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Sport Sciences for Health

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01-12-2013 | Original Article

Exploring the positive involvement of primary motor cortex in observing motor sequences with music: a pilot study with tDCS

Authors: B. Colombo, C. Di Nuzzo, S. Missaglia, A. Mordente, A. Antonietti, F. Casolo, D. Tavian

Published in: Sport Sciences for Health | Issue 3/2013

Abstract

Introduction

The present study aims at exploring the effects of the depolarization of the primary motor cortex (M1), which is supposed to be associated to the mirror neuron system (MNS), via transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and of synchronous music on individuals’ responses to observed actions/non actions in a sample of individuals with low sports expertise.

The two main theories behind this study are linked to the role of the MNS in the human brain and the embodied cognition theory, which suggests an interdependent relationship between action, perception and cognition.

Method

Nineteen college students attending to BA in motor science watched five videos (one presenting a target motor action performed by a basketball player and the other four presenting human vs. non-human performed actions as a control), with or without background music and with or without anodal tDCS of the primary motor cortex.

Results and Conclusions

Data highlighted that observation promoted the activation of MNS, which led to a more deep and probably adequate processing of the stimulus. Music enhanced this effect, even when the MNS is affected by anodal stimulation, and should hence be considered as a valid support when both physical and psychological complications occur in rehabilitation.

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Title: Exploring the positive involvement of primary motor cortex in observing motor sequences with music: a pilot study with tDCS
Authors: B. Colombo
C. Di Nuzzo
S. Missaglia
A. Mordente
A. Antonietti
F. Casolo
D. Tavian
Publication date: 01-12-2013
Publisher: Springer Milan
Published in: Sport Sciences for Health / Issue 3/2013
Print ISSN: 1824-7490
Electronic ISSN: 1825-1234
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11332-013-0149-6

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Exploring the positive involvement of primary motor cortex in observing motor sequences with music: a pilot study with tDCS

Abstract

Introduction

Method

Results and Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Method

Results and Conclusions

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