1
|
Gatti M, Prete G, Perpetuini D, Bondi D, Verratti V, Matteucci FQ, Santangelo C, Annarumma S, Crosta AD, Palumbo R, Merla A, Giaconia GC, Tommasi L, Mammarella N. The effects of real vs simulated high altitude on associative memory for emotional stimuli. Physiol Behav 2024:114663. [PMID: 39128618 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114663] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate the effects of normobaric hypoxia (NH) and hypobaric hypoxia (HH) on associative memory performance for emotionally valenced stimuli. METHODS Two experiments were conducted. In Study 1, n=18 undergraduates performed an associative memory task under three NH conditions (FiO2= 20.9%, 15.1%, 13.6%) using a tent with a hypoxic generator. In Study 2, n=20 participants were assessed in a field study at various altitudes on the Himalayan mountains, including the Pyramid Laboratory (5,000 meters above sea level), using functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and behavioral assessments. RESULTS Study 1 revealed no significant differences in recognition accuracy across NH conditions. However, Study 2 showed a complex relationship between altitude and memory for emotionally valenced stimuli. At lower altitudes, participants more accurately recognized emotional stimuli compared to neutral ones, a trend that reversed at higher altitudes. Brain oxygenation varied with altitude, indicating adaptive cognitive processing, as revealed by fNIRS measurements. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that hypoxia affects associative memory and emotional processing in an altitude-dependent manner, highlighting adaptive cognitive mechanisms. Understanding the effects of hypobaric hypoxia on cognition and memory can help develop strategies to mitigate its impact in high-altitude and hypoxic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Gatti
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulia Prete
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - David Perpetuini
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Danilo Bondi
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vittore Verratti
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
| | | | - Carmen Santangelo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Salvatore Annarumma
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy; Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Adolfo Di Crosta
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rocco Palumbo
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Merla
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Luca Tommasi
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Nicola Mammarella
- Department of Psychology, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Murphey JT, Temple JL, Hostler D. Taste and Appetite at Altitude: A Comprehensive Review of Sensory and Hunger Modulation in High-Altitude Environments. High Alt Med Biol 2024. [PMID: 39122250 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2024.0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Individuals living or working at high altitudes typically experience altered taste perceptions and reduced appetite. These changes can lead to nutritional deficiencies, affecting the energy balance and body composition. Methods: We conducted a nonsystematic review of PubMed to explore these phenomena and expound on their findings to offer additional insights. Results: Changes in taste and perception are common and typically lead to loss of mass. There are limited practical solutions to mitigate these challenges. Discussion: Gradual acclimatization and tailored nutritional strategies are required to enhance health and performance in high-altitude environments. This review provides critical insights into the intersection of altitude, nutrition, and health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Murphey
- Center for Research and Education in Special Environments, Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer L Temple
- Nutrition and Health Research Laboratory, Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - David Hostler
- Center for Research and Education in Special Environments, Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fan H, Meng Y, Zhu L, Fan M, Wang D, Zhao Y. A review of methods for assessment of cognitive function in high-altitude hypoxic environments. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3418. [PMID: 38409925 PMCID: PMC10897364 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic environments like those present at high altitudes may negatively affect brain function. Varying levels of hypoxia, whether acute or chronic, are previously shown to impair cognitive function in humans. Assessment and prevention of such cognitive impairment require detection of cognitive changes and impairment using specific cognitive function assessment tools. This paper summarizes the findings of previous research, outlines the methods for cognitive function assessment used at a high altitude, elaborates the need to develop standardized and systematic cognitive function assessment tools for high-altitude hypoxia environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Fan
- Department of PsychologyZhejiang Sci‐Tech UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Cognitive and StressBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ying Meng
- Department of PsychologyZhejiang Sci‐Tech UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Cognitive and StressBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lingling Zhu
- Department of Cognitive and StressBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ming Fan
- Department of Cognitive and StressBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- School of Information Sciences & EngineeringLanzhou UniversityLanzhouChina
| | - Du‐Ming Wang
- Department of PsychologyZhejiang Sci‐Tech UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yong‐Qi Zhao
- Department of PsychologyZhejiang Sci‐Tech UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Cognitive and StressBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chroboczek M, Kujach S, Łuszczyk M, Soya H, Laskowski R. Exercise-Induced Elevated BDNF Concentration Seems to Prevent Cognitive Impairment after Acute Exposure to Moderate Normobaric Hypoxia among Young Men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3629. [PMID: 36834322 PMCID: PMC9961746 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Memory impairment, reduced learning ability, decreased concentration, and psychomotor performance can be all signs of deleterious impact of hypoxia on cognitive functioning. In turn, physical exercise can improve performance and enhance cognitive functions. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the potential positive effects of exercise performed under normobaric hypoxia can counteract the negative effects of hypoxia on cognitive function, and whether these changes correlate with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations. Seventeen healthy subjects participated in a crossover study where they performed two sessions of single breathing bouts combined with moderate intensity exercise under two conditions: normoxia (NOR EX) and normobaric hypoxia (NH EX). To assess cognitive function, Stroop test was applied. There were no significant differences in any part of the Stroop interference test regardless of the conditions (NOR, NH), despite a statistical decrease in SpO2 (p < 0.0001) under normobaric hypoxic conditions. In addition, a statistical increase (p < 0.0001) in BDNF concentration was observed after both conditions. Acute exercise under normobaric hypoxia did not impair cognitive function despite a significant decrease in SpO2. Exercise in such conditions may offset the negative effects of hypoxia alone on cognitive function. This may be related to the significant increase in BDNF concentration and, as a consequence, positively affect the executive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Chroboczek
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Sylwester Kujach
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marcin Łuszczyk
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Hideaki Soya
- Sports Neuroscience Division, Advanced Research Initiative for Human High Performance, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8574, Japan
| | - Radosław Laskowski
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
- Laboratory of Exercise Biochemistry and Neuroendocrinology, Department of Sports Neuroscience, Advanced Research Initiative for Human High Performance (ARIHHP), Faculty of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8574, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cognition and Neuropsychological Changes at Altitude-A Systematic Review of Literature. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121736. [PMID: 36552195 PMCID: PMC9775937 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121736] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
High-altitude (HA) exposure affects cognitive functions, but studies have found inconsistent results. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of HA exposure on cognitive functions in healthy subjects. A structural overview of the applied neuropsychological tests was provided with a classification of superordinate cognitive domains. A literature search was performed using PubMed up to October 2021 according to PRISMA guidelines. Eligibility criteria included a healthy human cohort exposed to altitude in the field (at minimum 2440 m [8000 ft]) or in a hypoxic environment in a laboratory, and an assessment of cognitive domains. The literature search identified 52 studies (29 of these were field studies; altitude range: 2440 m-8848 m [8000-29,029 ft]). Researchers applied 112 different neuropsychological tests. Attentional capacity, concentration, and executive functions were the most frequently studied. In the laboratory, the ratio of altitude-induced impairments (64.7%) was twice as high compared to results showing no change or improved results (35.3%), but altitudes studied were similar in the chamber compared to field studies. In the field, the opposite results were found (66.4 % no change or improvements, 33.6% impairments). Since better acclimatization can be assumed in the field studies, the findings support the hypothesis that sufficient acclimatization has beneficial effects on cognitive functions at HA. However, it also becomes apparent that research in this area would benefit most if a consensus could be reached on a standardized framework of freely available neurocognitive tests.
Collapse
|
6
|
Chroboczek M, Kujach S, Łuszczyk M, Grzywacz T, Soya H, Laskowski R. Acute Normobaric Hypoxia Lowers Executive Functions among Young Men despite Increase of BDNF Concentration. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10802. [PMID: 36078520 PMCID: PMC9518314 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decreased SpO2 during hypoxia can cause cognitive function impairment, and the effects of acute hypoxia on high-order brain functions such as executive processing remain unclear. This study's goal was to examine the impact of an acute normobaric hypoxia breathing session on executive function and biological markers. METHODS Thirty-two healthy subjects participated in a blind study performing two sessions of single 30 min breathing bouts under two conditions (normoxia (NOR) and normobaric hypoxia (NH), FIO2 = 0.135). The Stroop test was applied to assess cognitive function. RESULTS No significant difference was observed in the Stroop interference in the "reading" part of the test in either condition; however, there was a significant increase in the "naming" part under NH conditions (p = 0.003), which corresponded to a significant decrease in SpO2 (p < 0.001). There was a significant increase (p < 0.013) in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level after NH conditions compared to the baseline, which was not seen in NOR. In addition, a significant drop (p < 0.001) in cortisol levels in the NOR group and a slight elevation in the NH group was noticed. CONCLUSIONS According to these findings, acute hypoxia delayed cognitive processing for motor execution and reduced the neural activity in motor executive and inhibitory processing. We also noted that this negative effect was associated with decreased SpO2 irrespective of a rise in BDNF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Chroboczek
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Sylwester Kujach
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marcin Łuszczyk
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Tomasz Grzywacz
- Department of Sport, Institute of Physical Education, Kazimierz Wielki University, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Hideaki Soya
- Sports Neuroscience Division, Advanced Research Initiative for Human High Performance, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8574, Japan
| | - Radosław Laskowski
- Department of Physiology, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
- Laboratory of Exercise Biochemistry and Neuroendocrinology, Department of Sports Neuroscience, Advanced Research Initiative for Human High Performance (ARIHHP), Faculty of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shirai A, Wadazumi T. Effect of Paprika Xanthophyll Supplementation on Cognitive Improvement in a Multitasking Exercise: A Pilot Study for Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10010081. [PMID: 35052245 PMCID: PMC8775015 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ingestion of paprika xanthophyll supplement (PX), which has antioxidant effects, has been recently reported to maintain red blood cell deformability and improve oxygen delivery efficiency. Therefore, we hypothesized that the brain activation induced by multitasking exercise in middle-aged and older participants along with the improved erythrocyte oxygen-carrying efficiency induced by PX supplementation would show a synergistic effect, increasing oxygen supply to the brain and improving cognitive function more effectively. In study 1, cerebral blood flow measurements were conducted during the multitasking exercise and cognitive function tests to verify their effect on cognitive function. The results confirmed that cerebral blood flow increased during the exercise and cognitive function improved after the exercise. In study 2, we compared the effects of the multitasking exercise on cognitive function before and after PX supplementation in middle-aged and older participants to evaluate the effects of PX supplementation. The results suggested that PX supplementation enhanced the effects of active multitasking exercise on cognitive function. We speculate that the improvement of oxygen transport efficiency by PX resulted in more effective oxygen supply, allowing the multitasking exercise to occur more effectively, which was reflected as an improvement in the cognitive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asako Shirai
- Department of Sport Education, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, 1-1 Asashirodai, Kumatori, Sennan District, Sennan-gun 590-0496, Osaka, Japan
- Faculty of Health and Well-Being, Kansai University, 1-11-1 Kaorigaoka-cho, Sakai-ku, Sakai 590-8515, Osaka, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-72-479-5041
| | - Tsuyoshi Wadazumi
- Faculty of Health and Well-Being, Kansai University, 1-11-1 Kaorigaoka-cho, Sakai-ku, Sakai 590-8515, Osaka, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|