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Tu G, Jiang N, Chen W, Liu L, Hu M, Liao B. The neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of exercise interventions in autistic individuals. Rev Neurosci 2024; 0:revneuro-2024-0058. [PMID: 39083671 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2024-0058] [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: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a pervasive and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication difficulties and rigid, repetitive behaviors. Owing to the complex pathogenesis of autism, effective drugs for treating its core features are lacking. Nonpharmacological approaches, including education, social-communication, behavioral and psychological methods, and exercise interventions, play important roles in supporting the needs of autistic individuals. The advantages of exercise intervention, such as its low cost, easy implementation, and high acceptance, have garnered increasing attention. Exercise interventions can effectively improve the core features and co-occurring conditions of autism, but the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are unclear. Abnormal changes in the gut microbiome, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity may individually or interactively be responsible for atypical brain structure and connectivity, leading to specific autistic experiences and characteristics. Interestingly, exercise can affect these biological processes and reshape brain network connections, which may explain how exercise alleviates core features and co-occurring conditions in autistic individuals. In this review, we describe the definition, diagnostic approach, epidemiology, and current support strategies for autism; highlight the benefits of exercise interventions; and call for individualized programs for different subtypes of autistic individuals. Finally, the possible neurobiological mechanisms by which exercise improves autistic features are comprehensively summarized to inform the development of optimal exercise interventions and specific targets to meet the needs of autistic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genghong Tu
- Department of Sports Medicine, 47878 Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health Promotion, 47878 Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Graduate School, 47878 Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
| | - Weizhong Chen
- Graduate School, 47878 Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
| | - Lining Liu
- Graduate School, 47878 Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
| | - Min Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health Promotion, 47878 Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
| | - Bagen Liao
- Department of Sports Medicine, 47878 Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health Promotion, 47878 Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510500, P.R. China
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Karatrantou K, Pappas K, Batatolis C, Ioakimidis P, Gerodimos V. A 3-Month Modified Basketball Exercise Program as a Health-Enhancing Sport Activity for Middle-Aged Individuals. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:709. [PMID: 38929692 PMCID: PMC11205037 DOI: 10.3390/life14060709] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Recreational team sports have received great acceptance lately, in different populations, indicating encouraging results in health-related quality of life. This study examined the efficacy of a 3-month basketball exercise program on selected indices of health (body mass-BM, body fat-BF, blood pressure-BP), functional capacity (flexibility of lower and upper limbs, balance), and physical fitness (maximum strength of lower limbs, trunk and handgrip, aerobic capacity) in middle-aged individuals. Forty middle-aged individuals (males and females; 40-55 years old) were randomly divided into (a) exercise (EG; n = 20) and (b) control groups (CG; n = 20). The EG followed a 3-month modified basketball exercise program (2 times/week; 24 training units), including different basketball drills with and without the ball (dribbling, passing, pivot, stops, etc.), to improve participants' health and physical fitness. Repeated measures ANOVA showed that the EG significantly increased their flexibility (17.23-74.88%; p < 0.001), static balance (44.76-54.69%; p < 0.001), and strength of lower limbs and trunk (11.67-13.13%; p < 0.001), while reducing BP (7.31-12%; p < 0.001), heart rate and RPE (5.30-34.37%; p < 0.001), and time during time-up-and-go test (-10.91%; p < 0.001). Handgrip strength, BM, and BF did not change following the program in the EG (p > 0.05). In the CG, the above variables remained stable. In conclusion, this program may be used to eliminate the detrimental effects of aging on health, functional capacity, and physical fitness parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vassilis Gerodimos
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (K.K.); (K.P.); (C.B.); (P.I.)
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Li L, Jia S, Wang P, Li S, Wang X, Zhu X. A network meta-analysis of the effect of physical exercise on core symptoms in patients with autism spectrum disorders. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1360434. [PMID: 38784898 PMCID: PMC11113547 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1360434] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the effects of various sports exercise programs on the core symptoms of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods We searched the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP databases, Wanfang databases, Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases from their inception to February 2023 for randomized controlled trial that investigated the effect of sports exercise on the core symptoms of ASD. The overall risk of bias in the included literature was summarized using the revised Cochrane Randomized Trial Risk of Bias Tool (ROB2), and network meta-analysis was used to compare the intervention effects. Results A total of 30 studies involving 1,375 participants were included. The results showed that sports exercise programs, including 8-12 weeks of ball sports (SMD = -5.35, 95%CI: -7.57, -3.23), horse riding (SMD = -3.71, 95%CI: -6.18, -1.13), 8-12 weeks of comprehensive sports exercise (SMD = -2.17, 95%CI: -3.99, -0.44), and more than 12 weeks of comprehensive sports exercise (SMD = -3.75, 95%CI: -6.33, -1.24), significantly improved social interaction disorders. Furthermore, 8-12 weeks of ball sports (SMD = -4.36, 95%CI: 2.04, 6.73) and more than 12 weeks of comprehensive sports exercise (SMD = 3.65, 95%CI: 1.40, 6.08) significantly improved repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Conclusion Sports exercise can improve the core symptoms of ASD patients, and different symptoms show a selective response to different exercise elements. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023455806.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Li
- Sports Department, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuqi Jia
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Shufan Li
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhu
- Guangxi Health Science College, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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Yang Y, Chen D, Cai K, Zhu L, Shi Y, Dong X, Sun Z, Qiao Z, Yang Y, Zhang W, Mao H, Chen A. Effects of mini-basketball training program on social communication impairments and regional homogeneity of brain functions in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:92. [PMID: 38659073 PMCID: PMC11040976 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00885-7] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social communication impairments (SCI) is a core symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is marked by challenges in social interaction. Although physical exercise has been shown to improve SCI, this finding has not been supported by comprehensive scientific evidence. Existing research has established a strong link between the SCI in children with ASD and abnormalities in regional homogeneity (ReHo). Therefore, investigating the effects of physical exercise on SCI and Reho in patients with ASD may help to elucidate the neurological mechanisms involved. METHODS The present study included 30 preschool children diagnosed with ASD, with 15 participants in each group (experimental and control). The experimental group underwent a 12-week mini-basketball training program (MBTP) based on routine behavioral rehabilitation, while the control group only received routine behavioral rehabilitation. The Social Responsiveness Scale-Second Edition (SRS-2) was employed to assess SCI in both groups. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging technology was used to evaluate ReHo in both groups. RESULTS After 12-week of MBTP, significant group × time interactions were observed between the experimental and control groups in total SRS-2 scores (F = 14.514, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.341), as well as in the domains of social cognition (F = 15.620, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.358), social communication (F = 12.460, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.308), and autistic mannerisms (F = 9.970, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.263). No statistical difference was found in the scores for the social awareness subscale and social motivation subscale in the group × time interaction (all p > 0.05). The experimental group exhibited increased ReHo in the right Cerebellum_Crus1 and right parahippocampal gyrus, coupled with decreased ReHo in the left middle frontal gyrus (orbital part), left superior frontal gyrus (dorsolateral), left postcentral gyrus, and right superior parietal gyrus. Furthermore, a decrease in ReHo in the left postcentral gyrus positively correlated with changes in social communication scores in SCI behaviors (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our study underscores the effectiveness of a 12-week MBTP in ameliorating SCI and abnormalities in ReHo among preschool children with ASD. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is retrospectively registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900024973; August 5, 2019).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kelong Cai
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lina Zhu
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yifan Shi
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Dong
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyuan Sun
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyuan Qiao
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yahui Yang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weike Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiyong Mao
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aiguo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Nanjing Sport Institute, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Zhan L, Gao Y, Huang L, Zhang H, Huang G, Wang Y, Sun J, Xie Z, Li M, Jia X, Cheng L, Yu Y. Brain functional connectivity alterations of Wernicke's area in individuals with autism spectrum conditions in multi-frequency bands: A mega-analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26198. [PMID: 38404781 PMCID: PMC10884452 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Characterized by severe deficits in communication, most individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) experience significant language dysfunctions, thereby impacting their overall quality of life. Wernicke's area, a classical and traditional brain region associated with language processing, plays a substantial role in the manifestation of language impairments. The current study carried out a mega-analysis to attain a comprehensive understanding of the neural mechanisms underpinning ASC, particularly in the context of language processing. The study employed the Autism Brain Image Data Exchange (ABIDE) dataset, which encompasses data from 443 typically developing (TD) individuals and 362 individuals with ASC. The objective was to detect abnormal functional connectivity (FC) between Wernicke's area and other language-related functional regions, and identify frequency-specific altered FC using Wernicke's area as the seed region in ASC. The findings revealed that increased FC in individuals with ASC has frequency-specific characteristics. Further, in the conventional frequency band (0.01-0.08 Hz), individuals with ASC exhibited increased FC between Wernicke's area and the right thalamus compared with TD individuals. In the slow-5 frequency band (0.01-0.027 Hz), increased FC values were observed in the left cerebellum Crus II and the right lenticular nucleus, pallidum. These results provide novel insights into the potential neural mechanisms underlying communication deficits in ASC from the perspective of language impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Zhan
- School of Western Studies, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanyan Gao
- College of Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Lina Huang
- Department of Radiology, Changshu No. 2 People's Hospital, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Changshu, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongqiang Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Changshu No. 2 People's Hospital, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Changshu, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guofeng Huang
- School of Information and Electronics Technology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Yadan Wang
- School of Information and Electronics Technology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Jiawei Sun
- School of Information and Electronics Technology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Zhou Xie
- School of Information and Electronics Technology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Mengting Li
- College of Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Xize Jia
- College of Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Lulu Cheng
- School of Foreign Studies, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, China
- Shanghai Center for Research in English Language Education, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Psychiatry Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, China
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Cook KM, De Asis-Cruz J, Kim JH, Basu SK, Andescavage N, Murnick J, Spoehr E, Liggett M, du Plessis AJ, Limperopoulos C. Experience of early-life pain in premature infants is associated with atypical cerebellar development and later neurodevelopmental deficits. BMC Med 2023; 21:435. [PMID: 37957651 PMCID: PMC10644599 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03141-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants born very and extremely premature (V/EPT) are at a significantly elevated risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and delays even in the absence of structural brain injuries. These risks may be due to earlier-than-typical exposure to the extrauterine environment, and its bright lights, loud noises, and exposures to painful procedures. Given the relative underdeveloped pain modulatory responses in these infants, frequent pain exposures may confer risk for later deficits. METHODS Resting-state fMRI scans were collected at term equivalent age from 148 (45% male) infants born V/EPT and 99 infants (56% male) born at term age. Functional connectivity analyses were performed between functional regions correlating connectivity to the number of painful skin break procedures in the NICU, including heel lances, venipunctures, and IV placements. Subsequently, preterm infants returned at 18 months, for neurodevelopmental follow-up and completed assessments for autism risk and general neurodevelopment. RESULTS We observed that V/EPT infants exhibit pronounced hyperconnectivity within the cerebellum and between the cerebellum and both limbic and paralimbic regions correlating with the number of skin break procedures. Moreover, skin breaks were strongly associated with autism risk, motor, and language scores at 18 months. Subsample analyses revealed that the same cerebellar connections strongly correlating with breaks at term age were associated with language dysfunction at 18 months. CONCLUSIONS These results have significant implications for the clinical care of preterm infants undergoing painful exposures during routine NICU care, which typically occurs without anesthesia. Repeated pain exposures appear to have an increasingly detrimental effect on brain development during a critical period, and effects continue to be seen even 18 months later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Cook
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Josepheen De Asis-Cruz
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Jung-Hoon Kim
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Sudeepta K Basu
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Nickie Andescavage
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Jonathan Murnick
- Dept. of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, D.C, 20010, USA
| | - Emma Spoehr
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Melissa Liggett
- Division of Psychology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Adré J du Plessis
- Prenatal Pediatrics Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Catherine Limperopoulos
- Developing Brain Institute, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.
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Ranieri A, Mennitti C, Falcone N, La Monica I, Di Iorio MR, Tripodi L, Gentile A, Vitale M, Pero R, Pastore L, D’Argenio V, Scudiero O, Lombardo B. Positive effects of physical activity in autism spectrum disorder: how influences behavior, metabolic disorder and gut microbiota. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1238797. [PMID: 38025444 PMCID: PMC10681626 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1238797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social interactions and communication skills impairments that include intellectual disabilities, communication delays and self-injurious behaviors; often are present systemic comorbidities such as gastrointestinal disorders, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, in recent years has emerged a link between alterations in the intestinal microbiota and neurobehavioral symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder. Recently, physical activity and exercise interventions are known to be beneficial for improving communication and social interaction and the composition of microbiota. In our review we intend to highlight how different types of sports can help to improve communication and social behaviors in children with autism and also show positive effects on gut microbiota composition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristina Mennitti
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Noemi Falcone
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria La Monica
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Di Iorio
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorella Tripodi
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gentile
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Vitale
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Pero
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Pastore
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria D’Argenio
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Olga Scudiero
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Lombardo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Wang S, Chen D, Yang Y, Zhu L, Xiong X, Chen A. Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autism Res 2023; 16:1811-1824. [PMID: 37539450 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, systematic review and meta-analysis were used to demonstrate the effectiveness of physical activity intervention on core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Physical activity intervention for core symptoms of ASD were retrieved by computer from the PubMed Cochrane Library, Web of Science, APA PsycNet, and CNKI database during December 1, 2022. Two researchers evaluated the quality of the included literature and extracted the data. Sixteen studies were eventually included, with a total of 587 patients with ASD. Meta-analysis showed that the core symptoms of ASD patients decreased after physical activity intervention, ES(g) = 0.681(95% CI: 0.380-0.982, p = 0.000), specifically, physical activity improved the reduction of social disorder ES(g) = 0.749(95% CI: 0.524-0.973) and repeated rigid behavior ES(g) = 0.553 (95% CI: -0.079 to 1.186). Subgroup analysis showed that preschool children with ASD who were 3-6 years old, exercised for more than 12 weeks, more than 3 times a week, and exercised for more than 90 min per session had better improvement in core symptoms after participating in physical activity. The conclusion of this paper is that physical activity intervention can improve the core symptoms of ASD, especially the reduction of social disorders and repetitive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimeng Wang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lina Zhu
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Xiong
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Aiguo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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9
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Jia S, Guo C, Li S, Zhou X, Wang X, Wang Q. The effect of physical exercise on disordered social communication in individuals with autism Spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1193648. [PMID: 37456563 PMCID: PMC10347521 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1193648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to systematically investigate the intervention effect of physical exercise on disordered social communication in patients with autism spectrum disorders. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis used the PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and Embase electronic databases to conduct a systematic search of literature describing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of physical exercise on disordered social communication in autistic patients from the first year of inclusion to 21 January 2023. Results A total of 14 RCTs including 460 autistic patients were analyzed. A meta-analysis showed that physical exercise had a positive effect on social communication disorder (SMD = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.74, p < 0.05) in autistic patients. Subgroup analysis showed that exercise programs with multiple components (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.39, 1.06, P < 0.001), a moderate duration (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.38, 1.08, P < 0.001), a moderate-high frequency (SMD = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.53, 1.14, P < 0.001), and a long duration (SMD = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.36, 1.18, P < 0.001) led to significant improvement. Conclusion Physical exercise can improve disordered social communication in patients with autism spectrum disorders. Specifically, early intervention, multi-component exercise, a moderate period, moderate and high frequency, long duration, and multi-participant programs were most effective. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ RecordID= CRD42023422482.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Jia
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengcheng Guo
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shufan Li
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojing Zhou
- School of Physical Education and Health, Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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10
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Yano N, Hosokawa K. The importance of comprehensive support based on the three pillars of exercise, nutrition, and sleep for improving core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1119142. [PMID: 37260760 PMCID: PMC10228143 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1119142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-V, which first described ASD, lists persistent deficits in social communication and interrelationships, as well as limited and recurrent modes of behavior, interests, and activities as diagnostic items. Until recently, understanding the pathophysiology of ASD has been mostly from a neurophysiological perspective, and interventions have been mostly behavioral and psychological. In recent years, however, it has become clear that ASD also affects many bodily systems, including the immune system, the sensorimotor system, and the gut-brain axis, and that these factors simultaneously influence it. In light of this background, a new "connectivome theory" has been proposed as a hypothesis for understanding ASD. "Exercise," "nutrition," and "sleep," which are discussed in this mini-review, have a particularly strong relationship with the immune, musculoskeletal, and gut systems among the pathologies mentioned in the "connectivome theory," furthermore, many reports suggest improvements in stereo-responsive behavior and social and communication skills, which are the core symptoms of ASD. In addition, these interventions are characterized by being less subject to location and cost limitations and excel in the continuity of therapeutic intervention, and the three interventions may have a reciprocal positive impact and may function as three pillars to support ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomu Yano
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Doctoral Course, Kagoshima University Graduate School, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Kenji Hosokawa
- Department of Child Care and Education, Odawara Junior College, Nagoya, Japan
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11
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Zong W, Lu X, Dong G, Zhang L, Li K. Molecular mechanisms of exercise intervention in alleviating the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: Targeting the structural alterations of synapse. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1096503. [PMID: 37065903 PMCID: PMC10102432 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1096503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by stereotyped behaviors, specific interests, and impaired social and communication skills. Synapses are fundamental structures for transmitting information between neurons. It has been reported that synaptic deficits, such as the increased or decreased density of synapses, may contribute to the onset of ASD, which affects the synaptic function and neuronal circuits. Therefore, targeting the recovery of the synaptic normal structure and function may be a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate ASD symptoms. Exercise intervention has been shown to regulate the structural plasticity of synapses and improve ASD symptoms, but the underlying molecular mechanisms require further exploration. In this review, we highlight the characteristics of synaptic structural alterations in the context of ASD and the beneficial effects of an exercise intervention on improving ASD symptoms. Finally, we explore the possible molecular mechanisms of improving ASD symptoms through exercise intervention from the perspective of regulating synaptic structural plasticity, which contributes to further optimizing the related strategies of exercise intervention promoting ASD rehabilitation in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zong
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
- College of Sports and Health, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaowen Lu
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Guijun Dong
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kefeng Li
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, China
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12
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Zeng Q, Hu X, Wang Y. The association between muscle strength and executive function in children and adolescents: Based on survey evidence in rural areas of China. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1090143. [PMID: 36687972 PMCID: PMC9853898 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1090143] [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: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In recent years, muscle strength in children and adolescents has continued to decline, especially in rural areas. Executive function as a higher function of the brain, is closely related to the future achievement of children and adolescents. For this reason, this study analyzed the correlation between muscle strength and executive function in children and adolescents in rural areas of China to better promote the development of muscle strength and executive function. Methods Demographic factors, muscle strength, and executive function were tested in 1,335 children and adolescents in rural China using a three-stage stratified whole-group sampling method. One-way ANOVA and chi-square test were used to compare the differences in executive function among children and adolescents with different muscle strengths. Multiple linear regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the association that exists between muscle strength and executive function. Results When comparing the inconsistently, congruent, 1back, 2back, conversion, size parity, and cognitive flexibility response times of children and adolescents with different muscle strength indexes in rural China, the differences were statistically significant (F = 46.592, 45.610, 10.809, 32.068, 24.095, 19.260, 11.501, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis was performed using children and adolescents with muscle strength index >P80 as the control group. The results showed that the risk of 1back dysfunction was higher (OR = 1.764, 95% CI:1.094, 2.843) in children and adolescents with muscle strength index <P20 (p < 0.05). The risk of 2back dysfunction was higher in children and adolescents with a muscle strength index <P20 (OR = 2.129, 95% CI:1.329, 3.410) (p < 0.01). Compared with children and adolescents with muscle strength index >P80. The muscle strength index <P20 group had a higher risk of cognitive flexibility dysfunction (OR = 1.820, 95% CI:1.111, 2.982) (p < 0.05). Conclusion There is a association between muscle strength and executive function in children and adolescents in rural areas of China. Those with higher muscle strength have shorter executive function reaction times and are at lower risk of developing executive dysfunction. Future measures should be taken to improve muscle strength and executive function levels in children and adolescents in rural areas to promote healthy physical and mental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zeng
- School of Physical Education, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Xin Hu
- School of Physical Education, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China,*Correspondence: Xin Hu,
| | - Yujie Wang
- Department of Public Education, Zhumadian Vocational and Technical College, Zhumadian, China
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13
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Kong C, Chen A, Ludyga S, Herold F, Healy S, Zhao M, Taylor A, Müller NG, Kramer AF, Chen S, Tremblay MS, Zou L. Associations between meeting 24-hour movement guidelines and quality of life among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2023; 12:73-86. [PMID: 36029958 PMCID: PMC9923433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Canadian 24-hour movement behavior (24-HMB) guidelines suggest that a limited amount of screen time use, an adequate level of physical activity (PA), and sufficient sleep duration are beneficial for ensuring and optimizing the health and quality of life (QoL) of children and adolescents. However, this topic has yet to be examined for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) specifically. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to examine the associations between meeting 24-HMB guidelines and several QoL-related indicators among a national sample of American children and adolescents with ASD. METHODS Data were taken from the 2020 U.S. National Survey of Children's Health dataset. Participants (n = 956) aged 6-17 years and currently diagnosed with ASD were included. The exposure of interest was adherence to the 24-HMB guidelines. Outcomes were QoL indicators, including learning interest/curiosity, repeating grades, adaptive ability, victimization by bullying, and behavioral problems. Categorical variables were described with unweighted sample counts and weighted percentages. Age, sex, race, preterm birth status, medication, behavioral treatment, household poverty level, and the educational level of the primary caregivers were included as covariates. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were used to present the strength of association between adherence to 24-HMB guidelines and QoL-related indicators. RESULTS Overall, 452 participants (45.34%) met 1 of the 3 recommendations, 216 (22.65%) met 2 recommendations, whereas only 39 participants (5.04%) met all 3 recommendations. Compared with meeting none of the recommendations, meeting both sleep duration and PA recommendations (OR = 3.92, 95%CI: 1.63-9.48, p < 0.001) or all 3 recommendations (OR = 2.11, 95%CI: 1.03-4.35, p = 0.04) was associated with higher odds of showing learning interest/curiosity. Meeting both screen time and PA recommendations (OR = 0.15, 95%CI: 0.04-0.61, p < 0.05) or both sleep duration and PA recommendations (OR = 0.24, 95%CI: 0.07-0.87, p < 0.05) was associated with lower odds of repeating any grades. With respect to adaptive ability, participants who met only the PA recommendation of the 24-HMB were less likely to have difficulties dressing or bathing (OR = 0.11, 95%CI: 0.02-0.66, p < 0.05) than those who did not. For participants who met all 3 recommendations (OR = 0.38, 95%CI: 0.15-0.99, p = 0.05), the odds of being victimized by bullying was lower. Participants who adhered to both sleep duration and PA recommendations were less likely to present with severe behavioral problems (OR = 0.17, 95%CI: 0.04-0.71, p < 0.05) than those who did not meet those guidelines. CONCLUSION Significant associations were found between adhering to 24-HMB guidelines and selected QoL indicators. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a key factor in promoting and preserving the QoL of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuidan Kong
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518061, China
| | - Aiguo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Sebastian Ludyga
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Basel 4052, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Herold
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany
| | - Sean Healy
- Community Health Academic Group, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Mengxian Zhao
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518061, China
| | - Alyx Taylor
- School of Rehabilitation, Sport and Psychology, AECC University College, Bournemouth, BH5 2DF, UK
| | - Notger G Müller
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam 14476, Germany; Research Group Neuroprotection, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg 39120, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Arthur F Kramer
- Center for Cognitive and Brain Health, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Sitong Chen
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia
| | - Mark S Tremblay
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H8L1, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Liye Zou
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518061, China.
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14
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Play Smart, Be Smart? Effect of Cognitively Engaging Physical Activity Interventions on Executive Function among Children 4~12 Years Old: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060762. [PMID: 35741648 PMCID: PMC9220861 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper aims to collect a compendium of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring the effects of cognitively engaging physical activity (PA) interventions (basketball and floorball) on various domain-specific executive functions (EFs) in children aged 4 to 12. Following the PRISMA principle, 11 articles (total sample size: 2053) were analyzed for effect size and moderating impact with Stata 13.0 software. Overall EFs (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.32, p < 0.05), updating (SMD = 0.17, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.30, p < 0.05) and shifting (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.61, p < 0.05) were enhanced by cognitively engaging PA interventions. Age and BMI were found to have no effect on overall EFs performance in Meta regression. Overall EFs performance was improved by interventions with a session length (≥35 min) (SMD = 0.30, 95 % CI 0.10 to 0.49, p = 0.033). The review suggests that despite the moderate effect sizes, cognitively engaging PA may be an effective approach to improving EFs in children aged 4 to 12, especially updating and shifting.
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Su WC, Amonkar N, Cleffi C, Srinivasan S, Bhat A. Neural Effects of Physical Activity and Movement Interventions in Individuals With Developmental Disabilities-A Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:794652. [PMID: 35242063 PMCID: PMC8886122 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.794652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with developmental disabilities present with perceptuo-motor, social communication, and cognitive impairments that often relate to underlying atypical brain structure and functioning. Physical activity/movement interventions improve behavioral performance of individuals with and without developmental disabilities. Majority of the evidence on potential neural mechanisms explaining the impact of physical activity/movement interventions is based on studies in individuals with typical development; there is a dearth of systematic reviews synthesizing the neural effects of physical activity/movement interventions in individuals with developmental disabilities. In this systematic review, we have gathered evidence on the neural effects of physical activity/movement interventions from 32 papers reporting substantial neural effects and behavioral improvements in individuals with developmental disabilities. Chronic intervention effects (multiple sessions) were greater than acute intervention effects (single session). Specifically, using electroencephalogram, functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy, studies found physical activity/movement intervention-related changes in neural activity, indicating normalization of cortical arousal in individuals with attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), increased social brain connectivity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and more efficient executive functioning processes in individuals with a wide range of other developmental disabilities. Despite promising results, more research is clearly needed in this area with larger sample sizes, using standardized neuroimaging tools/variables, and across multiple diagnoses to further explore the neural mechanisms underlying physical activity/movement interventions and to replicate findings from the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Chun Su
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
- Biomechanics and Movement Science Program, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Nidhi Amonkar
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Corina Cleffi
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
- Biomechanics and Movement Science Program, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Sudha Srinivasan
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute for Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (IBACS), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Anjana Bhat
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
- Biomechanics and Movement Science Program, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
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