95%CI [.18, .40], PI = -.64 to 1.23, I2 = 64.0%). Exercise type, training status and use of commercial tDCS were significant moderators of the results. The cathodal tDCS effects were null (g = .04, 95%CI [-.05, .12], PI = -.14 to .23, I2 = 0%), with a small to moderate heterogeneity entirely due to sampling error, thus impairing further moderator analysis. These findings hold significant implications for the field of brain stimulation and physical performance, as they not only demonstrate a small to moderate effect of acute tDCS but also identify specific categories of individuals, devices and activities that are more susceptible to improvements. By addressing the multidimensional factors influencing the mechanisms of tDCS, we also provide suggestions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Winker
- University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Sport and Sport Science, Performance and Health (Sports Medicine), TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
- Psychological Methods and Evaluation, Institute of Psychology, University of Hagen, Hagen, Germany
| | - Sven Hoffmann
- Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sylvain Laborde
- Department of Performance Psychology, Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Florian Javelle
- NeuroPsychoImmunology research unit, Department for Molecular and Cellular Sports Medicine, Institute for Cardiovascular Research and Sports Medicine, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang Y, Li J. Identification of individuals using functional near-infrared spectroscopy based on a one-dimensional convolutional neural network. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2024; 17:e202300453. [PMID: 38282446 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202300453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and deep learning techniques has emerged as a promising method for personal identification. In this study, we innovatively utilized a deep learning framework and fNIRS data for personal identification. The framework is a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (Conv1D) trained on resting-state fNIRS signals collected from the frontal cortex of adults. In data preprocessing, we employed a sliding window-based data augmentation technique and high-pass filter, which could result in the highest identification accuracy through multiple experiments. Based on a data set consisting of 56 adult participants, the identification accuracy of 90.36% is achieved for training data with a window size of approximately 4.62 s; with the increase in training data window size, the identification accuracy can reach (97.65 ± 2.35)%. Our results suggest that deep learning is valuable for fNIRS-based personal identification, with potential applications in security, biometrics, and healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Zhang
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Li
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schmaderer LF, Meyer M, Reer R, Schumacher N. What happens in the prefrontal cortex? Cognitive processing of novel and familiar stimuli in soccer: An exploratory fNIRS study. Eur J Sport Sci 2023; 23:2389-2399. [PMID: 37535067 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2023.2238699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The importance of both general and sport-specific perceptual-cognitive abilities in soccer players has been investigated in several studies. Although these perceptual-cognitive skills could contribute significantly to soccer players' expertise, the underlying cortical mechanisms have not been clarified yet. Examining activity changes in the prefrontal cortex under different cognitive demands may help to better understand the underlying mechanisms of sports expertise. The aim of this study was to analyse the prefrontal activity of soccer experts during general and sport-specific cognitive tasks. For this purpose, 39 semi-professional soccer players performed four perceptual-cognitive tests, two of which assessed general cognition, the other two assessed sport-specific cognition. Since soccer is a movement-intensive sport, two tests were performed in motion. While performing cognitive tests, prefrontal activity was recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) (NIRSport, NIRx Medical Technologies, USA). Differences of prefrontal activity in general and sport-specific cognitive tasks were analysed using paired t-tests. The results showed significant increases in prefrontal activity during general cognitive tests (novel stimuli) compared to sport-specific tests (familiar stimuli). The comparatively lower prefrontal activity change during sport-specific cognition might be due to learned automatisms of experts in this field. These results seem in line with previous findings on novel and automated cognition, "repetition suppression theory" and "neural efficiency theory". Furthermore, the different cortical processes could be caused by altered prefrontal structures of experts and might represent a decisive factor for expertise in team sports. However, further research is needed to clarify the prefrontal involvement on expertise in general and sport-specific cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena F Schmaderer
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mathilda Meyer
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Reer
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nils Schumacher
- Institute of Human Movement Sciences, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Perrey S. The potential of fNIRS, EEG, and transcranial current stimulation to probe neural mechanisms of resistance training. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1295993. [PMID: 38098763 PMCID: PMC10720034 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1295993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Perrey
- EuroMov Digital Health in Motion, Univ Montpellier, IMT Mines Ales, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kang N. Increased Cerebellar Gray Matter Volume in Athletes: A Voxel-Wise Coordinate-Based Meta-Analysis. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2023; 94:597-608. [PMID: 35438607 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2022.2026285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis study was to investigate distinct brain structural characteristics in athletes as compared with those in non-athletes by quantifying regional gray matter (GM) volume changes using voxel-based morphometry analysis based on a whole-brain approach. Methods: The systematic literature search was conducted from November 1, 2020 to October 18, 2021 via the two search engines including the PubMed and Web of Science. We included 13 studies that reported GM volume data in 229 athletes as compared 219 non-athletes based on the whole-brain analysis with specific three-dimensional coordinates in a standard stereotactic space. Thus, we performed a coordinate-based meta-analysis using the seed-based d mapping via permutation of subject images methods. Result: The coordinate-based meta-analysis reported that the athletes significantly reveal greater regional GM volume across right cerebellar lobules IV-V and Brodmann area 37 regions than those in the non-athletes with minimal levels of heterogeneity and publication bias between the included studies. The subgroup analyses show that greater GM volume for athletes in closed-skill sports appeared across the right cerebellar hemispheric lobules VIII and the right cingulum than those for non-athletes. Conclusion: These cumulative findings from multiple brain imaging studies suggest potential brain plasticity evidence in the athletes who experienced extensive motor training.
Collapse
|
6
|
Husain SF, Wang N, McIntyre RS, Tran BX, Nguyen TP, Vu LG, Vu GT, Ho RC, Ho CS. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy of medical students answering various item types. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1178753. [PMID: 37377693 PMCID: PMC10291186 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1178753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Traditionally, the effect of assessment item types including true/false questions (TFQs), multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer questions (SAQs), and case scenario questions (CSQs) is examined through psychometric qualities or student interviews. However, brain activity while answering such questions or items remains unknown. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can be used to safely measure cerebral cortex hemodynamic response during various tasks. Hence, this fNIRS study aimed to determine differences in frontotemporal cortex activity as medical students answered TFQs, MCQs, SAQs, and CSQs. Methods In total, 24 medical students (13 males and 11 females) were recruited in this study during their mid-psychiatry posting. Oxy-hemoglobin and deoxy-hemoglobin levels in the frontal and temporal regions were measured with a 52-channel fNIRS system. Participants answered 9-18 trials under each of the four types of tasks that were based on their psychiatry curriculum during fNIRS measurements. The area under the oxy-hemoglobin curve (AUC) for each participant and each item type was derived. Repeated measures ANOVA with post-hoc Bonferroni-corrected pairwise comparisons were used to determine differences in oxy-hemoglobin AUC between TFQs, MCQs, SAQs, and CSQs. Results Oxy-hemoglobin AUC was highest during the CSQs, followed by SAQs, MCQs, and TFQs in both the frontal and temporal regions. Statistically significant differences between different types of items were observed in oxy-hemoglobin AUC of the frontal region (p ≤ 0.001). Oxy-hemoglobin AUC in the frontal region was significantly higher during the CSQs than TFQ (p = 0.005) and during the SAQ than TFQ (p = 0.025). Although the percentage of correct responses was significantly lower in MCQ than in the other item types, there was no correlation between the percentage of correct response and oxy-hemoglobin AUC in both regions for all four item types (p > 0.05). Conclusion CSQs and SAQs elicited greater hemodynamic response than MCQs and TFQs in the prefrontal cortex of medical students. This suggests that more cognitive skills may be required to answer CSQs and SAQs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Fabeha Husain
- Institute of Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nixi Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger S. McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bach X. Tran
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thao Phuong Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Linh Gia Vu
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Giang Thu Vu
- Center of Excellence in Behavioral Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Roger C. Ho
- Institute of Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cyrus S. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Carius D, Herold F, Clauß M, Kaminski E, Wagemann F, Sterl C, Ragert P. Increased Cortical Activity in Novices Compared to Experts During Table Tennis: A Whole-Brain fNIRS Study Using Threshold-Free Cluster Enhancement Analysis. Brain Topogr 2023:10.1007/s10548-023-00963-y. [PMID: 37119404 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-023-00963-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing interest to understand the neural underpinnings of high-level sports performance including expertise-related differences in sport-specific skills. Here, we aimed to investigate whether expertise level and task complexity modulate the cortical hemodynamics of table tennis players. 35 right-handed table tennis players (17 experts/18 novices) were recruited and performed two table tennis strokes (forehand and backhand) and a randomized combination of them. Cortical hemodynamics, as a proxy for cortical activity, were recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, and the behavioral performance (i.e., target accuracy) was assessed via video recordings. Expertise- and task-related differences in cortical hemodynamics were analyzed using nonparametric threshold-free cluster enhancement. In all conditions, table tennis experts showed a higher target accuracy than novices. Furthermore, we observed expertise-related differences in widespread clusters compromising brain areas being associated with sensorimotor and multisensory integration. Novices exhibited, in general, higher activation in those areas as compared to experts. We also identified task-related differences in cortical activity including frontal, sensorimotor, and multisensory brain areas. The present findings provide empirical support for the neural efficiency hypothesis since table tennis experts as compared to novices utilized a lower amount of cortical resources to achieve superior behavioral performance. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the task complexity of different table tennis strokes is mirrored in distinct cortical activation patterns. Whether the latter findings can be useful to monitor or tailor sport-specific training interventions necessitates further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Carius
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Fabian Herold
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Potsdam, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Martina Clauß
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaminski
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Florian Wagemann
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Clemens Sterl
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Perrey S. Probing the Promises of Noninvasive Transcranial Electrical Stimulation for Boosting Mental Performance in Sports. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13020282. [PMID: 36831825 PMCID: PMC9954379 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020282] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
While the importance of physical abilities is noncontested to perform in elite sport, more focus has recently been turned toward cognitive processes involved in sport performance. Practicing any sport requires a high demand of cognitive functioning including, but not limited to, decision-making, processing speed, working memory, perceptual processing, motor functioning, and attention. Noninvasive transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) has recently attracted considerable scientific interest due to its ability to modulate brain functioning. Neuromodulation apparently improves cognitive functions engaged in sports performance. This opinion manuscript aimed to reveal that tES is likely an adjunct ergogenic resource for improving cognitive processes, counteracting mental fatigue, and managing anxiety in elite athletes. Nevertheless, the first evidence is insufficient to guarantee its real effectiveness and benefits. All tES techniques could be add-ons to make performance-related cognitive functions more efficient and obtain better results. Modulating inhibitory control through tES over the frontal cortex might largely contribute to the improvement of mental performance. Nevertheless, studies in elite athletes are required to assess the long-term effects of tES application as an ergogenic aid in conjunction with other training methods (e.g., neurofeedback, mental imagery) where cognitive abilities are trainable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephane Perrey
- EuroMov Digital Health in Motion, Univ Montpellier, IMT Mines Ales, 34090 Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Luo J, Fang C, Huang S, Wu J, Liu B, Yu J, Xiao W, Ren Z. Effects of single session transcranial direct current stimulation on aerobic performance and one arm pull-down explosive force of professional rock climbers. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1153900. [PMID: 37089430 PMCID: PMC10117960 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1153900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To explore the effects of single-session transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on aerobic performance and explosive force in the one-arm pull-down of long-term trained rock climbers. Method: Twenty athletes (twelve male and eight female) from the Rock Climbing Team of Hunan province (Hunan, China) were selected for a randomized double-blind crossover study. After baseline tests, All subjects visited laboratories twice to randomly receive either sham or a-tDCS at a current intensity of 2 mA for 20 min. The two visits were more than 72 h apart. Immediately after each stimulation, subjects completed a 9-min 3-level-load aerobic test and a one-arm pull-down test. Results: Differences in the heart rate immediately after 9-min incremental aerobic exercises revealed no statistical significance between each group (p > 0.05). However, the decrease in heart rate per unit time after exercise after real stimulation was significantly better than before stimulation (p < 0.05), and no statistical significance was observed between after sham stimulation and before stimulation (p > 0.05). One-arm pull-down explosive force on both sides after real stimulation was improved by a-tDCS compared with before stimulation, but with no significant difference (p > 0.05). Real stimulation was significantly improved, compared with sham stimulation on the right side (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Single-session tDCS could potentially benefit sports performance in professional athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Luo
- Key Laboratory of Kinesiology Evaluation and Recovery of General Administration of Sport of China, Sports Science Institute of Hunan, Changsha, China
| | - Caihua Fang
- Key Laboratory of Kinesiology Evaluation and Recovery of General Administration of Sport of China, Sports Science Institute of Hunan, Changsha, China
| | - Sen Huang
- Key Laboratory of Kinesiology Evaluation and Recovery of General Administration of Sport of China, Sports Science Institute of Hunan, Changsha, China
| | - Jinlong Wu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bowen Liu
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingxuan Yu
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhanbing Ren
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Zhanbing Ren,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wen CT, Chu CL, Chen HC, Chueh TY, Lin CC, Wu SY, Hsu WC, Huang CJ, Hung TM. Effects of acute slackline exercise on executive function in college students. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1092804. [PMID: 37151346 PMCID: PMC10159648 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1092804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Physical exercise as an intervention for improving cognitive function, especially executive function, is receiving increasing attention because it is easily accessible, cost-effective and promises many additional health-related benefits. While previous studies focused on aerobic exercise and resistance exercise, recent findings have suggested that exercise with high coordination demand elicits beneficial effects on executive function. We therefore examined the effects of an acute slackline exercise on the executive functions of young adults. Methods In a crossover experimental design, 47 healthy participants (21 females), ranging in age from 18 to 27 years (M = 19.17, SD = 1.94) were randomly assigned to different sequences of two conditions (slackline exercise and film-watching). Before and after the 50 min intervention, a modified Simon task was used to assess participants' executive function (inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility). Results College students showed better inhibitory control performance as indicated by shorter reaction times following acute slackline exercise than those who participated in the film-watching session. As there was no difference in accuracy between the slackline exercise and film-watching sessions, the shortened reaction time after slackline exercise provides evidence against a simple speed-accuracy trade-off. Conclusion Compared with film-watching, acute slackline exercise provides favorable effects on executive function necessitating inhibition in young adults. These findings provide insight into exercise prescription and cognition, and further evidence for the beneficial effects of coordination exercise on executive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Tsai Wen
- Department of Sport and Leisure, National Quemoy University, Kinmen, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Ling Chu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Chih Chen
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Yu Chueh
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- Ting-Yu Chueh,
| | - Chih-Chien Lin
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Yu Wu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Hsu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ju Huang
- Graduate Institute of Sport Pedagogy, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Min Hung
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Tsung-Min Hung,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Correia JP, Vaz JR, Domingos C, Freitas SR. From thinking fast to moving fast: motor control of fast limb movements in healthy individuals. Rev Neurosci 2022; 33:919-950. [PMID: 35675832 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0171] [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: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The ability to produce high movement speeds is a crucial factor in human motor performance, from the skilled athlete to someone avoiding a fall. Despite this relevance, there remains a lack of both an integrative brain-to-behavior analysis of these movements and applied studies linking the known dependence on open-loop, central control mechanisms of these movements to their real-world implications, whether in the sports, performance arts, or occupational setting. In this review, we cover factors associated with the planning and performance of fast limb movements, from the generation of the motor command in the brain to the observed motor output. At each level (supraspinal, peripheral, and motor output), the influencing factors are presented and the changes brought by training and fatigue are discussed. The existing evidence of more applied studies relevant to practical aspects of human performance is also discussed. Inconsistencies in the existing literature both in the definitions and findings are highlighted, along with suggestions for further studies on the topic of fast limb movement control. The current heterogeneity in what is considered a fast movement and in experimental protocols makes it difficult to compare findings in the existing literature. We identified the role of the cerebellum in movement prediction and of surround inhibition in motor slowing, as well as the effects of fatigue and training on central motor control, as possible avenues for further research, especially in performance-driven populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Correia
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1495-751, Cruz Quebrada, Portugal.,Laboratório de Função Neuromuscular, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1495-751, Cruz Quebrada, Portugal
| | - João R Vaz
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1495-751, Cruz Quebrada, Portugal.,Laboratório de Função Neuromuscular, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1495-751, Cruz Quebrada, Portugal
| | - Christophe Domingos
- CIEQV, Escola Superior de Desporto de Rio Maior, Instituto Politécnico de Santarém, Av. Dr. Mário Soares nº 110, 2040-413, Rio Maior, Portugal
| | - Sandro R Freitas
- Laboratório de Função Neuromuscular, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1495-751, Cruz Quebrada, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang T, Zhang X, Zhu W, Lu Z, Wang Y, Zhang Y. Study on the diversity of mental states and neuroplasticity of the brain during human-machine interaction. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:921058. [PMID: 36570838 PMCID: PMC9768214 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.921058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction With the increasing demand for human-machine collaboration systems, more and more attention has been paid to the influence of human factors on the performance and security of the entire system. Especially in high-risk, high-precision, and difficult special tasks (such as space station maintenance tasks, anti-terrorist EOD tasks, surgical robot teleoperation tasks, etc.), there are higher requirements for the operator's perception and cognitive level. However, as the human brain is a complex and open giant system, the perception ability and cognitive level of the human are dynamically variable, so that it will seriously affect the performance and security of the whole system. Methods The method proposed in this paper innovatively explained this phenomenon from two dimensions of brain space and time and attributed the dynamic changes of perception, cognitive level, and operational skills to the mental state diversity and the brain neuroplasticity. In terms of the mental state diversity, the mental states evoked paradigm and the functional brain network analysis method during work were proposed. In terms of neuroplasticity, the cognitive training intervention paradigm and the functional brain network analysis method were proposed. Twenty-six subjects participated in the mental state evoked experiment and the cognitive training intervention experiment. Results The results showed that (1) the mental state of the subjects during work had the characteristics of dynamic change, and due to the influence of stimulus conditions and task patterns, the mental state showed diversity. There were significant differences between functional brain networks in different mental states, the information processing efficiency and the mechanism of brain area response had changed significantly. (2) The small-world attributes of the functional brain network of the subjects before and after the cognitive training experiment were significantly different. The brain had adjusted the distribution of information flow and resources, reducing costs and increasing efficiency as a whole. It was demonstrated that the global topology of the cortical connectivity network was reconfigured and neuroplasticity was altered through cognitive training intervention. Discussion In summary, this paper revealed that mental state and neuroplasticity could change the information processing efficiency and the response mechanism of brain area, thus causing the change of perception, cognitive level and operational skills, which provided a theoretical basis for studying the relationship between neural information processing and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China,Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Intelligent Robot, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China,*Correspondence: Xiaodong Zhang,
| | - Wenjing Zhu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhufeng Lu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yu Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Training Monitoring in Sports: It Is Time to Embrace Cognitive Demand. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:sports10040056. [PMID: 35447866 PMCID: PMC9028378 DOI: 10.3390/sports10040056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Appropriate training burden monitoring is still a challenge for the support staff, athletes, and coaches. Extensive research has been done in recent years that proposes several external and internal indicators. Among all measurements, the importance of cognitive factors has been indicated but has never been really considered in the training monitoring process. While there is strong evidence supporting the use of cognitive demand indicators in cognitive neuroscience, their importance in training monitoring for multiple sports settings must be better emphasized. The aims of this scoping review are to (1) provide an overview of the cognitive demand concept beside the physical demand in training; (2) highlight the current methods for assessing cognitive demand in an applied setting to sports in part through a neuroergonomics approach; (3) show how cognitive demand metrics can be exploited and applied to our better understanding of fatigue, sport injury, overtraining and individual performance capabilities. This review highlights also the potential new ways of brain imaging approaches for monitoring in situ. While assessment of cognitive demand is still in its infancy in sport, it may represent a very fruitful approach if applied with rigorous protocols and deep knowledge of both the neurobehavioral and cognitive aspects. It is time now to consider the cognitive demand to avoid underestimating the total training burden and its management.
Collapse
|
14
|
Maudrich T, Hähner S, Kenville R, Ragert P. Somatosensory-Evoked Potentials as a Marker of Functional Neuroplasticity in Athletes: A Systematic Review. Front Physiol 2022; 12:821605. [PMID: 35111081 PMCID: PMC8801701 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.821605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEP) represent a non-invasive tool to assess neural responses elicited by somatosensory stimuli acquired via electrophysiological recordings. To date, there is no comprehensive evaluation of SEPs for the diagnostic investigation of exercise-induced functional neuroplasticity. This systematic review aims at highlighting the potential of SEP measurements as a diagnostic tool to investigate exercise-induced functional neuroplasticity of the sensorimotor system by reviewing studies comparing SEP parameters between athletes and healthy controls who are not involved in organized sports as well as between athlete cohorts of different sport disciplines. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted across three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus) by two independent researchers. Three hundred and ninety-seven records were identified, of which 10 cross-sectional studies were considered eligible. Results Differences in SEP amplitudes and latencies between athletes and healthy controls or between athletes of different cohorts as well as associations between SEP parameters and demographic/behavioral variables (years of training, hours of training per week & reaction time) were observed in seven out of 10 included studies. In particular, several studies highlight differences in short- and long-latency SEP parameters, as well as high-frequency oscillations (HFO) when comparing athletes and healthy controls. Neuroplastic differences in athletes appear to be modality-specific as well as dependent on training regimens and sport-specific requirements. This is exemplified by differences in SEP parameters of various athlete populations after stimulation of their primarily trained limb. Conclusion Taken together, the existing literature suggests that athletes show specific functional neuroplasticity in the somatosensory system. Therefore, this systematic review highlights the potential of SEP measurements as an easy-to-use and inexpensive diagnostic tool to investigate functional neuroplasticity in the sensorimotor system of athletes. However, there are limitations regarding the small sample sizes and inconsistent methodology of SEP measurements in the studies reviewed. Therefore, future intervention studies are needed to verify and extend the conclusions drawn here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Maudrich
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Tom Maudrich
| | - Susanne Hähner
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rouven Kenville
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Department of Movement Neuroscience, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carius D, Kenville R, Maudrich D, Riechel J, Lenz H, Ragert P. Cortical processing during table tennis - an fNIRS study in experts and novices. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1315-1325. [PMID: 34228601 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1953155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Among the many factors that determine top athletic performance, little is known about the contribution of the brain. With the present study, we aimed to uncover aspects of this role by examining modulatory differences in brain processing as a function of expertise and task complexity in table tennis. For this purpose, 28 right-handed volunteers (14 experts and 14 novices) performed two table tennis strokes in a standardized manner. Hemodynamic response alterations reflecting neuronal activation were recorded during task execution using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and analyzed within and between groups. Our results showed localized activation patterns in motor areas (primary motor cortex (M1), premotor cortex (PMC), and inferior parietal cortex (IPC)) for experts and novices. Compared to novices, experts completed more table tennis strokes and showed a significant increase in hemodynamic response alterations in channels corresponding to motor areas. Furthermore, we found significant correlations between the number of strokes and hemodynamic response magnitudes in individual channels of M1, PMC, and IPC. Taken together, our findings show that table tennis performance is accompanied by extensive activation of M1, PMC, and IPC. Furthermore, the observed difference in behavioral performance between experts and novices was associated with increased activation in M1, PMC, and IPC. We postulate that these differences in brain processing between experts and novices potentially imply modulatory distinctions related to increased movement speed or frequency but may also reflect an increased task familiarity of the experts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Carius
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rouven Kenville
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dennis Maudrich
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jan Riechel
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hannes Lenz
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gong A, Gu F, Nan W, Qu Y, Jiang C, Fu Y. A Review of Neurofeedback Training for Improving Sport Performance From the Perspective of User Experience. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:638369. [PMID: 34127921 PMCID: PMC8195869 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.638369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a non-invasive, safe, and effective method of regulating the nerve state of the brain. Presently, NFT is widely used to prevent and rehabilitate brain diseases and improve an individual's external performance. Among the various NFT methods, NFT to improve sport performance (SP-NFT) has become an important research and application focus worldwide. Several studies have shown that the method is effective in improving brain function and motor control performance. However, appropriate reviews and prospective directions for this technology are lacking. This paper proposes an SP-NFT classification method based on user experience, classifies and discusses various SP-NFT research schemes reported in the existing literature, and reviews the technical principles, application scenarios, and usage characteristics of different SP-NFT schemes. Several key issues in SP-NFT development, including the factors involved in neural mechanisms, scheme selection, learning basis, and experimental implementation, are discussed. Finally, directions for the future development of SP-NFT, including SP-NFT based on other electroencephalograph characteristics, SP-NFT integrated with other technologies, and SP-NFT commercialization, are suggested. These discussions are expected to provide some valuable ideas to researchers in related fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anmin Gong
- School of Information Engineering, Engineering University of People's Armed Police, Xi'an, China
| | - Feng Gu
- School of Information Engineering, Engineering University of People's Armed Police, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, College of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Qu
- School of Information Engineering, Engineering University of People's Armed Police, Xi'an, China
| | - Changhao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Performance Evaluation and Technical Analysis, Capital Institute of Physical Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfa Fu
- School of Automation and Information Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Prefrontal high definition cathodal tDCS modulates executive functions only when coupled with moderate aerobic exercise in healthy persons. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8457. [PMID: 33875729 PMCID: PMC8055664 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87914-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising tool to enhance cognitive performance. However, its effectiveness has not yet been unequivocally shown. Thus, here we tested whether coupling tDCS with a bout of aerobic exercise (AE) is more effective in modulating cognitive functions than tDCS or AE alone. One hundred twenty-two healthy participants were assigned to five randomized controlled crossover experiments. Two multimodal target experiments (EXP-4: anodal vs. sham tDCS during AE; EXP-5: cathodal vs. sham tDCS during AE) investigated whether anodal (a-tDCS) or cathodal tDCS (c-tDCS) applied during AE over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (left DLPFC) affects executive functioning (inhibition ability). In three unimodal control experiments, the participants were either stimulated (EXP-1: anodal vs. sham tDCS, EXP-2: cathodal vs. sham tDCS) or did AE (EXP-3: AE vs. active control). Participants performed an Eriksen flanker task during ergometer cycling at moderate intensity (in EXP. 3-5). Only c-tDCS during AE had a significant adverse effect on the inhibition task, with decreased accuracy. This outcome provides preliminary evidence that c-tDCS during AE over the left DLPFC might effectively modulate inhibition performance compared to c-tDCS alone. However, more systematic research is needed in the future.
Collapse
|
18
|
Seidel-Marzi O, Hähner S, Ragert P, Carius D. Task-Related Hemodynamic Response Alterations During Slacklining: An fNIRS Study in Advanced Slackliners. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2021; 2:644490. [PMID: 38235235 PMCID: PMC10790949 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.644490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The ability to maintain balance is based on various processes of motor control in complex neural networks of subcortical and cortical brain structures. However, knowledge on brain processing during the execution of whole-body balance tasks is still limited. In the present study, we investigated brain activity during slacklining, a task with a high demand on balance capabilities, which is frequently used as supplementary training in various sports disciplines as well as for lower extremity prevention and rehabilitation purposes in clinical settings. We assessed hemodynamic response alterations in sensorimotor brain areas using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during standing (ST) and walking (WA) on a slackline in 16 advanced slackliners. We expected to observe task-related differences between both conditions as well as associations between cortical activity and slacklining experience. While our results revealed hemodynamic response alterations in sensorimotor brain regions such as primary motor cortex (M1), premotor cortex (PMC), and supplementary motor cortex (SMA) during both conditions, we did not observe differential effects between ST and WA nor associations between cortical activity and slacklining experience. In summary, these findings provide novel insights into brain processing during a whole-body balance task and its relation to balance expertise. As maintaining balance is considered an important prerequisite in daily life and crucial in the context of prevention and rehabilitation, future studies should extend these findings by quantifying brain processing during task execution on a whole-brain level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Seidel-Marzi
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Faculty of Sport Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Susanne Hähner
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Faculty of Sport Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Faculty of Sport Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Carius
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Faculty of Sport Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Carius D, Seidel-Marzi O, Kaminski E, Lisson N, Ragert P. Characterizing hemodynamic response alterations during basketball dribbling. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238318. [PMID: 32881901 PMCID: PMC7470377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge on neural processing during complex non-stationary motion sequences of sport-specific movements still remains elusive. Hence, we aimed at investigating hemodynamic response alterations during a basketball slalom dribbling task (BSDT) using multi-distance functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in 23 participants (12 females). Additionally, we quantified how the brain adapts its processing as a function of altered hand use (dominant right hand (DH) vs. non-dominant left hand (NDH) vs. alternating hands (AH)) and pace of execution (slow vs. fast) in BSDT. We found that BSDT activated bilateral premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor cortex (SMA), primary motor cortex (M1) as well as inferior parietal cortex and somatosensory association cortex. Slow dominant hand dribbling (DHslow) evoked lower contralateral hemodynamic responses in sensorimotor regions compared to fast dribbling (DHfast). Furthermore, during DHslow dribbling, we found lower hemodynamic responses in ipsilateral M1 as compared to dribbling with alternating hands (AHslow). Hence, altered task complexity during BSDT induced differential hemodynamic response patterns. Furthermore, a correlation analysis revealed that lower levels of perceived task complexity are associated with lower hemodynamic responses in ipsilateral PMC-SMA, which is an indicator for neuronal efficiency in participants with better basketball dribbling skills. The present study extends previous findings by showing that varying levels of task complexity are reflected by specific hemodynamic response alterations even during sports-relevant motor behavior. Taken together, we suggest that quantifying brain activation during complex movements is a prerequisite for assessing brain-behavior relations and optimizing motor performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Carius
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Oliver Seidel-Marzi
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaminski
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Niklas Lisson
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Patrick Ragert
- Institute for General Kinesiology and Exercise Science, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Forcione M, Chiarelli AM, Perpetuini D, Davies DJ, O’Halloran P, Hacker D, Merla A, Belli A. Tomographic Task-Related Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Acute Sport-Related Concussion: An Observational Case Study. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6273. [PMID: 32872557 PMCID: PMC7503954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Making decisions regarding return-to-play after sport-related concussion (SRC) based on resolution of symptoms alone can expose contact-sport athletes to further injury before their recovery is complete. Task-related functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) could be used to scan for abnormalities in the brain activation patterns of SRC athletes and help clinicians to manage their return-to-play. This study aims to show a proof of concept of mapping brain activation, using tomographic task-related fNIRS, as part of the clinical assessment of acute SRC patients. A high-density frequency-domain optical device was used to scan 2 SRC patients, within 72 h from injury, during the execution of 3 neurocognitive tests used in clinical practice. The optical data were resolved into a tomographic reconstruction of the brain functional activation pattern, using diffuse optical tomography. Moreover, brain activity was inferred using single-subject statistical analyses. The advantages and limitations of the introduction of this optical technique into the clinical assessment of acute SRC patients are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Forcione
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre (NIHR-SRMRC), University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK; (D.J.D.); (A.B.)
- Neuroscience & Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Antonio Maria Chiarelli
- Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, Via Luigi Polacchi 13, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.M.C.); (D.P.); (A.M.)
| | - David Perpetuini
- Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, Via Luigi Polacchi 13, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.M.C.); (D.P.); (A.M.)
| | - David James Davies
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre (NIHR-SRMRC), University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK; (D.J.D.); (A.B.)
- Neuroscience & Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Patrick O’Halloran
- Neuroscience & Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - David Hacker
- Clinical Neuropsychology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK;
| | - Arcangelo Merla
- Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, Via Luigi Polacchi 13, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.M.C.); (D.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Antonio Belli
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre (NIHR-SRMRC), University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK; (D.J.D.); (A.B.)
- Neuroscience & Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
New Directions in Exercise Prescription: Is There a Role for Brain-Derived Parameters Obtained by Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy? Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10060342. [PMID: 32503207 PMCID: PMC7348779 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10060342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the literature, it is well established that regular physical exercise is a powerful strategy to promote brain health and to improve cognitive performance. However, exact knowledge about which exercise prescription would be optimal in the setting of exercise–cognition science is lacking. While there is a strong theoretical rationale for using indicators of internal load (e.g., heart rate) in exercise prescription, the most suitable parameters have yet to be determined. In this perspective article, we discuss the role of brain-derived parameters (e.g., brain activity) as valuable indicators of internal load which can be beneficial for individualizing the exercise prescription in exercise–cognition research. Therefore, we focus on the application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), since this neuroimaging modality provides specific advantages, making it well suited for monitoring cortical hemodynamics as a proxy of brain activity during physical exercise.
Collapse
|