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Liu X, Yao Y, Zhu S, Gong Q. The influence of childhood trauma on social media-induced secondary traumatic stress among college students: the chain mediating effect of self-compassion and resilience. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2025; 16:2456322. [PMID: 39899394 PMCID: PMC11792160 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2025.2456322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2024] [Revised: 12/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2025] [Indexed: 02/05/2025] Open
Abstract
Background: Studies have shown that media exposure to critical public events can lead to secondary traumatic stress (STS). Personal trauma history, self-compassion and resilience are important factors influencing STS in healthy professionals. However, whether these variables are associated with social media-induced STS in college students and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the complex relationship linking childhood trauma to social media-induced STS in a large sample of college students.Methods: A total of 1151 Chinese college students from Chengdu, Sichuan Province of China completed a web-based cross-sectional survey, which included standard assessments of childhood trauma, self-compassion, resilience and social media-induced STS, as well as sociodemographic questionnaires. The chain mediation model was tested using the PROCESS macro programme in SPSS software.Results: There was a moderate correlation between childhood trauma and social media-induced STS (r = 0.34, p < .001). This association was significantly mediated by self-compassion (indirect effect [95% CI] = 0.14[0.11, 0.17]) and resilience (indirect effect = 0.03[0.01, 0.04]), respectively. Further, a chained mediating effect was observed with self-compassion and resilience consecutively mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and social media-induced STS (indirect effect = 0.02[0.01, 0.03]). These results persisted after sociodemographic characteristics were included as controlling variables.Conclusions: Early life trauma impacts STS induced by exposure to traumatic materials on social media through self-compassion and resilience among Chinese college students. Psychological interventions targeting self-compassion and resilience can be implemented to reduce the risk of STS, especially in vulnerable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiqin Liu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Institute of Radiology, Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Yao
- School of Sociology and Psychology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siyu Zhu
- The Laboratory of Sport Psychology, School of Sport Training, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Sports for Promoting Adolescent Mental Health, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Institute of Radiology, Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, People’s Republic of China
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Gharaibeh B, Baniyones A, Abuhammad S, Mehrass AAKO. Depression among outpatients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: prevalence and associated factors. Future Sci OA 2025; 11:2458989. [PMID: 39887078 PMCID: PMC11792793 DOI: 10.1080/20565623.2025.2458989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2025] [Indexed: 02/01/2025] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression among patients with diabetic neuropathy and identify contributing factors. METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive design was used, recruiting 153 patients from outpatient clinics. Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory II, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument, and Douleur Neuropathique 4 questionnaires, with recent A1C results obtained from medical records. RESULTS The mean depression score was 16.5, with 98 patients (65%) reporting depression and 20 (13%) indicating moderate to severe depression. Approximately half of the sample experienced neuropathy and neuropathic pain. The mean Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument score was 5 (SD = 5), and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 score was 4 (SD = 3.5). Regression analyses showed significant demographic influences on depression. Higher Michigan Neuropathy Screening scores predicted greater depression severity, while DN4 scores did not significantly impact depression levels. CONCLUSIONS Depression in patients with diabetic neuropathy is influenced by the severity of neuropathy. Factors commonly associated with depression in diabetes, such as pain intensity and glycemic control, do not significantly affect depression in the context of neuropathy. These findings highlight the complexity of addressing depression in diabetes care, requiring comprehensive and ongoing approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Besher Gharaibeh
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Aya Baniyones
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sawsan Abuhammad
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Gaebel C, Stoffel M, Aguilar-Raab C, Jarczok MN, Rittner S, Ditzen B, Warth M. Effects of group music therapy on depressive symptoms in women - The MUSED-study: Results from a randomized-controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2025; 374:1-10. [PMID: 39788379 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2025.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 01/03/2025] [Accepted: 01/05/2025] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Music can directly influence emotions, the regulation of which are known to be impaired in major depressive disorder (MDD). While music therapy (MT) could be an effective complement to treat MDD, studies investigating such effects have not yet yielded conclusive results. We hypothesized that group music therapy (GMT) might lead to a significant reduction of depressive symptoms (DS). METHODS In a randomized controlled trial, 102 women with current MDD were randomly assigned to an intervention group receiving GMT or a waitlist control group. Data assessment was conducted pre- (T0), post- (T1), and at a 10-week follow-up to (T2) the intervention. DS as the primary outcome were assessed via observer-rated (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, T0-T1), self-rated (Beck Depression Inventory, T0-T1-T2), and ecological momentary (T0-T1) assessments. Secondary effects on emotion and mood regulation strategies, and quality of life (QoL), were measured T0-T1-T2. RESULTS The results suggest non-significant effects of the GMT on a descriptive level on self-reported and observer rated DS and statistically significant effects on DS in everyday life, QoL, and regulation strategies, with larger effects from T0-T1 than from T0-T1-T2. LIMITATIONS The generalizability is limited by the high dropout rate and data loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fact that long-term effects of GMT are not assured, and the homogeneous gender (female) of the sample. CONCLUSIONS GMT is an economical approach to treat MDD, yielding health-promoting effects regarding DS, emotion regulation, and QoL. Manualization and further evaluation of MT is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Gaebel
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Martin Stoffel
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Corina Aguilar-Raab
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marc N Jarczok
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabine Rittner
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Warth
- School of Therapeutic Sciences, SRH University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Lougheed JP, Loveridge CF, Keskin G, Sin NL. Associations between caregiver-adolescent emodiversity and internalizing symptoms. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2025; 35:e13041. [PMID: 39616499 PMCID: PMC11758473 DOI: 10.1111/jora.13041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 11/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2025]
Abstract
Relationships between adolescents and primary caregivers play an important role in the development of internalizing (depressive and anxious) symptoms. We examined associations among caregiver-adolescent emotions and their emodiversity (their breadth and frequency) with adolescents' and caregivers' internalizing symptoms. A total of 181 adolescents (aged 13-17 years old) and their primary caregivers participated in a 14-day daily diary study between 2022 and 2023 where they reported their emotions at the end of each day. We used actor-partner interdependence models to examine whether positive and negative emotions and their emodiversity predicted each individual's and their family member's internalizing symptoms. Primary results concentrated on the actor effects of adolescents' and caregivers' mean levels of positive and negative emotions and their own internalizing symptoms. Greater negative emotion and lower positive emotion were associated with greater internalizing symptoms, for both caregivers and adolescents. Caregivers who showed greater positive emodiversity also showed greater internalizing symptoms. In contrast, relatively few partner effects were observed. Our findings point to the need for more research on the role of interpersonal emotions in daily life as they relate to internalizing symptoms. Although our sample captured diversity in ethnicity, results may not generalize across levels of socioeconomic status, gender identity, and caregiver education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P. Lougheed
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of British Columbia OkanaganKelownaBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Colin F. Loveridge
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of British Columbia OkanaganKelownaBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Gizem Keskin
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of British Columbia OkanaganKelownaBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Nancy L. Sin
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of British Columbia VancouverVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
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Brody AL, Mischel AK, Sanavi AY, Wong A, Bahn JH, Minassian A, Morgan EE, Rana B, Hoh CK, Vera DR, Kotta KK, Miranda AH, Pocuca N, Walter TJ, Guggino N, Beverly-Aylwin R, Meyer JH, Vasdev N, Young JW. Cigarette smoking is associated with reduced neuroinflammation and better cognitive control in people living with HIV. Neuropsychopharmacology 2025; 50:695-704. [PMID: 39741198 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-02035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2024] [Revised: 11/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/02/2025]
Abstract
People living with HIV (HIV+) are roughly twice as likely to smoke cigarettes (Smok+) as the general population. With the advent of effective antiretroviral therapies, it is increasingly important to understand the effects of chronic HIV infection and cigarette smoking on brain function and cognition since HIV+ individuals have heightened neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits even with such therapies. Based on prior studies demonstrating that smoking reduces a marker for neuroinflammation in HIV- individuals, we hypothesized that HIV+/Smok+ individuals would have less neuroinflammation and better cognitive control than HIV+/Smok- individuals. Fifty-nine participants (HIV-/Smok- [n = 16], HIV-/Smok+ [n=14], HIV+/Smok- [n = 18], and HIV+/Smok+ [n = 11]) underwent baseline eligibility tests, positron emission tomography (PET) scanning to determine levels of a marker for neuroinflammation, and assessment of cognitive control with the reverse-translated 5-choice continuous performance test (5C-CPT), with smokers having smoked to satiety prior to testing. For the PET data, a significant effect of smoking status on whole brain (WB) standardized uptake value (SUV) was found between HIV+/Smok+ and HIV+/Smok- participants (due to 18.8% lower WB SUV in the HIV+/Smok+ group). HIV+/Smok- participants exhibited a mean 13.5% higher WB SUV than HIV-/Smok- participants. For the 5C-CPT, HIV+/Smok+ participants performed significantly better than HIV+/Smok- participants (d prime), and HIV+/Smok- participants performed worse than HIV-/Smok- participants. Thus, HIV+/Smok+ individuals demonstrated lower levels of the neuroinflammation marker and better cognitive control than HIV+/Smok- individuals. Given that HIV+ individuals whose HIV is well-controlled can still have chronic neurocognitive complications, study results suggest possible paths for future research into nicotine-related treatments to prevent such complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Brody
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Anna K Mischel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Andre Y Sanavi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alvin Wong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ji Hye Bahn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Arpi Minassian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Erin E Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Brinda Rana
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Carl K Hoh
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - David R Vera
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kishore K Kotta
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alannah H Miranda
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nina Pocuca
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Walter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Natalie Guggino
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Renee Beverly-Aylwin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey H Meyer
- Brain Health Imaging Centre, Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Neil Vasdev
- Brain Health Imaging Centre, Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jared W Young
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Research, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Hu D, Tamir M. Variability in emotion regulation strategy use in major depressive disorder: Flexibility or volatility? J Affect Disord 2025; 372:306-313. [PMID: 39647588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 11/06/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 12/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emotion regulation is critical for psychological health. Adaptive emotion regulation, in particular, requires the ability to flexibly use different strategies to meet situational demands. Such flexibility is often reflected in greater variability in everyday emotion regulation strategy use. Research on strategy variability has, to date, been positively associated with some emotional and psychological outcomes, but such research has exclusively focused on healthy individuals. Our investigation examines whether variability in emotion regulation strategy use and its implications differ between individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and healthy controls. METHOD Using ecological momentary assessments (EMA), we assessed variability in emotion regulation strategy use (i.e., between-strategy variability) and its implications in individuals with current MDD and healthy controls (Ns = 94 and 90). Participants completed six surveys per day for 10 days, rating their emotional experiences and emotion regulation strategy use. They also rated indices of psychological health daily. RESULTS Individuals with MDD had higher emotion regulation strategy variability than healthy controls. In healthy controls, higher strategy variability was linked to greater emotion regulation success and was unrelated to daily depressive symptoms. However, in individuals with MDD, higher strategy variability was not only unrelated or even negatively linked to emotion regulation success, but it was also associated with higher daily depressive symptoms. LIMITATIONS We did not assess the fit between regulatory strategies and contexts, and only included self-report measures collected through smartphones. CONCLUSION Variability in emotion regulation strategy use may capture adaptive flexibility among healthy individuals, but maladaptive volatility among individuals with MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danfei Hu
- Psychology Department, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Maya Tamir
- Psychology Department, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
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Yang PC, Lin IM, Wu DW. Effects of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback on Enhancing Self-Efficacy, Quality of Life and Six-Minute Walking Test in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2025:10.1007/s10484-025-09689-y. [PMID: 39954105 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-025-09689-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2025] [Indexed: 02/17/2025]
Abstract
Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) is a bio-behavioral intervention applied to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and improves their autonomic activation and pulmonary function. This study explored the effects of HRVB on self-efficacy, quality of life, depression, anxiety, and heart rate variability (HRV) indices under the Six-Minute Walking Test (6MWT) in patients with COPD. The study hypothesizes that HRVB can improve self-efficacy and quality of life, reduce depression and anxiety, and decrease HRV reactivity while enhancing HRV recovery during the 6MWT. A total of 53 patients with COPD were assigned to either an HRVB group (n = 26) or a control group (n = 27), both received standard medical care. The HRVB group also participated in one hour weekly for six weeks. All participants completed assessments using the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Beck Anxiety Inventory pre-test and post-test. The 6MWT was administered to measure HRV during baseline, walking, and recovery stages. Significant improvements in self-efficacy and quality of life for the HRVB group, with a significant increase in post-test compared to pre-test and the control group. However, there were no significant differences in changes in depression and anxiety between the two groups. Additionally, the HRVB group exhibited a significant decrease in HRV reactivity and increased HRV recovery at the post-test compared to the pre-test. These findings indicated that HRVB effectively enhances self-efficacy and quality of life in patients with COPD while improving autonomic function. Therefore, HRVB could be a valuable component of pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chou Yang
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shiquan 1st road, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - I-Mei Lin
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shiquan 1st road, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung City 807, Taiwan.
| | - Da-Wei Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung City, 812, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
- Research Center for Precision Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
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Chen G, Zhao X, Xie M, Chen H, Shao C, Zhang X, Wu Y, Liu N, Zhang N. Serum metabolites and inflammation predict brain functional connectivity changes in Obsessive-Compulsive disorder. Brain Behav Immun 2025; 126:113-125. [PMID: 39952302 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2025.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Revised: 12/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2025] [Indexed: 02/17/2025] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of the metabolic and immune pathways involved in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as the precise mechanisms by which metabolism and immunity impact brain activity and function, is limited. This study aimed to examine the alterations in serum metabolites, inflammatory markers, brain activity, and brain functional connectivity (FC) among individuals with OCD and investigate the relationship between these factors. The study included 55 individuals with moderate-to-severe OCD (either drug-naïve or not taking medication for at least eight weeks) and 54 healthy controls (HCs). The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) technique was used to detect serum metabolites, whereas the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to identify inflammatory markers. The FC of the brain was investigated using resting-state functional magnetic resonance immaging(rs-fMRI). The findings demonstrated that individuals with OCD exhibited significant alterations in 11 metabolites compared to HCs. In particular, 10 of these metabolites exhibited an increase, while one metabolite displayed a decrease. Additionally, individuals with OCD experienced a marked elevation in the levels of five inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-12). Rs-fMRI analysis revealed that individuals with OCD exhibited atypical FC in various brain regions, such as the postcentral gyrus, angular gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus. These specific brain areas are closely associated with sensory-motor processing, cognitive control, and emotion regulation. Further stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that serum metabolite levels, particularly phosphatidylcholine, and inflammatory markers such as IL-1β could predict alterations in brain FC among individuals diagnosed with OCD. In summary, this study uncovered that individuals with OCD exhibit alterations in serum metabolites, inflammatory markers, brain activity, and FC. The findings suggest that these metabolites and inflammatory markers might play a role in the development and progression of OCD by affecting brain activity and the FC of neural networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqing Chen
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xiao Zhao
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Minyao Xie
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Haocheng Chen
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Chenchen Shao
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xuedi Zhang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yu Wu
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Medical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Medical Psychology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Malkomsen A, Wilberg T, Bull-Hansen B, Dammen T, Evensen JH, Hummelen B, Løvgren A, Osnes K, Ulberg R, Røssberg JI. Comparative effectiveness of short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for major depression in psychiatric outpatient clinics: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry 2025; 25:113. [PMID: 39934737 PMCID: PMC11817821 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-025-06544-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2025] [Indexed: 02/13/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More studies with low risk of bias on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy (STPP) for major depressive disorder (MDD) are needed. This study compares the outcome of CBT and STPP and examines the improvements in each treatment, focusing on effect sizes, reliable change, dropout rates, and remission rates, using broad inclusion criteria (e.g. participants using antidepressants or with strong suicidal ideation). METHODS One hundred patients were randomly allocated to CBT or STPP. All patients were offered either 16 weekly sessions followed by 3 monthly booster sessions in CBT, or 28 weekly sessions in STPP. Primary outcome measures were Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Beck's Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Secondary outcome measures were Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) and Short Form Health Survey-12 (SF-12). RESULTS No significant differences in outcomes were found between the two treatment groups on any of the measures. The within-group effects were large (> 0.8) for the primary outcome measures and moderate to large for the secondary outcome measures. According to the reliable change index (RCI), 79% of patients reliably improved on HDRS and 76% improved on BDI-II, whereas respectively 6% and 10% reliably deteriorated. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the assumption that CBT and STPP are equally effective treatments for patients with depressive disorders in psychiatric outpatient clinics. Additionally, they strengthen the evidence for the effectiveness of both CBT and STPP in these settings, while also highlighting that not all depressed patients respond to short-term treatment. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial gov. Identifier: NCT03022071. Date of registration: 2016-11-14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Malkomsen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Theresa Wilberg
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente Bull-Hansen
- Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oslo, Norway
| | - Toril Dammen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Benjamin Hummelen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - André Løvgren
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kåre Osnes
- Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oslo, Norway
| | - Randi Ulberg
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Ivar Røssberg
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Perogamvros L, Rochas V, Beau JB, Sterpenich V, Bayer L. The cathartic dream: Using a large language model to study a new type of functional dream in healthy and clinical populations. J Sleep Res 2025:e70001. [PMID: 39924340 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.70001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2024] [Revised: 01/12/2025] [Accepted: 01/28/2025] [Indexed: 02/11/2025]
Abstract
According to some theories of emotion regulation, dreams could modify negative emotions and ultimately reduce their intensity. We introduce here the idea of cathartic dream, a specific and separate type of emotional dream, which is characterized by a dynamic plot with emotional twists, and where negative emotions are expressed and ultimately decreased. This process would reflect psychological relief (catharsis according to the Aristotelian definition) and fulfil an emotion regulation function. We developed and validated a tool using a large language model to emotionally categorize the different dreams from dream diaries. Based on this tool, we were able to detect the prevalence of cathartic dreams in datasets of both healthy participants and patients with nightmares. Additionally, we observed the increase of cathartic dreams during 2 weeks of imagery rehearsal therapy and targeted memory reactivation during rapid eye movement sleep. We also demonstrate how the increase of cathartic dreams correlates significantly with the decrease of depression scores in patients with nightmares under therapy, thus supporting their likely functional role in well-being and their distinct nature among other emotional dreams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lampros Perogamvros
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Rochas
- M/EEG & Neuromod Platform, Fondation Campus Biotech Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Virginie Sterpenich
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Bayer
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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11
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Hou X, Hu J, Liu Z. "Meaninglessness makes me unhappy": examining the role of a sense of alienation and life satisfaction in the relationship between the presence of meaning and depression among Chinese high school seniors. Front Psychiatry 2025; 16:1494074. [PMID: 39980976 PMCID: PMC11841410 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1494074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2025] [Indexed: 02/22/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Given the high incidence of depression among adolescents and its serious consequences, investigating its influencing factors and mechanisms is of great theoretical and practical significance. This study aims to explore the mediating effects of a sense of alienation and life satisfaction on the relationship between the presence of meaning in life and depression among Chinese high school seniors. Methods Six hundred and twenty-one senior high school students (17.09 ± 0.45 years, 266 boys) were recruited from Shandong, China, to participate in the study. Participants completed the Adolescent Students' Sense of Alienation (ASAS), Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Results Our findings revealed that (1) the sense of alienation and life satisfaction play a chain mediating role between the presence of meaning in life and depression among Chinese high school seniors; (2) the sense of alienation plays a mediating role between the presence of meaning in life and depression; (3) there are gender differences in the chain mediation model of the influence of the presence of meaning in life on depression. Conclusion This study reveals potential pathways through which the presence of meaning in life affects depression among Chinese high school seniors, offering support and a basis for future mental health interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinsheng Hu
- College of Psychology, Liaoning Normal University,
Dalian, China
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12
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Zhu J, Li Y, Yang C, Cai H, Li X, Hu B. Transformer-based fusion model for mild depression recognition with EEG and pupil area signals. Med Biol Eng Comput 2025:10.1007/s11517-024-03269-8. [PMID: 39909988 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-024-03269-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2025]
Abstract
Early detection and treatment are crucial for the prevention and treatment of depression; compared with major depression, current researches pay less attention to mild depression. Meanwhile, analysis of multimodal biosignals such as EEG, eye movement data, and magnetic resonance imaging provides reliable technical means for the quantitative analysis of depression. However, how to effectively capture relevant and complementary information between multimodal data so as to achieve efficient and accurate depression recognition remains a challenge. This paper proposes a novel Transformer-based fusion model using EEG and pupil area signals for mild depression recognition. We first introduce CSP into the Transformer to construct single-modal models of EEG and pupil data and then utilize attention bottleneck to construct a mid-fusion model to facilitate information exchange between the two modalities; this strategy enables the model to learn the most relevant and complementary information for each modality and only share the necessary information, which improves the model accuracy while reducing the computational cost. Experimental results show that the accuracy of the EEG and pupil area signals of single-modal models we constructed is 89.75% and 84.17%, the precision is 92.04% and 95.21%, the recall is 89.5% and 71%, the specificity is 90% and 97.33%, the F1 score is 89.41% and 78.44%, respectively, and the accuracy of mid-fusion model can reach 93.25%. Our study demonstrates that the Transformer model can learn the long-term time-dependent relationship between EEG and pupil area signals, providing an idea for designing a reliable multimodal fusion model for mild depression recognition based on EEG and pupil area signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhu
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China
| | - Yuanlong Li
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China
| | - Changlin Yang
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China
| | - Hanshu Cai
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China
| | - Bin Hu
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Wearable Computing, School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 73000, China.
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China.
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 73000, China.
- Joint Research Center for Cognitive Neurosensor Technology of Lanzhou University and Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China.
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13
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Du X, Gao S, Huang T, Liang J, Xiao X. "Out of sight out of mind": attentional characteristics in mothers who have children with autism. BMC Womens Health 2025; 25:53. [PMID: 39910566 PMCID: PMC11796272 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03534-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 12/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Families are faced with enormous challenges in caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) over a lifetime. As the main caregiver of children, mothers who have children with autism are in poor health compared to the mothers of typically developing (TD) children. Previous studies have revealed that the mental health of mothers has a direct impact on children. On the other hand, attention bias (AB) can be an important indicator of the mental status. Therefore, the characteristic of AB of mothers who have children with autism can be a window into the treatment of autism. METHODS In this study, 28 mothers who have children with autism and 31 mothers of typically developing children completed the modified dot-probe task to explore the attention bias. RESULTS We found that there was a significant difference of AB between mothers who have children with autism and mothers of typically developing children, which indicated that mothers who have children with autism tend to avoid negative emotional words. CONCLUSIONS The current study illuminates the attentional characteristics of mothers who have children with autism toward emotional words, which provides a new starting point for the intervention of mothers of children with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Du
- School of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Shuanghong Gao
- School of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Huang
- School of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Liang
- School of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- College of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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14
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Acuña A, Morales S, Uriarte-Gaspari L, Aguirre N, Brandani A, Huart N, Mattos J, Pérez A, Cuña E, Waiter G, Steele D, Armony JL, García-Fontes M, Cabana Á, Gradin VB. Increased default mode network activation in depression and social anxiety during upward social comparison. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2025; 20:nsaf012. [PMID: 39882939 PMCID: PMC11792650 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsaf012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 10/31/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2025] [Indexed: 01/31/2025] Open
Abstract
Social comparisons are a core feature of human life. Theories posit that social comparisons play a critical role in depression and social anxiety triggering negative evaluations about the self, as well as negative emotions. We investigated the neural basis of social comparisons in participants with major depression and/or social anxiety (MD-SA, n = 56) and healthy controls (n = 47) using functional magnetic resonance imaging. While being scanned participants performed a social comparison task, during which they received feedback about their performance and the performance of a coplayer. Upward social comparisons (being worse than the coplayer) elicited high levels of negative emotions (shame, guilt, and nervousness) across participants, with this effect being enhanced in the MD-SA group. Notably, during upward comparison the MD-SA group showed greater activation than the control group in regions of the default mode network (DMN). Specifically, for upward comparison MD-SA participants demonstrated increased activation in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex and reduced deactivation in the posteromedial cortex, regions linked to self-referential processing, inferences about other people's thoughts, and rumination. Findings suggest that people with depression and social anxiety react to upward comparisons with a more negative emotional response, which may be linked to introspective processes related to the DMN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejo Acuña
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
- Sección Neurociencias, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Sebastián Morales
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
| | - Laura Uriarte-Gaspari
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
| | - Nara Aguirre
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
| | - Antonella Brandani
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
| | - Natalia Huart
- Hospital de Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11800, Uruguay
| | - Javier Mattos
- Centro Uruguayo de Imagenología Molecular (CUDIM), Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Alfonso Pérez
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
| | - Enrique Cuña
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
- Centro Uruguayo de Imagenología Molecular (CUDIM), Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Gordon Waiter
- Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas Steele
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge L Armony
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal QC H3A 1G1, Canada
| | | | - Álvaro Cabana
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
- Instituto de Fundamentos y Métodos en Psicología, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- CICADA, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencia de Datos y Aprendizaje Automático, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Victoria B Gradin
- Center for Basic Research in Psychology (CIBPsi), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay
- Instituto de Fundamentos y Métodos en Psicología, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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15
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Fleury V, Tomkova E, Catalano Chiuvé S, Penzenstadler L. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for Parkinson's disease without depression: A case-report. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2025:1877718X241312604. [PMID: 39973494 DOI: 10.1177/1877718x241312604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychedelic assisted psychotherapy (PAP) can improve treatment-resistant depression. Its usefulness in Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown. PD patients may have problems adjusting to their chronic progressive neurological disease. A change from emotional avoidance to acceptance has been reported following psilocybin administration in patients with treatment-resistant depression. OBJECTIVE To report for the first time the effect of psilocybin in a PD patient. METHODS A non-depressed 43-year-old female with a 2-year history of PD presented with difficulty adjusting to PD, anxious ruminations and pessimism. The patient declined an increase in dopaminergic medication or the introduction of an anxiolytic. Therapeutic patient education was not beneficial. The patient received four sessions of high-dose PAP within one year. Neurological and psychiatric assessments were performed before and at one year follow-up using qualitative interviews and quantitative assessment of motor status, dispositional optimism, depression, anxiety, apathy, and well-being. RESULTS PAP was well tolerated. It significantly improved the patient's overall pessimistic outlook on her future and decreased her anxious ruminations and worries about potential handicap due to PD. Her general well-being improved, as well as all psychometric scores except for the apathy scale. Motor status remained unchanged. Better acceptance of PD allowed her to accept pharmacological treatment adjustment. CONCLUSIONS PAP could be a safe and useful treatment for PD patients with dispositional pessimism and difficulties accepting their disease by promoting profound decentration from habitual thoughts and emotions, improving mood and PD acceptance. Randomized, controlled studies are needed to confirm this result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Fleury
- Department of Neurology, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emilie Tomkova
- Department of Neurology, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Louise Penzenstadler
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
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16
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Roy B, Vacas S, Kang DW, Aysola RS, Kumar R. Regional brain iron mapping in obstructive sleep apnea adults. Sleep Med 2025; 126:211-217. [PMID: 39700729 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2024.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2024] [Revised: 12/15/2024] [Accepted: 12/15/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) subjects show significant white matter injury, including myelin changes in several brain areas, potentially from impaired glial cells, contributing to increased iron levels that escalate neurodegeneration, but brain iron loads are unclear. Our aim was to examine regional brain iron load, using T2∗-relaxometry, in OSA adults before and after continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment over controls. METHODS We performed T2∗-weighted imaging using a 3.0-T MRI scanner on 35 OSA adults, who were followed after 3- and 9- mo CPAP treatment, and 67 controls. Using T2∗-weighted images, R2∗maps were calculated, normalized, and smoothed. The smoothed R2∗ maps, as well as average R2∗ values extracted from different brain regions were compared between OSA and controls using ANCOVA (covariates: age and sex) and paired t-tests in OSA adults. RESULTS Multiple brain areas in OSA showed increased R2∗ values before CPAP, indicative of higher iron, over controls and included the amygdala, insula, hippocampus, cerebellum, medulla, and pons nearby areas. The R2∗ values continued to increase in multiple sites at 3-mo CPAP treatment in OSA, and those sites included the cerebellum, thalamus, and cingulate. However, after 9-mo CPAP usage, none of the brain regions showed increased R2∗ values in OSA over baseline. CONCLUSIONS OSA patients show increased iron content in multiple sites over controls, which progressively increased in several sites, even after 3-mo CPAP use, and started to clear after 9-mo. The findings suggest a means for intervention to lessen brain injury by interfering with iron accumulation in OSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhaswati Roy
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susana Vacas
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, USA
| | - Daniel W Kang
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ravi S Aysola
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Radiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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17
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Salehi SH, Hoveidamanesh S, Moghanlou M, Namazi P, Ghadimi T, Salehi SA. The rate of burnout, depression, and anxiety among burn care team members in a tertiary burn hospital: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Burns 2025; 51:107306. [PMID: 39546824 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.107306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 11/01/2024] [Accepted: 11/01/2024] [Indexed: 11/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Working in burn units has its unique challenges and may increase the rate of depression, anxiety, and burnout in burn care staff. We aimed to estimate the rate of depression, anxiety, and burnout among the members of the burn care team. METHODS This descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from 1 January 2024 to 22 February 2024 in a tertiary burn hospital. The measurement tools of study were the validated Farsi versions of Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck's Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). RESULTS We found that the rate of depression, anxiety, and burnout was 54.2%, 62.7% and 50.7% in respondents, respectively. The correlation between burnout (CBI), depression (BDI), and anxiety (BAI) scores was significantly positive (p < 0.01). The rate of burnout was significantly higher in younger staff, females, bachelor's degree holders, and burn ICU staff (P < 0.05). Female burn care providers had higher anxiety (P < 0.05). The rate of depression was significantly higher in younger participants and in those with incomes less than 300 dollars .(P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our results indicated that a significant number of burn care team members met the criteria for anxiety, depression, and burnout. The relationship between anxiety, depression, and burnout was significantly positive. Timely and proper intervention is necessary to reduce anxiety, depression, and burnout in burn care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Hamid Salehi
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Mahsa Moghanlou
- Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parviz Namazi
- Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayyeb Ghadimi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyed Amirhossein Salehi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Fukuie T, Inoue K, Yamaguchi A. Influencing factors and physiological parameters of psychological hurdle and motivation immediately prior to exercise. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2025; 65:286-296. [PMID: 39320029 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.24.16055-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To obtain the benefits of exercise as physical inactivity becomes a global concern, managing psychological hurdles to exercise implementation is important. This study examined troublesomeness, motivation, and physiological parameters immediately before exhaustive exercise. METHODS Thirty-one healthy university students (mean age 19.87±2.21 years, 19 female) performed two conditions on separate days: performing push-ups to exhaustion (PE condition) and performing push-ups of the 30% count of the PE condition (P30 condition). Before the push-ups, the participants sat at rest for 5 minutes and were asked about their psychological states; after the first 2 minutes, PE or P30 conditions to be performed that day were disclosed to prepare them psychologically. During the rest, changes in the heart rate variability (HRV), pupil diameter, and front polar area (FPA) neural activity were measured before and after disclosure. RESULTS Troublesomeness and FPA neural activities were significantly higher in the PE than in the P30 (P<0.001, P=0.04, P=0.01). Correlation analysis revealed correlations between motivation and pupil diameter (P=0.002), and negative correlations between total physical activity (TPA) and negative image of exercise (P=0.01). CONCLUSIONS FPA activity could reflect the psychological hurdle to exhaustive exercise, pupil diameter could reflect the motivational arousal to exercise, and TPA could modulate the psychological hurdle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemune Fukuie
- School of Nursing and Social Services, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Hokkaido, Japan -
| | - Koshiro Inoue
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akihiko Yamaguchi
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Hokkaido, Japan
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Watanabe G, Tanaka K, Saito H, Kimura H, Tani Y, Asai J, Suzuki H, Sato K, Nakayama M, Kazama JJ. Post-dialysis fatigue predicts all-cause mortality in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Ther Apher Dial 2025; 29:12-22. [PMID: 39013552 DOI: 10.1111/1744-9987.14186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatigue is reportedly associated with a poor prognosis in dialysis patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether fatigue on dialysis days or non-dialysis days is associated with mortality in patients on chronic hemodialysis. METHODS This was a prospective study of 134 hemodialysis patients. The level of fatigue was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). The association between high fatigue evaluated by the highest quartile of the VAS value and all-cause death was investigated. RESULTS The fatigue scale score was significantly higher on dialysis than on non-dialysis days. During the follow-up period (median 6.8 years), 42 patients died. Patients with high post-dialysis fatigue in the higher quartiles died more frequently compared to those with in the lower quartiles (p = 0.012). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that high post-dialysis fatigue was an independent predictor of all-cause death (adjusted hazard ratio 2.12, 95% confidence interval 1.10-4.07). CONCLUSION Higher post-dialysis fatigue is related to increased mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Watanabe
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenichi Tanaka
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
- Division of Advanced Community Based Care for Lifestyle Related Diseases, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Saito
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
- Division of Advanced Community Based Care for Lifestyle Related Diseases, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | | | - Jun Asai
- Fujita General Hospital, Kunimi, Japan
| | | | | | - Masaaki Nakayama
- Department of Research Management, St Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
- Head Office for Open Innovation Business Development Strategy, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Junichiro James Kazama
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
- Division of Advanced Community Based Care for Lifestyle Related Diseases, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
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20
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Dohata M, Kaneko N, Takahashi R, Suzuki Y, Nakazawa K. Posture-Dependent Modulation of Interoceptive Processing in Young Male Participants: A Heartbeat-Evoked Potential Study. Eur J Neurosci 2025; 61:e70021. [PMID: 39957442 PMCID: PMC11831245 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.70021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2025] [Accepted: 01/30/2025] [Indexed: 02/18/2025]
Abstract
Interoception, the internal perception of bodily states such as heartbeat and hunger, plays a crucial role in shaping cognitive and emotional states. Since postural control affects cognitive and emotional processing, exploring postural effects on interoception could help uncover the neural mechanisms underlying its effects on cognition and emotion. In this study, we aimed to investigate how different postures affect interoception by using heartbeat-evoked potentials (HEPs), which reflect the cortical processing of cardiac signals. Two experiments were conducted; Experiment 1 involved 47 healthy male participants comparing sitting and standing postures, and Experiment 2 involved 24 healthy male participants comparing stable and unstable standing conditions. HEPs were analyzed using cluster-based permutation analysis to identify statistically significant spatiotemporal clusters. In Experiment 1, significant clusters were identified over central electrodes (Cz, C1, C2, FCz, and FC1) within the post-R-wave interval of 304-572 ms, revealing significantly lower HEP amplitudes during standing compared to sitting [W = 80, p < 0.001, r = 0.62]. In Experiment 2, HEP amplitudes were significantly lower during unstable standing compared to stable standing [t(20) = 2.9, p = 0.0099, d = 0.62]. Furthermore, we found no significant correlations between HEP changes and physiological changes such as cardiac activity and periodic and aperiodic brain activity. These findings suggest postural differences modulate interoceptive processing, with standing postures attenuating HEP amplitudes, probably because of a redistribution of attentional resources from interoceptive to somatosensory (proprioceptive) and vestibular processing, necessary for maintaining standing posture. This study provides insights into the neural mechanisms underlying posture-interoception interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayu Dohata
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Naotsugu Kaneko
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Ryogo Takahashi
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)TokyoJapan
| | - Yuya Suzuki
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Kimitaka Nakazawa
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
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Schwarz J, Gertzen M, Rabenstein A, Straßburger M, Horstmann A, Pogarell O, Rüther T, Karch S. What Chemsex does to the brain - neural correlates (ERP) regarding decision making, impulsivity and hypersexuality. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2025; 275:227-240. [PMID: 38969754 PMCID: PMC11799082 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01856-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Chemsex describes the use of specific substances (methamphetamine, GHB/GBL, mephedrone, ketamine) which initiate or enhance sexual experiences and is mainly prevalent among men who have sex with men. Many Chemsex users experience somatic complications (for example sexually transmitted diseases) and sometimes adverse sociological, psychological, and neurological symptoms, such as depression, impulse control disorders or hypersexuality. Changes in impulsivity and deficits in executive functions have demonstrated to be associated with addiction and impulse control disorders as well as frontal brain dysfunction and behavioral control deficits. This study aims to explore the effects of neurophysiological correlates of inhibition and decision making in Chemsex users with an EEG paradigm using event-related potentials (N2, P3). 15 Chemsex users and 14 matched control subjects, all of them men who have sex with man, participated in an auditory Go/NoGo/Voluntary Selection EEG paradigm. In addition, clinical data (e.g. regarding depression), demographic information as well as measures of well-being and sexual behavior were collected. The results demonstrated that clinical symptoms, hypersexuality, and sexual risk behavior were more pronounced in Chemsex users compared to non-users. P3 amplitudes did not differ significantly between groups. However, the Chemsex users showed decreased electrophysiological N2 responses in fronto-central brain regions during decision-making, indicating compromised executive function and inhibitory control. The observed impairments may lead to increased risk behavior regarding drug abuse and hypersexuality. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms can contribute to targeted interventions in order to mitigate the negative consequences of engaging in Chemsex and improve general well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Schwarz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Marcus Gertzen
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Rabenstein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Moritz Straßburger
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Alana Horstmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Oliver Pogarell
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Rüther
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Karch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
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22
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Prakash P, Konadath S. Brainwave entrainment using binaural beats stimulation: Exploring the treatment efficacy in individuals with tinnitus having normal hearing sensitivity. Auris Nasus Larynx 2025; 52:1-11. [PMID: 39615368 DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2024.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2024] [Revised: 10/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to compare the efficacy of brainwave entrainment in the treatment of individuals with tinnitus having normal hearing sensitivity. The effect of binaural beats (BB) stimulation in reducing negative emotions and tinnitus handicap post-three months is explored in this longitudinal study. METHOD The study comprised sixty individuals (four groups) with tinnitus having normal hearing. The outcome measures of BB with beat frequencies falling under delta (4 Hz), theta (6 Hz), and alpha (10 Hz) and a standard tinnitus masker (white noise) were compared with the pre-treatment baseline scores for tinnitus handicap, depression, and stress levels, and quality of life parameters. RESULTS All four groups showed an improvement in tinnitus symptoms and negative emotions. However, the groups that received BB stimulation (I, II, III) showed a remarkable reduction in scores for the tinnitus handicap, depression, and stress levels and an increase in quality-of-life scores for the domains that assessed physical and psychological health when compared to the group IV who received standard tinnitus masker. CONCLUSION It was observed that all three broadband (BB) stimuli were equally effective in treating tinnitus handicap symptoms. However, the results cannot be definitively attributed to brainwave entrainment, as they may also reflect the effects of sound therapy. Additionally, the lack of significant differences among the BB frequencies suggests that the benefits may not arise specifically from brainwave entrainment, especially without a comparison to beta frequency BB. This technique should be adopted into clinical practice with generalizability after further research on a randomized sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Prakash
- Department of Audiology, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Manasagangothri, Mysuru 570 006, India
| | - Sreeraj Konadath
- Department of Audiology, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Manasagangothri, Mysuru 570 006, India.
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23
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Ueno K, Yamada K, Ueda M, Naito Y, Ishii R. Current source density and functional connectivity extracted from resting-state electroencephalography as biomarkers for chronic low back pain. Pain Rep 2025; 10:e1233. [PMID: 39816905 PMCID: PMC11732644 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 10/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a global health issue, and its nonspecific causes make treatment challenging. Understanding the neural mechanisms of CLBP should contribute to developing effective therapies. Objectives To compare current source density (CSD) and functional connectivity (FC) extracted from resting electroencephalography (EEG) between patients with CLBP and healthy controls and to examine the correlations between EEG indices and symptoms. Methods Thirty-four patients with CLBP and 34 healthy controls in an open data set were analyzed. Five-minute resting-state closed-eye EEG was acquired using the international 10-20 system. Current source density across frequency bands was calculated using exact low-resolution electromagnetic tomography. Functional connectivity was assessed between 24 cortical regions using lagged linear connectivity. Correlations between pain symptoms and CSD distribution and FC were examined in patients with CLBP. Results Current source density analysis showed no significant differences between the groups. The CLBP group exhibited significantly reduced FC in the β3 band between the left middle temporal gyrus and the posterior cingulate cortex, and between the ventral medial prefrontal cortex and the left inferior parietal lobule. Prefrontal θ and δ activity positively correlated with pain symptoms. Increased β1 band FC between the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and right auditory cortex correlated with greater pain intensity. Conclusions We found altered neural activity and connectivity in patients with CLBP, particularly in prefrontal and temporal regions. These results suggest potential targets for pain modulation through brain pathways and highlight the value of EEG biomarkers in understanding pain mechanisms and assessing treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Ueno
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Rehabilitation Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keiko Yamada
- Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Ueda
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Rehabilitation Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuo Naito
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Rehabilitation Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryouhei Ishii
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Rehabilitation Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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24
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Catoira B, Lombardo D, De Smet S, Guiomar R, Van Schuerbeek P, Raeymaekers H, Deroost N, Van Overwalle F, Baeken C. Exploring the Effects of Cerebellar tDCS on Brain Connectivity Using Resting-State fMRI. Brain Behav 2025; 15:e70302. [PMID: 39924992 PMCID: PMC11808187 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.70302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2024] [Revised: 01/04/2025] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 02/11/2025] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The cerebellum's role extends beyond motor control, impacting various cognitive functions. A growing body of evidence supports the idea that the cerebellum optimizes performance across cognitive domains, suggesting critical connectivity with the neocortex. This study investigates how cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the right Crus II region modulates functional brain connectivity. METHOD Using a within-subject design, 21 healthy participants underwent both sham and anodal cerebellar tDCS at 2 mA during 20 min of concurrent resting-state fMRI sessions. Data was preprocessed, and connectivity changes were examined using seed-to-voxel analysis. Given the potential impact of cerebellar dysfunctions on symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders, we also assessed how individual autism quotient (AQ) scores might influence cerebellar functional connectivity. Moreover, electrical field simulations were computed for each participant to explore the effects of individual differences. FINDINGS Results indicated increased functional connectivity between the cerebellar Crus II and the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) during active tDCS compared to sham stimulation. The IFG (part of the Action Observation Network) plays a crucial role in understanding the actions and intentions of others, implicating the cerebellum in higher-order cognitive processes. In addition, linear mixed-effects models revealed an interaction between electric field strength and AQ scores, suggesting that functional connectivity changes are based on individual psychobiological differences. CONCLUSION Cerebellar tDCS significantly altered functional brain connectivity, particularly between the cerebellar Crus II and the IFG, both involved in social cognition. These findings contribute to our understanding of the cerebellum's role beyond motor control, highlighting its impact on cognitive and social processes and its potential for therapeutic applications, such as autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Catoira
- Department of Psychiatry (UZ Brussel)Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) LabGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | | | - Stefanie De Smet
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) LabGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Brain Stimulation and Cognition (BSC) Lab, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology and NeuroscienceMaastricht UniversityMaastrichtthe Netherlands
| | - Raquel Guiomar
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational SciencesUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
| | | | | | - Natacha Deroost
- Department of Psychology and Center for NeuroscienceVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Frank Van Overwalle
- Department of Psychology and Center for NeuroscienceVrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Department of Psychiatry (UZ Brussel)Vrije Universiteit BrusselBrusselsBelgium
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) LabGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Department of Electrical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhoventhe Netherlands
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25
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Bruce KE, Wouk K, Grewen KM, Pearson B, Meltzer-Brody S, Stuebe AM, Bauer AE. HPA axis dysregulation and postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms in breastfeeding vs bottle-feeding parents. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2025; 172:107253. [PMID: 39675161 PMCID: PMC11830542 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 11/12/2024] [Accepted: 11/25/2024] [Indexed: 12/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of perinatal mood disorders. Further, HPA axis response is known to be blunted during breastfeeding. We hypothesized that 1) postpartum depression/anxiety symptoms would be associated with HPA axis dysregulation, indexed by loss of expected adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-cortisol coupling, and 2) this association would vary by method of infant feeding. METHODS Participants (N=222) intending to breastfeed were recruited in their 3rd trimester of pregnancy. During a lab visit at 2 months postpartum, depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed (Beck Depression Inventory score ≥14 and/or Speilberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score ≥40). Participants then breast or bottle-fed their infants as they would at home. After a 10-minute rest, participants completed the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), a standardized stressor involving speech and math tasks. Blood ACTH and cortisol were measured 10 minutes after feeding, during each task, and at 10, 20, and 30 minutes of recovery. Multilevel models evaluated whether coupling of ACTH at time j with cortisol at time j+1 differed between those with and without depression/anxiety symptoms, and whether differences varied by feeding method. RESULTS Of 205 participants who completed the TSST, 44 had depression/anxiety symptoms at 2-months postpartum. Depression/anxiety symptoms were associated with reduced ACTH-cortisol coupling (adjusted beta: -0.03; p-value: 0.03). Among those who breastfed, those with depression/anxiety showed greater blunting of ACTH-cortisol coupling than those without (adjusted beta: -0.04; p-value: 0.02), while those who bottle-fed had similar coupling patterns regardless of depression/anxiety symptoms (adjusted beta: -0.01; p-value: 0.87). CONCLUSION HPA axis response was blunted in those with postpartum depression/anxiety symptoms, and blunting varied by method of infant feeding. Findings support HPA axis dysregulation in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Future research should explore how method of infant feeding influences the relationship between perinatal mood disorders and HPA axis dysregulation. Elucidating the mechanistic pathways underlying perinatal mood disorders can aid in the development of better diagnostic and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E Bruce
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Kathryn Wouk
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, USA
| | - Karen M Grewen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, USA
| | - Brenda Pearson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Alison M Stuebe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, USA; Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, USA
| | - Anna E Bauer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, USA
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26
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Myers CE, Perskaudas R, Reddy V, Dave CV, Keilp JG, King A, Rodriguez K, Hill LS, Miller R, Interian A. Negative valuation of ambiguous feedback may predict near-term risk for suicide attempt in Veterans at high risk for suicide. Front Psychiatry 2025; 15:1492332. [PMID: 39949497 PMCID: PMC11821650 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1492332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Learning from feedback - adapting behavior based on reinforcing and punishing outcomes - has been implicated in numerous psychiatric disorders, including substance misuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression; an emerging literature suggests it may also play a role in suicidality. This study examined whether a feedback-based learning task with rewarding, punishing and ambiguous outcomes, followed by computational modeling, could improve near-term prospective prediction of suicide attempt in a high-risk sample. Method Veterans (N=60) at high-risk for suicide were tested on a task of reward- and punishment-based learning, at multiple sessions across a one-year period. Each session was coded according to whether the participant had (1) an actual suicide attempt (ASA); (2) another suicide-related event (OtherSE) such as suicidal behavior or suicidal ideation-related hospital admission (but not an ASA); or (3) neither (noSE) in the next 90 days. Computational modeling was used to estimate latent cognitive variables including learning rates from positive and negative outcomes, and the subjective value of ambiguous feedback. Results Optimal responding on the reward-based trials was positively associated with upcoming ASA, and remained predictive even after controlling for other standard clinical variables such as current suicidal ideation severity and prior suicide attempts. Computational modeling revealed that patients with upcoming ASA tended to view ambiguous outcomes as similar to weak punishment, while OtherSE and noSE both tended to view the ambiguous outcome as similar to weak reward. Differences in the reinforcement value of the neutral outcome remained predictive for ASA even after controlling for current suicidal ideation and prior suicide attempts. Conclusion A reinforcement learning task with ambiguous neutral outcomes may provide a useful tool to help predict near-term risk of ASA in at-risk patients. While most individuals interpret ambiguous feedback as mildly reinforcing (a "glass half full" interpretation), those with upcoming ASA tend to view it as mildly punishing (a "glass half empty" interpretation). While the current results are based on a very small sample with relatively few ASA events, and require replication in a larger sample, they provide support for the role of negative biases in feedback-based learning in the cognitive profile of suicide risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Myers
- Research Service, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, East Orange, NJ, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Rokas Perskaudas
- Mental Health and Behavioral Services, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Lyons, NJ, United States
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC), East Orange, NJ, United States
| | - Vibha Reddy
- Research Service, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, East Orange, NJ, United States
| | - Chintan V. Dave
- Research Service, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, East Orange, NJ, United States
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology and Treatment Science, Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - John G. Keilp
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Arlene King
- Mental Health and Behavioral Services, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Lyons, NJ, United States
| | - Kailyn Rodriguez
- Research Service, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, East Orange, NJ, United States
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren St. Hill
- Mental Health and Behavioral Services, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Lyons, NJ, United States
| | - Rachael Miller
- Mental Health and Behavioral Services, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Lyons, NJ, United States
| | - Alejandro Interian
- Mental Health and Behavioral Services, VA New Jersey Health Care System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Lyons, NJ, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
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27
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Jeziorek M, Kania G, Stanimirova I, Konikowska K, Szuba A, Chachaj A. Insights into diet, psychological distress, and personality traits among patients with lower-extremity lymphedema and overweight/obesity in comparison to patients with lifestyle-induced overweight/obesity and patients with normal body weight. Obes Res Clin Pract 2025:S1871-403X(25)00006-7. [PMID: 39880782 DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2025.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2024] [Revised: 01/10/2025] [Accepted: 01/19/2025] [Indexed: 01/31/2025]
Abstract
Obesity is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases. There are significant and mutual associations between lymphatic dysfunction and obesity. This case-control study aimed to compare nutrient intake, depressive symptoms, and Eysenck's personality traits in patients with lower extremity lymphedema and overweight/obesity (n = 34) in comparison to patients with lifestyle-induced overweight/obesity (n = 30) and patients with normal body weight (n = 30). The study groups were evaluated using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised (EPQ-R). Surprisingly, the study groups did not differ in any item in the FFQ, including total daily energy value and total intake of macronutrients, vitamins, or minerals. The group with lymphedema and overweight/obesity had higher scores on the depression scale, and the groups with lymphedema and overweight/obesity and lifestyle-induced overweight/obesity differed from the control group in Eysenck's psychoticism score; however, in all study groups, the scores of this trait were within the normal range. In conclusion, our study suggests that when FFQ is used, the problem of under-reporting of usual dietary intake among patients with lower extremity lymphedema and overweight/obesity, and lifestyle-induced overweight/obesity should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Jeziorek
- Department of Dietetics and Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Gabriela Kania
- Department of Dietetics and Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | | | - Klaudia Konikowska
- Department of Dietetics and Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Szuba
- Department of Angiology and Internal Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Angelika Chachaj
- Department of Angiology and Internal Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
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28
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Boothby AB, Evans MD, Yang S, Sukumar S, Scott JG, Terrell DR, Cataland S, Mazepa M. Multicenter Prospective Pilot Study Identifying Thrombomodulin as a Potential Biomarker for Neurocognitive Outcomes in Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. J Clin Med 2025; 14:694. [PMID: 39941363 PMCID: PMC11818605 DOI: 10.3390/jcm14030694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2024] [Revised: 01/14/2025] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 02/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) is a rare, chronically relapsing disorder that causes life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathy. Many survivors in clinical remission show evidence of ongoing silent cerebral infarction and neurocognitive deficits. Prospective longitudinal studies of this population are needed to acquire a complete understanding of the mechanism behind this ongoing neurologic injury. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a multicenter prospective study of neuropsychological and cognitive function in iTTP survivors in remission and examine novel biomarkers. Methods: We aimed to enroll 50 iTTP patients across three USTMA consortium sites between 2019 and 2022 in a 24-month longitudinal study. Clinical, cognitive, and biomarker assessments, including ADAMTS13 activity, were performed. Results: Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we enrolled 38 subjects, and 31 (81.6%) completed closeout evaluations at 24 months. Upon the participants' enrollment in the study, we confirmed previous findings, including high rates of moderate to severe neurocognitive and psychiatric sequelae (anxiety, 47%; depression, 45%; and headaches, 55%). Changes in cognitive function were measurable and included decreased immediate memory and visuospatial abilities. Over this two-year study, we did not see a significant change in neurocognitive findings. There was no association between cognitive function and ADAMTS13 activity; however, we found that the level of soluble thrombomodulin (CD141) was significantly correlated with cognitive impairment. Conclusions: We conclude that a more extensive study is feasible, and at least 5-10 years may be required to detect trends in neurocognitive function. Soluble thrombomodulin is a promising biomarker for cognitive impairment in survivors of iTTP, and it is worthy of additional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron B. Boothby
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Michael D. Evans
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Shangbin Yang
- Section of Hematology-Oncology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Senthil Sukumar
- Section of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - James G. Scott
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Deirdra R. Terrell
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Spero Cataland
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Marshall Mazepa
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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29
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Li Y, Zhang T, Hou X, Chen X, Mao Y. Common and distinct neural underpinnings of the association between childhood maltreatment and depression and aggressive behavior. BMC Psychiatry 2025; 25:43. [PMID: 39825275 PMCID: PMC11740468 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-025-06485-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 01/20/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although childhood maltreatment (CM) is widely recognized as a transdiagnostic risk factor for various internalizing and externalizing psychological disorders, the neural basis underlying this association remain unclear. The potential reasons for the inconsistent findings may be attributed to the involvement of both common and specific neural pathways that mediate the influence of childhood maltreatment on the emergence of psychopathological conditions. METHODS This study aimed to delineate both the common and distinct neural pathways linking childhood maltreatment to depression and aggression. First, we employed Network-Based Statistics (NBS) on resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to identify functional connectivity (FC) patterns associated with depression and aggression. Mediation analyses were then conducted to assess the role of these FC patterns in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and each outcome. RESULTS The results demonstrated that FC within the default mode network (DMN) and between the cingulo-opercular network (CON) and dorsal attention network (DAN) mediated the association between childhood maltreatment and aggression, whereas FC within the reward system and between the CON and the reward system mediated the link between childhood maltreatment and depression. CONCLUSIONS We speculate that the control system may serve as a transdiagnostic neural basis accounting for the sequela of childhood maltreatment, and the attention network and the reward network may act as specific neural basis linking childhood maltreatment to depression and aggression, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- School of Education, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Medical Psychology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xin Hou
- School of Education, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- School of Education, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yu Mao
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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30
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Jeong S, Kim EJ. Effect of depression and empowerment on medication adherence in patients with breast cancer: a descriptive survey. BMC Nurs 2025; 24:47. [PMID: 39806337 PMCID: PMC11731554 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-02680-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/30/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the global prevalence of breast cancer and its high mortality rate, adherence to long-term anti-hormonal therapy is crucial for preventing recurrence and improving survival outcomes. Previous research demonstrates how psychological factors including depression and empowerment impact medication adherence. However, comprehensive studies remain limited, especially in Korea. This study explores the effects of depression and empowerment on medication adherence among patients with breast cancer undergoing anti-hormonal therapy. METHODS This descriptive survey involved 183 patients with breast cancer from one hospital in South Korea; participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Self-reported questionnaires were used to assess medication adherence, depression levels using the Korean version of the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and empowerment levels using a tool developed for women with breast cancer. Hierarchical regression explored relationships and influences between variables. RESULTS Participants demonstrated an average depression score of 19.67 ± 11.25, with medication adherence measured at 18.06 ± 5.15 and empowerment at 106.40 ± 18.15, revealing that, among patients with breast cancer, many experienced depression with varying levels: 16.9% mild, 27.3% moderate, and 21.9% severe. Medication adherence levels were distributed, with 58.5% of patients categorized as non-adherent and 41.5% categorized as adherent. The results indicated a significant negative correlation between depression and medication adherence and a positive correlation between empowerment and medication adherence. Higher empowerment levels were associated with improved adherence. Conversely, high depression levels were associated with low medication adherence. CONCLUSIONS This study enhances understandings of psychosocial factors influencing medication adherence in patients with breast cancer, highlighting patient empowerment as crucial for healthcare interventions. Thus, healthcare providers should implement targeted interventions including educational programs to inform patients about their treatment regimens, provide counseling services addressing mental health concerns such as depression, and establish support groups fostering a sense of community and shared experiences among patients. By integrating these strategies into patient care, healthcare professionals can significantly enhance patient empowerment and improve medication adherence toward better health outcomes for breast cancer patients. Future research could explore the long-term effects of these interventions on adherence and overall patient well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sookyung Jeong
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, Wonkwang University, 460, Iksandae-ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk, 54538, Republic of Korea.
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Kalinowski O, Lotysh A, Kaya G, Kroehn-Liedtke F, Zerbe LK, Mihaylova H, Sipos K, Rössler W, Schouler-Ocak M. Prevalence, risk and resilience factors of mental health conditions among female sex workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2025; 12:1455999. [PMID: 39877911 PMCID: PMC11773154 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1455999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/27/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Female sex workers are a vulnerable hard-to-reach group. Research in this field is scarce due to several issues, such as methodological difficulties or societal stigmatization. Most of the available literature focuses on sexually transmittable diseases. This review and meta-analysis aim to compile literature on the mental health of female sex workers. We investigated the prevalence of as well as risk factors for mental disease among female sex workers globally. Methods Utilizing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search across several databases, ultimately analyzing data from 80 studies comprising 24,675 individuals in total. Results Most of the studies stemmed from the United States (n = 24), followed by China (n = 12), India (n = 7) and Kenya (n = 5). Four studies were conducted in South Africa and three in Mexico. Two studies originated from Australia, Cambodia, Thailand, the Netherlands, and Uganda. Single studies were identified from Scotland, Switzerland, Israel, Portugal, Mongolia, Malawi, Cameroon, Ukraine, Togo, Lebanon, the Dominican Republic, Tanzania, Puerto Rico, Ethiopia, and Moldova. The review highlights significant heterogeneity in the prevalence of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidality, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use and dependence, investigating the influence of socio-economic, legal, and individual factors on these outcomes. The meta-analysis reveals that while factors like legal status of sex work and economic conditions did not show any impact, specific demographic characteristics, notably female sex workers living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), migrant female sex workers, or female sex workers engaged in substance use, exhibit notably higher mental health challenges. Discussion These findings suggest the critical need for targeted mental health interventions and policy reforms that consider the complex interplay of various factors affecting sex workers. Future research should focus on under-researched regions and subgroups within this population to enhance understanding and support the development of comprehensive health services. Systematic review registration PROSPERO, CRD42022312737, available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022312737.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Kalinowski
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Psychiatric University Clinic of Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital, Berlin, Germany
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Broda MD, Conley AH, Clarke PB, Ohrt JH, Joy J. Examining the Dimensionality, Internal Consistency, and Invariance of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) Across Age, Race, Ethnicity, and Caretaking Status. Psychol Rep 2025:332941241313105. [PMID: 39797903 DOI: 10.1177/00332941241313105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2025]
Abstract
This study investigates the performance of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) across diverse demographic groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a large, generalizable U.S. sample (N = 676), we applied multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis to examine the scale's internal consistency and measurement invariance in relation to age, race, ethnicity, and caretaking status. Our findings offer mixed evidence on the performance of the original three-factor structure of the DASS-21, which appears to function more consistently across groups defined by caretaking status and ethnicity, but less well across groups defined by age and racial identity. This research contributes substantially to the field by enhancing the understanding of DASS-21's applicability in diverse populations, particularly in the context of a global health crisis. It underscores the need for nuanced interpretation of DASS-21 scores considering significant demographic variability in its interpretation by participant racial identity and age, thereby guiding more accurate mental health assessments and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jeen Joy
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Almutary H, AlShammari N. Treatment of depression and poor quality of life through breathing training in hemodialysis patients. BMC Nephrol 2025; 26:16. [PMID: 39794707 PMCID: PMC11720357 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-025-03950-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 01/13/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of depression in patients undergoing hemodialysis remains challenging and affects quality of life; however, there is a possibility that breathing exercises may be effective in this context. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a breathing training program on quality of life and depression among patients on hemodialysis. METHODS A one-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was used. Data were collected from hemodialysis patients at three dialysis centers. Initial baseline data were collected, and a breathing training program was implemented. The program included three types of breathing exercises. A total of 41 participants completed the study. The participants were asked to perform the breathing training program three times a day for 30 days. The impact of the intervention on patients' quality of life and depression was measured using both the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Version and the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition. RESULTS A significant decrease in the overall depression score was observed after implementing the breathing training program (BDI-II mean difference =-3.9, 95% CI:0.35-7.45, p = 0.03). The intervention has also had significant improvements on overall quality of life (KDQOL mean difference = 6.09, 95% CI: 0.48-11.70, p = 0.03) and a reduction in the symptoms and problems domain (domain mean difference = 6.71, 95% CI: 0.01-13.40, p = 0.05). There were some improvements on other quality of life domains but did not reach the statistical differences after program implementation. CONCLUSIONS Breathing exercises are associated with improved quality of life and reduced depression among HD patients, providing a simple and cost-effective intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayfa Almutary
- Medical Surgical Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Noof AlShammari
- Medical Surgical Nursing Department, Qassim University, Qassim Province, Buraydah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Kokkinaki T, Anagnostatou N, Markodimitraki M, Roumeliotaki T, Tzatzarakis M, Vakonaki E, Giannakakis G, Tsatsakis A, Hatzidaki E. The development of preterm infants from low socio-economic status families: The combined effects of melatonin, autonomic nervous system maturation and psychosocial factors (ProMote): A study protocol. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0316520. [PMID: 39792923 PMCID: PMC11723634 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Preterm births constitute a major public health issue and a chronic, cross-generational condition globally. Psychological and biological factors interact in a way that women from low socio-economic status (SES) are disproportionally affected by preterm delivery and at increased risk for the development of perinatal mental health problems. Low SES constitutes one of the most evident contributors to poor neurodevelopment of preterm infants. Maternal perinatal mental health disorders have persistent effects on behavioral and physiological functioning throughout the lifespan and may even be evident across generations. The overall objective of the proposed longitudinal, multi-disciplinary and multi-method study is to compare the association of psychosocial (maternal mental health, intersubjectivity, attachment, family functioning, dyadic coping and perceived social support), and biological factors (melatonin and heart rate variability) with preterm infants' development at 9 months (corrected age), between low and high SES families. We will collect data from preterm neonates (<37 weeks gestational age) hospitalized in the Department of Neonatology/Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University General Hospital of Heraklion, Greece, and their mothers. Data collection of psychosocial and biological factors will be carried out at birth, and at the corrected age of 6 and 9 months, while preterm infants' cognitive and social development will be assessed at 9 months corrected age. The findings of this study may highlight the need for early interventions for new mothers coming from low SES in order to promote their preterm infants' optimal early neurodevelopment and for community-evidence-based prevention efforts to restrict the cycle of health inequities and intergenerational mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theano Kokkinaki
- Child Development and Education Unit, Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymnon, Crete, Greece
| | - Nicole Anagnostatou
- Department of Neonatology/Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Heraklion, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Maria Markodimitraki
- Department of Preschool Education, University of Crete, Rethymnon, Crete, Greece
| | - Theano Roumeliotaki
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Manolis Tzatzarakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Giorgos Giannakakis
- Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Chania, Crete, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Hatzidaki
- Department of Neonatology/Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Heraklion, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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Postolache TT, Duncan E, Yen P, Potocki E, Barnhart M, Federline A, Massa N, Dagdag A, Joseph J, Wadhawan A, Capan CD, Forton C, Lowry CA, Ortmeyer HK, Brenner LA. Toxoplasma gondii, suicidal behaviour and suicide risk factors in US Veterans enrolled in mental health treatment. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2025; 72:2025.002. [PMID: 39817778 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2025.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2025]
Abstract
Markers of chronic infection Toxoplasma gondii (Nicolle et Manceaux, 1908) have been associated with suicidal self-directed violence (SSDV). We present the results of the first study relating T. gondii IgG serology with suicide attempts and suicidal ideation in United States Veterans, known to have higher suicide rates than members of the general population. We also related T. gondii serology to SSDV risk factors, including valid and reliable measures of trait impulsivity, aggression, self-reported depression, and sleep disturbance. We recruited 407 Veterans enrolled at three Veterans Affairs Medical Centers with mean (S.D.) age = 45.6 (11.6) years; 304 men (74.7%); 203 with a history of SSDV and 204 with no history of any self-directed violence (SDV). Seropositivity and serointensity, categorised as high (top quartile) or low (lower three quartiles), were analysed in relationship to SSDV, suicidal ideation and clinical risk factors using age and gender-adjusted linear and logistic methods, after transformations and nonparametric tests when appropriate. Associations between seropositivity and SSDV and its risk factors were not significant in all groups. High serointensity, while not associated with SSDV or repeat suicide attempts, was positively associated with suicidal ideation, depression, impulsivity, and daytime dysfunction due to sleepiness (p < 0.05), but only in Veterans with a history of SSDV. In Veterans without a history of SDV, no associations were significant. These associations remained significant after adjustment for certain socioeconomic factors (i.e., income, homelessness, military rank). Including education in the model downgraded the statistical significance of suicidal ideation and depression to statistical trends, but the significance of associations with impulsivity and daytime dysfunction due to sleepiness remained. Major limitations include the cross-sectional design, overall low seropositivity within the sample, and potentially spurious results due to multiple comparisons. Thus, the results of this report need to be replicated in larger samples, ideally longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor T Postolache
- Share senior authorship *Address for correspondence: Teodor T. Postolache, MD; 685 West Baltimore Street, MSTF Building, Room 930 Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Erica Duncan
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Decatur, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Share senior authorship *Address for correspondence: Teodor T. Postolache, MD; 685 West Baltimore Street, MSTF Building, Room 930 Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Poyu Yen
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eileen Potocki
- VA Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Meghan Barnhart
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda Federline
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 5, VA Capitol Health Care Network, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicholas Massa
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Aline Dagdag
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joshua Joseph
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Abhishek Wadhawan
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Saint Elizabeths Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Colt D Capan
- Department for Neurodegenerative Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Cameron Forton
- Department for Neurodegenerative Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Aurora, CO, USA
- Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Heidi K Ortmeyer
- Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Aurora, CO, USA
- Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, USA
- Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Psychiatry and Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Share senior authorship *Address for correspondence: Teodor T. Postolache, MD; 685 West Baltimore Street, MSTF Building, Room 930 Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Barria P, Andrade A, Yelincic A, Córdova B, Covarrubias-Escudero F, Cifuentes C, Appelgren-Gonzalez JP. Impact of a Long-Term Home-Based Rehabilitation Program on Quality of Life, Balance, and Autonomy in Adults with Disabilities. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2025; 10:24. [PMID: 39846665 PMCID: PMC11755656 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk10010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2024] [Revised: 01/02/2025] [Accepted: 01/05/2025] [Indexed: 01/24/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rehabilitation is a critical process for enhancing functionality, independence, and quality of life in individuals with disabilities. Grounded in the biopsychosocial model, it addresses physical, emotional, and social dimensions through personalized, evidence-based interventions. By integrating standardized assessments and continuous evaluation, rehabilitation has the potential to promote recovery and support active participation in society. OBJECTIVES This study evaluated the impact of a long-term, multidisciplinary, home-based rehabilitation program on quality of life, balance, and functional autonomy in adults with neuromusculoskeletal disabilities. METHODS A total of 559 participants received individualized interventions from a team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other health professionals. Functional independence, balance, depressive symptoms, and quality of life were assessed using the Barthel Index, Berg Balance Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and SF-36 questionnaire, respectively. RESULTS A longitudinal analysis comparing pre- and post-intervention outcomes revealed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001) across all metrics. The Barthel Index median increased from 85 to 90 points, indicating greater functional independence, while the Berg Balance Scale improved from 39 to 47 points, reflecting reduced fall risk. Depressive symptoms decreased, with Beck Depression Inventory scores dropping from 12 to 9, and both physical and mental health components of the SF-36 showed marked enhancements. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the program's effectiveness in addressing both physical and emotional needs, emphasizing the value of extended, personalized, home-based care in improving health, autonomy, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This study underscores the potential of multidisciplinary approaches to support long-term rehabilitation in diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Barria
- Research and Development Area, Corporación de Rehabilitación Club de Leones Cruz del Sur, Punta Arenas 6210005, Chile; (P.B.); (A.A.); (A.Y.); (B.C.)
| | - Asterio Andrade
- Research and Development Area, Corporación de Rehabilitación Club de Leones Cruz del Sur, Punta Arenas 6210005, Chile; (P.B.); (A.A.); (A.Y.); (B.C.)
| | - Alejandro Yelincic
- Research and Development Area, Corporación de Rehabilitación Club de Leones Cruz del Sur, Punta Arenas 6210005, Chile; (P.B.); (A.A.); (A.Y.); (B.C.)
| | - Bessié Córdova
- Research and Development Area, Corporación de Rehabilitación Club de Leones Cruz del Sur, Punta Arenas 6210005, Chile; (P.B.); (A.A.); (A.Y.); (B.C.)
| | - Felipe Covarrubias-Escudero
- Translational Research Unit, Trainfes Center, Santiago 8760903, Chile;
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Art and Physical Education, Universidad Metropolitana de Ciencias de la Educación, Santiago 7750332, Chile
| | - Carlos Cifuentes
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK;
| | - Juan Pablo Appelgren-Gonzalez
- Translational Research Unit, Trainfes Center, Santiago 8760903, Chile;
- Center of Biomedical Imaging, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7510000, Chile
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Pieracci G, Satriano F, D'Agostino AL, Rodini M, Caltagirone C, Formisano R, Vinicola V, Carlesimo GA. Accelerated long-term forgetting: Design and validation of a neuropsychological tool in healthy subjects and diagnostic accuracy in a group of subjects with severe acquired brain injury. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2025:1-13. [PMID: 39757953 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2024.2449564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Accelerated Long-term Forgetting (ALF) is a phenomenon characterized by abnormal memory forgetting over hours or days, despite normal initial acquisition. Because standardized memory assessments typically test memory retention over delays of up to 30 minutes, ALF may be undetected. METHODS The first Experiment of the present study was aimed to validate, in a sample of healthy subjects (n = 54, 20 to 79 years old), a long-term verbal and visuospatial memory procedure, using common tests but administered at extended intervals. In Experiment 2, we aimed to explore ALF pattern in a sample of patients with severe Acquired Brain Injury (sABI) who subjectively complained of memory difficulties and nevertheless obtained normal or only mildly deficient scores on traditional memory tasks (n = 10). RESULTS Results of Experiment 1 showed that both the verbal and visuo-spatial memory tasks proved to be valid and effective at illustrating the phenomenon of forgetting along the time intervals considered. Moreover, a significant association was found between higher saving scores passing from the 30 min to the 24 hr interval of the verbal test and the score obtained on a questionnaire assessing the subjective feeling of memory functioning. Results of Experiment 2 showed that patients with sABI obtained reduced 30 m-24hr saving scores on the verbal test as compared to healthy controls despite comparable forgetting at earlier and later delays. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the utility of extended memory assessment, thus the need for validation of specific diagnostic tools in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Pieracci
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuropsychology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Satriano
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuropsychology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marta Rodini
- Laboratory of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Caltagirone
- Laboratory of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Formisano
- Post-Coma Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Augusto Carlesimo
- Laboratory of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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Gajewski B, Karlińska I, Domowicz M, Bednarski I, Świderek-Matysiak M, Stasiołek M. No Relation Between Cognitive Impairment, Physical Disability and Serum Biomarkers in a Cohort of Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Patients. Biomolecules 2025; 15:68. [PMID: 39858462 PMCID: PMC11763174 DOI: 10.3390/biom15010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2024] [Revised: 12/17/2024] [Accepted: 12/30/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Despite significant efforts, there is still an existing need to identify diagnostic tools that would enable fast and reliable detection of the progressive stage of multiple sclerosis (MS) and help in monitoring the disease course and/or treatment effects. The aim of this prospective study in a group of people with progressive MS was to determine whether changes in the levels of selected serum biomarkers and in cognitive function may predict disease progression, and therefore refine the decision-making process in the evaluation of MS patients. Forty two (42) patients with progressive MS completed all the study procedures; the mean duration of follow-up was 12.97 months. During the observation period, serum concentration of chitinase-3 like-protein-1 (CHI3L1/YKL-40) decreased significantly in the whole study group (from 4034.95 ± 262.62 to 2866.43 ± 173.37; p = 0.0005), as well as in subgroups of people with secondary progressive and primary progressive MS (SPMS: from 3693.81 ± 388.68 to 2542.76 ± 256.59; p = 0.0207; and PPMS: from 4376.09 ± 353.27 to 3190.09 ± 233.22; p = 0.0089, respectively). A significant worsening of Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) scores was detected in the whole study group (from 1.18 ± 0.14 to 1.34 ± 0.15; p = 0.0331) as well as in the PPMS subgroup (from 1.04 ± 0.18 to 1.26 ± 0.20; p = 0.0216). No correlations between the analyzed molecular parameters or the results of neuropsychological tests and physical disability were observed. In conclusion, an emphasis should be placed on furthering the search for multimodal biomarkers of disease progression, especially in the PMS population, based on simultaneous analysis of several factors, such as blood biomarkers and cognitive profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mariusz Stasiołek
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Lodz, Kopcinskiego 22, 90-153 Lodz, Poland; (B.G.); (I.K.); (M.D.); (I.B.); (M.Ś.-M.)
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El-Ashker S, Alharbi A, Mahmoud S, Al-Awad F, Alghamdi A, Alaqeel N, Al-Hariri M. Unraveling the threads of depressive symptoms: Enhancing predictions of depression among university junior students. SAGE Open Med 2025; 13:20503121241310912. [PMID: 39759880 PMCID: PMC11694298 DOI: 10.1177/20503121241310912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2025] Open
Abstract
Background The mental burden faced by university students in their early years is not frequently reported in the literature. Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and predictors of depression among preparatory (first) year university students using a predictive test developed from general health and well-being questionnaires. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia from March 2023 to June 2023. A self-administered electronic general health and well-being questionnaire was implemented. Written informed consent was obtained from the participants after explaining the study's purposes. The questionnaire consisted of three parts. Part I described the objective of the study and maintained the confidentiality of the data, part II contained questions about demographic data, and part III contained the scales of the items to assess the physical and psychological health. Results The findings demonstrated a significant positive correlation between depressive symptoms and both perceived stress (r = 0.444, p < 0.01) and perceived burdens (r = 0.735, p < 0.01). In addition, there were significant negative correlations between the depressive symptoms and gender (r = -0.144, p < 0.05), economic level (r = -0.178, p < 0.05), and social support (r = -0.312, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the results revealed that body mass index (b = 0.272, t(146) = 4.636, p < .001), perceived stress (b = 0.182, t(146) = 2.910, p < 0.01), and perceived burdens (b = 0.593, t(146) = 9.507, p < .001) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms among Saudi university junior students. Conclusion Our findings emphasize the need for tailored mental health support services to address depression and its predictors, especially during critical transition periods like the early stages of university life, as early detection and intervention can lead to improved management and better control of the depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Said El-Ashker
- Self-Development Department, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmajeed Alharbi
- Department of Psychology, College of Education, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Somaya Mahmoud
- Department of Sociology and Social Work, College of Arts, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feras Al-Awad
- Department of Psychology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam Alghamdi
- Department of Psychology, College of Education, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf Alaqeel
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Hariri
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Hill TL, Na X, Bellando J, Glasier CM, Ou X. Functional Connectivity to the Amygdala in the Neonate Is Impacted by the Maternal Anxiety Level During Pregnancy. J Neuroimaging 2025; 35:e70004. [PMID: 39757405 DOI: 10.1111/jon.70004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2024] [Revised: 12/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Anxiety during pregnancy is common, and exposure to heightened anxiety during pregnancy may influence children's brain development and functioning. However, it is unclear if exposure to low levels of anxiety in utero would also impact the developing brain. The current prospective and longitudinal study included 40 healthy pregnant women without pregnancy complications or previous diagnosis of anxiety disorders. METHODS Pregnant women's anxiety symptoms were measured at 12, 24, and 36 weeks of gestation. Their healthy, full-term offspring underwent a brain MRI scan without sedation, including resting-state functional MRI, at 2 weeks postnatal age. The associations between neonatal brain cortical functional connectivity originating from the amygdala and maternal prenatal anxiety symptom scores were examined using correlational analyses. RESULTS Significant correlations were identified after controlling for child sex, postmenstrual age at MRI, and mother's depression symptom scores. Higher maternal anxiety during pregnancy was related to alterations in offspring's functional connectivity between the amygdala and other brain regions involved in fear learning. Specifically, higher maternal prenatal anxiety during the first trimester of pregnancy was associated with lower connectivity between the amygdala and fusiform gyrus and higher connectivity between the amygdala and thalamus. Higher maternal prenatal anxiety during the third trimester was also associated with lower connectivity between the amygdala and fusiform gyrus. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study indicate that exposure to low levels of anxiety in utero may also impact offspring brain development and functioning, particularly brain regions that are important for threat detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trenesha L Hill
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Xiaoxu Na
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Jayne Bellando
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Charles M Glasier
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Xiawei Ou
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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Erhart A, Watamura S, Olsavsky AK, Dufford A, Tribble R, Yeh T, Kim P. Maternal cortisol concentration is associated with reduced brain activation to infant cry and more intrusive parenting behavior. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2025; 171:107207. [PMID: 39413527 PMCID: PMC11724425 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/18/2024]
Abstract
Previous research indicates that maternal cortisol function and maternal brain response to infant are each in turn related to variations in parenting behavior. However, little is known about how maternal cortisol and maternal brain function are associated, thus studying these two mechanisms together may improve our understanding of how maternal cortisol assessed during interactions with own infant is associated with brain response to infant cry. First-time mothers (N = 59) of infants aged 3-4 months old were recruited to participate. Mothers' cortisol concentration was measured during a naturalistic interaction with their infant and their behavior was coded for two parenting behaviors-- maternal sensitivity and non-intrusiveness. In an fMRI session, mothers listened to their own infant and a control infant crying. Higher cortisol concentration was associated with more intrusive behavior. We found greater cortisol concentration was further associated with decreased activation in the brain to infant cry in the right precentral gyrus, the left culmen extending into the left inferior temporal gyrus and fusiform, two clusters in the superior temporal gyrus, and in the medial frontal gyrus. We also found that lower activation in these regions was associated with more intrusive maternal behavior. These data demonstrate the associations between maternal cortisol concentration and reduced brain activation to infant cry in both motor planning and auditory processing regions in predicting intrusive parenting behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Erhart
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, 2155 South Race Street, Denver, CO 80208-3500, United States; Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Denver, Colorado, 4300 Cherry Creek S Dr, Glendale, CO 80246, United States.
| | - Sarah Watamura
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, 2155 South Race Street, Denver, CO 80208-3500, United States
| | - Aviva K Olsavsky
- University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine/Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Avenue, CO 80045, United States
| | - Alexander Dufford
- Center for Mental Health Innovation and Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, 3161 SW Pavilion Loop, Portland, OR 97239, United States
| | - Rebekah Tribble
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, 2155 South Race Street, Denver, CO 80208-3500, United States
| | - Tom Yeh
- Department of Computer Science, University of Colorado, Boulder, 1111 Engineering Drive, Boulder, CO 80309-0430, United States
| | - Pilyoung Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, 2155 South Race Street, Denver, CO 80208-3500, United States; Department of Psychology, Ewah Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Hakamata Y, Mizukami S, Izawa S, Hori H, Matsui M, Moriguchi Y, Hanakawa T, Inoue Y, Tagaya H. Contextual memory bias in emotional events: Neurobiological correlates and depression risk. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2025; 171:107218. [PMID: 39531919 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contextual memory loss of emotional events plays a critical role in depression psychopathology. Individuals with depression, clinical or subclinical, exhibit enhanced and impaired memory for emotionally negative stimuli and context in an event, respectively. This suggests that contextual encoding may fail because of attentional interference caused by concurrent negative stimuli, possibly leading to contextual memory loss as a depression risk. Amygdala-prefrontal connectivity and cortisol may underlie the mechanism; however, the relationships remain unknown. METHODS One hundred twenty participants, including 34 with subclinical depression, underwent behavioral tasks, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans, and saliva collection. Encoding and 24 h later recollection performance of visuoperceptual/spatial/temporal context in a series of events, where fearful (vs. neutral) faces appeared, were measured via contextual memory tasks. Overgeneral autobiographical memory (OGM), a more remote form of contextual memory loss, was also assessed via the Autobiographical Memory Test. Amygdala connectivity was measured by fMRI during attentional interference by fearful (vs. neutral) faces to differentiate selective attention from encoding. Basal cortisol levels were assayed through saliva collected at encoding during the visit day and across 2 consecutive days in the following week (12 time points in total). We explored whether contextual memory encoding failure would explain depressive symptoms through OGM under possible moderation of amygdala connectivity and cortisol. RESULTS In individuals with subclinical depression compared to those without, fearful faces disturbed memory encoding of the visuoperceptual context rather than 24 h later recollection, while neutral faces in their temporal proximity contrastingly augmented it. The more the contextual memory encoding bias (fearful vs. neutral) intensified, the more the amygdala's functional connectivity with the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) weakened. Higher total cortisol output tended to be correlated with poorer 24-h later recollection of the temporal context. Moderated mediation effects of the amygdala-vmPFC connectivity and cortisol were not significant; however, contextual encoding bias explained depressive symptoms through negatively valenced OGM. CONCLUSIONS Negative stimuli appearing in an event might impair memory encoding of the visuoperceptual context under attentional interference, represented as weakened amygdala-vmPFC connectivity implicated in emotion-related attentional dysregulation. Conversely, negative stimuli might enhance temporally proximal visuoperceptual encoding after their disappearance. Contextual encoding bias could explain the overgeneralization (or lower coherence) of autobiographical memory and increase the risk of depression. The possible role of cortisol in recollecting the context of emotional events over time warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Hakamata
- Department of Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience, Toyama University School of Medicine, Japan; Department of Health Science, Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Japan; Department of Behavioral Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan.
| | - Shinya Mizukami
- Department of Radiological Technology, Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Shuhei Izawa
- Occupational Stress and Health Management Research Group, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Hori
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Mie Matsui
- Institute of Liberal Arts and Science, Kanazawa University, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Moriguchi
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Takashi Hanakawa
- Integrative Brain Imaging Center, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan; Department of Integrated Neuroanatomy and Neuroimaging, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yusuke Inoue
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hirokuni Tagaya
- Department of Health Science, Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Japan
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Bahi A, Dreyer JL. Myelin Transcription Factor 1 (MyT1) overexpression mitigates social isolation-induced behavioral deficits: Insights into cortical synaptotagmin 1 regulation and antidepressant-like effects. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2025; 246:173912. [PMID: 39592028 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2024] [Revised: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 11/19/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation (SI) stress is increasingly recognized as a concern, associated with detrimental effects on mood and emotional well-being. Myelin Transcription Factor 1 (MyT1) is known for its pivotal role in nervous system development and mood regulation. This study delves into the potential of MyT1 to mitigate SI-induced behavioral abnormalities in mice. Utilizing a chronic SI model involving neonatal and post-weaning SI, male and female mice were subjected to lentiviral overexpression of MyT1 specifically in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). A battery of behavioral assessments, including novelty-suppressed feeding, sucrose preference, sucrose splash, tape grooming, tail suspension, and forced swim tests, revealed notable antidepressant-like effects in both sexes upon MyT1 overexpression. Enhanced MyT1 expression corresponded with increased feeding initiation, sucrose preference, and self-grooming, alongside decreased immobility time. Importantly, the upregulation of MyT1 was accompanied by a significant reduction in cortical synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1) level. These findings underscore the involvement of MyT1 in mitigating SI-induced depression-like behavior. Moreover, the observed alterations in behavior are closely associated with changes in cortical Syt1 expression, suggesting its potential role as a target for unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying mood disorders induced by SI. This study sheds light on the intricate interplay between MyT1 and cortical function in modulating responses to SI, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions targeting these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amine Bahi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; CMHS, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Jean-Luc Dreyer
- Division of Biochemistry, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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Calloway A, Creed TA, Gumport NB, Gutner C, Marques L, Hernandez S, Song J, Johnson C, Youn SJ, Elhusseini S, Deguzman-Lucero RM, Laskot T, La Bash H, Silvan YA, Cassotte C, Park AL, Dean K, Bartuska AD, Jo B, Barnett P, Kuhn E, DeRubeis R, Vogt D, Stirman SW. A comparison of scalable routine clinical materials and observer ratings to assess CBT fidelity. Behav Res Ther 2025; 184:104655. [PMID: 39612724 PMCID: PMC11717604 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2024.104655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 10/12/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 12/01/2024]
Abstract
Decades of research have demonstrated the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses, resulting in the inclusion of CBT as a first-line evidence-based practice (EBP) in treatment guidelines for mood and anxiety disorders. However, some research suggests that many providers do not implement EBPs as intended. Ongoing quality monitoring is needed to support EBP implementation and sustainability, but "gold standard" fidelity monitoring (e.g. observer ratings) is time-consuming, requires extensive training, and may feel intrusive to providers and clients. In the current study, we aimed to develop a scalable method of assessing CBT fidelity that leverages information generated in routine clinical care (e.g. session worksheets and clinician checklists). Ratings of adherence based on worksheets were not correlated with ratings of adherence based on observer ratings. However, ratings of competence based on worksheets were significantly correlated with observer ratings of competence. Ratings of adherence based on clinician checklist ratings were also significantly correlated with observer-rated adherence. Results did not indicate a strong relationship between adherence or competence measured by worksheet ratings or observer and symptom change. However, adherence as measured by clinician checklists were associated with subsequent depression symptom change. Findings have a strong potential to impact fidelity monitoring strategies for a variety of CBTs. Given the limited resources and time to do full audio review in routine care settings, findings suggest that using routine materials generated in session to assess therapist competence may be a feasible alternative to the "gold standard" audio review. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03479398.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Calloway
- Penn Collaborative for CBT and Implementation Science, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Torrey A Creed
- Penn Collaborative for CBT and Implementation Science, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Niki B Gumport
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Cassidy Gutner
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Luana Marques
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Samantha Hernandez
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 152 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Jiyoung Song
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Clara Johnson
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Guthrie Hall 119A, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Soo Jeong Youn
- Reliant Medical Group, OptumCare, Harvard Medical School, 5 Neponset St, Worcester, MA, 01606, USA
| | - Sohayla Elhusseini
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Regine M Deguzman-Lucero
- National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Taylor Laskot
- National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Heidi La Bash
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Yesenia Aguilar Silvan
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5505 Franz Hall, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Caroline Cassotte
- National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA; VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
| | - Alayna L Park
- University of Oregon, 1227 University St, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Kimberlye Dean
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Anna D Bartuska
- University of Oregon, 1227 University St, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Booil Jo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul Barnett
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, 3801 Miranda Avenue Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Eric Kuhn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Robert DeRubeis
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dawne Vogt
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA; Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5505 Franz Hall, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Shannon Wiltsey Stirman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, 795 Willow Road (NC-PTSD), Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
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Doornweerd AM, Gerritsen L, Montoya ER, Engelhard IM, Baas JMP. Contraceptives and conditioning: Different profiles of fear and expectancy ratings during fear conditioning and extinction according to menstrual cycle phase and hormonal contraceptive use. Biol Psychol 2025; 194:108964. [PMID: 39667429 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2024.108964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Accepted: 12/08/2024] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
Hormonal contraceptives (HC) such as the oral contraceptive pill (OC) and the hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) have been associated with depressed mood, but research on their role in anxiety is scarce and inconsistent. In a fear acquisition and extinction paradigm, self-report fear, expectancy, and skin conductance responses (SCR) were assessed, along with sex hormone levels. Naturally cycling (NC) participants were measured during the mid-follicular and mid-luteal phases (within subjects, n = 26) and compared with OC (n = 36) and IUD (n = 25) users. IUD users and -participants in the luteal phase showed overall reduced self-reported CS+ vs CS- differentiation compared to the follicular phase and OC use (which both reflect relatively low levels of endogenous gonadal hormones). This overall reduced differentiation in self-reported fear in the luteal phase was attributed to a generalization of fear from CS+ to CS-. NC-individuals with high premenstrual syndrome (PMS) ratings had higher overall fear ratings regardless of cycle phase. For SCR, hormonal status effects were restricted to specific experimental phases during acquisition. SCR to the CS+ was higher at the end of acquisition in the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase, and in OC users during early acquisition (compared to the follicular phase) and mid acquisition (compared to the IUD group). There were no direct associations with sex hormone levels. These findings demonstrate the impact of menstrual cycle and HC use on fear learning and highlight the need for further research that considers different outcome measures across a wide array of menstrual cycle and HC-related characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marieke Doornweerd
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte Gerritsen
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Estrella R Montoya
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Iris M Engelhard
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Joke M P Baas
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, the Netherlands.
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Vöhringer M, Specht F, Knaevelsrud C, Wagner B, Böttche M, Nesterko Y. Conflict-related and sexual trauma in treatment-seeking Arabic-speaking men: a cross-sectional study. EClinicalMedicine 2025; 79:102973. [PMID: 39968208 PMCID: PMC11832944 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 11/11/2024] [Accepted: 11/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual trauma in the context of conflict and displacement is considered one of the most serious and stigmatising forms of human rights violations. Although it has occurred throughout history, research data on this topic is scarce, especially regarding male survivors and Arabic-speaking countries. In the present study, we examined sexual and conflict-related trauma prevalence rates and those of other trauma types, as well as associations with sociodemographic and psychological characteristics among men from Arabic-speaking countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region seeking treatment via the internet. Methods In a cross-sectional and exploratory study design, prevalence rates of different trauma types were examined in a sample of treatment-seeking Arabic-speaking men. Sociodemographic characteristics, psychological symptom scores, disclosure rates, and trauma-related cognitive alterations were compared between participants reporting sexual trauma only (STo), conflict-related trauma only (CRTo), both trauma types (ST + CRT), and other trauma types (Non-ST/CRT). For the primary outcomes (psychological symptoms and trauma exposure) the group differences were analysed using an ANOVA and post-hoc pairwise group comparisons. The data collection took place between February 2021 and March 2023. Findings In total, 3903 men were initially screened. Of these, 2138 men indicated having experienced at least one traumatic event from a list of 23 types of events (man-made and non-man-made trauma) and were included in the study (age median: 25, age interquartile range: 10). 22% (n = 471) of participants were categorised into the STo group, 5.9% (n = 127) into the ST + CRT group, 18.6% (n = 397) into the CRTo group, and 53.5% into the Non-ST/CRT group (n = 1143). The ST + CRT group scored higher on measures of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to all other groups; significant differences between the groups were found on both these primary outcomes (depression: F(df) = 3.65 (3, 503.33), p < 0.05; PTSD: F(df) = 5.71 (3, 507.57), p < 0.01). However, these outcomes did not differ significantly between the ST + CRT group and the STo group. Furthermore, the STo and ST + CRT groups showed the highest scores for trauma appraisal and posttraumatic maladaptive beliefs, with no significant differences between them. Notably, the STo group scored significantly lower on the measure of disclosure to others than both the CRTo group (adjusted mean difference [aMD] = -1.14, 95% CI [-1.56, -0.71], p < 0.001) and the Non-ST/CRT group (aMD = -0.90, 95% CI [-0.58, -1.22], p < 0.001). Additionally, the STo group scored greater trauma-related guilt compared to the CRTo (aMD = 0.45, 95% CI [0.29, 0.61], p < 0.001) and the Non-ST/CRT groups (aMD = 0.21, 95% CI [0.33, 0.09], p < 0.001). Interpretation The results of this exploratory study reveal that a substantial proportion of Arabic-speaking treatment seeking men from different countries in the MENA region reported experiences of sexual and conflict-related trauma, which were associated with high psychological symptom scores. The parallels with survivors of sexual violence occurring in other contexts emphasise the need for sensitivity of researchers and practitioners when assessing sexual violence in male patients. Clinicians should furthermore bear in mind the cognitive alterations and significant barriers to disclosure, which reflect societal taboos and stigma, when working with survivors. Funding The project was funded by Misereor e.V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Vöhringer
- Department for Traumatic Stress and Transcultural Studies, Center ÜBERLEBEN Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Freya Specht
- Department for Traumatic Stress and Transcultural Studies, Center ÜBERLEBEN Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Birgit Wagner
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Böttche
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yuriy Nesterko
- Department for Traumatic Stress and Transcultural Studies, Center ÜBERLEBEN Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department for Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Vargas MC, Katz JB, Lopez A, Carrillo A, Gregory DL, O'Brien MJ. Promotora intervention for metabolic and mental health to reduce type 2 diabetes risk: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep 2024; 14:31988. [PMID: 39738452 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-83482-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/02/2025] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a novel behavioral intervention (PRIME2) that integrates evidence-based approaches for reducing diabetes risk and perceived stress. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of the 16-session PRIME2 intervention vs. usual care among 40 Spanish-speaking Latinx adults with prediabetes and body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2. The 3-month change in weight and perceived stress were co-primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were 3-month changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood pressure, and depressive symptoms. Study participants were women (95%) with mean age 49.9 (± 9.3) years, moderate levels of perceived stress, and risk factors for diabetes, including mean BMI 33.3 (± 5.4) kg/m2 and elevated HbA1c [mean 6.0% (± 0.2)]. PRIME2 participants demonstrated significantly greater 3-month weight loss relative to usual care (- 3.7lbs, p = 0.02). Reductions in perceived stress in both study arms were similar. There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes among PRIME2 participants vs. usual care. This pilot trial demonstrates the feasibility and preliminary weight loss effectiveness of the novel PRIME2 intervention, without observing a significant difference in perceived stress between study arms. Future research should include larger randomized samples that enable a definitive evaluation of intervention effects on both metabolic and mental health endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Vargas
- Institute of Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA
| | - Joshua B Katz
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Azucena Lopez
- Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, USA
| | | | - Dyanna L Gregory
- Division of Digestive & Liver Diseases, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| | - Matthew J O'Brien
- Institute of Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Northwestern University, 750 N. Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Jungwirth J, von Rotz R, Dziobek I, Vollenweider FX, Preller KH. Psilocybin increases emotional empathy in patients with major depression. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02875-0. [PMID: 39695323 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02875-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 11/22/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024]
Abstract
Empathy plays a crucial role in interpersonal relationships and mental health. It is decreased in a variety of psychiatric disorders including major depression. Psilocybin, a promising candidate for treating depression, has been shown to acutely increase emotional empathy in healthy volunteers. However, no study has investigated this effect and its relevance for symptom improvement in a clinical population. This study examines the enduring effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy on empathy in depressed patients using a randomized, placebo-controlled design. Fifty-one depressed patients were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of psilocybin (0215 mg/kg body weight) or a placebo embedded in a 4-week psychological support intervention. Empathy was measured using the Multifaceted Empathy Test at baseline and 2 days, 1 week, and 2 weeks after substance administration. Changes in empathy were compared between treatment conditions. Patients who received psilocybin showed significant improvements in explicit emotional empathy driven by an increase in empathy towards positive stimuli compared to the placebo group for at least two weeks. This study highlights the potential of psychedelics to enhance social cognition in individuals living with depression and contributes to a better understanding of the psychological mechanisms of action of psychedelics. Further studies are necessary to investigate the interaction between social cognition and clinical efficacy.The trial is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier: NCT03715127) and KOFAM (Identifier: SNCTP000003139).
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jungwirth
- Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - R von Rotz
- Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - I Dziobek
- Clinical Psychology of Social Interaction, Department for Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - F X Vollenweider
- Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - K H Preller
- Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
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49
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Zhou X, Ganz AB, Rayner A, Cheng TY, Oba H, Rolnik B, Lancaster S, Lu X, Li Y, Johnson JS, Hoyd R, Spakowicz DJ, Slavich GM, Snyder MP. Dynamic human gut microbiome and immune shifts during an immersive psychosocial intervention program. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 125:428-443. [PMID: 39701328 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 10/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this disorder-particularly those involving the gut microbiome-are poorly understood. METHOD To investigate, we conducted a community-based observational study to explore complex associations between changes in the gut microbiome, cytokine levels, and depression symptoms in 51 participants (Mage = 49.56, SD = 13.31) receiving an immersive psychosocial intervention. A total of 142 multi-omics samples were collected from participants before, during, and three months after the nine-day inquiry-based stress reduction program. RESULTS Results revealed that depression was associated with both an increased presence of putatively pathogenic bacteria and reduced microbial beta-diversity. Following the intervention, we observed reductions in neuroinflammatory cytokines and improvements in several mental health indicators. Interestingly, participants with a Prevotella-dominant microbiome showed milder symptoms when depressed, along with a more resilient microbiome and more favorable inflammatory cytokine profile, including reduced levels of CXCL-1. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal a potentially protective link between the Prevotella-dominant microbiome and depression, as evidenced by a reduced pro-inflammatory environment and fewer depressive symptoms. These insights, coupled with observed improvements in neuroinflammatory markers and mental health from the intervention, may highlight potential avenues for microbiome-targeted therapies for managing depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Stanford Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA
| | - Ariel B Ganz
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Stanford Healthcare Innovation Lab, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Andre Rayner
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA
| | - Tess Yan Cheng
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Department of Microbiology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Washington, WA, USA
| | - Haley Oba
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Rolnik
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Stanford Healthcare Innovation Lab, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Samuel Lancaster
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA
| | - Xinrui Lu
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Yizhou Li
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Jethro S Johnson
- Oxford Centre for Microbiome Studies, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rebecca Hoyd
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, OH, USA
| | | | - George M Slavich
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael P Snyder
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Stanford Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA; Stanford Healthcare Innovation Lab, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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50
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Nieberlein L, Martin S, Williams KA, Gussew A, Cyriaks SD, Scheer M, Rampp S, Prell J, Hartwigsen G. Semantic Integration Demands Modulate Large-Scale Network Interactions in the Brain. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e70113. [PMID: 39723465 PMCID: PMC11669845 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.70113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 12/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability to integrate semantic information into the context of a sentence is essential for human communication. Several studies have shown that the predictability of a final keyword based on the sentence context influences semantic integration on the behavioral, neurophysiological, and neural level. However, the architecture of the underlying network interactions for semantic integration across the lifespan remains unclear. In this study, 32 healthy participants (30-75 years) performed an auditory cloze probability task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), requiring lexical decisions on the sentence's final words. Semantic integration demands were implicitly modulated by presenting sentences with expected, unexpected, anomalous, or pseudoword endings. To elucidate network interactions supporting semantic integration, we combined univariate task-based fMRI analyses with seed-based connectivity and between-network connectivity analyses. Behavioral data revealed typical semantic integration effects, with increased integration demands being associated with longer response latencies and reduced accuracy. Univariate results demonstrated increased left frontal and temporal brain activity for sentences with higher integration demands. Between-network interactions highlighted the role of task-positive and default mode networks for sentence processing with increased semantic integration demands. Furthermore, increasing integration demands led to a higher number of behaviorally relevant network interactions, suggesting that the increased between-network coupling becomes more relevant for successful task performance as integration demands increase. Our findings elucidate the complex network interactions underlying semantic integration across the aging continuum. Stronger interactions between various task-positive and default mode networks correlated with more efficient processing of sentences with increased semantic integration demands. These results may inform future studies with healthy old and clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Nieberlein
- Research Group Cognition and PlasticityMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
- Wilhelm Wundt Institute for PsychologyLeipzig UniversityLeipzigGermany
- Martin Luther University Halle‐WittenbergHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Sandra Martin
- Research Group Cognition and PlasticityMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
| | - Kathleen A. Williams
- Research Group Cognition and PlasticityMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
- Wilhelm Wundt Institute for PsychologyLeipzig UniversityLeipzigGermany
| | - Alexander Gussew
- University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for RadiologyUniversity Hospital Halle (Saale)HalleGermany
- Halle MR Imaging Core Facility (HMRICF)Halle (Saale)Germany
| | - Sophia D. Cyriaks
- Martin Luther University Halle‐WittenbergHalle (Saale)Germany
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital Halle (Saale)HalleGermany
| | - Maximilian Scheer
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital Halle (Saale)HalleGermany
| | - Stefan Rampp
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital Halle (Saale)HalleGermany
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Julian Prell
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital Halle (Saale)HalleGermany
| | - Gesa Hartwigsen
- Research Group Cognition and PlasticityMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain SciencesLeipzigGermany
- Wilhelm Wundt Institute for PsychologyLeipzig UniversityLeipzigGermany
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