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Scientific Reports Oct 2021A remarkable feature of the human brain is its ability to integrate information from the environment with internally generated content. The integration of top-down and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
A remarkable feature of the human brain is its ability to integrate information from the environment with internally generated content. The integration of top-down and bottom-up processes during complex multi-modal human activities, however, is yet to be fully understood. Music provides an excellent model for understanding this since music listening leads to the urge to move, and music making entails both playing and listening at the same time (i.e., audio-motor coupling). Here, we conducted activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analyses of 130 neuroimaging studies of music perception, production and imagery, with 2660 foci, 139 experiments, and 2516 participants. We found that music perception and production rely on auditory cortices and sensorimotor cortices, while music imagery recruits distinct parietal regions. This indicates that the brain requires different structures to process similar information which is made available either by an interaction with the environment (i.e., bottom-up) or by internally generated content (i.e., top-down).
Topics: Auditory Cortex; Auditory Perception; Brain; Brain Mapping; Humans; Imagination; Music
PubMed: 34675231
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00139-3 -
Schizophrenia Research Aug 2019Although there is substantial evidence supporting the existence of neurocognitive impairment in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD), few...
Although there is substantial evidence supporting the existence of neurocognitive impairment in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD), few studies have explored the field from an endophenotypic perspective. The present systematic review sought to identify longitudinal family studies exploring suitable neurocognitive endophenotypes in unaffected relatives of patients with SZ and/or BD. Following the PRISMA statement, only five follow-up studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 79 SZ patients, 159 SZ unaffected relatives of SZ, 131 BD patients, 77 unaffected relatives of BD, and 248 controls. Verbal memory, auditory attention, face memory and emotion processing were found as putative endophenotypic candidates for SZ, whereas this strategy identified none for BD. Substantial heterogeneity and lack of standardization in global neurocognitive assessment within this area should be pointed out; nevertheless, several candidate endophenotypes were identified for SZ, except for executive impairment.
Topics: Bipolar Disorder; Cognitive Dysfunction; Endophenotypes; Family; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Schizophrenia
PubMed: 31272906
DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.06.014 -
Frontiers in Neuroanatomy 2022The plasticity of the central nervous system (CNS) allows the change of neuronal organization and function after environmental stimuli or adaptation after sensory...
The plasticity of the central nervous system (CNS) allows the change of neuronal organization and function after environmental stimuli or adaptation after sensory deprivation. The so-called critical period (CP) for neuroplasticity is the time window when each sensory brain region is more sensitive to changes and adaptations. This time window is usually different for each primary sensory area: somatosensory (S1), visual (V1), and auditory (A1). Several intrinsic mechanisms are also involved in the start and end of the CP for neuroplasticity; however, which is its duration in S1, VI, and A1? This systematic review evaluated studies on the determination of these time windows in small rodents. The careful study selection and methodological quality assessment indicated that the CP for neuroplasticity is different among the sensory areas, and the brain maps are influenced by environmental stimuli. Moreover, there is an overlap between the time windows of some sensory areas. Finally, the time window duration of the CP for neuroplasticity is predominant in S1.
PubMed: 35370567
DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.763245 -
Disability and Rehabilitation.... Apr 2024The need for social distancing in order to reduce the prevalence of COVID-19 concomitant with the needs of patients as well as the protection of the patients and service...
PURPOSE
The need for social distancing in order to reduce the prevalence of COVID-19 concomitant with the needs of patients as well as the protection of the patients and service providers which has led to the use of tele health in speech and language therapy. For this reason, we decided to review the studies that focus on tele health in speech and language therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic and the purpose of this study is to investigate the use and satisfaction of tele health in speech and language therapy.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We conducted a systematic review of the literature in accordance with the PRISMA statement on google scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Science direct, ProQuest, Web of science, Springer and Cochrane databases between 2020 - 2021. An additional manual search was performed, taking into consideration references of the included papers, through the same eligibility criteria. Two researchers screened the titles and abstracts of articles that met inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the included papers was evaluated using the Critical Appraisals Skills Program (CASP) checklists.
RESULTS
The collection of reviewed articles included 83 articles from different countries, subsequently 8 articles (3 clinical trials and 5 experimental) were selected. The data extracted were: participations, objects, methods, tools and results.
CONCLUSIONS
According to present study, tele health can be used in diagnosis and treatment of speech-language conditions as well as educating speech and language pathology students. Moreover, these findings showed patients and therapists were more inclined to utilise tele health.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONReduced access to in-person rehabilitation care in covid-19 pandemic, along with changes in health care finance and delivery, contributed to an exponential increase in telehealth.Measures of quality and patient satisfaction are unknown in the model of tele rehabilitation.To date, the literature on tele rehabilitation is limited and most commonly describes treatment for an impairment within a specific disease.Beyond infection control, eliminating travel time, incorporating other health care advocates, and convenience delivering care in familiar environments to pediatric patients are all benefits that will be durable outside times of pandemic.For families who live in rural or medically underserved areas and have access to internet and technology, telemedicine is a tool to provide access to medical care. Telemedicine can also increase patient and caregiver satisfaction through reduced travel and clinic wait time and increased potential for appointment time flexibility.Tele rehabilitation medicine provides an opportunity to deliver timely, patient and family-centric rehabilitation care while maintaining physical distancing and reducing potential COVID-19 exposure for our patients, their caregivers and medical providers.Since SLP mostly relies on communication through visual-auditory and perceptual aspects, tele practice could be a proper opportunity to provide care in this field.Given the need for continuous therapy sessions in order to treat speech-language disorders, the application of tele practice may eliminate problems in this area to some extent while preventing the transmission of COVID-19.
Topics: Humans; Child; COVID-19; Language Therapy; Pandemics; Speech; Telemedicine; Speech Disorders
PubMed: 36129435
DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2022.2122605 -
Human Brain Mapping Feb 2022Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) allows to actively and noninvasively modulate brain function. Aside from inhibiting specific processes, NIBS may also enhance...
Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) allows to actively and noninvasively modulate brain function. Aside from inhibiting specific processes, NIBS may also enhance cognitive functions, which might be used for the prevention and intervention of learning disabilities such as dyslexia. However, despite the growing interest in modulating learning abilities, a comprehensive, up-to-date review synthesizing NIBS studies with dyslexics is missing. Here, we fill this gap and elucidate the potential of NIBS as treatment option in dyslexia. The findings of the 15 included studies suggest that repeated sessions of reading training combined with different NIBS protocols may induce long-lasting improvements of reading performance in child and adult dyslexics, opening promising avenues for future research. In particular, the "classical" reading areas seem to be most successfully modulated through NIBS, and facilitatory protocols can improve various reading-related subprocesses. Moreover, we emphasize the need to further explore the potential to modulate auditory cortex function as a preintervention and intervention approach for affected children, for example, to avoid the development of auditory and phonological difficulties at the core of dyslexia. Finally, we outline how future studies may increase our understanding of the neurobiological basis of NIBS-induced improvements in dyslexia.
Topics: Dyslexia; Humans; Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
PubMed: 34716977
DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25700 -
Brain Imaging and Behavior Jun 2024The origin of tinnitus remains a topic of discussion; however, numerous resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) studies interpret it as a disruption... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
UNLABELLED
The origin of tinnitus remains a topic of discussion; however, numerous resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) studies interpret it as a disruption in neural functional connectivity. Yet, there's notable inconsistency in the resting-state data across these studies. To shed light on this discrepancy, we conducted a meta-analysis of extant rsfMRI studies, aiming to identify potential regions that consistently signify core abnormalities in individuals with tinnitus.
METHODS
A systematic search on MEDLINE/PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases was performed to identify rsfMRI studies on tinnitus published up to October 2022. Coordinates related to the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) brain maps that showed significant differences between tinnitus patients and controls were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using the activation likelihood estimation method. Data were included from 17 rsfMRI studies that reported a total of 63 distinct foci in ALFF and 46 foci in ReHo.
RESULTS
Our meta-analysis revealed several regions where tinnitus patients demonstrated increased ALFF and ReHO values, both individually and collectively, when compared to control subjects. These regions encompassed the insula, middle temporal gyrus, and inferior frontal gyrus on both sides. Additionally, increased activity was also noted in the cerebellum posterior lobe bilaterally and the right superior frontal gyrus.
CONCLUSIONS
This meta-analysis demonstrates a unique pattern of resting-state brain abnormalities involving both the auditory and non-auditory brain regions as neuroimaging markers, which helps understand the neuro-pathophysiological mechanisms of tinnitus.
Topics: Tinnitus; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Brain; Brain Mapping; Rest
PubMed: 38170303
DOI: 10.1007/s11682-023-00846-7 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2019Seed-based studies on resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in schizophrenia have shown disrupted connectivity involving a number of brain networks; however, the...
Seed-based studies on resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in schizophrenia have shown disrupted connectivity involving a number of brain networks; however, the results have been controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis based on independent component analysis (ICA) brain templates to evaluate dysconnectivity within resting-state brain networks in patients with schizophrenia. Seventy-six rsFC studies from 70 publications with 2,588 schizophrenia patients and 2,567 healthy controls (HCs) were included in the present meta-analysis. The locations and activation effects of significant intergroup comparisons were extracted and classified based on the ICA templates. Then, multilevel kernel density analysis was used to integrate the results and control bias. Compared with HCs, significant hypoconnectivities were observed between the seed regions and the areas in the auditory network (left insula), core network (right superior temporal cortex), default mode network (right medial prefrontal cortex, and left precuneus and anterior cingulate cortices), self-referential network (right superior temporal cortex), and somatomotor network (right precentral gyrus) in schizophrenia patients. No hyperconnectivity between the seed regions and any other areas within the networks was detected in patients, compared with the connectivity in HCs. Decreased rsFC within the self-referential network and default mode network might play fundamental roles in the malfunction of information processing, while the core network might act as a dysfunctional hub of regulation. Our meta-analysis is consistent with diffuse hypoconnectivities as a dysregulated brain network model of schizophrenia.
PubMed: 31354545
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00482 -
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies Jan 2024Several studies have reported the effect of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) on functional ambulation in stroke patients, yet no systematic overview has yet been...
BACKGROUND
Several studies have reported the effect of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) on functional ambulation in stroke patients, yet no systematic overview has yet been published. This study aims to synthesize the available evidence describing changes in stroke patients after RAS intervention for functional ambulation and the use of walking assistive devices, and to find out if the effect of RAS and music-based RAS differs depending on the lesioned area.
METHODS
The PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, Scopus and CINAHL electronic databases were searched for reports evaluating the effect of RAS on walking in stroke patients, applying the PICOS criteria for the inclusion of studies.
RESULTS
Twenty one articles were included (948 stroke survivors). Most studies were of good methodological quality according to the PEDro scale, but they had a high risk of bias. The most consistent finding was that RAS improves walking and balance parameters in stroke patients in all phases compared to baseline and versus control groups with conventional treatment. Functional ambulation and the use of walking assistive devices were inconsistently reported. Several studies also suggest that RAS may be as good as other complementary therapies (horse-riding and visual cueing).
CONCLUSIONS
Despite the beneficial effects of RAS, the question remains as to whether it is better than other complementary therapies. Given the heterogeneity of the interventions, the interventions in control groups, the varied durations, and the different outcome measures, we suggest that care should be taken in interpreting and generalizing findings.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION
CRD42021277940.
Topics: Humans; Acoustic Stimulation; Outcome Assessment, Health Care; Stroke; Stroke Rehabilitation; Walking
PubMed: 38245704
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04310-3 -
Clinical Neurophysiology : Official... Jan 2020Systematically review the abnormalities in event related potential (ERP) recorded in Rett Syndrome (RTT) patients and animals in search of translational biomarkers of...
OBJECTIVE
Systematically review the abnormalities in event related potential (ERP) recorded in Rett Syndrome (RTT) patients and animals in search of translational biomarkers of deficits related to the particular neurophysiological processes of known genetic origin (MECP2 mutations).
METHODS
Pubmed, ISI Web of Knowledge and BIORXIV were searched for the relevant articles according to PRISMA standards.
RESULTS
ERP components are generally delayed across all sensory modalities both in RTT patients and its animal model, while findings on ERPs amplitude strongly depend on stimulus properties and presentation rate. Studies on RTT animal models uncovered the abnormalities in the excitatory and inhibitory transmission as critical mechanisms underlying the ERPs changes, but showed that even similar ERP alterations in auditory and visual domains have a diverse neural basis. A range of novel approaches has been developed in animal studies bringing along the meaningful neurophysiological interpretation of ERP measures in RTT patients.
CONCLUSIONS
While there is a clear evidence for sensory ERPs abnormalities in RTT, to further advance the field there is a need in a large-scale ERP studies with the functionally-relevant experimental paradigms.
SIGNIFICANCE
The review provides insights into domain-specific neural basis of the ERP abnormalities and promotes clinical application of the ERP measures as the non-invasive functional biomarkers of RTT pathophysiology.
Topics: Age Factors; Animals; Auditory Cortex; Biomarkers; Disease Models, Animal; Electroencephalography; Electroencephalography Phase Synchronization; Evoked Potentials, Auditory; Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory; Evoked Potentials, Visual; Female; Hippocampus; Humans; Male; Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein 2; Mice; Mice, Knockout; Mutation; Perceptual Masking; Rett Syndrome; Signal-To-Noise Ratio; Visual Cortex
PubMed: 31812082
DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2019.11.003 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... May 2024Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are subjected to different types of stress, including sounds of high intensity. The sound levels in NICUs often exceed... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are subjected to different types of stress, including sounds of high intensity. The sound levels in NICUs often exceed the maximum acceptable level recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which is 45 decibels (dB). Hearing impairment is diagnosed in 2% to 10% of preterm infants compared to only 0.1% of the general paediatric population. Bringing sound levels under 45 dB can be achieved by lowering the sound levels in an entire unit; by treating the infant in a section of a NICU, in a 'private' room, or in incubators in which the sound levels are controlled; or by reducing sound levels at the individual level using earmuffs or earplugs. By lowering sound levels, the resulting stress can be diminished, thereby promoting growth and reducing adverse neonatal outcomes. This review is an update of one originally published in 2015 and first updated in 2020.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the benefits and harms of sound reduction on the growth and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates.
SEARCH METHODS
We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. On 21 and 22 August 2023, a Cochrane Information Specialist searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, two other databases, two trials registers, and grey literature via Google Scholar and conference abstracts from Pediatric Academic Societies.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs in preterm infants (less than 32 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or less than 1500 g birth weight) cared for in the resuscitation area, during transport, or once admitted to a NICU or stepdown unit. We specified three types of intervention: 1) intervention at the unit level (i.e. the entire neonatal department), 2) at the section or room level, or 3) at the individual level (e.g. hearing protection).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
We used the standardised review methods of Cochrane Neonatal to assess the risk of bias in the studies. We used the risk ratio (RR) and risk difference (RD), with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs), for dichotomous data. We used the mean difference (MD) for continuous data. Our primary outcome was major neurodevelopmental disability. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence.
MAIN RESULTS
We included one RCT, which enroled 34 newborn infants randomised to the use of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs for hearing protection. It was a single-centre study conducted at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, Texas, USA. Earplugs were positioned at the time of randomisation and worn continuously until the infants were 35 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) or discharged (whichever came first). Newborns in the control group received standard care. The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of silicone earplugs on the following outcomes. • Cerebral palsy (RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.15 to 61.74)and Mental Developmental Index (MDI) (Bayley II) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 14.00, 95% CI 3.13 to 24.87); no other indicators of major neurodevelopmental disability were reported. • Normal auditory functioning at discharge (RR 1.65, 95% CI 0.93 to 2.94) • All-cause mortality during hospital stay (RR 2.07, 95% CI 0.64 to 6.70; RD 0.20, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.50) • Weight (kg) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 0.31, 95% CI -1.53 to 2.16) • Height (cm) at 18 to 22 months' corrected age (MD 2.70, 95% CI -3.13 to 8.53) • Days of assisted ventilation (MD -1.44, 95% CI -23.29 to 20.41) • Days of initial hospitalisation (MD 1.36, 95% CI -31.03 to 33.75) For all outcomes, we judged the certainty of evidence as very low. We identified one ongoing RCT that will compare the effects of reduced noise levels and cycled light on visual and neural development in preterm infants.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
No studies evaluated interventions to reduce sound levels below 45 dB across the whole neonatal unit or in a room within it. We found only one study that evaluated the benefits of sound reduction in the neonatal intensive care unit for hearing protection in preterm infants. The study compared the use of silicone earplugs versus no earplugs in newborns of very low birth weight (less than 1500 g). Considering the very small sample size, imprecise results, and high risk of attrition bias, the evidence based on this research is very uncertain and no conclusions can be drawn. As there is a lack of evidence to inform healthcare or policy decisions, large, well designed, well conducted, and fully reported RCTs that analyse different aspects of noise reduction in NICUs are needed. They should report both short- and long-term outcomes.
Topics: Humans; Infant, Newborn; Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; Infant, Premature; Noise; Infant, Very Low Birth Weight; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Sound; Ear Protective Devices; Bias; Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced
PubMed: 38813836
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010333.pub4