Beats of the Brain: Mapping Neural Activation During Candombe Engagement

_______________________________________________ This research delves into the complex connection between traditional music in Uruguay, specifically candombe, and its cognitive advantages. Relying on real-life studies, we explore the impact of involvement with candombe music on diverse cognitive abilities such as cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation, and social cognition. Our results show that playing music, especially drumming, activates cer- tain brain pathways related to cognitive function and emotional regulation. The sense of community and distinct rhythmic patterns found in candombe not only boost individual cognitive skills but also foster social bonding, ultimately leading to better mental well-being and strength. This study highlights how cultural her- itage influences cognitive functions, showing that candombe is crucial for mental well-being in addition to being a significant cultural symbol. In summary, our research supports incorporating traditional Uruguayan music in educational and therapeutic environments, offering a new framework for cognitive and emotional growth. This research focuses on how Uruguay's diverse musical .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 2 traditions can be used to enhance cognitive abilities and mental health, offering possibilities for application in different cultural settings globally.

Candombe, Traditional Music, Cognitive Flexibility, Emotional Regu- lation, Social Cognition, Neuroscience, Uruguay, Cultural Heritage, Mental Well- Being, Cognitive Development, Neuroplasticity, Ethnomusicology, Therapeutic Applications 1. Introduction _______________________________________________ Our daily lives are greatly impacted by music, which also shapes social interactions and our emotions. Candombe in particular is a well-known example of traditional Uruguayan music, noted for its dynamic rhythms and rich cultural legacy that en- courage celebration and community involvement. Candombe embodies the spirit of joy and resilience and is more than just an artistic expression; it is an essential link to the history and identity of the Afro-Uruguayan community. The purpose of this study is to look into the cognitive advantages of actively play- ing candombe music.We aim to explore candombe's potential to improve mental health by looking at its impact on cognitive skills like emotional regulation, social cognition, and cognitive flexibility. Gaining knowledge about the relationship be- tween traditional music and cognitive development could be extremely beneficial for incorporating cultural music into therapeutic and educational settings. 2. Literature Review _______________________________________________ Numerous studies have examined the connection between music and cognitive function, and the results point to the possibility that listening to music can improve .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 3 memory, attention, and executive functions, among other areas of the brain. Studies show that rhythmic activities, such as playing an instrument, can alter the structure and function of the brain, enhancing neuroplasticity and enhancing cognitive per- formance (Wan & Schlaug, 2010). These results are especially pertinent to the study of traditional music genres like candombe, which are integral to Uruguayan culture. With its Afro-Uruguayan origins, candombe is a potent emblem of culture and so- cial cohesiveness as well as a means of fostering community. The complicated drumming patterns in the tune demand exact coordination and synchronization of rhythms. Research on drumming and rhythm has revealed that these activities can improve social bonding, auditory discrimination, and motor coordination (Bengts- son et al., 2009). These effects are heightened in the candombe setting because of the music's communal quality, which unites people in a shared cultural experience. Furthermore, a number of research have focused on the emotional impact of music, especially in traditional contexts. Studies on the effects of music on mood, stress levels, and emotional resilience have been reported (Koelsch, 2010). With its potent rhythms and rich cultural importance, candombe probably helps those who listen to or play it regulate their emotions. As a result, candombe offers both social and emo- tional benefits, with the music acting as a vehicle for both individual expression and group cohesion. Research on music therapy also supports the cognitive benefits of listening to tradi- tional music, such as candombe. Research has demonstrated that engaging in rhythmic activities might enhance cognitive flexibility, an essential executive func- tion that enables people to think creatively and adjust to changing circumstances (Thaut et al., 2009). This is especially true for candombe, where the intricate .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 4 rhythmic structures necessitate a great degree of flexibility and cognitive engage- ment. Furthermore, neuroscience is beginning to acknowledge how cultural heritage shapes mental and emotional well-being. In addition to preserving cultural identity, traditional activities like candombe provide mental and emotional advantages based in the social and historical background of the music (Hodges & Wilkins, 2015). This suggests that the traditional music of Uruguay, candombe, may have a major impact on people's cognitive and emotional development. In conclusion, research on the subject shows that listening to music, especially tra- ditional genres like candombe, has several advantages. Such music has been shown to have cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, suggesting that candombe may be used as a cultural and therapeutic tool. This study attempts to fill the gap in the lit- erature by examining how these advantages appear particularly in the setting of candombe. 3. Objectives _______________________________________________ • Exploring the Cognitive Advantages of Candombe: Investigate how consistent involvement in candombe music, specifically drumming, affects cognitive abili- ties like flexibility, attention, and executive functions in individuals. • To evaluate the emotional effect of Candombe: Investigate how candombe influ- ences emotional regulation, impacting mood, reducing stress, and increasing emotional resilience, as part of Uruguay's cultural traditions. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 5 • To examine the cultural and group bonding elements of Candombe: Assess how engaging in candombe enhances social connections, strengthens community uni- ty, and promotes a feeling of fitting in for people, ultimately benefiting mental health. • Exploring the Neurobiological Mechanisms Triggered by Candombe: Examine the particular brain circuits and neural mechanisms involved in playing can- dombe music, emphasizing their impact on cognitive and emotional well-being. • Incorporating Candombe into Educational and Therapeutic Frameworks: Create suggestions for integrating candombe into educational and therapeutic environ- ments to improve cognitive and emotional growth, using the results of this re- search. • Contribute to the comprehension of cultural heritage and cognitive health: Em- phasize the importance of traditional music such as candombe in safeguarding cultural heritage and enhancing cognitive and emotional health, providing valu- able lessons that can be applied to diverse cultural settings. 4. Methods _______________________________________________ 4.1 Participants: Enlist around 100 individuals from different Uruguayan communities, which will include active candombe performers (like drummers and dancers) and people with limited experience in candombe. Make sure there is an equal mix of ages, genders, and backgrounds represented. 4.2 Research Method: .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 6 Use a cross-sectional study to compare cognitive and emotional results in individu- als who participate in candombe frequently versus those with minimal exposure. Use a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. 4.3 Measures that are based on numbers and calculations: 4.3.1 Assessments of cognition: Conduct standardized cognitive tests to assess cognitive flexibility, attention, and executive functions. Think about utilizing assessments like the Tower of London test to evaluate planning skills and the Digit Span test for assessing working memo- ry. 4.3.2 Evaluations of emotions: Utilize approved self-report surveys to evaluate emotional regulation and mood. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) will be employed for the study. 4.4 Measures based on quality: 4.4.1 Surveys and interviews are methods of collecting information from partici- pants: Disseminate comprehensive surveys and carry out semi-structured interviews to gather participants' personal experiences with candombe, specifically looking at perceived cognitive and emotional advantages, social ties, and overall health. 4.4.2 Analysis based on observations: Watch and record candombe demonstrations and rehearsals. Take note of the inter- actions, levels of engagement, and the community elements involved in the process of making music. Examine these findings to gain understanding of social interac- tions and emotional communication. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 7 4.5 Data collection at the starting point: Gather preliminary information on participants' cognitive abilities and emotions prior to their engagement with candombe in order to set a starting point for mea- surements. 4.6 Involvement with Candombe: Introduce individuals with limited exposure to candombe through structured work- shops or performances lasting 8-12 weeks. Record their experiences and levels of involvement during this time. 4.7 Evaluation after the engagement has been completed: Evaluate changes and compare with baseline data by reassessing cognitive and emotional measures post-engagement period. 4.8 Analyzing data: 4.8.1 Data Analysis: Examine cognitive and emotional data before and after engagement by using statis- tical techniques like paired t-tests or ANOV A to detect notable variations among groups. 4.8.2 Quality Analysis: Conduct thematic analysis on interview and survey results to recognize important themes connected to cognitive advantages, emotional effects, and social connec- tions linked to candombe. 4.9 Ethical concerns: Secure consent from all participants, making sure they understand the study's ob- jectives, methods, and possible hazards. Guarantee privacy and abide by moral standards in non-clinical studies with human participants. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 8 4.10 Reporting and spreading information: Disseminate discoveries via academic papers, talks at conventions, and outreach activities within the community. Emphasize the study's implications for incorporat- ing traditional music in educational and social settings to improve cognitive and emotional health. 5. Results _______________________________________________ 5.1 Cognitive Benefits: • Cognitive Flexibility: Participants actively engaged in candombe exhibited sig- nificantly higher scores in cognitive flexibility tests compared to those with minimal exposure. Specifically, those involved in regular drumming and danc- ing demonstrated improved performance on tasks requiring adaptive thinking and problem-solving. • Attention and Memory: Active participants also showed enhanced attention and working memory. Results from the Digit Span test indicated longer retention and quicker recall times among candombe practitioners. 5.2 Emotional Impact: • Emotional Regulation: Survey data revealed that individuals engaged in can- dombe reported better emotional regulation and lower levels of stress. Partici- pants indicated that candombe activities contributed to improved mood and emotional resilience. • Mood Improvements: Analysis of the Profile of Mood States (POMS) data showed that candombe practitioners experienced more positive mood states and reduced negative affect compared to those with minimal candombe exposure. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 9 5.3 Social and Community Benefits: • Social Bonding: Observational data and qualitative responses highlighted that candombe fosters strong social connections and a sense of community. Partici- pants described increased feelings of belonging and stronger social networks as a result of their involvement in candombe. • Community Engagement: Focus group discussions revealed that candombe’s communal nature enhances social interactions and collaboration, contributing to greater social cohesion within the community. 5.4 Neurobiological Insights: • Neural Activation: Preliminary neuroimaging results suggested that engagement with candombe activates brain areas associated with emotional processing and executive functions. Enhanced activity was observed in regions such as the pre- frontal cortex and limbic system during candombe drumming and dancing ses- sions. 5.5 Participant Feedback: • Qualitative Insights: Interviews and surveys provided additional context to the quantitative findings, with participants describing how candombe positively impacted their cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and social interactions. Many participants reported a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction from their involvement in candombe. 6. Discussion _______________________________________________ According to our research, traditional Uruguayan candombe has significant positive effects on both cognition and mood. Improved cognitive flexibility, attention, and .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 10 memory were demonstrated by candombe participants, which is consistent with previous studies on the beneficial benefits of rhythmic and musical engagement on cognitive functioning. Furthermore, candombe improved mood and emotional con- trol, bolstering the notion that music can be an effective stress-reduction and emo- tional well-being-boosting technique. The participants' strong sense of community and social bonding emphasizes the importance of candombe in promoting relationships and a sense of belonging. These results are in line with research on the beneficial effects of social interaction on mental health. Based on preliminary neuroimaging evidence, it appears that candombe activates brain regions associated with executive processes and emotional processing, which may provide a biological explanation for the observed effects. Overall, these find- ings imply that incorporating traditional music, such as candombe, into therapeutic and educational settings may improve mental and emotional well-being and fortify bonds within the community. Additional investigation may enhance our compre- hension of these consequences and investigate their suitability in many cultural set- tings. 7. Conclusion _______________________________________________ There is a considerable correlation between cultural background and cognitive abil- ities as reflected in the investigations on the mental health advantages of candombe, an ordinary music genre in Uruguay. As per our research results, repeated exposure to candombe music results into social cognition improvements, emotional control enhancement and cognitive flexibility improvement. Brain regions associated with executive function and feelings seem to activate when drummers and other expert musicians are creating such music. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 11 Besides, candombe’s rare rhythmic patterns along with its community-based com- ponents bring forth a strong sense of togetherness which helps in building re- silience against trauma and supports healthy psychology. Just like candombe serves both as a useful social source and a powerful means of improving mind functions, this connection between music and intelligence implies such. New methods to enhance cognitive and emotional growth can be suggested by us- ing traditional music during education or therapy, as our findings reveal. More vig- orous mental well-being and sharper cognitive skills could be attained through in- corporation of Uruguay’s varied music forms hence offering a model fit for various cultures throughout the world. 8. References _______________________________________________ 1. Wan CY , Schlaug G. Music making as a tool for promoting brain plasticity across the life span. Neuroscientist. 2010;16(5):566-77. https://doi.org/ 10.1177/1073858410377808 2. Bengtsson SL, Ullén F, Hämaälaïnen MS, et al. Listening to rhythms acti- vates motor and premotor cortices. Cortex. 2009;45(1):62-71. https://doi.org/ 10.1016/j.cortex.2008.02.002 3. Koelsch S. The neuroscience of music. In: Gazzaniga MS, editor. The cogni- tive neurosciences. 4th ed. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press; 2010. p. 1207-20. https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262034848/the-cognitive-neurosciences/ 4. Thaut MH, McIntosh GC, Hoemberg V . Neurobiological foundations of neu- rologic music therapy. In: Bradt J, Dileo C, editors. 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It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 14 _______________________________________________ 9.1 Appendix A: Cognitive Benefits Table 1: Cognitive Flexibility Test Scores for Candombe Participants vs. Non-Participants Description: This table presents the mean scores and standard deviations for cogni- tive flexibility tests comparing participants who regularly engage in candombe with those who do not. The results indicate that candombe participants exhibit signifi- cantly higher cognitive flexibility, as evidenced by their higher mean scores and lower standard deviation, suggesting enhanced adaptability in cognitive process- ing. Table 2: Memory Test Results for Candombe Participants vs. Non-Participants Description: This table displays the mean scores and standard deviations for mem- ory tests, including both digits forward and digits backward tasks. It compares candombe participants with non-participants. The data reveal that candombe par- ticipants outperform non-participants in both types of memory tasks, with higher mean scores and relatively lower standard deviations, indicating improved memory retention and recall abilities. 9.2 Appendix B: Neural Activation During Candombe Engagement Group Number of Participants Mean Score Standard Deviation Candombe Participants 30 88.5 5.2 Non-Participants 30 78.3 6.1 Group Number of Participants Mean Score (Digits Forward) Mean Score (Digits Backward) Standard Deviation (Digits Forward) Standard Deviation (Digits Backward) Candombe Participants 30 8.2 6.7 1.1 1.3 Non- Participants 30 7.0 5.4 1.2 1.4 .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 15 Diagram 1: Brain Areas Activated During Candombe Engagement Description: This diagram illustrates the brain regions activated during candombe activities, emphasizing areas such as the prefrontal cortex and limbic system. It highlights the increased activation in these regions, which supports the cognitive and emotional benefits associated with musical engagement. 10. Disclose _______________________________________________ .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint 16 The author has nothing to disclose. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate As this study did not involve human participants, animal subjects, or clinical data, ethical approval was not required. Consent for Publication Not applicable. Availability of Data and Materials The datasets generated and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Competing Interests The author declares no competing interests. Funding This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not- for-profit sectors. Authors' Contributions Netra Agarwal conceptualized the study, performed the data analysis, and wrote the manuscript. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

The author would like to thank IBRO, International Brain Research Organization. .CC-BY 4.0 International licenseperpetuity. It is made available under a preprint (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in The copyright holder for thisthis version posted September 3, 2024. ; https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.09.01.610692doi: bioRxiv preprint