Biology subjects

Ochi, G.

Publications and source records attributed to Ochi, G..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2025

Oxytocin may reduce the accumulation and effects of chronic stress: An exploratory study using hair samples

ObjectiveThis study examined the relationship between hair cortisol concentration (HCC) and hair oxytocin concentration (HOC) and the effects of both hormones on training load and mental health indicators. MethodsHair samples were collected from 22 female university soccer players, and psychological assessments were conducted in February and March 2024. Cortisol and oxytocin levels were extracted and measured from the hair, and their associations with mood states [measured using the Profile of Mood States 2nd Edition (POMS2)], psychological distress [measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale-6 (K6)], and self-reported training loads were analyzed. ResultsTraining load and POMS fatigue levels increased significantly from February to March (t = -4.91, P < 0.001, d = 1.52; t = -4.74, P < 0.001, d = 1.01, respectively), but no significant changes were observed in HCC and HOC. HOC significantly moderated the relationship between training load and HCC, with a strong positive correlation between training load and HCC observed in players with "moderate" HOC levels. Additionally, at the second measurement point, a significant negative correlation was observed between HCC and K6 scores, with HOC significantly moderating this relationship. A significant negative correlation was confirmed between changes in POMS vigor and HCC. ConclusionCombined measurement of HCC and HOC is useful in assessing chronic stress in female soccer players. HOC plays an important role in moderating the relationship between HCC and training load, and mental health indicators. An approach that considers the interactions between these hormones may help prevent overtraining and maintain optimal conditioning.

physiology↗

bioRxiv2024

Exercising with virtual reality is potentially better for the working memory and positive mood than cycling alone

Although virtual reality (VR) exercise has attracted attention as a factor in exercise habituation due to its mood-enhancing effects, its impact on brain function remains unclear. This study, involving 23 healthy university students, used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore how VR exercise affects working memory, a key executive function, and its underlying neural mechanisms. Our findings indicate that a 10-min VR exercise session improved mood (arousal and vitality level) and working memory task performance (3-back task) more effectively than exercise or rest alone. Furthermore, the results confirmed that increased vitality from exercise and VR exercise interventions was associated with improved 3-back task performance. However, specific brain regions contributing to this enhancement remain unidentified. These results highlight VR exercise as the optimal exercise program for enhancing working memory function by increasing vitality level. These insights underscore VRs potential as a novel exercise modality with benefits extending beyond exercise adherence to potentially preventing dementia and depression.

neuroscience↗

bioRxiv2024

Effects of foam rolling intervention on lactate clearance and cognitive function after high-intensity exercise with incremental load

PurposeThe effects foam rolling (FR) intervention on lactate clearance and the impaired executive function associated with fatigue after high-intensity exercise remain unclear. This study examined whether FR is an effective tool for fatigue recovery. MethodsEighteen healthy adults (10 males, 8 females; 21.8{+/-}1.7 years) without consistent exercise habits participated. The participants performed high-intensity exercises using an ergometer with a progressive load. Post-exercise FR intervention was compared with the control condition. Measurements included lactate, vigor/fatigue by the Profile of Mood States 2nd edition, cognitive function (cognitive task performance), and leg and body rating of perceived exertion (RPE) pre-and post-exercise, and post-intervention (5 min post-exercise). ResultsThe blood lactate concentration post-FR intervention (-7.3{+/-}3.0 mmol/L) was significantly reduced. Increased lactate clearance by FR correlated with faster recovery of executive function for those with greater lactate clearance, although cognitive fatigue was not observed after high-intensity exercise (P = .086, r = 0.41). Lactate clearance was not significantly correlated with RPE in the FR condition, whereas RPE decreased with increased lactate clearance for those with greater lactate clearance in the control condition (leg; r = 0.778, body; r = 0.669). ConclusionsThese results indicated FR intervention may be an effective recovery tool for exhausting exercises.

physiology↗