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Journal of Sports Science & Medicine Jun 2024Perception is an essential component of children's psychological development, which is foundational to children's ability to understand and adapt to their external... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Perception is an essential component of children's psychological development, which is foundational to children's ability to understand and adapt to their external environment. Perception is also a crucial tool for understand and navigating one's surroundings, enabling children to identify objects and react appropriately to settings or situations. Substantial evidence indicates that engaging in physical activity is beneficial for the development of children's perceptual abilities, as the two are closely intertwined. Still, more research is necessary to gain a full understanding of the impact of physical activity on children's perception. To further identify and quantify the effects of physical activity on a number of specific perceptions in children. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Searches were performed using five online databases (i.e., PubMed, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) for articles published up to and including June 2023 to identify eligible citations. A total of 12 randomized controlled trials, encompassing 1,761 children under the age of 12, were analyzed. Overall, physical activity as an intervention showed a notable effect on the development of children's perceptions. The meta-analysis indicated that participating in physical activity for 30 minutes around, daily, had a greater impact on children's visual perception and executive functioning than on their motor perception, body perception, and global self-worth (SMD = 1.33, 95% CI: 0.75, 1.91, p < 0.001). The effects of physical activity on children's perception performance varied by participant characteristics, with physical activity having better effects on body perception and overall self-worth in children who were obese or overweight. Furthermore, physical activity can also enhance executive function and attention in children with developmental coordination disorders. The effects of physical activity on children's perception performance varied according to the intervention time, with different activity durations resulting in different perception performances. Therefore, parents and educators must prioritize an appropriate length of physical activity time for children to ensure their optimal growth and development. Registration and protocol CRD42023441119.
Topics: Humans; Child; Exercise; Perception; Executive Function; Child Development; Visual Perception; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Body Image
PubMed: 38841637
DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2024.289 -
Cognition Aug 2024Absolute pitch is the name given to the rare ability to identify a musical note in an automatic and effortless manner without the need for a reference tone. Those... (Review)
Review
Absolute pitch is the name given to the rare ability to identify a musical note in an automatic and effortless manner without the need for a reference tone. Those individuals with absolute pitch can, for example, name the note they hear, identify all of the tones of a given chord, and/or name the pitches of everyday sounds, such as car horns or sirens. Hence, absolute pitch can be seen as providing a rare example of absolute sensory judgment in audition. Surprisingly, however, the intriguing question of whether such an ability presents unique features in the domain of sensory perception, or whether instead similar perceptual skills also exist in other sensory domains, has not been explicitly addressed previously. In this paper, this question is addressed by systematically reviewing research on absolute pitch using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method. Thereafter, we compare absolute pitch with two rare types of sensory experience, namely synaesthesia and eidetic memory, to understand if and how these phenomena exhibit similar features to absolute pitch. Furthermore, a common absolute perceptual ability that has been often compared to absolute pitch, namely colour perception, is also discussed. Arguments are provided supporting the notion that none of the examined abilities can be considered like absolute pitch. Therefore, we conclude by suggesting that absolute pitch does indeed appear to constitute a unique kind of absolute sensory judgment in humans, and we discuss some open issues and novel directions for future research in absolute pitch.
Topics: Humans; Pitch Perception; Judgment; Synesthesia; Color Perception; Music
PubMed: 38761646
DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2024.105805 -
Brain and Behavior May 2024The internal representation of verticality could be disturbed when a lesion in the central nervous system (CNS) affects the centers where information from the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
INTRODUCTION
The internal representation of verticality could be disturbed when a lesion in the central nervous system (CNS) affects the centers where information from the vestibular, visual, and/or somatosensory systems, increasing the risk of falling.
OBJECTIVE
The aim was to evaluate the vestibular and somatosensory contribution to the verticality pattern in patients with stroke and other neurological disorders.
METHODS
A literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases. Cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies comparing body verticality in patients with stroke or CNS diseases (CNSD) versus healthy controls were selected. Subjective postural vertical (SPV) in roll and pitch planes was used as the primary variable.
RESULTS
Ten studies reporting data from 390 subjects were included. The overall effect for CNSD patients showed a misperception of body verticality in roll (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] .84-1.25) and pitch planes (SMD = 1.03; 95% CI .51-1.55). In subgroup analyses, a high effect was observed in the perception of SPV both in roll and pitch planes in stroke (p = .002) and other CNSD (p < .001).
CONCLUSION
These findings suggest a potential misperception of SPV in patients with stroke and other neurological disturbances. Patients with CNSD could present an alteration of vestibular and somatosensory contribution to verticality construction, particularly stroke patients with pusher syndrome (PS), followed by those with PS combined with hemineglect.
Topics: Humans; Nervous System Diseases; Perceptual Disorders; Proprioception; Space Perception; Stroke
PubMed: 38688878
DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3496 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2024Although schizophrenia has traditionally been interpreted as a disorder of thought, contemporary perspectives suggest that it may be more appropriate to conceptualize it...
Although schizophrenia has traditionally been interpreted as a disorder of thought, contemporary perspectives suggest that it may be more appropriate to conceptualize it as a disorder of language connectivity. The linguistic anomalies present in schizophrenia possess distinctive characteristics that, despite certain connections, are not comparable to aphasic disorders. It is proposed that these anomalies are the result of dysfunctions in verbal self-monitoring mechanisms, which may influence other neuropsychological dimensions. This study set out to examine the neuropsychological dimensions associated with alterations in the neural networks of verbal self-monitoring in schizophrenic language, based on the scientific evidence published to date. Exhaustive searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to identify magnetic resonance studies that evaluated verbal self-monitoring mechanisms in schizophrenia. Of a total of 133 articles identified, 22 were selected for qualitative analysis. The general findings indicated alterations in frontotemporoparietal networks and in systems such as the insula, amygdala, anterior cingulate cortex, putamen, and hippocampus. Despite the heterogeneity of the data, it is concluded that language plays a fundamental role in schizophrenia and that its alterations are linked with other neuropsychological dimensions, particularly emotional and perceptual ones.
PubMed: 38501094
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1356726 -
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews May 2024The present review examined the consequences of focal brain injury on spatial attention studied with cueing paradigms, with a particular focus on the disengagement... (Review)
Review
The present review examined the consequences of focal brain injury on spatial attention studied with cueing paradigms, with a particular focus on the disengagement deficit, which refers to the abnormal slowing of reactions following an ipsilesional cue. Our review supports the established notion that the disengagement deficit is a functional marker of spatial neglect and is particularly pronounced when elicited by peripheral cues. Recent research has revealed that this deficit critically depends on cues that have task-relevant characteristics or are associated with negative reinforcement. Attentional capture by task-relevant cues is contingent on damage to the right temporo-parietal junction (TPJ) and is modulated by functional connections between the TPJ and the right insular cortex. Furthermore, damage to the dorsal premotor or prefrontal cortex (dPMC/dPFC) reduces the effect of task-relevant cues. These findings support an interactive model of the disengagement deficit, involving the right TPJ, the insula, and the dPMC/dPFC. These interconnected regions play a crucial role in regulating and adapting spatial attention to changing intrinsic values of stimuli in the environment.
Topics: Humans; Brain Injuries; Prefrontal Cortex; Perceptual Disorders; Cues; Space Perception; Parietal Lobe; Functional Laterality; Reaction Time
PubMed: 38490498
DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105622 -
Journal of Thermal Biology Feb 2024Cross-adaptation (CA) refers to the successful induction of physiological adaptation under one environmental stressor (e.g., heat), to enable subsequent benefit in... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Cross-adaptation (CA) refers to the successful induction of physiological adaptation under one environmental stressor (e.g., heat), to enable subsequent benefit in another (e.g., hypoxia). This systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis investigated the effect of heat acclimation (HA) on physiological, perceptual and physical performance outcome measures during rest, and submaximal and maximal intensity exercise in hypoxia. Database searches in Scopus and MEDLINE were performed. Studies were included when they met the Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome criteria, were of English-language, peer-reviewed, full-text original articles, using human participants. Risk of bias and study quality were assessed using the COnsensus based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments checklist. Nine studies were included, totalling 79 participants (100 % recreationally trained males). The most common method of HA included fixed-intensity exercise comprising 9 ± 3 sessions, 89 ± 24-min in duration and occurred within 39 ± 2 °C and 32 ± 13 % relative humidity. CA induced a moderate, beneficial effect on physiological measures at rest (oxygen saturation: g = 0.60) and during submaximal exercise (heart rate: g = -0.65, core temperature: g = -0.68 and skin temperature: g = -0.72). A small effect was found for ventilation (g = 0.24) and performance measures (peak power: g = 0.32 and time trial time: g = -0.43) during maximal intensity exercise. No effect was observed for perceptual outcome measures. CA may be appropriate for individuals, such as occupational or military workers, whose access to altitude exposure prior to undertaking submaximal activity in hypoxic conditions is restricted. Methodological variances exist within the current literature, and females and well-trained individuals have yet to be investigated. Future research should focus on these cohorts and explore the mechanistic underpinnings of CA.
Topics: Male; Humans; Acclimatization; Adaptation, Physiological; Heat-Shock Response; Exercise; Hypoxia; Heat Stress Disorders
PubMed: 38471285
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103793 -
The Australian and New Zealand Journal... Jun 2024Auditory hallucinations (hearing voices) have been associated with a range of altered cognitive functions, pertaining to signal detection, source-monitoring, memory,... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Auditory hallucinations (hearing voices) have been associated with a range of altered cognitive functions, pertaining to signal detection, source-monitoring, memory, inhibition and language processes. Yet, empirical results are inconsistent. Despite this, several theoretical models of auditory hallucinations persist, alongside increasing emphasis on the utility of a multidimensional framework. Thus, clarification of current evidence across the broad scope of proposed mechanisms is warranted.
METHOD
A systematic search of the Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted. Records were screened to confirm the use of an objective behavioural cognitive task, and valid measurement of hallucinations specific to the auditory modality.
RESULTS
Auditory hallucinations were primarily associated with difficulties in perceptual decision-making (i.e. reduced sensitivity/accuracy for signal-noise discrimination; liberal responding to ambiguity), source-monitoring (i.e. self-other and temporal context confusion), working memory and language function (i.e. reduced verbal fluency). Mixed or limited support was observed for perceptual feature discrimination, imagery vividness/illusion susceptibility, source-monitoring for stimulus form and spatial context, recognition and recall memory, executive functions (e.g. attention, inhibition), emotion processing and language comprehension/hemispheric organisation.
CONCLUSIONS
Findings were considered within predictive coding and self-monitoring frameworks. Of concern was the portion of studies which - despite offering auditory-hallucination-specific aims and inferences - employed modality-general measures, and/or diagnostic-based contrasts with psychologically healthy individuals. This review highlights disparities within the literature between theoretical conceptualisations of auditory hallucinations and the body of rigorous empirical evidence supporting such inferences. Future cognitive investigations, beyond the schizophrenia-spectrum, which explicitly define and measure the timeframe and sensory modality of hallucinations, are recommended.
Topics: Hallucinations; Humans; Cognition; Auditory Perception; Executive Function
PubMed: 38470085
DOI: 10.1177/00048674241235849 -
Psychiatry Research Apr 2024A large group of psychiatric patients suffer from auditory hallucinations (AH) despite relevant treatment regimens. In mental health populations, AH tend to be verbal... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
A large group of psychiatric patients suffer from auditory hallucinations (AH) despite relevant treatment regimens. In mental health populations, AH tend to be verbal (AVH) and the content critical or abusive. Trials employing immersive virtual reality (VR) to treat mental health disorders are emerging.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of clinical trials utilizing VR in the treatment of AH and to document knowledge gaps in the literature.
METHODS
PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched for studies reporting on the use of VR to target AH.
RESULTS
16 papers were included in this PRISMA scoping review (ScR). In most studies VR therapy (VRT) was employed to ameliorate treatment resistant AVH in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Only two studies included patients with a diagnosis of affective disorders. The VRT was carried out with the use of an avatar to represent the patient's most dominant voice.
DISCUSSION
The research field employing VR to treat AH is promising but still in its infancy. Results from larger randomized clinical trials are needed to establish substantial evidence of therapy effectiveness. Additionally, the knowledge base would benefit from more profound qualitative data exploring views of patients and therapists.
Topics: Humans; Hallucinations; Schizophrenia; Virtual Reality; Therapy, Computer-Assisted; Mental Health; Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy
PubMed: 38452499
DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115834 -
History of Psychiatry Jun 2024We present a social-historical perspective on the evolution of the voice-hearing phenomenon in Western society. Based upon a systematic search from a selection of nine...
We present a social-historical perspective on the evolution of the voice-hearing phenomenon in Western society. Based upon a systematic search from a selection of nine databases, we trace the way hearing voices has been understood throughout the ages. Originally, hearing voices was considered a gifted talent for accessing the divine, but the progressive influence of monotheistic religion gradually condemned the practice to social marginalization. Later, the medical and psychiatric professions of secular society were instrumental in attaching stigma to both voice hearers and the phenomenon itself, thereby reinforcing social exclusion. More recently, the re-integration of voice hearers into the community by health authorities in various countries appears to have provided a new, socially acceptable setting for the phenomenon.
Topics: Humans; Hallucinations; History, 16th Century; History, 17th Century; History, 18th Century; History, 19th Century; History, 20th Century; History, 21st Century; History, Ancient; History, Medieval; Psychotic Disorders; Social Stigma; Western World
PubMed: 38424509
DOI: 10.1177/0957154X241231690 -
BMC Neurology Feb 2024We previously performed a systematic review and meta-analysis which revealed a Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) prevalence estimate of 64% [95% CI: 60.01-68.1]. The prevalence... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
We previously performed a systematic review and meta-analysis which revealed a Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) prevalence estimate of 64% [95% CI: 60.01-68.1]. The prevalence estimates varied significantly between developed and developing countries. Remarkably, there is limited evidence on the prevalence of PLP and associated risk factors in African populations.
METHODS
Adults who had undergone limb amputations between January 2018 and October 2022 were recruited from healthcare facilities in the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces. We excluded individuals with auditory or speech impairments that hindered clear communication via telephone. Data on the prevalence and risk factors for PLP were collected telephonically from consenting and eligible participants. The prevalence of PLP was expressed as a percentage with a 95% confidence interval. The associations between PLP and risk factors for PLP were tested using univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. The strength of association was calculated using the Odds Ratio where association was confirmed.
RESULTS
The overall PLP prevalence was 71.73% [95% CI: 65.45-77.46]. Persistent pre-operative pain, residual limb pain, and non-painful phantom limb sensations were identified as risk factors for PLP.
CONCLUSION
This study revealed a high prevalence of PLP. The use of effective treatments targeting pre-amputation pain may yield more effective and targeted pre-amputation care, leading to improved quality of life after amputation.
Topics: Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Phantom Limb; Prevalence; Quality of Life; Risk Factors
PubMed: 38321380
DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03547-w