Cognitive Function In Young Adults Research Articles

Social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with the decline in cognitive functioning in young adults

Coronaviruses have caused widespread disease and death worldwide, leading to the implementation of lockdown measures and the closure of educational institutions in various countries. This research aims to investigate the impact of social isolation on the cognitive functioning of young students. The study included 84 subjects, with 48 being socially isolated and 36 non-isolated individuals. The participants’ mental health was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), while cognitive functions were evaluated through attention-switching tasks (AST), pattern recognition memory (PRM), and choice reaction time (CRT) tests utilizing the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Battery (CANTAB) software. The socially isolated group had an average age of 21.3 ± 1.1 years, whereas the non-isolated group had an average age of 22.8 ± 2.0 years. The MMSE scores were 25.8 ± 1.6 for the socially isolated group and 28.6 ± 1.3 for the non-isolated group. In terms of cognitive functioning, there were significant differences (p = 0.000) observed in the values of AST correct latency for non-switching blocks (blocks 3 and 5) between the socially isolated group (608.1 ± 139.2) and the non-isolated group (499.5 ± 67.8). Similarly, the AST mean correct latency for switching blocks (block 7) was significantly different (p = 0.012) between the socially isolated group (784.4 ± 212.5) and the non-isolated group (671.8 ± 175.6). The socially isolated group exhibited significantly higher values in AST correct mean latency, AST congruent mean latency, AST incongruent mean latency, and AST percent mean correct trials compared to the non-isolated group. Additionally, the PRM mean percent correct significantly differed (p = 0.000) between the isolated group (81.3 ± 12.0) and the non-isolated group (91.9 ± 9.2). The isolated group also showed a higher CRT correct mean latency (482.4 ± 128.9) than the non-isolated group (451.0 ± 59.0), however the difference was not significant. In conclusion, social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decline in the cognitive functioning of young students.

Effects of a Single Bout of Low and Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function in Young Adults

Effects of a Single Bout of Low and Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function in Young Adults

THE EFFECT OF SLEEP QUALITY ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION AMONG IPOH YOUNG ADULTS

A good sleep quality enhances both physiological and psychological functions. Despite the importance of sleep quality, it is one of the common issues faced by the young population due to modern lifestyle. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of sleep quality on cognitive function (working memory and executive function) among Ipoh young adults. A total of thirty-two (n=32) healthy male Ipoh young adults aged (21.0 ± 1.0) years old participated in this study. The sleep quality was measured using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PQSI). Meanwhile, for cognitive function the N-Back task was used to measure working memory and the Wisconsin Sorting Card Test (WSCT) was used to measure executive function. The results of this study showed a significant effect of sleep quality on working memory (0-Back p = 0.011, 1-Back p = 0.001, 2 Back p = 0.008) and executive function (Category Achievement p = 0.001, Total Errors p = 0.010). These findings demonstrated sufficient evidence that sleep quality affects cognitive function (p < .05). Hence, sleep quality is associated with better cognitive function in young adults.

Smartphone and Internet Addiction Affect Cognitive Functions in Young Adults

Smartphone and Internet Addiction Affect Cognitive Functions in Young Adults

Clock Drawing Test Performance of Young Adults Based on a One-Shot Case Study.

The clock drawing test (CDT) is being used regularly by medical professionals in a variety of settings to aid in assessing cognitive functioning in adults of all ages. As our technological environment has changed significantly, because of the inception of this measure, the use of and exposure to the analog clock have diminished. We investigated whether young adults, who have grown up in a mainly digital world, can draw and tell time on an analog clock. Participants aged 18-30years (N = 80, Mage = 24.2, SD = 3.93), who self-identified as having normal cognition, completed the CDT, as well as setting hands on a pre-drawn clock and identifying analog clock times. About 25% of participants received a CDT score below the expected range. There was a moderate, positive correlation between analog clock hand setting and time identification in the group who scored below the expected range on the CDT only (rs(16) = 0.472, p = .048). Most participants reported not wearing an analog watch. Based on these findings, the CDT should be used with caution to screen cognitive functioning in young adults (i.e., aged 18-30 years). Consideration of an alternative approach to screening cognition and modifying cognitive assessments in which the CDT is embedded is recommended for this population. These findings warrant further investigation into CDT performance in the young adult population.

Adiposity and insulin resistance moderate the links between neuroelectrophysiology and working and episodic memory functions in young adult males but not females

IntroductionObesity and insulin resistance negatively influence neural activity and cognitive function, but electrophysiological mechanisms underlying these interrelationships remain unclear. This study investigated whether adiposity and insulin resistance moderated neural activity and underlying cognitive functions in young adults. MethodsReal-time electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded in 38 lean (n = 12) and obese (n = 26) young adults with (n = 15) and without (n = 23) insulin resistance (18–38 years, 55.3% female) as participants completed three neurocognitive tasks in working memory (Operation Span), inhibitory control (Stroop), and episodic memory (Visual Association Test). Body fat percentage was quantified by a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DEXA/DXA). Fasting serum insulin and glucose were quantified to calculate Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) values, for which a higher value indicates more insulin resistance. Hierarchical moderated regression analysis tested these interrelationships. ResultsIn males, greater frontal negative slow wave (fNSW) and positive slow wave (PSW) amplitudes were linked to higher working memory accuracy in participants with low, but not high, body fat percentage and HOMA-IR levels. In contrast, body fat percentage and HOMA-IR did not moderate these associations in females. Furthermore, body fat percentage and HOMA-IR values moderated the relationship between greater fNSW amplitudes and better episodic memory accuracy in males, but not females. Finally, body fat percentage and insulin resistance did not moderate the link between neural activity and inhibitory control for either sex. ConclusionYoung adult males, but not females, with higher body adiposity and insulin resistance showed reduced neural activity and worse underlying working and episodic memory functions.

Feasibility and Acceptability of a Virtual "Coping with Brain Fog" Intervention for Improving Cognitive Functioning in Young Adults with Cancer.

Purpose: Cancer-related cognitive deficits (CRCDs) are common among young adults (YAs) (ages: 18-39) with cancer and can be debilitating. We aimed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual Coping with Brain Fog intervention among YAs with cancer. Our secondary aims were to explore the intervention's effect on cognitive functioning and psychological distress. Methods: This prospective feasibility study involved eight weekly, 90-minute virtual group sessions. Sessions focused on psychoeducation on CRCD, memory skills, task management, and psychological well-being. The primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptability of the intervention evaluated through attendance (>60% not missing >2 consecutive sessions) and satisfaction (Client Satisfaction Questionnaire [CSQ] score >20). Secondary outcomes included the following: cognitive functioning (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognitive Function [FACT-Cog] Scale) and symptoms of distress (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System [PROMIS] Short Form-Anxiety/Depression/Fatigue) and participants' experiences using semistructured interviews. Paired t-tests and summative content analysis were used for quantitative and qualitative data analyses. Results: Twelve participants (five male, mean age = 33 years) were enrolled. All but one participant met feasibility criteria of not missing >2 consecutive sessions (11/12 = 92%). The mean CSQ score was 28.1 (standard deviation 2.5). Significant improvement in cognitive function as measured by FACT-Cog Scale was observed postintervention (p < 0.05). Ten participants adopted strategies from the program to combat CRCD, and eight reported CRCD symptom improvement. Conclusion: A virtual Coping with Brain Fog intervention is feasible and acceptable for the symptoms of CRCD among YAs with cancer. The exploratory data indicate subjective improvement in cognitive function, and will inform the design and implementation of a future clinical trial. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration: NCT05115422.

Effects of Breakfast on Physical Activity, Attentiveness and Cognitive Functions in Young Adults of Islamabad, Pakistan; A Comparative Cross-sectional Study

Background: The prevalence of breakfast skippers among the young population appears to be increasing. Several studies have been conducted on the breakfast routines of children and their effects, but young adults have been neglected. Objective: To compare the impact of breakfast eaters and skippers on physical activity, attentiveness and cognition in young adults of Islamabad, Pakistan. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study, carried out at Shifa Tameer e Millat University Islamabad, Pakistan from August 2020 to January 2021. Healthy young adults of both genders aged 18-25 years were included except those having any active pathology, mental illness, sedative-hypnotics or smokers were excluded from the study. Informed consent was taken from each participant's priory. About 100 participants were enrolled in the study (50 in each group) through non-probability purposive sampling. Respondents were allocated to groups A (Breakfast Eaters) and B (Breakfast Skippers) based on the criteria taken from recent studies. Physical activity and attentiveness were measured through the standard international physical activity questionnaire short form and everyday life attention scale questionnaire respectively whereas cognitive functions were assessed using Stroop and digit span test. Results: The mean age of respondents in groups A (breakfast eaters) and B (breakfast skippers) was 21.6±1.77 and 21.3±1.80 years respectively. Physical activity and cognitive functions statistically showed no significant difference between the two groups (p&gt;0.05). For attentiveness, all components of the everyday life attention scale questionnaire showed no significant difference (p≥0.05) except for the G component (preparing a meal) which showed a significant difference between both groups (p≤0.05). Conclusion: This study concludes that there is no significant difference in breakfast on physical activity, attentiveness and cognitive functions in young adults of Islamabad, Pakistan.

Diabetes complications and cognitive function in young adults with youth-onset type 1 or type 2 diabetes: the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study.

People with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) who also have diabetes complications can have pronounced cognitive deficits. It remains unknown, however, whether and how multiple diabetes complications co-occur with cognitive dysfunction, particularly in youth-onset diabetes. Using data from the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study cohort, a prospective longitudinal cohort, we examined clustering of complications and their underlying clinical factors with performance on cognitive tests in young adults with youth-onset T1D or T2D. Cognition was assessed via the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery. The main cognitive variables were age-corrected scores for composite fluid cognition and associated cognitive subdomains. Diabetes complications included retinopathy, microalbuminuria, and peripheral neuropathy (PN). Lipids, systolic blood pressure (SBP), hemoglobin A1c, and other clinical factors were included in the analyses. Clustering was applied separately to each group (T1D=646; T2D=165). A three-cluster(C) solution was identified for each diabetes type. Mean values and frequencies of all factors were compared between resulting clusters. The average age-corrected score for composite fluid cognition differed significantly across clusters for each group (p<0.001). People with T1D and the lowest average fluid cognition scores had the highest frequency of self-reporting at least one episode of hypoglycemia in the year preceding cognitive testing and the highest prevalence of PN. Persons with T2D and the lowest average fluid cognition scores had the highest SBP, the highest central systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and highest prevalence of PN. These findings highlight shared (PN) and unique factors (hypoglycemia in T1D; SBP in T2D) that could be targeted to potentially mitigate cognitive issues in young people with youth-onset diabetes.

Association of self-reported physical activity with cognitive function in young adults

Association of self-reported physical activity with cognitive function in young adults

Effect of Herbal Perfumes and Synthetic Perfumes on Attention and Cognitive Functions in Young Adults: A Sequential Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Focused and sustained attention, executive function, working memory and task switching are important cognitive abilities. Efforts to enhance cognitive abilities, have engaged the scientific community since ages. Human beings are exposed to several fragrances and the perception of the sense of smell, plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and working capacity. Perception of olfactory stimuli involves complex brain processing, which can be directly associated with cognition and emotion. Several Electroencephalogram (EEG) studies have revealed that, fragrances significantly modulate the activities of different brain waves and are responsible for various states of the brain. Aim: To objectively demonstrate the effect of olfactory stimulation with herbal (rose) perfume on attention and executive functions. Materials and Methods: This sequential cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology at Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The duration of the study was one month, from 16th August 2021 to 16th September 2021. Study included 40 healthy participants (15 males and 25 females), aged between 18-30 years to olfactory stimulation by herbal (rose) extract perfume and synthetic (rose) perfume, and the effects are assessed, using the psychophysiological tests viz., Rapid Serial Visual Presentation task (RSVP), Trail Making Tests (TMT) A&amp;B, Ruff Figural Fluency Test (RFT), and compared with the baseline scores, which are then analysed using Paired t-test. The data was analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Results: Olfactory stimulation with herbal rose perfume enhances the attention and speed of processing, as shown by the nearly significant improvement in the performance of the TMT-A (p-value=0.05433), with decreased time taken to perform the test, whereas, the synthetic rose perfume enhanced the attention, speed, switching between tasks, cognitive fluency, and flexibility. This is evident by the significant improvement in the performance of the TMT-A (p-value=0.00326) and TMT-B (p-value=0.0001693), with decreased time taken to perform the tests. The derived index TMT (B-A), which removes the speed component and is a purer index of executive functions, also showed significant results (p-value=0.002092). Conclusion: The effects of herbal and synthetic rose olfactory stimulation have shown positive influence on the attention and cognitive functions and this finding can be applied to create student friendly learning environments, by providing pleasant stimuli through means of aromatic sprays delivering the odorant in a pulsatile manner at a frequency to overcome the ensuing olfactory adaptation.

Acute Effects of High-Intensity Functional Training and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Cognitive Functions in Young Adults.

Background: The purpose of the present study was to compare the influence of an acute bout of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) with an acute bout of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on measures of cognitive function. Methods: Sixty-nine young adults (Mean ± SD: age = 21.01 ± 2.79 yrs; body mass = 69.65 ± 6.62 kg; height = 1.74 ± 0.05 m; Body Mass Index = 22.8 ± 1.41) gave informed consent and were randomly divided into three groups. The HIFT group, with 27 participants, performed a high-intensity (>85% Max. HR) circuit of functional exercises for 30 min. The MICT group, with 28 participants, performed moderate-intensity (70–80% Max. HR) continuous training on a cyclo-ergometer. The control group did not perform any activity. The Stroop Test, Word Recall and N-Back Test were completed to assess during the familiarization period, immediately before and immediately after the training’s bouts. Results: The repeated measures ANOVA did not show significant mean differences for any group. However, the T-Test for the paired samples demonstrated very significant differences in the Stroop Test, in terms of fastest response time (FRT; mean difference (MD) = −1.14, p < 0.01, d = 0.9), mean response time (MRT; MD = −2.16, p < 0.01, d = 0.66) and the number of correct answers (NCA; MD = 1.08, p < 0.05, d = 0.5) in the HIFT group and in the MICT group (FRT; MD = −1.79, p < 0.01, d = 0.9), (MRT; MD = −3.07, p < 0.01, d = 0.9) (NCA; MD = 1.54, p < 0.05, d = 0.5). Conclusions: There were no differences in the control group. HIFT and MICT may elicit specific influences on cognitive function, mainly in executive function and selective attention.

Effect of Resonance Breathing on Heart Rate Variability and Cognitive Functions in Young Adults: A Randomised Controlled Study.

Introduction: Heart rate variability (HRV) is an important physiological biomarker of wellbeing, mood, and adaptation, and hence improvements in HRV signify improved health, mood, and adaptation to stress. Resonance breathing has consistently been shown to increase HRV, mood, and adaptability. The study investigated the effects of four-week training of resonance breathing in young adults on HRV, stress, and cognition functions.Methods: The randomized controlled study was conducted on young men (18-30 years) after obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee approval and written informed consent from the participants. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: the control group and the resonance breathing (RB) group. Baseline parameters, along with heart rate variability, trail tests for cognition, and perceived stress level, were assessed in both groups. After undergoing four weeks of training, the intervention group practiced deep breathing at the resonance frequency for 20 minutes per day for four weeks, whereas the control group did not. All parameters were recorded again after four weeks of resonance breathing.Results: No difference was observed in the HRV parameters in the control group at baseline and four weeks after the baseline recording (p>0.05). In the intervention group, there was a significant improvement in the HRV parameters, the standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval (SDNN), the proportion derived by dividing NN50 by the total number of NN intervals (pNN50), and total power, after practicing four weeks of resonance breathing (p<0.05). A significant difference in these parameters was also observed in the control and intervention groups after four weeks (p<0.05). There was a significant improvement in the Trails A and B test performance in the intervention group after practicing for four weeks of RB. Similarly, the perceived stress score decreased significantly in the RB group in comparison to its baseline value as well as the control group value. Conclusion: Increased parasympathetic and decreased sympathetic activity were observed after practicing 20 minutes of resonance frequency breathing every day for four weeks. It also improved cognition and reduced perceived stress levels among young adults. It is recommended that young adults should practice deep breathing at the resonance frequency for a few minutes every day. This would allay anxiety and stress, improve their cognitive performance, and also reduce their cardiovascular morbidity.

Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback Using NIRS Improved Cognitive Functions in Young Adults: Evidence from a Randomized Controlled Trial.

(1) Background: A previous study has shown that cognitive training with neurofeedback (CT-NF) using down-regulation improves cognitive functions in young adults. Neurofeedback has two strategies for manipulating brain activity (down-regulation and upregulation). However, the benefit of CT-NF with the upregulation of cognitive functions is still unknown. In this study, we investigated whether the upregulation of CT-NF improves a wide range of cognitive functions compared to cognitive training alone. (2) Methods: In this double-blinded randomized control trial (RCT), 60 young adults were randomly assigned to one of three groups: CT-NF group, CT alone group, and an active control (ACT) group who played a puzzle game. Participants in the three groups used the same device (tablet PC and 2ch NIRS (near-infrared spectroscopy)) and performed the training game for 20 min every day for four weeks. We measured brain activity during training in all groups, but only CT-NFs received NF. We also measured a wide range of cognitive functions before and after the intervention period. (3) Results: The CT-NF groups showed superior beneficial effects on episodic memory, working memory, and attention compared to the CT alone and ACT groups. In addition, the CT-NF group showed an increase in brain activity during CT, which was associated with improvements in cognitive function. (4) Discussion: This study first demonstrated that the CT-NF using the upregulation strategy has beneficial effects on cognitive functions compared to the CT alone. Our results suggest that greater brain activities during CT would enhance a benefit from CT.

The Relationship of Physical Activity Level With Arterial Stiffness, Cerebral Blood Flow, and Cognitive Function in Young Adults

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the relationship of physical activity level with arterial stiffness, cerebral blood flow, and cognitive function in young adults.METHODS: Forty-six young adults participated in this cross-sectional study. Physical activity levels were assessed for seven consecutive days using accelerometers. To assess arterial stiffness, the carotid–femoral artery pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and augmentation index (AIx) were measured. Cognitive function was assessed using the Stroop Color-Word test, and cerebral blood flow was evaluated using near-infrared spectroscopy devices during the cognitive function test.RESULTS: AIx was inversely associated with axis-1 counts, vector magnitude counts, moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA) time, and moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) time (r≤-0.31, p≤.04). The AIx adjusted to the heart rate of 75 beats per minute was inversely correlated with axis-1 counts, vector magnitude counts, step counts, MPA time, and MVPA time (r≤-0.33, p≤.03). There was no relationship between cfPWV and physical activity level parameters (r≤0.10, p≥.51). The difference between oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin levels was positively related to axis-1 counts, step counts, MPA time, and MVPA time (r≥0.31, p≤.04). Regarding cognitive function, the response time for the presented words was negatively associated with step counts (r=-0.42, p&lt;.01) and MPA time (r=-0.29, p=.048), and response time on the presented words with matched color was negatively related to step counts (r=-0.31, p=.04).CONCLUSIONS: More physically active adults are more likely to have lower arterial stiffness, increased brain oxygenation, and better cognitive function, even if they are young and healthy.

Long-term ambient PM2.5 and O3 reduced cognitive function in young adults as measured through the Lumosity brain training platform

BACKGROUND AND AIM: A growing body of evidence indicates that exposure to air pollution affects cognitive performance; however, few studies have assessed this in the context of repeated measures within a large group of individuals. To evaluate the association between long-term exposure to ambient air pollution and aspects of cognitive function we used cognitive performance data from the mobile Lumosity brain training platform. METHODS: The study cohort included 29,091 Lumosity users in the contiguous US who completed 20 repetitions of the Lost in Migration game between 2017 and 2018. Game scores reflect focus and ability to filter information and avoid distracting information. Air pollution data included ambient PM2.5 and O3 averaged for the 365-day period before each gameplay date. Air pollution data from Federal Reference Method monitors was aggregated to the ZIP code (three-digit) level to match the geography included in the game data set. Generalized linear models were used to examine the association between long-term ambient PM2.5 and O3 and game score. Co-pollutant models were adjusted for meteorology, time trend, age, gender, device, education, local socioeconomic factors, and urbanicity. RESULTS:A 5 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with lower user focus scores (-0.50% 95% CI: -0.80, -0.15). No association was observed with O3. Associations with scores were stronger among young adults (18-29 years old) for both PM2.5 (-1.25%; 95% CI: -2.25, -0.25) and O3 (-2.93% per 0.01 ppm; 95% CI: -4.64, -1.20). In the oldest age group (60-90 years old), PM2.5 was associated with decreased scores (-0.33%; 95% CI: -0.75, 0.09) and O3 associated with increased scores (1.22%; 95% CI: 0.54, 1.88). CONCLUSIONS:We observed that elevated long-term PM2.5 and O3 were associated with decreased focus score in young adults. This abstract does not reflect EPA policy. KEYWORDS: Air pollution, Particulate matter, Long-term exposure

The Impact of a Walnut-Rich Breakfast on Cognitive Performance Throughout the Day in Healthy Young Adults

ObjectivesA healthy diet is essential for optimal brain health. A number of food bioactives have been linked to cognitive benefits, including phytonutrients and essential fatty acids. Here we investigated the benefits of a walnut-rich breakfast, which contained flavonoids and omega-3s, to see whether consumption of these bioactives might lead to significant cognitive improvements throughout the day. MethodsA double-blind, crossover intervention study compared the effects of a breakfast containing 50g walnuts, with a nut-free, macronutrient-matched control. Participants were 32 healthy, young adults aged 18 to 30. Cognition, mood, blood, and EEG measures were recorded at baseline and 2, 4, and 6 hours postprandially. Only the cognitive data are reported here. All cognitive data were analyzed using linear mixed modeling (LMM) with baseline performance included as a covariate. Bonferroni corrected pairwise comparisons were used to investigate significant treatment effects. ResultsCompared to the control breakfast, the walnuts elicited significantly faster reaction times throughout the day on tasks measuring inhibition and task switching aspects of executive function. Memory recall results were mixed; slightly worse performance was observed at 2 hours following the walnut breakfast, but this was later reversed with walnuts outperforming control at 6 hours. ConclusionsThe findings provide evidence for reaction time benefits following a walnut-rich breakfast, with effects lasting throughout the day. The results concur with previous literature that suggests executive function effects are commonly observed in young adults following flavonoid supplementation. The memory recall effect at the final time point is consistent with previously observed benefits for both omega-3 fatty acids and flavonoids and may indicate that walnuts offer neuroprotection following long periods of cognitive demand, or that memory benefits depend upon the slower absorption of omega-3s or the delayed appearance of flavonoid metabolites. Walnuts are therefore beneficial to cognitive function in young adults after only a single, acute intake, but further investigation of precise mechanisms is needed. Funding SourcesThe study was funded by the California Walnut Commission, USA and pre-registered at clinicaltrials.gov.

Matcha consumption maintains attentional function following a mild acute psychological stress without affecting a feeling of fatigue: A randomized placebo-controlled study in young adults

Tea is a beverage commonly consumed worldwide. Matcha is a type of green tea produced by drying and grinding tea leaves (Camellia sinensis L.) into a fine powder. Matcha contains catechin, theanine, and caffeine, which affect cognitive function. Epidemiological studies conducted in Japan have shown that green tea consumption improves cognitive impairment. Previously, we found that daily matcha intake improves attention and executive function in middle-aged and older people. However, its effect on cognitive function in younger adults remains unclear. Moreover, it is unclear which cognitive functions are impaired by stress. This study aimed to clarify whether the administration of matcha improves the attentional function of young adults after mild acute stress and which cognitive function is improved. We included 42 participants aged 25 to 34 years who consumed 2 g of matcha daily for 2 weeks. The Uchida–Kraepelin test was used to induce mild acute psychological stress. Memory, attention, facial expression recognition, working memory, visual information, and motor function were evaluated. Reaction times on the Stroop test for attentional function were significantly lower in the matcha group than in the placebo group. Correct hits in the emotion perception test increased significantly for participants in the matcha group compared to those in the placebo group. We found no significant between-group differences in the other tests. In conclusion, after 2 weeks of matcha intake, the attentional function was maintained after mild acute psychological stress. Thus, matcha might improve cognitive function during or after stress conditions in young adults.

Effectiveness of Om chanting on stress and cognition in young adults with type D personality

Background: Om is having immense importance in Hindu tradition as well as in all yoga techniques. Every yoga technique begins with pronouncing the Om. The three letters A, U, and M combined together to form the word Om and it orderly represents the past, present, and future. Aim and Objectives: The study aimed to provide further evidence for beneficial effects of Om chanting on stress and cognitive functions in young adults with type D personality. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 young adults with type D personality will be included in the present study. Participants will be screened for type D personality using DS 14 questionnaire. Om chanting was performed once in a day at 8:00 am daily. Stress levels were assessed using perceived stress scale. Spatial and verbal memory was assessed using spatial and verbal memory test. Results: There was significant improvement in the levels of cognitive functions that are spatial memory and verbal memory scores in the participants of intervention group when compared to control group. There was significant decline in the stress scores in the participants in the intervention group when compared with control group. Conclusion: The study explains beneficial effects of Om chanting. More works have to be undertaken to recommend implementation of Om chanting in daily lifestyle.

Sleep duration genes associated with cognition across the adult age‐range

AbstractBackgroundSleep is implicated in cognitive functioning in young adults, while healthy older adults do not always demonstrate clear associations between sleep and cognitive functioning. Age‐related changes in sleep include a reduction in total sleep time and a greater incidence of sleep disorders, and are also an integral part of neurodegenerations. In the present study, we aimed to: a) identify common genetic variants that may influence self‐reported sleep duration, and b) examine the association between the identified genetic variants and performance in different cognitive domains.MethodA sample of 197 cognitively healthy participants, aged 20‐80 years, were selected from two study cohorts: The Reference Abilities Neural Network and the Cognitive Reserve. Each participant underwent an evaluation of sleep function and assessment of neuropsychological performance on four different domains (memory, speed of processing, fluid reasoning, language), and global cognition. Available imputed genome‐wide genotyped data was used to derive a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) based on 69 genetic variants previously reported as associated with sleep duration. Multivariate linear models were used to test the associations between the PRS and sleep duration and cognitive performance. Age, sex, and education were used as covariates.ResultHigher PRS was linked to longer sleep duration and then, lower risk of poor performance in global cognition, fluid reasoning, speed of processing, and language, but was not associated with memory.ConclusionWe replicated the association between PRS and longer sleep duration. We additionally found a significant association between the PRS and cognitive function. Our results suggest that common genetic variants influence the link between sleep duration and cognitive health. Sleep duration may represent a potential causal pathway for cognition, and, thus, improving sleep habits might be as useful as a potential therapeutic target to improve cognitive performance. Funding: National Institute of Health (NIH)/ National Institute of Aging (NIA) [Grant numbers: R01 AG026158 and RF1 AG038465], and the Bodossakis foundation.