Rhythms of light: Understanding the role of circadian timing in alertness and cognitive performance.

Q2 Medicine

Handbook of clinical neurology Pub Date : 2025-01-01 DOI:10.1016/B978-0-323-90918-1.00016-2

Renske Lok

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

The nonimage-forming effects of light are pivotal in regulating cognitive functions, including alertness, sustained attention, and higher-order cognitive processes. These cognitive domains are deeply influenced by the sleep-wake cycle, which are governed by two key processes: the homeostatic process, which builds sleep pressure during wakefulness, and the circadian process, which aligns with environmental light cues to regulate wakefulness and sleep. When these processes fall out of sync-a condition known as circadian misalignment-alertness, sustained attention, and cognitive performance can suffer significantly. This misalignment is often observed in shift workers, individuals experiencing jet lag, and those with circadian rhythm sleep disorders. However, strategic light exposure can help mitigate these cognitive impairments by realigning circadian rhythms, enhancing wakefulness during desired periods, and facilitating sleep when needed. This chapter examines the complex interplay between light, circadian rhythms, the sleep-wake cycle, and cognitive functioning, offering a comprehensive exploration of how these factors shape cognitive performance throughout the day and under conditions of circadian misalignment. It also discusses the broader implications of these interactions for cognitive health and performance.

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来源期刊

Handbook of clinical neurology Medicine-Neurology (clinical)

CiteScore

4.10

自引率

0.00%

发文量

302

期刊介绍： The Handbook of Clinical Neurology (HCN) was originally conceived and edited by Pierre Vinken and George Bruyn as a prestigious, multivolume reference work that would cover all the disorders encountered by clinicians and researchers engaged in neurology and allied fields. The first series of the Handbook (Volumes 1-44) was published between 1968 and 1982 and was followed by a second series (Volumes 45-78), guided by the same editors, which concluded in 2002. By that time, the Handbook had come to represent one of the largest scientific works ever published. In 2002, Professors Michael J. Aminoff, François Boller, and Dick F. Swaab took on the responsibility of supervising the third (current) series, the first volumes of which published in 2003. They have designed this series to encompass both clinical neurology and also the basic and clinical neurosciences that are its underpinning. Given the enormity and complexity of the accumulating literature, it is almost impossible to keep abreast of developments in the field, thus providing the raison d''être for the series. The series will thus appeal to clinicians and investigators alike, providing to each an added dimension. Now, more than 140 volumes after it began, the Handbook of Clinical Neurology series has an unparalleled reputation for providing the latest information on fundamental research on the operation of the nervous system in health and disease, comprehensive clinical information on neurological and related disorders, and up-to-date treatment protocols.