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Psychophysiology pertains to the study of the reciprocal and "many to many" relations between the mind and the body. Accordingly, this special issue includes a collection of articles examining psychophysiological mechanisms implicated in the performance and well-being of athletes and exercisers. More specifically, this issue contains a literature review on the effects of heart rate variability biofeedback and athletic performance, as well as two empirical articles on the effects of neurofeedback on myriad psychological variables, such as attentional focus, anxiety, stress, and depression. There is also a paper on the effects of a self-talk intervention on free-throw performance in basketball and somatic reactions and a novel study on the effects of repeated transcranial direct current stimulation on decision making among soccer players. Collectively, the articles included in this issue advance our understanding of how psychophysiological theories and methodologies can inform the development of applied interventions in sport, exercise, and performance psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study first extensively evaluated the tolerability, safety, and blinding of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) in paediatric clinical populations, composed of 92 children and adolescents (54 females, age range: 8–17 years), involving 1032 sessions across neuropsychiatric (i.e., anorexia nervosa) and neurodevelopmental (i.e., attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, developmental dyscalculia) conditions. It compared adverse events (AEs) occurrence between active and sham transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) conditions (i.e., 528 active vs. 504 sham sessions) as well as tDCS and tRNS (i.e., 772 tDCS sessions vs. 260 tRNS sessions), while considering demographic and emotional-behavioural factors. Results showed tES safety with no "moderate" or "severe" AEs reported; about 77% of sessions were AE-free, supporting tES use in these populations. Itching was the most common symptom, and active sessions were found to be more likely to induce AEs compared to sham sessions. Notably, tRNS had a higher AE likelihood than tDCS, possibly due to experimental differences. In the current study, demographic and emotional-behavioural variables did not significantly affect AEs. Blinding procedures were moderately effective, with about half of participants correctly identifying their condition. As indicated in prior studies, tRNS seems to better preserve blinding integrity. In conclusion, this study provides comprehensive insights into tES tolerability and safety in paediatric clinical populations, emphasizing the need for further AEs exploration in tES and blinding procedure refinement in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Numerous studies have demonstrated the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on cognitive function in the older people. This study further explores the impact of tDCS and its dosage parameters on cognitive enhancement in older people with cognitive impairments. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published through November 2023 were retrieved from databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, EBSCO, and the Cochrane Library. Participants were older adults with cognitive impairments, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. AD was diagnosed based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), or the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke – Alzheimer' Disease and Related Disorders Association (NINCDS-ADRDA) criteria. Dementia was diagnosed using the DSM-V or NINCDS-ADRDA criteria, while MCI was diagnosed using the DSM-V, the Petersen criteria, or assessments such as Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR). Standardized mean difference (SMD) values were analyzed to assess the effects. Results: A total of 19 RCTs were included. tDCS significantly improved the Mini-Mental State Examination score both immediately post-intervention (SMD = 0.51, p = 0.005) and at follow-up (SMD = 2.29, p = 0.0003). Significant effects were observed when tDCS was used alone (SMD = 0.39, p = 0.04), at current densities ≤ 0.06 mA/cm2 (SMD = 0.25, p = 0.04), session durations exceeding 20 min (SMD = 0.89, p = 0.01), up to 15 sessions (SMD = 0.28, p = 0.009), and when an active electrode was placed over the temporal area (SMD = 0.33, p = 0.02). People with AD showed greater improvements compared to those with MCI or dementia (SMD = 0.91, p = 0.02). However, tDCS did not significantly improve memory or executive function. Conclusion: tDCS demonstrated efficacy in enhancing global cognition in older people with cognitive impairments, providing insight into optimal parameters for clinical application. However, no improvement were observed in memory or executive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Priming the neural circuity likely targeted by pain neuroscience education (PNE), using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may enhance the efficacy of PNE. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of active tDCS + PNE to sham tDCS + PNE on measures of pain, pain behaviors, and cognitive function in participants with chronic low back pain (CLBP) and high pain catastrophizing. Methods 20 participants were recruited and randomly allocated into the active tDCS + PNE (n  =   10) or sham tDCS + PNE (n  =   10) groups. All participants received five sessions of their assigned interventions over a 2-week period. The active tDCS + PNE group received 20 min of 2 mA, anodal current applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Results Within groups, both interventions demonstrated significant improvement in NPRS, PCS, and TSK. The active tDCS + PNE group also demonstrated significant improvement in the SCWT, CTMT2—Inhibitory, and CTMT2—Set Shifting. Between groups, the active tDCS + PNE group showed significantly greater improvement on the PCS, SCWT, and CTMT2—Inhibitory. Conclusions The results of this pilot study suggest that active tDCS + PNE appeared to provide greater improvement than sham tDCS + PNE on levels of pain catastrophizing and attentional interference in participants with CLBP and high pain catastrophizing, consistent with both interventions targeting brain regions involved in those processes. Considering the differences between groups, tDCS appears to provide a priming effect on PNE. Perspective This article presents evidence of a priming effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on pain neuroscience education in participants with chronic low back pain and high pain catastrophizing. The findings support that the combination of interventions improves pain behavior and cognitive function greater than pain neuroscience education alone. Clinical trial registry NCT05571215, The Effect of Combining Pain Neuroscience Education and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Pain Catastrophizing, Kinesiophobia, and Pain in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain, https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05571215. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TDCS is one of the most widely used non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, which changes the excitability of local cortical tissue by applying weak continuous direct current to the scalp, effectively improves the attention and concentration of ADHD children, and improves the impulse disorder of patients, but related research is still in its infancy. Based on a review of a large number of existing literatures and an analysis of the pathogenesis and principle of ADHD, this paper summarized the research on tDCS in the treatment of ADHD in recent years from the aspects of treatment mechanism, safety and stimulation parameters, and simply compared the application of tDCS with other non-traumatic neuromodulation techniques in the treatment of ADHD. The future development direction of this technology is further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post-COVID-19 neurological sequelae may have a long-term negative impact on cognitive functions and quality of life in recovered patients. Cognitive stimulation based on computer tasks combined with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising approach to address cognitive impairments and consequently improve the quality of life in these individuals. However, research literature on the effectiveness of this combined method has gaps that require further investigation. Aims: This study aimed to compare the impact of cognitive stimulation based on computer tasks with and without transcranial direct current stimulation on the health-related quality of life in recovered COVID-19 patients. Methods: This research was conducted in the form of a semi-experimental pre-test-post-test design with a control group and a one-month follow-up. The sample size of the study consisted of 45 patients recovered from covid-19 in Mashhad city, who were selected by available sampling method and randomly divided into 3 groups of 15 including computerized cognitive stimulation group, computerized cognitive stimulation combined with single-site anodal electrical stimulation (tDCS) and computerized cognitive stimulation with artificial electrical stimulation (Sham). Participants completed the Weir and Sherburne (1992) SF-36 Health-Based Quality of Life Short Form before and after the intervention. Analysis of variance with repeated measurements and SPSS 24 software were used for data analysis. Results: Both methods of cognitive stimulation based on computer tasks alone and in combination with (tDCS) increased the average scores of the quality of life and its subscales in those who recovered from the acute stage of covid-19 (p=0.05)and this increase was stable in the one-month follow-up phase. In addition, there was no significant difference between the effectiveness of the two treatments in improving the quality of life. Conclusion:Computerized cognitive stimulation alone and together with transcranial brain stimulation can lead to improvement of health-related quality of life in those who have recovered from covid-19 disease. This enables us to enhance and update current rehabilitation programs to meet patient needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent research has highlighted the role of fronto-parietal brain networks and cognitive control in mood disorders. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and computer-based cognitive training are used in post-stroke rehabilitation. This study examined the combined effects ofof computer-based inhibitory control training (ICCT) and anodal tDCS on post-stroke depression and anxiety. Methods: Thirty-five participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: active tDCS treatment (A), sham tDCS treatment with ICCT (T), or active tDCS with ICCT (AT), for a duration of ten days. Primary outcome measures included the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S/T). Statistical analysis was performed using a Mixed-model Analysis of Variance, with supplementary Bayesian analysis. Results: The AT group showed a significant improvement in BDI scores (p <.001), whereas no significant effects were observed on the HAM-D, STAI-T, or STAI-S scales. Conclusions: The combination of tDCS and ICCT reduced depressive symptoms as measured by the BDI; while no significant effects were found with either treatment alone. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind the synergistic effects in the treatment of post-stroke mood disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by chronic motor and phonic tics, with a higher prevalence among boys. This condition can significantly impact patients' learning and daily life. Due to the limited efficacy and potential side effects of pharmacological treatments for TS, there is a critical need to develop novel, tailored therapeutic strategies. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have been proposed as potential treatments for TS, and have shown promising results. Here, we report a case of refractory TS, in which low-frequency rTMS was delivered to the left supplementary motor area (SMA), combined with tDCS targeting the primary motor cortex (M1) and the cerebellum, with the cathode positioned over the right M1 and the anode over the left cerebellum. This is the first reported case using a multi-target combination therapy for TS. This treatment yielded favorable outcomes and maintained good efficacy during a three-month follow-up period. Although larger-scale trials are needed, our findings pave the way for the application of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques in TS, offering a transformative path to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for those with TS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent incurable nontraumatic neurological disability in young individuals. It causes numerous symptoms, including tingling, fatigue, muscle spasms, cognitive deficits, and neuropsychiatric disorders. This disease significantly worsens quality of life (QoL), and this dimension of general functioning provides valuable information about the effectiveness of treatment and well-being. There are psychological interventions that can improve QoL, but their number is limited. Therefore, searching for new methods that are as effective and safe as possible is ongoing. Methods: This review examines the potential effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in improving the quality of life in patients with MS. Searches were conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Research Gate, and Cochrane databases. Results: The search yielded seven studies in which QoL was a primary or secondary outcome. Stimulation protocols displayed heterogeneity, especially concerning the choice of the stimulation site. Four studies demonstrated the effectiveness of tDCS in improving QoL, all of which (two) used anodal stimulation of the left DLPFC. Stimulation of the motor cortex has produced mixed results. The potential mechanisms of action of tDCS in improving QoL in MS are explained. These include improved synaptic plasticity, increased cerebral blood flow, salience network engagement through tDCS, and reduction of beta-amyloid deposition. The limitations are also detailed, and recommendations for future research are made. Conclusions: While the evidence is limited, tDCS has shown potential to improve QoL in MS patients in some studies. Prefrontal stimulation appears promising, and further research is recommended to explore this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess the feasibility and potential efficacy of a non-motor intervention utilizing motor imagery (MI) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to enhance motor function. The research involved a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial with three groups: MIActive, MISham, and Control. Participants engaged in a cognitively demanding obstacle course, with time and prefrontal activation (ΔO2Hb and ΔHHb) measured across three-time points (Baseline, Post-test, 1-week follow-up). Following a pretest, active or sham tDCS was administered during an MI session, while the Control group did not receive this intervention. The MIActive group showed significant improvements in time-to-completion immediately after the intervention and one week later. Additionally, ΔO2Hb levels were lower in the MIActive group than in the other groups. These findings suggest that the combination of MI and tDCS could lead to motor improvements. The study outcomes support the feasibility and initial effectiveness of using MI and tDCS as a non-motor intervention to enhance motor outcomes in short and medium terms. Further research is recommended to explore the impact of this intervention in individuals with existing motor impairments. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence on the potential of non-motor interventions to induce neuroplastic changes that improve motor function. Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT06414213 16/05/2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of 8-week transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) combined with resistance training (RT) on pull-up performance in male college students. Twenty-five male college students were randomly assigned to either RT combined with anodal tDCS stimulation (RT + tDCS) or RT alone (RT). Participants of both groups engaged in lat pull-down training programs for 8 weeks, with the RT + tDCS group receiving 20 min tDCS before each RT session. Pre- and post-intervention tests included pull-up endurance (number of repetitions), flexed arm circumference (FAC), and lat pull-down maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) peak force. During the pull-up endurance test, surface electromyography (sEMG) was recorded for the bicep brachii (BB), tricep brachii (TB), brachioradialis (BR), anterior deltoid (AD), middle deltoid (MD), posterior deltoid (PD), pectoralis major (PM), and latissimus dorsi (LD) muscles. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in pull-up endurance and lat pull-down MVIC peak force after training, but no significant difference between the two groups was observed in the post-training test. Additionally, muscle activation of BR, PD, and PM decreased significantly in both groups, while the RT + tDCS group also demonstrated a significant reduction in TB coactivation after training. These findings suggest that eight weeks of tDCS combined with lat pull-down training and lat pull-down training alone can both significantly improve pull-up performance, which may be attributed to enhanced muscle contraction capacity. Although no significant training gains were found between the two training groups, the RT + tDCS group showed a significant decrease in TB coactivation and the enhancement of elbow flexion muscle contraction efficiency after training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Treadmill training (TT) is a gait training technique that has commonly been used in neurorehabilitation, and has positive effects on gait, mobility, and related outcomes in stroke survivors. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive approach for modulating brain cortex excitability. Aim: To evaluate the available scientific evidence on the effects of TT combined with tDCS on mobility, motor performance, balance function, and brain-related outcomes in stroke survivors. Methods: Five databases namely the Cochrane library, PEDro, Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE, were searched for relevant studies from inception to March, 2024. Only randomized controlled trials were included, and their methodological quality and risk of bias (ROB) were evaluated using the PEDro scale and Cochrane ROB assessment tool respectively. Qualitative and quantitative syntheses (using fixed effects meta-analysis) were employed to analyze the data. Results: The results revealed that TT combined with active tDCS had significant beneficial effects on some mobility parameters, some gait spatiotemporal parameters, some gait kinematic parameters, gait endurance, gait ability, and corticomotor excitability in stroke survivors, but no significant difference on gait speed (P > 0.05), functional mobility (P > 0.05), motor performance (P > 0.05), or some balance functions (P > 0.05), compared with the control conditions. Conclusions: TT combined with active tDCS significantly improves some gait/mobility outcomes and corticomotor excitability in stroke survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inconsistent effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on corticospinal excitability (CSE) and exercise performance are commonly reported. Cathodal preconditioning, involving cathodal tDCS delivered before anodal tDCS over the same region, may enhance changes in CSE and exercise beyond that resulting from anodal tDCS alone. This study aimed to investigate whether the effects of anodal tDCS on CSE and isometric grip strength can be enhanced by cathodal preconditioning. Thirty-five healthy subjects aged 19-37 years completed a familiarization session followed by 4 stimulation conditions presented in a randomized cross-over design across 4 separate sessions. tDCS doses were applied at 2 mA over the primary motor cortex for 10 minutes. Corticospinal excitability was assessed using 120% of resting motor threshold and an input/output curve of motor evoked potentials of the first dorsal interosseous. Grip strength was evaluated as time to exhaustion (TTE) in a sustained isometric contraction. Relative to conventional sham stimulation, TTE was significantly increased by 15% after conventional anodal tDCS. Corticospinal excitability increased in response to tDCS, but this effect did not differ across conditions. Cathodal preconditioning before anodal stimulation did not increase CSE or grip strength beyond that seen in the other stimulation conditions. Our findings did not reveal any significant impact of stimulation type on CSE. Notably, anodal tDCS led to a significant improvement in grip strength endurance. However, cathodal preconditioning did not seem to increase the effect of subsequent anodal stimulation on CSE nor grip strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative delirium (POD) is the most common neurological adverse event among elderly patients undergoing surgery. POD is associated with an increased risk for postoperative complications, long-term cognitive decline, an increase in morbidity and mortality as well as extended hospital stays. Delirium prevention and treatment options are currently limited. This study will evaluate the effect of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) on the incidence of POD. Methods: We will perform a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial using single-session postoperative application of tES in the recovery room in 225 patients (> 65 years) undergoing elective major surgery. Patients will be randomly allocated (ratio 1:1:1) to one of three study groups: (1) alpha-tACS over posterior parietal cortex [2 mA, 20 min], (2) anodal tDCS over left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [2 mA, 20 min], (3) sham [2 mA, 30 s]. Delirium will be screened twice daily with the 3-min diagnostic interview Confusion Assessment Method (3D-CAM) in the 5 days following surgery. The primary outcome is the incidence of POD defined as at least one positive screening during the five first postoperative days compared between tACS and sham groups. Secondary outcomes include delirium severity, duration, phenotype, postoperative pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting, electroencephalographic (EEG) markers, and fluid biomarkers. Discussion: If effective, tES is a novel, easily applicable, non-invasive method to prevent the occurrence of POD. The comprehensive neurophysiological and biofluid assessments for markers of (neuro-)inflammation and neurodegeneration will shed light on the pathomechanisms behind POD and further elucidate the (after-)effects of tES. The potential implications for the postoperative recovery comprise enhanced patient safety, neurocognitive outcome, perioperative manageability but also reduced healthcare costs. Trial registration: German Clinical Trial Registry DRKS00033703. Registered on February 23, 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have debilitating effects on quality of life, and conventional treatments show mixed results. Neuromodulation is emerging as a promising approach for treating PTSD. This review examines current neuromodulatory treatments for PTSD, and highlights methodologies, clinical outcomes, and gaps in the literature to help guide future research. Areas covered: A PubMed search identified 252 studies on PTSD and neuromodulation, of which 61 were selected for full review. These included 37 studies on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), 10 on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS),4 on deep brain stimulation (DBS) and 2 on focused ultrasound (FUS). Expert opinion: The present review supports the potential of neuromodulation to reduce PTSD symptoms. rTMS and tDCS targeting the dlPFC appear effective through modulating neural circuits involved in fear processing and conditioning, however, literature varies regarding efficacy of stimulation frequencies and hemispheric targets. DBS targeting the amygdala or subcallosal cingulate white matter tracts improves treatment of refractory PTSD with sustained benefits, while FUS may improve symptoms through targeted modulation of brain structures such as the amygdala, though this technique is in the early stages of exploration. Future research should refine established neuromodulatory approaches and address gaps in emerging modalities to enhance treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been reported to modulate gamma-aminobutyric acid levels and cerebral energy consumption in the brain. This study aims to investigate long-term GABA and cerebral energy modulation following anodal tDCS over the primary motor cortex. Method: To assess GABA and energy level changes, proton and phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were acquired before and after anodal or sham tDCS. In anodal stimulation, a 1 mA current was applied for 20 min, and the duration of ramping the current up/down at the start and end of the intervention was 10 s. In the sham-stimulation condition, the current was first ramped up over a period of 10 s, then immediately ramped down, and the condition was maintained for the next 20 min. Results: The GABA concentration increased significantly following anodal stimulation in the first and second post-stimulation measurements. Likewise, both ATP/Pi and PCr/Pi ratios increased after anodal stimulation in the first and second post-stimulation measurements. Conclusion: The approach employed in this study shows the feasibility of measuring long-term modulation of GABA and high-energy phosphates following anodal tDCS targeting the left M1, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms of neuroplasticity and energy metabolism, which may have implications for applications of this intervention in clinical populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implicit motor sequence learning (IMSL) is a cognitive function that allows us to execute multiple movements in a specific sequential order and plays a crucial role in our daily functional activities. Although the role of the basal ganglia network in IMSL is well-established, the exact involvement of the cerebellar network is less clear. Aim: Here, we aimed to address this issue by investigating the effects of cerebellar transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) on IMSL. Methods: In this sham-controlled, crossover study in 45 healthy young adults, we used mixed-effects models to analyze sequence-specific (primary outcome) and general learning effects (secondary outcome) in the acquisition (during tDCS), short- (five minutes post-tDCS) and long-term consolidation (one week post-tDCS) phases of IMSL, as measured by the serial reaction time (SRT) task. Results: Analyses based on response times (RTs) revealed that anodal tDCS over the cerebellum significantly increased sequence-specific learning during acquisition, compared to sham (anodal: M = 38.24 ms, sham: M = 26.78 ms, p = 0.032); did not affect general learning; and significantly slowed overall RTs (anodal: M = 362.03 ms, sham: M = 356.37 ms, p = 0.049). Accuracy-based analyses revealed that anodal tDCS reduced the probability of correct responses occurring in random trials versus sequential trials by 1.17%, p = 0.009, whereas sham tDCS had no effect, p = 0.999. Conclusion: Our finding of enhanced sequence-specific learning, but not general learning, suggests that the cerebellar network not only plays a role in error correction processes, but also serves a sequence-specific function within the integrated motor learning network that connects the basal ganglia and cerebellum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression and anxiety are a significant burden on patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Their pathophysiology is complex and yet to be fully understood. There is an urgent need for non-invasive treatments that directly target the brain and help patients with MS. One such possible treatment is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a popular and effective non-invasive brain stimulation technique. Methods: This mechanistic review explores the efficacy of tDCS in treating depression and anxiety in MS while focusing on the underlying mechanisms of action. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial, as neuropsychiatric symptoms in MS arise from complex neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes. This review offers insights that may direct more focused and efficient therapeutic approaches by investigating the ways in which tDCS affects inflammation, brain plasticity, and neural connections. Searches were conducted using the PubMed/Medline, ResearchGate, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases. Results: The literature search yielded 11 studies to be included in this review, with a total of 175 patients participating in the included studies. In most studies, tDCS did not significantly reduce depression or anxiety scores as the studied patients did not have elevated scores indicating depression and anxiety. In the few studies where the patients had scores indicating mild/moderate dysfunction, tDCS was more effective. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed as moderate. Despite the null or near-null results, tDCS may still prove to be an effective treatment option for depression and anxiety in MS, because tDCS produces a neurobiological effect on the brain and nervous system. To facilitate further work, several possible mechanisms of action of tDCS have been reported, such as the modulation of the frontal–midline theta, reductions in neuroinflammation, the modulation of the HPA axis, and cerebral blood flow regulation. Conclusions: Although tDCS did not overall demonstrate positive effects in reducing depression and anxiety in the studied MS patients, the role of tDCS in this area should not be underestimated. Evidence from other studies indicates the effectiveness of tDCS in reducing depression and anxiety, but the studies included in this review did not include patients with sufficient depression or anxiety. Future studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of tDCS in neuropsychiatric dysfunctions in MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with fibromyalgia (FM) exhibit alterations in brain electrical activity and autonomic modulation compared to healthy individuals. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) effects on brain electrocortical activity and heart rate variability (HRV), specifically targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in both healthy controls (HC) and FM groups, to identify potential differences in the responses between these groups, and to compare the effectiveness of two distinct tDCS intensities (1 mA and 2 mA) against a sham condition. Methods: Electroencephalography and electrocardiogram signals were recorded pre- and post-tDCS intervention. All participants underwent the three conditions (sham, 1 mA, and 2 mA) over three separate weeks, randomized in order. Results: No statistically significant baseline differences were found in the investigated HRV variables. In the FM group, 1 mA tDCS induced significant increases in LF, LF/HF, mean HR, SDNN, RMSSD, total power, SD1, SD2, and SampEn, and a decrease in HF, suggesting a shift toward sympathetic dominance. Additionally, 2 mA significantly increased SampEn compared to sham and 1 mA. In the HC group, sham increased DFA1 compared to 1 mA, and 2 mA induced smaller changes in SampEn relative to sham and 1 mA. No significant differences were found between FM and HC groups for any tDCS intensity. Conclusions: The effects of dlPFC-tDCS on HRV are intensity- and group-dependent, with the FM group exhibiting more pronounced changes at 1 mA and 2 mA. These findings emphasize the need for individualized stimulation protocols, given the variability in responses across groups and intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving successful blinding is a persistent challenge for clinical trials involving transcranial direct current stimulation. Studies involving populations with increased sensory sensitivity, such as children, could be at risk for increased bias from inadequate blinding due to unique sensation of stimulation relative to adults. The objectives of this study were 1) To examine differences in transcranial stimulation blinding between children and young adults and its relationship to sensory sensitivity. 2) To test the efficacy of an ActiSham protocol for participant blinding, compared to a traditional sham protocol. Typically developing right‐handed children (N = 12, 5–14 yr) and young adults (N = 15, 15–25 yr) completed a single‐session study to test transcranial stimulation blinding after three conditions counterbalanced across participants: Active, Sham and ActiSham. Stimulation was paired with a motor learning task to simulate a combinatory neurorehabilitation intervention. After each condition, participants reported if they received real or fake stimulation and their response confidence. To quantify sensory sensitivity, participants completed the Sensory Profile (second edition). Compared to a chance level, 1) children and young adults correctly identified Active stimulation, 2) children incorrectly identified Sham and ActiSham stimulation and 3) young adults identified Sham and ActiSham stimulation at chance‐level. Blinding accuracy was not related to sensory sensitivity. Children report stimulation as real stimulation with higher confidence for almost all conditions, indicating unsuccessful blinding compared to young adults. Future studies should consider alternative sham protocols or methods to improve blinding in child participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a promising tool for cognitive enhancement, especially within simulated virtual environments that provide realistic yet controlled methods for studying human behavior. This mini review synthesizes current research on the application of tDCS to improve performance in interactive driving and flight simulators. The existing literature indicates that tDCS can enhance acute performance for specific tasks, such as maintaining a safe distance from another car or executing a successful plane landing. However, the effects of tDCS may be context-dependent, indicating a need for a broader range of simulated scenarios. Various factors, including participant expertise, task difficulty, and the targeted brain region, can also influence tDCS outcomes. To further strengthen the rigor of this research area, it is essential to address and minimize different forms of research bias to achieve true generalizability. This comprehensive analysis aims to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application of neurotechnology to study the relationship between the brain and behavior, ultimately providing insights into the effectiveness of tDCS in transportation settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Notwithstanding the documented short- and long-term weight loss and remission of physical and mental diseases following bariatric surgery, a significant proportion of patients fail to respond (fully) to treatment in terms of physical and mental health improvement. Mounting evidence links food-specific impulsivity, prefrontal cortex (PFC) hypoactivity and disrupted hormone secretion in bariatric surgery candidates to poorer post-surgical health outcomes. Neuromodulatory treatments like transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) uniquely target these neurobehavioral impairments. We present a pilot study protocol offering tDCS combined with an inhibitory control training and a structured psychosocial intervention to patients after bariatric surgery. Methods: A total of N = 20 patients are randomized to 6 sessions of verum or sham tDCS over the PFC, combined with an individualized food-specific inhibitory control training and a structured psychosocial intervention within 18 months after bariatric surgery (t0). Beyond acceptability, feasibility and satisfaction of the intervention, effects of verum versus sham tDCS on food-specific impulsivity and on secondary outcomes quality of life, general impulsivity and psychopathology, food-related cravings, eating disorder psychopathology, weight trajectory and endocrine markers are assessed 4 weeks (t1) and 3 months after the intervention (t2). Discussion: Results will provide information on the potential of combining tDCS with an inhibitory control training and a structured psychosocial intervention to enhance physical and mental outcomes after bariatric surgery. The present study may guide the development of future research with regard to tDCS as a brain-based intervention and of future post-surgical clinical programs, paving the way for randomized-controlled trials in larger samples. Trial registration: The trial was prospectively registered on July 8, 2024, under the registration number DRKS00034620 in the German Clinical Trials Register (https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00034620). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few investigations examined the relationship between microstructural white matter integrity and subacute post-stroke linguistic performance or the relationship between microstructural integrity and the recovery of language function. We examined two key questions: (1) How does subacute language performance, measured in single words and discourse, relate to the microstructural integrity of key white matter regions of interest in the language network? and (2) Does the integrity of these regions before treatment predict the improvement or resolution of linguistic symptoms immediately and chronically following treatment? Methods: 58 participants within the first three months of stroke were enrolled in a randomized, single-center, double-blind, sham-controlled, study of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation combined with a computer-delivered speech and language naming therapy for subacute aphasia and were asked to complete magnetic resonance imaging at enrollment. Microstructural integrity was evaluated using diffusion tensor imaging processed with atlas-based segmentation. Regression and correlation analyses were conducted. Results: A subset of 22 participants received diffusion tensor imaging. Picture naming accuracy significantly correlated with lower mean diffusivity (higher microstructural integrity) in the left posterior inferior temporal gyrus. Recovery of naming performance was predicted by days since stroke and baseline microstructural integrity of the left posterior middle temporal gyrus, arcuate fasciculus, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. Recovery of discourse efficiency was significantly predicted by the same model. Conclusions: This study demonstrates an association between picture naming and discourse and microstructural integrity of the key regions in the language network for patients with subacute post-stroke aphasia. Baseline microstructural integrity significantly predicts language recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how the combination of robot-mediated haptic interaction and cerebellar neuromodulation can improve task performance and promote motor skill development in healthy individuals using a robotic exoskeleton worn on the index finger. The authors propose a leader-follower type of mirror game where participants can follow a leader in a two-dimensional virtual reality environment while the exoskeleton tracks the index finger motion using an admittance filter. The game requires two primary learning phases: the initial phase focuses on mastering the pinching interface, while the second phase centers on predicting the leader's movements. Cerebral transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with anodal polarity is applied to the subjects during the game. It is shown that the subjects' performance improves as they play the game. The combination of tDCS with finger exoskeleton significantly enhances task performance. Our research indicates that modulation of the cerebellum during the mirror game improves the motor skills of healthy individuals. The results also indicate potential uses for motor neurorehabilitation in hemiplegia patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non‐invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), has emerged as a promising alternative in the precise treatment of clinical symptoms, such as the cognitive impairment of bipolar disorder (BD). Optimizing the neurocognitive effects by combining tDCS and rTMS to strengthen the clinical outcome is a challenging research issue. Objective: In this randomized, controlled trial, we first combined tDCS and neuronavigated rTMS targeting the V1 region to explore the efficacy on neurocognitive function in BD patients with depressive episodes. Methods: Eligible individuals (n = 105) were assigned into three groups, Group A (active tDCS‐active rTMS), Group B (sham tDCS‐active rTMS), and Group C (active tDCS‐sham rTMS). All participants received 3‐week treatment in which every participant received 15 sessions of stimulation through the study, 5 sessions every week, with tDCS treatment followed by neuronavigated rTMS every session. We evaluated the cognitive, emotional, and safety outcomes at week‐0 (w0, baseline), week‐3 (w3, immediately post‐treatment), and week‐8 (w8, follow‐up period). The THINC‐integrated tool (THINC‐it), 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Young Mania Rating Scale were applied for evaluating the cognitive function and emotional state, respectively. Data were analyzed by repeated measure ANOVA and paired t‐test. Results: Eventually, 32 patients in Group A, 27 in Group B, and 23 in Group C completed the entire treatment. Compared to Groups B and C, Group A showed greater improvement in Symbol Check items (Time and Accuracy) at W3 and Symbol Check Accuracy at W8 (p < 0.01). The W0‐W3 analysis indicated a significant improvement in depressive symptoms in both Group A and Group B (p < 0.01). Additionally, neuroimaging data revealed increased activity in the calcarine sulcus in Group A, suggesting potential neuroplastic changes in the visual cortex following the electromagnetic stimulation. Conclusions: These findings provide preliminary evidence that the combination of navigated rTMS with tDCS targeting V1 region may serve as a potential treatment strategy for improving cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in BD patients. Trial Registration: Clinical Trial Registry number: NCT05596461 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]