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Nashiro K, Cahn BR, Choi P, Lee HRJ, Satchi S, Min J, Yoo HJ, Cho C, Mercer N, Sordo L, Head E, Choupan J, Mather M. Daily mindfulness practice with and without slow breathing has opposing effects on plasma amyloid beta levels. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2025:2025.03.10.25323695. [PMID: 40162262 PMCID: PMC11952629 DOI: 10.1101/2025.03.10.25323695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
Prior research suggests that meditation may slow brain aging and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, we lack research systematically examining what aspect(s) of meditation may drive such benefits. In particular, it is unknown how breathing patterns during meditation might influence health outcomes associated with AD. In this study, we examined whether two types of mindfulness meditation practices - one with slow breathing and one with normal breathing - differently affect plasma amyloid beta (Aβ) relative to a no-intervention control group. One week of daily mindfulness practice with slow breathing decreased plasma Aβ levels whereas one week of daily mindfulness practice with normal breathing increased them. The no-intervention control group showed no changes in plasma Aβ levels. Slow breathing appears to be a factor through which meditative practices can influence pathways relevant for AD.
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2
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Plini ERG, Melnychuk MC, Dockree PM. Meditation Linked to Enhanced MRI Signal Intensity in the Pineal Gland and Reduced Predicted Brain Age. J Pineal Res 2025; 77:e70033. [PMID: 39940075 PMCID: PMC11822093 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.70033] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 01/21/2025] [Indexed: 02/14/2025]
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrates that meditation practice supports cognitive functions, including attention and interoceptive processing, and is associated with structural changes across cortical networks, including prefrontal regions and the insula. However, the extent of subcortical morphometric changes linked to meditation practice is less appreciated. A noteworthy candidate is the pineal gland, a key producer of melatonin, which regulates circadian rhythms that augment sleep-wake patterns and may also provide neuroprotective benefits to offset cognitive decline. Increased melatonin levels, as well as increased fMRI BOLD signal in the pineal gland, have been observed in meditators versus controls. However, it is not known if long-term meditators exhibit structural changes in the pineal gland linked to the lifetime duration of practice. In the current study, we performed voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis to investigate: (1) whether long-term meditators (LTMs) (n = 14) exhibited greater pineal gland MRI-derived signal intensity compared to a control group (n = 969), (2) a potential association between the estimated lifetime hours of meditation (ELHOM) and pineal gland signal intensity, and (3) whether LTMs show greater grey matter (GM) maintenance (BrainPAD) that is associated with pineal gland signal intensity. The results revealed greater pineal gland signal intensity and lower BrainPAD scores (younger brain age) in LTMs compared to controls. Exploratory analysis revealed a positive association between ELHOM and greater signal intensity in the pineal gland but not with GM maintenance as measured by BrainPAD score. However, greater pineal signal intensity and lower BrainPAD scores were correlated in LTMs. The potential mechanisms by which meditation influences pineal gland function, hormonal metabolism, and GM maintenance are discussed - in particular, melatonin's roles in sleep, immune response, inflammation modulation, and stem cell and neural regeneration.
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Grants
- R01 AG033106 NIA NIH HHS
- R01 NS067015 NINDS NIH HHS
- RC1 AG035954 NIA NIH HHS
- This research was supported by the Centre of Brain Health-Dallas Texas which was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Health (RC1-AG035954, R01-NS067015, R01-AG033106), ProApto, Irish Research Council - (2018-23) IRCLA/2017/306) and the Berlin Aging Study II project, which was supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung [BMBF]) under grant numbers #01UW0808, #16SV5536K, #16SV5537, #16SV5538, #16SV5837, #01GL1716A, and #01GL1716B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele R. G. Plini
- School of PsychologyTrinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Michael C. Melnychuk
- School of PsychologyTrinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Paul M. Dockree
- School of PsychologyTrinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College DublinDublinIreland
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3
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Venditti S. Remodeling the Epigenome Through Meditation: Effects on Brain, Body, and Well-being. Subcell Biochem 2025; 108:231-260. [PMID: 39820865 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-75980-2_7] [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] [Indexed: 01/19/2025]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are key processes that constantly reshape genome activity carrying out physiological responses to environmental stimuli. Such mechanisms regulate gene activity without modifying the DNA sequence, providing real-time adaptation to changing environmental conditions. Both favorable and unfavorable lifestyles have been shown to influence body and brain by means of epigenetics, leaving marks on the genome that can either be rapidly reversed or persist in time and even be transmitted trans-generationally. Among virtuous habits, meditation seemingly represents a valuable way of activating inner resources to cope with adverse experiences. While unhealthy habits, stress, and traumatic early-life events may favor the onset of diseases linked to inflammation, neuroinflammation, and neuroendocrine dysregulation, the practice of mindfulness-based techniques was associated with the alleviation of many of the above symptoms, underlying the importance of lifestyles for health and well-being. Meditation influences brain and body systemwide, eliciting structural/morphological changes as well as modulating the levels of circulating factors and the expression of genes linked to the HPA axis and the immune and neuroimmune systems. The current chapter intends to give an overview of pioneering research showing how meditation can promote health through epigenetics, by reshaping the profiles of the three main epigenetic markers, namely DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Venditti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies C. Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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4
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Haudry S, Turpin AL, Landeau B, Mézenge F, Delarue M, Hébert O, Marchant NL, Klimecki O, Collette F, Gonneaud J, de La Sayette V, Vivien D, Lutz A, Chételat G. Decoding meditation mechanisms underlying brain preservation and psycho-affective health in older expert meditators and older meditation-naive participants. Sci Rep 2024; 14:29521. [PMID: 39604423 PMCID: PMC11603193 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-79687-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Meditation is a mental training approach that can improve mental health and well-being in aging. Yet the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The Medit-Ageing model stipulates that three mechanisms - attentional, constructive, and deconstructive - upregulate positive psycho-affective factors and downregulate negative ones. To test this hypothesis, we measured brain structural MRI and perfusion, negative and positive psycho-affective composite scores, and meditation mechanisms in 27 older expert meditators and 135 meditation-naive older controls. We identified brain and psycho-affective differences and performed mediation analyses to assess whether and which meditation mechanisms mediate their links.Meditators showed significantly higher volume in fronto-parietal areas and perfusion in temporo-occipito-parietal areas. They also had higher positive and lower negative psycho-affective scores. Attentional and constructive mechanisms both mediated the links between brain differences and the positive psycho-affective score whereas the deconstructive mechanism mediated the links between brain differences and the negative psycho-affective score.Our results corroborate the Medit-Ageing model, indicating that, in aging, meditation leads to brain changes that decrease negative psycho-affective factors and increase positive ones through relatively specific mechanisms. Shedding light on the neurobiological and psycho-affective mechanisms of meditation in aging, these findings provide insights to refine future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sacha Haudry
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Anne-Laure Turpin
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Brigitte Landeau
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Florence Mézenge
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Marion Delarue
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Oriane Hébert
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | - Natalie L Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Olga Klimecki
- Developmental Psychology, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
- Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC In Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Psychology and Neuroscience of Cognition Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France
| | | | - Denis Vivien
- PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders", Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Institut Blood & Brain @ Caen, Cyceron, Caen, 14000, France
- Département de Recherche Clinique, CHU Caen-Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
| | - Gaël Chételat
- U1237, PhIND, Neuropresage Team, Normandy University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, Caen, 14000, France.
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Del Moro L, Pirovano E, Rota E. Mind the Metabolic Gap: Bridging Migraine and Alzheimer's disease through Brain Insulin Resistance. Aging Dis 2024; 15:2526-2553. [PMID: 38913047 PMCID: PMC11567252 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0351] [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: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain insulin resistance has recently been described as a metabolic abnormality of brain glucose homeostasis that has been proven to downregulate insulin receptors, both in astrocytes and neurons, triggering a reduction in glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis. This condition may generate a mismatch between brain's energy reserve and expenditure, ??mainly during high metabolic demand, which could be involved in the chronification of migraine and, in the long run, at least in certain subsets of patients, in the prodromic phase of Alzheimer's disease, along a putative metabolic physiopathological continuum. Indeed, the persistent disruption of glucose homeostasis and energy supply to neurons may eventually impair protein folding, an energy-requiring process, promoting pathological changes in Alzheimer's disease, such as amyloid-β deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation. Hopefully, the "neuroenergetic hypothesis" presented herein will provide further insight on there being a conceivable metabolic bridge between chronic migraine and Alzheimer's disease, elucidating novel potential targets for the prophylactic treatment of both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Del Moro
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano (MI), Italy.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Elenamaria Pirovano
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
| | - Eugenia Rota
- Neurology Unit, San Giacomo Hospital, Novi Ligure, ASL AL, Italy.
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6
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Hong GS, Jang M, Kyung S, Cho K, Jeong J, Lee GY, Shin K, Kim KD, Ryu SM, Seo JB, Lee SM, Kim N. Overcoming the Challenges in the Development and Implementation of Artificial Intelligence in Radiology: A Comprehensive Review of Solutions Beyond Supervised Learning. Korean J Radiol 2023; 24:1061-1080. [PMID: 37724586 PMCID: PMC10613849 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2023.0393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) in radiology is a rapidly developing field with several prospective clinical studies demonstrating its benefits in clinical practice. In 2022, the Korean Society of Radiology held a forum to discuss the challenges and drawbacks in AI development and implementation. Various barriers hinder the successful application and widespread adoption of AI in radiology, such as limited annotated data, data privacy and security, data heterogeneity, imbalanced data, model interpretability, overfitting, and integration with clinical workflows. In this review, some of the various possible solutions to these challenges are presented and discussed; these include training with longitudinal and multimodal datasets, dense training with multitask learning and multimodal learning, self-supervised contrastive learning, various image modifications and syntheses using generative models, explainable AI, causal learning, federated learning with large data models, and digital twins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil-Sun Hong
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Miso Jang
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunggu Kyung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungjin Cho
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiheon Jeong
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Grace Yoojin Lee
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keewon Shin
- Laboratory for Biosignal Analysis and Perioperative Outcome Research, Biomedical Engineering Center, Asan Institute of Lifesciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Duk Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Min Ryu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Beom Seo
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Min Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Namkug Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Pommy J, Smart CM, Bryant AM, Wang Y. Three potential neurovascular pathways driving the benefits of mindfulness meditation for older adults. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1207012. [PMID: 37455940 PMCID: PMC10340530 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1207012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation has been shown to be beneficial for a range of different health conditions, impacts brain function and structure relatively quickly, and has shown promise with aging samples. Functional magnetic resonance imaging metrics provide insight into neurovascular health which plays a key role in both normal and pathological aging processes. Experimental mindfulness meditation studies that included functional magnetic resonance metrics as an outcome measure may point to potential neurovascular mechanisms of action relevant for aging adults that have not yet been previously examined. We first review the resting-state magnetic resonance studies conducted in exclusively older adult age samples. Findings from older adult-only samples are then used to frame the findings of task magnetic resonance imaging studies conducted in both clinical and healthy adult samples. Based on the resting-state studies in older adults and the task magnetic resonance studies in adult samples, we propose three potential mechanisms by which mindfulness meditation may offer a neurovascular therapeutic benefit for older adults: (1) a direct neurovascular mechanism via increased resting-state cerebral blood flow; (2) an indirect anti-neuroinflammatory mechanism via increased functional connectivity within the default mode network, and (3) a top-down control mechanism that likely reflects both a direct and an indirect neurovascular pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pommy
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuropsychology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Colette M. Smart
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew M. Bryant
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuropsychology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
- Department of Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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8
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Verdone L, Caserta M, Ben-Soussan TD, Venditti S. On the road to resilience: Epigenetic effects of meditation. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 122:339-376. [PMID: 36863800 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Many environmental and lifestyle related factors may influence the physiology of the brain and body by acting on fundamental molecular pathways, such as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and the immune system. For example, stressful conditions created by adverse early-life events, unhealthy habits and low socio-economic status may favor the onset of diseases linked to neuroendocrine dysregulation, inflammation and neuroinflammation. Beside pharmacological treatments used in clinical settings, much attention has been given to complementary treatments such as mind-body techniques involving meditation that rely on the activation of inner resources to regain health. At the molecular level, the effects of both stress and meditation are elicited epigenetically through a set of mechanisms that regulate gene expression as well as the circulating neuroendocrine and immune effectors. Epigenetic mechanisms constantly reshape genome activities in response to external stimuli, representing a molecular interface between organism and environment. In the present work, we aimed to review the current knowledge on the correlation between epigenetics, gene expression, stress and its possible antidote, meditation. After introducing the relationship between brain, physiology, and epigenetics, we will proceed to describe three basic epigenetic mechanisms: chromatin covalent modifications, DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs. Subsequently, we will give an overview of the physiological and molecular aspects related to stress. Finally, we will address the epigenetic effects of meditation on gene expression. The results of the studies reported in this review demonstrate that mindful practices modulate the epigenetic landscape, leading to increased resilience. Therefore, these practices can be considered valuable tools that complement pharmacological treatments when coping with pathologies related to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Verdone
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy.
| | - Micaela Caserta
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation for Development and Communication, Assisi, Italy
| | - Sabrina Venditti
- Dept. of Biology and biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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9
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Chételat G, Lutz A, Klimecki O, Frison E, Asselineau J, Schlosser M, Arenaza-Urquijo EM, Mézenge F, Kuhn E, Moulinet I, Touron E, Dautricourt S, André C, Palix C, Ourry V, Felisatti F, Gonneaud J, Landeau B, Rauchs G, Chocat A, Quillard A, Devouge EF, Vuilleumier P, de La Sayette V, Vivien D, Collette F, Poisnel G, Marchant NL. Effect of an 18-Month Meditation Training on Regional Brain Volume and Perfusion in Older Adults: The Age-Well Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Neurol 2022; 79:1165-1174. [PMID: 36215061 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.3185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance No lifestyle-based randomized clinical trial directly targets psychoaffective risk factors of dementia. Meditation practices recently emerged as a promising mental training exercise to foster brain health and reduce dementia risk. Objective To investigate the effects of meditation training on brain integrity in older adults. Design, Setting, and Participants Age-Well was a randomized, controlled superiority trial with blinded end point assessment. Community-dwelling cognitively unimpaired adults 65 years and older were enrolled between November 24, 2016, and March 5, 2018, in France. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to (1) an 18-month meditation-based training, (2) a structurally matched non-native language (English) training, or (3) no intervention arm. Analysis took place between December 2020 and October 2021. Interventions Meditation and non-native language training included 2-hour weekly group sessions, practice of 20 minutes or longer daily at home, and 1-day intensive practices. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes included volume and perfusion of anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and insula. Main secondary outcomes included a global composite score capturing metacognitive, prosocial, and self-regulatory capacities and constituent subscores. Results Among 137 participants (mean [SD] age, 69.4 [3.8] years; 83 [60.6%] female; 54 [39.4%] male) assigned to the meditation (n = 45), non-native language training (n = 46), or no intervention (n = 46) groups, all but 1 completed the trial. There were no differences in volume changes of ACC (0.01 [98.75% CI, -0.02 to 0.05]; P = .36) or insula (0.01 [98.75% CI, -0.02 to 0.03]; P = .58) between meditation and no intervention or non-native language training groups, respectively. Differences in perfusion changes did not reach statistical significance for meditation compared with no intervention in ACC (0.02 [98.75% CI, -0.01 to 0.05]; P = .06) or compared with non-native language training in insula (0.02 [98.75% CI, -0.01 to 0.05]; P = .09). Meditation was superior to non-native language training on 18-month changes in a global composite score capturing attention regulation, socioemotional, and self-knowledge capacities (Cohen d, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.19-0.85]; P = .002). Conclusions and Relevance The study findings confirm the feasibility of meditation and non-native language training in elderly individuals, with high adherence and very low attrition. Findings also show positive behavioral effects of meditation that were not reflected on volume, and not significantly on perfusion, of target brain areas. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02977819.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gael Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
| | - Olga Klimecki
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eric Frison
- EUCLID/F-CRIN Clinical Trials Platform, INSERM, CHU Bordeaux, University of Bordeaux, CIC1401-EC, Bordeaux, France
| | - Julien Asselineau
- EUCLID/F-CRIN Clinical Trials Platform, INSERM, CHU Bordeaux, University of Bordeaux, CIC1401-EC, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eider M Arenaza-Urquijo
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France.,Barcelonabeta Brain Research Center, Fundación Pasqual Maragall, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Florence Mézenge
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Elizabeth Kuhn
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Inès Moulinet
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Edelweiss Touron
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Sophie Dautricourt
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Claire André
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Cassandre Palix
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Valentin Ourry
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Francesca Felisatti
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Brigitte Landeau
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Géraldine Rauchs
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Anne Chocat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Anne Quillard
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Eglantine Ferrand Devouge
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France.,Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Department of General Practice, Rouen, France.,Rouen University Hospital, CIC-CRB 1404, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Patrik Vuilleumier
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Denis Vivien
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France.,CHU Caen-Normandie, Department of Clinical Research, Caen, France
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC, In Vivo Imaging, Université de Liège and Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research, Liège, Belgium
| | - Géraldine Poisnel
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), Institut Blood and Brain @ Caen-Normandie, Cyceron, France
| | - Natalie L Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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10
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Examining the Acceptability and Feasibility of the Compassionate Mindful Resilience (CMR) Programme in Adult Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: The COSMIC Study Protocol. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081387. [PMID: 35893209 PMCID: PMC9394402 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney disease is often progressive, and patients experience diminished health-related quality of life. In addition, the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and its associated restrictions, has brought many additional burdens. It is therefore essential that effective and affordable systems are explored to improve the psychological health of this group that can be delivered safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to support a new service development project in partnership with the UK’s leading patient support charity Kidney Care UK by implementing the four-session Compassionate Mindful Resilience (CMR) programme, developed by MindfulnessUK, and explore its effectiveness for patients with stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease or have received a kidney transplant. The study will utilise a quasi-experimental, pretest/posttest design to measure the effect of the CMR programme on anxiety, depression, self-compassion, the ability to be mindful, wellbeing, and resilience, using pre- and posttests, alongside a qualitative exploration to explore factors influencing the feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of the intervention, with patients (and the Mindfulness Teacher) and their commitment to practice. Outcomes from this study will include an evidence-based mindfulness and compassion programme for use with people with kidney disease, which is likely to have applicability across other chronic diseases.
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11
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Dwivedi M, Dubey N, Pansari AJ, Bapi RS, Das M, Guha M, Banerjee R, Pramanick G, Basu J, Ghosh A. Effects of Meditation on Structural Changes of the Brain in Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease Dementia. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:728993. [PMID: 34867239 PMCID: PMC8633496 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.728993] [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: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous cross-sectional studies reported positive effects of meditation on the brain areas related to attention and executive function in the healthy elderly population. Effects of long-term regular meditation in persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease dementia (AD) have rarely been studied. In this study, we explored changes in cortical thickness and gray matter volume in meditation-naïve persons with MCI or mild AD after long-term meditation intervention. MCI or mild AD patients underwent detailed clinical and neuropsychological assessment and were assigned into meditation or non-meditation groups. High resolution T1-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI) were acquired at baseline and after 6 months. Longitudinal symmetrized percentage changes (SPC) in cortical thickness and gray matter volume were estimated. Left caudal middle frontal, left rostral middle frontal, left superior parietal, right lateral orbitofrontal, and right superior frontal cortices showed changes in both cortical thickness and gray matter volume; the left paracentral cortex showed changes in cortical thickness; the left lateral occipital, left superior frontal, left banks of the superior temporal sulcus (bankssts), and left medial orbitofrontal cortices showed changes in gray matter volume. All these areas exhibited significantly higher SPC values in meditators as compared to non-meditators. Conversely, the left lateral occipital, and right posterior cingulate cortices showed significantly lower SPC values for cortical thickness in the meditators. In hippocampal subfields analysis, we observed significantly higher SPC in gray matter volume of the left CA1, molecular layer HP, and CA3 with a trend for increased gray matter volume in most other areas. No significant changes were found for the hippocampal subfields in the right hemisphere. Analysis of the subcortical structures revealed significantly increased volume in the right thalamus in the meditation group. The results of the study point out that long-term meditation practice in persons with MCI or mild AD leads to salutary changes in cortical thickness and gray matter volumes. Most of these changes were observed in the brain areas related to executive control and memory that are prominently at risk in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhukar Dwivedi
- Cognitive Science Lab, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Neha Dubey
- Department of Neurology, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata, India.,Department of Applied Psychology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Aditya Jain Pansari
- Cognitive Science Lab, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Raju Surampudi Bapi
- Cognitive Science Lab, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Meghoranjani Das
- Department of Neurology, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | - Maushumi Guha
- Department of Philosophy, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Rahul Banerjee
- Crystallography and Molecular Biology Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Jayanti Basu
- Department of Applied Psychology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Amitabha Ghosh
- Department of Neurology, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata, India
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12
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Shim M, Tilley JL, Im S, Price K, Gonzalez A. A Systematic Review of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia and Caregivers. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2021; 34:528-554. [PMID: 32935611 DOI: 10.1177/0891988720957104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this article was to systematically review the quality and efficacy of the current evidence for mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), patients with dementia (PwD), and their caregivers. We identified 20 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (11 for patients, 9 for caregivers) published in the last 15 years. Evidence suggested that MBIs are highly acceptable and credible treatments for patients with MCI, PwD and caregivers. Specifically, for PwD, the results indicated that the magnitude of post-treatment effects of MBIs are in the medium to large range for psychosocial outcomes, and in the small to medium range for cognitive functioning; however, treatment effects on dementia biomarkers were mixed, ranging from small to large, depending on the outcome measure. Findings also evidenced salutary effects of MBIs for caregivers of PwD, with post-treatment effects ranging from medium to large for caregiver stress and burden and large effects for quality of life, and mixed outcomes for cognitive functioning, with effects in the small to large range. However, confidence in these findings is relatively limited due to methodological limitations, especially in terms of poor consistency in intervention strategies, outcome measures, and other key criteria across studies. To better assess the value of MBIs for these populations and optimize treatment outcomes, we recommend further research with improved study methodology (e.g., multi-method assessment, universal criterion and outcome measures, use of active control groups, larger sample sizes, long-term follow-up) to replicate current findings and enhance our understanding of underlying treatment mechanisms of MBIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjung Shim
- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jacqueline L Tilley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Sungjin Im
- Department of Psychology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY, USA
| | - Kevin Price
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Adam Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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13
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Kurth F, Zsadanyi SE, Luders E. Reduced age-related gray matter loss in the subgenual cingulate cortex in long-term meditators. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 15:2824-2832. [PMID: 34686969 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00578-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that meditation practices have positive effects on brain ageing overall. The cingulate is known to be recruited during meditation, but research into possible effects of meditation on the ageing of the cingulate is currently missing. Thus, the present study was designed to help close this knowledge gap, with particular focus on the subgenual cingulate, a region involved in emotional regulation and autonomic and endocrine functions, making it potentially relevant for meditation. Here, we investigated differences in age-related gray matter loss between 50 long-term meditation practitioners (28 male, 22 female), aged between 24 and 77, and 50 age- and sex-matched controls. Areas of interest were four subregions of the subgenual cingulate gyrus (areas 25, 33, s24, and s32) defined as per the Julich-Brain atlas. Our study revealed a significant age-related decline in all subregions in both meditators and controls, but with significantly lower rates of annual tissue loss in meditators, specifically in left and right area s32 and right area 25. These regions have been shown to play a role in mood regulation, autonomic processing, and the integration of emotion and cognitive processes, which are all involved in and impacted by meditation. Overall, the results add further evidence to the emerging notion that meditation may slow the effects of ageing on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Kurth
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Sára E Zsadanyi
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Eileen Luders
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.,Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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14
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Nourollahimoghadam E, Gorji S, Gorji A, Khaleghi Ghadiri M. Therapeutic role of yoga in neuropsychological disorders. World J Psychiatry 2021; 11:754-773. [PMID: 34733640 PMCID: PMC8546763 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v11.i10.754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Yoga is considered a widely-used approach for health conservation and can be adopted as a treatment modality for a plethora of medical conditions, including neurological and psychological disorders. Hence, we reviewed relevant articles entailing various neurological and psychological disorders and gathered data on how yoga exerts positive impacts on patients with a diverse range of disorders, including its modulatory effects on brain bioelectrical activities, neurotransmitters, and synaptic plasticity. The role of yoga practice as an element of the treatment of several neuropsychological diseases was evaluated based on these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shaghayegh Gorji
- Epilepsy Research Center, Münster University, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Ali Gorji
- Epilepsy Research Center, Münster University, Münster 48149, Germany
- Department of Neuroscience, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948564, Iran
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15
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Yang CY, Pan YJ, Chou Y, Yang CJ, Kao CC, Huang KC, Chang JS, Chen HC, Kuo KH. Using Deep Neural Networks for Predicting Age and Sex in Healthy Adult Chest Radiographs. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10194431. [PMID: 34640449 PMCID: PMC8509558 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The performance of chest radiography-based age and sex prediction has not been well validated. We used a deep learning model to predict the age and sex of healthy adults based on chest radiographs (CXRs). Methods: In this retrospective study, 66,643 CXRs of 47,060 healthy adults were used for model training and testing. In total, 47,060 individuals (mean age ± standard deviation, 38.7 ± 11.9 years; 22,144 males) were included. By using chronological ages as references, mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used to assess the model performance. Summarized class activation maps were used to highlight the activated anatomical regions. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to examine the validity for sex prediction. Results: When model predictions were compared with the chronological ages, the MAE was 2.1 years, RMSE was 2.8 years, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient was 0.97 (p < 0.001). Cervical, thoracic spines, first ribs, aortic arch, heart, rib cage, and soft tissue of thorax and flank seemed to be the most crucial activated regions in the age prediction model. The sex prediction model demonstrated an AUC of >0.99. Conclusion: Deep learning can accurately estimate age and sex based on CXRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Yi Yang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Imaging, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ju Pan
- Department of Psychiatry, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan;
- Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei 11267, Taiwan
| | - Yen Chou
- Division of Medical Image, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan;
| | - Chia-Jung Yang
- Department of Radiology, Taitung MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taitung 95054, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Chung Kao
- AI Lab, Quanta Computer Inc., Taoyuan City 33377, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.-C.H.); (J.-S.C.)
| | - Kuan-Chieh Huang
- AI Lab, Quanta Computer Inc., Taoyuan City 33377, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.-C.H.); (J.-S.C.)
| | - Jing-Shan Chang
- AI Lab, Quanta Computer Inc., Taoyuan City 33377, Taiwan; (C.-C.K.); (K.-C.H.); (J.-S.C.)
| | - Hung-Chieh Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei 11267, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-C.C.); (K.-H.K.); Tel.: +886-4-23592525 (H.-C.C.); +886-(02)-7728-1264 (K.-H.K.); Fax: +886-4-2359-0296 (H.-C.C.); +886-(02)-8966-5567 (K.-H.K.)
| | - Kuei-Hong Kuo
- Division of Medical Image, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taipei 11267, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-C.C.); (K.-H.K.); Tel.: +886-4-23592525 (H.-C.C.); +886-(02)-7728-1264 (K.-H.K.); Fax: +886-4-2359-0296 (H.-C.C.); +886-(02)-8966-5567 (K.-H.K.)
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16
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Petranker R, Eastwood JD. Sitting with it: An investigation of the relationship between trait mindfulness and sustained attention. Conscious Cogn 2021; 90:103101. [PMID: 33714707 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2021.103101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sustaining attention for extended periods of time is associated with negative affect and this increase in negative affect is related to poorer task performance. Trait mindfulness has been shown to be associated with better sustained attention performance. This may be because trait mindfulness is associated with better attention ability or better emotion regulation ability. AIMS The present research aims to replicate previous findings and better understand why trait mindfulness is associated with better sustained attention performance. METHOD Participants responded to self-report questionnaires assessing their trait mindfulness, attentional control, and experiential avoidance. Next, participants performed a sustained attention task, during which they also reported their subjective feelings of discomfort and boredom. Finally, participants reported their retrospective discomfort and boredom after the task. RESULTS We replicated and extended previous findings by showing that the relationship between trait mindfulness and sustained attention performance was mediated by negative affect experienced during the task. Moreover, the correlation between trait mindfulness and sustained attention disappeared when controlling for experiential avoidance, but remined when controlling for attention control. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that trait mindfulness is associated with sustained attention because of enhanced emotion regulation and that enhancing affective regulation would be an effective strategy for improving sustained attention performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rotem Petranker
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - John D Eastwood
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Pernet CR, Belov N, Delorme A, Zammit A. Mindfulness related changes in grey matter: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 15:2720-2730. [PMID: 33624219 PMCID: PMC8500886 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00453-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Knowing target regions undergoing strfuncti changes caused by behavioural interventions is paramount in evaluating the effectiveness of such practices. Here, using a systematic review approach, we identified 25 peer-reviewed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies demonstrating grey matter changes related to mindfulness meditation. An activation likelihood estimation (ALE) analysis (n = 16) revealed the right anterior ventral insula as the only significant region with consistent effect across studies, whilst an additional functional connectivity analysis indicates that both left and right insulae, and the anterior cingulate gyrus with adjacent paracingulate gyri should also be considered in future studies. Statistical meta-analyses suggest medium to strong effect sizes from Cohen’s d ~ 0.8 in the right insula to ~ 1 using maxima across the whole brain. The systematic review revealed design issues with selection, information, attrition and confirmation biases, in addition to weak statistical power. In conclusion, our analyses show that mindfulness meditation practice does induce grey matter changes but also that improvements in methodology are needed to establish mindfulness as a therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyril R Pernet
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Imaging, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Nikolai Belov
- Department of Psychology, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Arnaud Delorme
- CerCo, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse, France.,SCCN, INC, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alison Zammit
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, Edinburgh Imaging, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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18
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Bhargav H, George S, Varambally S, Gangadhar BN. Yoga and psychiatric disorders: a review of biomarker evidence. Int Rev Psychiatry 2021; 33:162-169. [PMID: 32401080 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2020.1761087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, yoga has been used as a means for spiritual growth but over the past two decades or so its therapeutic benefits in psychiatric disorders have been scientifically explored. Yoga has been shown to be useful as a mono-therapy in mild to moderate depression and as an adjuvant in several psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders and Mild Cognitive Impairment. Furthermore, systematic attempts have been made to understand the biological correlates of yoga in these psychiatric disorders. Given that no psychiatric disorder has strong and established biomarkers, it is interesting that preliminary research has demonstrated significant changes in certain important biomarkers following regular yoga practice. In this brief review, we provide an update on the effects of yoga on biochemical, neuro-physiological and neuro-imaging related bio-markers in psychiatric disorders. Although findings and trends are promising, much more research is warranted to establish a definite biological basis for yoga in psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Bhargav
- Department of Integrative Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Sanju George
- Rajagiri School of Behavioural Sciences and Research, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kochi, India
| | - Shivarama Varambally
- Departments of Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
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19
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Travis F. On the Neurobiology of Meditation: Comparison of Three Organizing Strategies to Investigate Brain Patterns during Meditation Practice. Medicina (B Aires) 2020; 56:medicina56120712. [PMID: 33353049 PMCID: PMC7767117 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56120712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Three broad organizing strategies have been used to study meditation practices: (1) consider meditation practices as using similar processes and so combine neural images across a wide range of practices to identify the common underlying brain patterns of meditation practice, (2) consider meditation practices as unique and so investigate individual practices, or (3) consider meditation practices as fitting into larger categories and explore brain patterns within and between categories. The first organizing strategy combines meditation practices defined as deep concentration, attention to external and internal stimuli, and letting go of thoughts. Brain patterns of different procedures would all contribute to the final averages, which may not be representative of any practice. The second organizing strategy generates a multitude of brain patterns as each practice is studied individually. The rich detail of individual differences within each practice makes it difficult to identify reliable patterns between practices. The third organizing principle has been applied in three ways: (1) grouping meditations by their origin—Indian or Buddhist practices, (2) grouping meditations by the procedures of each practice, or (3) grouping meditations by brain wave frequencies reported during each practice. Grouping meditations by their origin mixes practices whose procedures include concentration, mindfulness, or effortless awareness, again resulting in a confounded pattern. Grouping meditations by their described procedures yields defining neural imaging patterns within each category, and clear differences between categories. Grouping meditations by the EEG frequencies associated with their procedures yields an objective system to group meditations and allows practices to “move” into different categories as subjects’ meditation experiences change over time, which would be associated with different brain patterns. Exploring meditations within theoretically meaningful categories appears to yield the most reliable picture of meditation practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Travis
- Center for Brain, Consciousness and Cognition, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, IA 52557, USA
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20
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Walsh EI, Smith L, Northey J, Rattray B, Cherbuin N. Towards an understanding of the physical activity-BDNF-cognition triumvirate: A review of associations and dosage. Ageing Res Rev 2020; 60:101044. [PMID: 32171785 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2020.101044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity has received substantial research attention due to its beneficial impact on cognition in ageing, particularly via the action of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It is well established that physical activity can elevate circulating levels of BDNF, and that BDNF has neurotrophic, neuroprotective and cognitively beneficial properties. Yet, practical implementation of this knowledge is limited by a lack of clarity on context and dose-effect. Against a shifting backdrop of gradually diminishing physical and cognitive capacity in normal ageing, the type, intensity, and duration of physical activity required to elicit elevations in BDNF, and more importantly, the magnitude of BDNF elevation required for detectable neuroprotection remains poorly characterised. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the association between physical activity, BDNF, and cognition, with a focus on clarifying the magnitude of these effects in the context of normative ageing. We discuss the implications of the available evidence for the design of physical activity interventions intended to promote healthy cognitive ageing.
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21
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Adluru N, Korponay CH, Norton DL, Goldman RI, Davidson RJ. BrainAGE and regional volumetric analysis of a Buddhist monk: a longitudinal MRI case study. Neurocase 2020; 26:79-90. [PMID: 32100616 PMCID: PMC7150651 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2020.1731553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche (YMR) is a Tibetan Buddhist monk, and renowned meditation practitioner and teacher who has spent an extraordinary number of hours of his life meditating. The brain-aging profile of this expert meditator in comparison to a control population was examined using a machine learning framework, which estimates "brain-age" from brain imaging. YMR's brain-aging rate appeared slower than that of controls suggesting early maturation and delayed aging. At 41 years, his brain resembled that of a 33-year-old. Specific regional changes did not differentiate YMR from controls, suggesting that the brain-aging differences may arise from coordinated changes spread throughout the gray matter.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Derek L Norton
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, UW-Madison, USA
| | | | - Richard J Davidson
- Center for Healthy Minds, UW-Madison, USA
- Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, UW-Madison, USA
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22
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Anand A, Kaur G, Bammidi S, Mathur D, Battu P, Sharma K, Tyagi R, Pannu V, Bhanushali D, Limaye N. Primer for Mainstreaming Mind-Body Techniques for Extreme Climates-Insights and Future Directions. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 7:E12. [PMID: 32155939 PMCID: PMC7151557 DOI: 10.3390/medicines7030012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: The deprivation of oxygen reaching the tissues (also termed as hypoxia) affects the normal functioning of the body. This results in development of many diseases like ischemia, glaucoma, MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment), pulmonary and cerebral edema, stress and depression. There are no effective drugs that can treat such diseases. Despite such failure, alternative interventions such as mind-body techniques (MBTs) have not been adequately investigated. Methods: The first part of this review has been focused on philosophical aspects of various MBTs besides evolving an ayurgenomic perspective. The potential of MBTs as a preventive non-pharmacological intervention in the treatment of various general and hypoxic pathologies has been further described in this section. In the second part, molecular, physiological, and neuroprotective roles of MBTs in normal and hypoxic/ischemic conditions has been discussed. Results: In this respect, the importance of and in vivo studies has also been discussed. Conclusions: Although several studies have investigated the role of protective strategies in coping with the hypoxic environment, the efficacy of MBTs at the molecular level has been ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Anand
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Gurkeerat Kaur
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Sridhar Bammidi
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Deepali Mathur
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, India;
| | - Priya Battu
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Kanupriya Sharma
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Rahul Tyagi
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Viraaj Pannu
- Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh 160030, India;
| | - Disha Bhanushali
- Sri Sri institute of Advanced Research, Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth, Bangaluru 560082, India;
| | - Nitin Limaye
- Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India; (G.K.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (K.S.); (R.T.)
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Mosini AC, Saad M, Braghetta CC, Medeiros RD, Peres MFP, Leão FC. Neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and neurochemical effects in practitioners of transcendental meditation - A literature review. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2019; 65:706-713. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.65.5.706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY The term meditation can be used in many different ways, according to the technique to which it refers. Transcendental Meditation (MT) is one of these techniques. TM could serve as a model for research on spiritual meditation, unlike the meditation techniques based on secular knowledge. The purpose of the present study is to conduct a bibliographic review to organize scientific evidence on the effects of TM on neurophysiology, neurochemistry, and cognitive and behavioral aspects of its practitioners. To conduct this critical narrative review of the literature, we searched for scientific papers on the PubMed database of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The keywords used in the search were Transcendental Meditation, Neuroscience of meditation e Meditation and behavior. We selected 21 papers that analyzed different aspects that could be altered through meditation practice. We concluded that TM has positive and significant documentable neurochemical, neurophysiological, and cognitive-behavioral effects. Among the main effects are the reduction of anxiety and stress (due to the reduction of cortisol and norepinephrine levels), increase of the feeling of pleasure and well-being (due to the increase of the synthesis and release of dopamine and serotonin), and influence on memory recall and possible consolidation. Further studies are needed using creative and innovative methodological designs that analyze different neural circuitry and verify the clinical impact on practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcelo Saad
- Spiritist-Medical Association of São Paulo, Brasil
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Jones P. Mindfulness Training: Can It Create Superheroes? Front Psychol 2019; 10:613. [PMID: 30971978 PMCID: PMC6443831 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the emergence of the science of heroism there now exists both theoretical and empirical literature on the characteristics of our everyday hero. We seek to expand this inquiry and ask what could be the causes and conditions of a superhero. To address this we investigate the origins of mindfulness, Buddhist psychology and the assertion that its practitioners who have attained expertise in mindfulness practices can develop supernormal capabilities. Examining first their foundational eight "jhana" states (levels of attention) and the six consequent "abhinnas" (siddhis or special abilities) that arise from such mental mastery, we then explore any evidence that mindfulness practices have unfolded the supernormal potential of its practitioners. We found a growing base of empirical literature suggesting some practitioners exhibit indicators of enhanced functioning including elevated physical health and resistance to disease, increased immunity to aging and improved cognitive processing, greater resilience and fearlessness, more self-less and pro-social behaviors, some control over normally autonomic responses, and possibly some paranormal functionality. These improvements in normal human functioning provide some evidence that there are practices that develop these abilities, and as such we might want to consider adopting them to develop this capability. There are however insufficient studies of expert meditators and more research of adepts is called for that explores the relationship between levels of attentional skill and increases in functionality. We propose in search of the superhero, that if conventional mindfulness training can already augment mental and physical capabilities, a more serious inquiry and translation of its advanced methods into mainstream psychological theory is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Jones
- School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
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25
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Robins JLW. Should We Meditate While We Wait? J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2019; 28:109-110. [DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2018.7576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jo Lynne W. Robins
- Department of Adult Health and Nursing Systems, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing, Richmond, Virginia
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26
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Liu S, Li L, Liu Z, Guo X. Long-Term Tai Chi Experience Promotes Emotional Stability and Slows Gray Matter Atrophy for Elders. Front Psychol 2019; 10:91. [PMID: 30761046 PMCID: PMC6364563 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain adverse structural changes, especially the atrophy of gray matter, are inevitable in aging. Fortunately, the human brain is plastic throughout its entire life. The current cross-section study aimed to investigate whether long-term Tai Chi exercise could slow gray matter atrophy and explore the possible links among gray matter volume (GMV), long-term Tai Chi experience and emotional stability in a sequential risk-taking task by using voxel-based morphometry. Elders with long-term Tai Chi experience and controls, who were matched to Tai Chi group in age, gender, physical activity level, participated in the study. A T1-weighted multiplanar reconstruction sequence was acquired for each participant. Behaviorally, the Tai Chi group showed higher meditation level, stronger emotional stability and less risk-taking tendency in the sequential risk-taking compared to the control group. Moreover, the results revealed that the GMV of the thalamus and hippocampus were larger in the Tai Chi group compared with the control group. Notably, the GMV of the thalamus was positively correlated with both meditation level and emotional stability. The current study suggested the protective role of long-term Tai Chi exercise at slowing gray matter atrophy, improving the emotional stability and achieving successful aging for elders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Liu
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Li
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiyuan Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiuyan Guo
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
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Klimecki O, Marchant NL, Lutz A, Poisnel G, Chételat G, Collette F. The impact of meditation on healthy ageing - the current state of knowledge and a roadmap to future directions. Curr Opin Psychol 2019; 28:223-228. [PMID: 30798104 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that meditation-based training promotes healthy ageing across many dimensions. This review summarizes the existing knowledge on the effects of meditation training on healthy ageing in the domains of emotions, cognition (with a special emphasis on attentional processes), and the preservation of related brain structures. Although evidence so far is promising, more rigorous randomized controlled studies with active control groups and long-term follow-up in older people are needed. We outline how these challenges can be addressed in future studies using the example of an ongoing project, Medit-Ageing (public name: Silver Santé Study), including two independent randomized controlled trials (RCT) as well as one cross-sectional study with meditation experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Klimecki
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Natalie L Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon University, Lyon, France
| | - Géraldine Poisnel
- Université Normandie, Inserm, Université de Caen-Normandie, Inserm UMR-S U1237, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Université Normandie, Inserm, Université de Caen-Normandie, Inserm UMR-S U1237, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC In Vivo Imaging and Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience Research Unit, Liège University, Belgium
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28
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Van Dam NT, van Vugt MK, Vago DR, Schmalzl L, Saron CD, Olendzki A, Meissner T, Lazar SW, Kerr CE, Gorchov J, Fox KC, Field BA, Britton WB, Brefczynski-Lewis JA, Meyer DE. Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2018; 13:36-61. [PMID: 29016274 PMCID: PMC5758421 DOI: 10.1177/1745691617709589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 559] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During the past two decades, mindfulness meditation has gone from being a fringe topic of scientific investigation to being an occasional replacement for psychotherapy, tool of corporate well-being, widely implemented educational practice, and "key to building more resilient soldiers." Yet the mindfulness movement and empirical evidence supporting it have not gone without criticism. Misinformation and poor methodology associated with past studies of mindfulness may lead public consumers to be harmed, misled, and disappointed. Addressing such concerns, the present article discusses the difficulties of defining mindfulness, delineates the proper scope of research into mindfulness practices, and explicates crucial methodological issues for interpreting results from investigations of mindfulness. For doing so, the authors draw on their diverse areas of expertise to review the present state of mindfulness research, comprehensively summarizing what we do and do not know, while providing a prescriptive agenda for contemplative science, with a particular focus on assessment, mindfulness training, possible adverse effects, and intersection with brain imaging. Our goals are to inform interested scientists, the news media, and the public, to minimize harm, curb poor research practices, and staunch the flow of misinformation about the benefits, costs, and future prospects of mindfulness meditation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas T. Van Dam
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marieke K. van Vugt
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Engineering, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - David R. Vago
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Departments of Psychiatry and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Laura Schmalzl
- College of Science and Integrative Health, Southern California University of Health Sciences, Whittier, CA, USA
| | - Clifford D. Saron
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Ted Meissner
- Center for Mindfulness, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, MA, USA
| | - Sara W. Lazar
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine E. Kerr
- Department of Family Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jolie Gorchov
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kieran C.R. Fox
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Brent A. Field
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Willoughby B. Britton
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Julie A. Brefczynski-Lewis
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - David E. Meyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Reduced age-associated brain changes in expert meditators: a multimodal neuroimaging pilot study. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10160. [PMID: 28860449 PMCID: PMC5578985 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07764-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with progressive cerebral volume and glucose metabolism decreases. Conditions such as stress and sleep difficulties exacerbate these changes and are risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. Meditation practice, aiming towards stress reduction and emotion regulation, can downregulate these adverse factors. In this pilot study, we explored the possibility that lifelong meditation practice might reduce age-related brain changes by comparing structural MRI and FDG-PET data in 6 elderly expert meditators versus 67 elderly controls. We found increased gray matter volume and/or FDG metabolism in elderly expert meditators compared to controls in the bilateral ventromedial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex, insula, temporo-parietal junction, and posterior cingulate cortex /precuneus. Most of these regions were also those exhibiting the strongest effects of age when assessed in a cohort of 186 controls aged 20 to 87 years. Moreover, complementary analyses showed that these changes were still observed when adjusting for lifestyle factors or using a smaller group of controls matched for education. Pending replication in a larger cohort of elderly expert meditators and longitudinal studies, these findings suggest that meditation practice could reduce age-associated structural and functional brain changes.
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30
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Kurth F, Cherbuin N, Luders E. Promising Links between Meditation and Reduced (Brain) Aging: An Attempt to Bridge Some Gaps between the Alleged Fountain of Youth and the Youth of the Field. Front Psychol 2017; 8:860. [PMID: 28611710 PMCID: PMC5447722 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, an increasing number of studies has reported a positive impact of meditation on cerebral aging. However, the underlying mechanisms for these seemingly brain-protecting effects are not well-understood. This may be due to the fact, at least partly, that systematic empirical meditation research has emerged only recently as a field of scientific scrutiny. Thus, on the one hand, critical questions remain largely unanswered; and on the other hand, outcomes of existing research require better integration to build a more comprehensive and holistic picture. In this article, we first review theories and mechanisms pertaining to normal (brain) aging, specifically focusing on telomeres, inflammation, stress regulation, and macroscopic brain anatomy. Then, we summarize existing research integrating the developing evidence suggesting that meditation exerts positive effects on (brain) aging, while carefully discussing possible mechanisms through which these effects may be mediated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Kurth
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA School of MedicineLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Nicolas Cherbuin
- Centre for Research on Ageing Health and Wellbeing, Australian National UniversityCanberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Eileen Luders
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA School of MedicineLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Centre for Research on Ageing Health and Wellbeing, Australian National UniversityCanberra, ACT, Australia
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31
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The embodied mind: A review on functional genomic and neurological correlates of mind-body therapies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 73:165-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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32
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Last N, Tufts E, Auger LE. The Effects of Meditation on Grey Matter Atrophy and Neurodegeneration: A Systematic Review. J Alzheimers Dis 2017; 56:275-286. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-160899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Acevedo BP, Pospos S, Lavretsky H. The Neural Mechanisms of Meditative Practices: Novel Approaches for Healthy Aging. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2016; 3:328-339. [PMID: 27909646 PMCID: PMC5110576 DOI: 10.1007/s40473-016-0098-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Meditation has been shown to have physical, cognitive, and psychological health benefits that can be used to promote healthy aging. However, the common and specific mechanisms of response remain elusive due to the diverse nature of mind–body practices. Methods In this review, we aim to compare the neural circuits implicated in focused-attention meditative practices that focus on present-moment awareness to those involved in active-type meditative practices (e.g., yoga) that combine movement, including chanting, with breath practices and meditation. Recent Findings Recent meta-analyses and individual studies demonstrated common brain effects for attention-based meditative practices and active-based meditations in areas involved in reward processing and learning, attention and memory, awareness and sensory integration, and self-referential processing and emotional control, while deactivation was seen in the amygdala, an area implicated in emotion processing. Unique effects for mindfulness practices were found in brain regions involved in body awareness, attention, and the integration of emotion and sensory processing. Effects specific to active-based meditations appeared in brain areas involved in self-control, social cognition, language, speech, tactile stimulation, sensorimotor integration, and motor function. Summary This review suggests that mind–body practices can target different brain systems that are involved in the regulation of attention, emotional control, mood, and executive cognition that can be used to treat or prevent mood and cognitive disorders of aging, such as depression and caregiver stress, or serve as “brain fitness” exercise. Benefits may include improving brain functional connectivity in brain systems that generally degenerate with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca P Acevedo
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA USA ; Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106 USA
| | - Sarah Pospos
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Helen Lavretsky
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA USA
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Shaffer J. Neuroplasticity and Clinical Practice: Building Brain Power for Health. Front Psychol 2016; 7:1118. [PMID: 27507957 PMCID: PMC4960264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The focus of this review is on driving neuroplasticity in a positive direction using evidence-based interventions that also have the potential to improve general health. One goal is to provide an overview of the many ways new neuroscience can inform treatment protocols to empower and motivate clients to make the lifestyle choices that could help build brain power and could increase adherence to healthy lifestyle changes that have also been associated with simultaneously enhancing vigorous longevity, health, happiness, and wellness. Another goal is to explore the use of a focus in clinical practice on helping clients appreciate this new evidence and use evolving neuroscience in establishing individualized goals, designing strategies for achieving them and increasing treatment compliance. The timing is urgent for such interventions with goals of enhancing brain health across the lifespan and improving statistics on dementia worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Shaffer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington Seattle, WA, USA
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Reduced stress and inflammatory responsiveness in experienced meditators compared to a matched healthy control group. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2016; 68:117-25. [PMID: 26970711 PMCID: PMC4851883 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2016.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Psychological stress is a major contributor to symptom exacerbation across many chronic inflammatory conditions and can acutely provoke increases in inflammation in healthy individuals. With the rise in rates of inflammation-related medical conditions, evidence for behavioral approaches that reduce stress reactivity is of value. Here, we compare 31 experienced meditators, with an average of approximately 9000 lifetime hours of meditation practice (M age=51years) to an age- and sex-matched control group (n=37; M age=48years) on measures of stress- and inflammatory responsivity, and measures of psychological health. The Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) was used to induce psychological stress and a neurogenic inflammatory response was produced using topical application of capsaicin cream to forearm skin. Size of the capsaicin-induced flare response and increase in salivary cortisol and alpha amylase were used to quantify the magnitude of inflammatory and stress responses, respectively. Results show that experienced meditators have lower TSST-evoked cortisol (62.62±2.52 vs. 70.38±2.33; p<.05) and perceived stress (4.18±.41 vs. 5.56±.30; p<.01), as well as a smaller neurogenic inflammatory response (81.55±4.6 vs. 96.76±4.26; p<.05), compared to the control group. Moreover, experienced meditators reported higher levels of psychological factors associated with wellbeing and resilience. These results suggest that the long-term practice of meditation may reduce stress reactivity and could be of therapeutic benefit in chronic inflammatory conditions characterized by neurogenic inflammation.
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Innes KE, Selfe TK, Khalsa DS, Kandati S. Effects of Meditation versus Music Listening on Perceived Stress, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life in Adults with Early Memory Loss: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 52:1277-98. [PMID: 27079708 PMCID: PMC5649740 DOI: 10.3233/jad-151106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) are at increased risk not only for Alzheimer's disease, but for poor mental health, impaired sleep, and diminished quality of life (QOL), which in turn, contribute to further cognitive decline, highlighting the need for early intervention. OBJECTIVE In this randomized controlled trial, we assessed the effects of two 12-week relaxation programs, Kirtan Kriya Meditation (KK) and music listening (ML), on perceived stress, sleep, mood, and health-related QOL in older adults with SCD. METHODS Sixty community-dwelling older adults with SCD were randomized to a KK or ML program and asked to practice 12 minutes daily for 12 weeks, then at their discretion for the following 3 months. At baseline, 12 weeks, and 26 weeks, perceived stress, mood, psychological well-being, sleep quality, and health-related QOL were measured using well-validated instruments. RESULTS Fifty-three participants (88%) completed the 6-month study. Participants in both groups showed significant improvement at 12 weeks in psychological well-being and in multiple domains of mood and sleep quality (p's≤0.05). Relative to ML, those assigned to KK showed greater gains in perceived stress, mood, psychological well-being, and QOL-Mental Health (p's≤0.09). Observed gains were sustained or improved at 6 months, with both groups showing marked and significant improvement in all outcomes. Changes were unrelated to treatment expectancies. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that practice of a simple meditation or ML program may improve stress, mood, well-being, sleep, and QOL in adults with SCD, with benefits sustained at 6 months and gains that were particularly pronounced in the KK group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim E. Innes
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Terry Kit Selfe
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Dharma Singh Khalsa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Integrative Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM and the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Sahiti Kandati
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Hernández SE, Suero J, Barros A, González-Mora JL, Rubia K. Increased Grey Matter Associated with Long-Term Sahaja Yoga Meditation: A Voxel-Based Morphometry Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150757. [PMID: 26938433 PMCID: PMC4777419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate regional differences in grey matter volume associated with the practice of Sahaja Yoga Meditation. DESIGN Twenty three experienced practitioners of Sahaja Yoga Meditation and twenty three non-meditators matched on age, gender and education level, were scanned using structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging and their grey matter volume were compared using Voxel-Based Morphometry. RESULTS Grey matter volume was larger in meditators relative to non-meditators across the whole brain. In addition, grey matter volume was larger in several predominantly right hemispheric regions: in insula, ventromedial orbitofrontal cortex, inferior temporal and parietal cortices as well as in left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and left insula. No areas with larger grey matter volume were found in non-meditators relative to meditators. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that long-term practice of Sahaja Yoga Meditation is associated with larger grey matter volume overall, and with regional enlargement in several right hemispheric cortical and subcortical brain regions that are associated with sustained attention, self-control, compassion and interoceptive perception. The increased grey matter volume in these attention and self-control mediating regions suggests use-dependent enlargement with regular practice of this meditation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Suero
- Centro de Salud Jazmín, Sermas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Barros
- Department of Psychology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain
| | | | - Katya Rubia
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Tomasino B, Fabbro F. Editorial: Neuroimaging and Neuropsychology of Meditation States. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1757. [PMID: 26635667 PMCID: PMC4652575 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Franco Fabbro
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine Udine, Italy ; Perceptual Robotics Laboratory, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies Pisa, Italy
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Villemure C, Čeko M, Cotton VA, Bushnell MC. Neuroprotective effects of yoga practice: age-, experience-, and frequency-dependent plasticity. Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:281. [PMID: 26029093 PMCID: PMC4428135 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Yoga combines postures, breathing, and meditation. Despite reported health benefits, yoga's effects on the brain have received little study. We used magnetic resonance imaging to compare age-related gray matter (GM) decline in yogis and controls. We also examined the effect of increasing yoga experience and weekly practice on GM volume and assessed which aspects of weekly practice contributed most to brain size. Controls displayed the well documented age-related global brain GM decline while yogis did not, suggesting that yoga contributes to protect the brain against age-related decline. Years of yoga experience correlated mostly with GM volume differences in the left hemisphere (insula, frontal operculum, and orbitofrontal cortex) suggesting that yoga tunes the brain toward a parasympatically driven mode and positive states. The number of hours of weekly practice correlated with GM volume in the primary somatosensory cortex/superior parietal lobule (S1/SPL), precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), hippocampus, and primary visual cortex (V1). Commonality analyses indicated that the combination of postures and meditation contributed the most to the size of the hippocampus, precuneus/PCC, and S1/SPL while the combination of meditation and breathing exercises contributed the most to V1 volume. Yoga's potential neuroprotective effects may provide a neural basis for some of its beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Villemure
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MDUSA
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCCanada
| | - Marta Čeko
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MDUSA
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QCCanada
| | - Valerie A. Cotton
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MDUSA
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QCCanada
| | - M. Catherine Bushnell
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MDUSA
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCCanada
- Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, Montreal, QCCanada
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Khalsa DS. Stress, Meditation, and Alzheimer's Disease Prevention: Where The Evidence Stands. J Alzheimers Dis 2015; 48:1-12. [PMID: 26445019 PMCID: PMC4923750 DOI: 10.3233/jad-142766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Although meditation is believed to be over five thousand years old, scientific research on it is in its infancy. Mitigating the extensive negative biochemical effects of stress is a superficially discussed target of Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevention, yet may be critically important. This paper reviews lifestyle and stress as possible factors contributing to AD and meditation's effects on cognition and well-being for reduction of neurodegeneration and prevention of AD. This review highlights Kirtan Kriya (KK), an easy, cost effective meditation technique requiring only 12 minutes a day, which has been successfully employed to improve memory in studies of people with subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, and highly stressed caregivers, all of whom are at increased risk for subsequent development of AD. KK has also been shown to improve sleep, decrease depression, reduce anxiety, down regulate inflammatory genes, upregulate immune system genes, improve insulin and glucose regulatory genes, and increase telomerase by 43%; the largest ever recorded. KK also improves psycho-spiritual well-being or spiritual fitness, important for maintenance of cognitive function and prevention of AD. KK is easy to learn and practice by aging individuals. It is the premise of this review that meditation in general, and KK specifically, along with other modalities such as dietary modification, physical exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization, may be beneficial as part of an AD prevention program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharma Singh Khalsa
- Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Internal/Integrative Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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