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Amirkhan JH, Urizar GG, Clark S. Criterion validation of a stress measure: the Stress Overload Scale. Psychol Assess 2015; 27:985-96. [PMID: 25642927 DOI: 10.1037/pas0000081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Validating stress scales poses problems beyond those of other psychological measures. Here, 3 studies were conducted to address those problems and assess the criterion validity of scores from a new theory-derived measure, the Stress Overload Scale (SOS; Amirkhan, 2012). In Study 1, the SOS was tested for its ability to predict postsemester illness in a sample of college students (n = 127). Even with precautions to minimize criterion contamination, scores were found to predict health problems in the month following a final exam on all of 5 different criteria. In Study 2, a community sample (n = 231) was used to test the SOS' ability to differentiate people in stressful circumstances from those in more relaxed contexts. SOS scores demonstrated excellent sensitivity (96%) and specificity (100%) in this general population application. In Study 3, the SOS was tested for its ability to differentiate salivary cortisol responses to a laboratory stressor in a group of pregnant women (n = 40). High scores were found to be associated with a blunted cortisol response, which is indicative of HPA-axis overload and typical of persons suffering chronic stress and stress-related pathology. Across all 3 studies, despite variations in the stressor, criterion, population, and methods, SOS scores emerged as valid indicators of stress. However, each study also introduced new problems that beg additional corrective steps in future stress-scale validity tests. These strategies, and the SOS' utility as a research and diagnostic tool in varied applications and populations, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guido G Urizar
- Psychology Department, California State University Long Beach
| | - Sarah Clark
- Psychology Department, California State University Long Beach
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352
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Frisch JU, Häusser JA, Mojzisch A. The Trier Social Stress Test as a paradigm to study how people respond to threat in social interactions. Front Psychol 2015; 6:14. [PMID: 25698987 PMCID: PMC4313597 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In our lives, we face countless situations in which we are observed and evaluated by our social interaction partners. Social-evaluative threat is frequently associated with strong neurophysiological stress reactions, in particular, an increase in cortisol levels. Yet, social variables do not only cause stress, but they can also buffer the neurophysiological stress response. Furthermore, social variables can themselves be affected by the threat or the threat-induced neurophysiological stress response. In order to study this complex interplay of social-evaluative threat, social processes and neurophysiological stress responses, a paradigm is needed that (a) reliably induces high levels of social-evaluative threat and (b) is extremely adaptable to the needs of the researcher. The Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) is a well-established paradigm in biopsychology that induces social-evaluative threat in the laboratory by subjecting participants to a mock job-interview. In this review, we aim at demonstrating the potential of the TSST for studying the complex interplay of social-evaluative threat, social processes and neurophysiological stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna U Frisch
- Institute of Psychology, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim Germany
| | - Jan A Häusser
- Institute of Psychology, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim Germany
| | - Andreas Mojzisch
- Institute of Psychology, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim Germany
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353
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Turan B, Foltz C, Cavanagh JF, Wallace BA, Cullen M, Rosenberg EL, Jennings PA, Ekman P, Kemeny ME. Anticipatory sensitization to repeated stressors: the role of initial cortisol reactivity and meditation/emotion skills training. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 52:229-38. [PMID: 25497480 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Anticipation may play a role in shaping biological reactions to repeated stressors-a common feature of modern life. We aimed to demonstrate that: (a) individuals who display a larger cortisol response to an initial stressor exhibit progressive anticipatory sensitization, showing progressively higher cortisol levels before subsequent exposures, and (b) attention/emotional skills training can reduce the magnitude of this effect on progressive anticipatory sensitization. Female school teachers (N=76) were randomly assigned to attention/emotion skills and meditation training or to a control group. Participants completed 3 separate Trier Social Stress Tests (TSST): at baseline (Session 1), post-training (Session 2), and five months post (Session 3). Each TSST session included preparing and delivering a speech and performing an arithmetic task in front of critical evaluators. In each session participants' salivary cortisol levels were determined before and after the stressor. Control participants with larger cortisol reactivity to the first stressor showed increasing anticipatory (pre-stressor) cortisol levels with each successive stressor exposure (TSST session)-suggesting progressive anticipatory sensitization. Yet this association was absent in the training group. Supplementary analyses indicated that these findings occurred in the absence of group differences in cortisol reactivity. Findings suggest that the stress response can undergo progressive anticipatory sensitization, which may be modulated by attention/emotion-related processes. An important implication of the construct of progressive anticipatory sensitization is a possible self-perpetuating effect of stress reactions, providing a candidate mechanism for the translation of short-to-long-term stress reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Turan
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Carol Foltz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - James F Cavanagh
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - B Alan Wallace
- Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies, Santa Barbara, CA 93130, USA
| | - Margaret Cullen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Erika L Rosenberg
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA
| | - Patricia A Jennings
- Curry School of Education, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, CA 22904, USA
| | - Paul Ekman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Margaret E Kemeny
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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354
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Expectancy of stress-reducing aromatherapy effect and performance on a stress-sensitive cognitive task. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:419812. [PMID: 25802539 PMCID: PMC4329734 DOI: 10.1155/2015/419812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective. Stress-reducing therapies help maintain cognitive performance during stress. Aromatherapy is popular for stress reduction, but its effectiveness and mechanism are unclear. This study examined stress-reducing effects of aromatherapy on cognitive function using the go/no-go (GNG) task performance and event related potentials (ERP) components sensitive to stress. The study also assessed the importance of expectancy in aromatherapy actions. Methods. 81 adults were randomized to 3 aroma groups (active experimental, detectable, and undetectable placebo) and 2 prime subgroups (prime suggesting stress-reducing aroma effects or no-prime). GNG performance, ERPs, subjective expected aroma effects, and stress ratings were assessed at baseline and poststress. Results. No specific aroma effects on stress or cognition were observed. However, regardless of experienced aroma, people receiving a prime displayed faster poststress median reaction times than those receiving no prime. A significant interaction for N200 amplitude indicated divergent ERP patterns between baseline and poststress for go and no-go stimuli depending on the prime subgroup. Furthermore, trends for beneficial prime effects were shown on poststress no-go N200/P300 latencies and N200 amplitude. Conclusion. While there were no aroma-specific effects on stress or cognition, these results highlight the role of expectancy for poststress response inhibition and attention.
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355
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Boesch M, Sefidan S, Annen H, Ehlert U, Roos L, Van Uum S, Russell E, Koren G, La Marca R. Hair cortisol concentration is unaffected by basic military training, but related to sociodemographic and environmental factors. Stress 2015; 18:35-41. [PMID: 25287135 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2014.974028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The analysis of hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) is a promising new biomarker for retrospective measurement of chronic stress. The effect of basic military training (BMT) on chronic stress has not yet been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 10-week BMT on HCC, while further exploring the role of known and novel covariates. Young healthy male recruits of the Swiss Army participated twice, 10 weeks apart, in data collection (1st examination: n = 177; 2nd examination: n = 105). On two occasions, we assessed HCC, perceived stress and different candidate variables that may affect HCC (e.g. socioeconomic status, meteorological data). Military training increased perceived stress from the first to the second examination, but did not affect HCC. In line with this, there was no correlation between HCC and perceived stress ratings. This could be interpreted as a missing influence of mainly physical stress (e.g. exercise) on HCC. In contrast, significant correlations were found between HCC and ambient temperature, humidity and education. Future studies should control for meteorological data and educational status when examining HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Boesch
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich , Zurich , Switzerland
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356
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Abstract
This study assessed the effects of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual phases on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, sympathetic nervous system axis and psychological responses to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Thirty-six PMS women (mean age 21.69 ± 2.16 years) and 36 control women (mean age 22.03 ± 2.48 years) participated in the TSST task, either in the follicular phase or in the late luteal phase (each group N = 18). Saliva samples, heart rate and subjective stress levels were collected for seven time points throughout the test (10, 20, 30, 40, 55, 70 and 100 min). The results indicated that in comparison with control women, PMS women displayed blunted cortisol stress responses to the TSST irrespective of the menstrual phases, as indexed by the cortisol levels across time, area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCg) and peak change scores of cortisol. The results also demonstrated that the measurements indexed by cortisol levels across time, AUCg and peak change scores of heart rate were smaller in women tested during the late luteal phase than during the follicular phase. Correlation results indicated that AUCg was negatively correlated with PMS scores. These results suggest that measures of cortisol, rather than heart rate or subjective responses to stress, may be most closely associated with PMS. Furthermore, hypo-reactivity of the HPA axis may be pathologically relevant to PMS because it predicts heightened PMS severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, School of Psychology, Beijing Normal University , Beijing , China
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357
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The maternal autonomic nervous system (ANS) has received little attention in the investigation of biological mechanisms linking prenatal stress to fetal cortisol (F) excess. In vitro, norepinephrine and epinephrine inhibit placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which protects the fetus from F overexposure by inactivating it to cortisone (E). Here, we investigated the acute ANS stress response to an amniocentesis and its association with amniotic fluid F, E, and E/(E + F) as a marker of fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 activity. METHODS An aliquot of amniotic fluid was obtained from 34 healthy, second-trimester pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis. Repeated assessment of mood states served to examine the psychological stress response to amniocentesis. Saliva samples were collected to measure stress-induced changes in salivary α-amylase concentrations in response to amniocentesis. Cardiac parameters were measured continuously. RESULTS Undergoing amniocentesis induced significant psychological and autonomic alterations. Low-frequency (LF)/high-frequency (HF) baseline, suggested to reflect sympathovagal balance, was negatively correlated with amniotic E/(E + F) (r=-0.53, p = .002) and positively with F (r = 0.62, p < .001). In contrast, a stronger acute LF/HF response was positively associated with E/(E + F) (r = 0.44, p = .012) and negatively with F (r=-0.40, p = .025). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the maternal ANS is involved in the regulation of the fetoplacental barrier to stress. Allostatic processes may have been initiated to counterbalance acute stress effects. In contrast, higher LF/HF baseline values, possibly indicative of chronic stress exposure, may have inhibited 11β-HSD2 activity in the fetoplacental unit. These results parallel animal findings of up-regulated placental 11β-HSD2 in response to acute stress but impairment under chronic stress.
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358
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Strahler J, Ziegert T. Psychobiological stress response to a simulated school shooting in police officers. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 51:80-91. [PMID: 25290348 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Police work is one of the most demanding professions with various sources of high occupational stress. Among the most demanding tasks are amok situations, such as school shootings. Hardly anything is known about endocrine and cardiovascular markers in safety professionals during emergency situations in real life and how this relates to stress perception and management. This study will therefore explore police officers' stress responses to a reality-based school shooting simulation assessing neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and psychological stress markers. METHODS A convenience sample of 50 police officers (39.5 ± 8.7 yrs, 9 women) participating in a basic or refresher amok training session for the German uniformed and criminal police were recruited. Saliva samples were collected shortly before the simulation task (school shooting), immediately after, 20 and 45 min after finishing the task for the assessment of cortisol and alpha-amylase (sAA), as markers of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system, respectively. Heart rate (variability) was assessed continuously. Officers rated their actual mood right before and 10 min after the simulation. Subjective experience of task stressfulness was assessed minutes after finishing the simulation. RESULTS Overall, the simulated school shooting did not result in changes of mood, tiredness, or calmness but higher restlessness was experienced during the basic training, which was also experienced as more controllable. Female officers reported to experience more strain and anxiety. Cortisol showed highest levels at the beginning of the training and steadily decreasing values thereafter. In contrast, sAA increased substantially right after the simulation with officers on the front position showing most pronounced changes. Cardiovascular reactivity was highest in officers acting on the side positions while advancing to find the suspect. Furthermore higher self-efficacy as well as, by trend, controllability and relevance of results correlated with cardiovascular measures. DISCUSSION Autonomic but not endocrine stress markers increased to a simulated school shooting, which were further related to the subjective experience of the simulation. Our results provide a more in-depth picture of stress responses in such situations, which will in the long run raise the possibility to refine training programs, design more effective stress-management strategies for these critical incidents, and improve performance but also coping with work-related stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Strahler
- Clinical Biopsychology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Ziegert
- University of Applied Police Science, Rothenburg/O.L., Germany
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359
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Weldon AL, Hagan M, Van Meter A, Jacobs RH, Kassel MT, Hazlett KE, Haase BD, Vederman AC, Avery E, Briceno EM, Welsh RC, Zubieta JK, Weisenbach SL, Langenecker SA. Stress Response to the Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Environment in Healthy Adults Relates to the Degree of Limbic Reactivity during Emotion Processing. Neuropsychobiology 2015; 71:85-96. [PMID: 25871424 PMCID: PMC6679601 DOI: 10.1159/000369027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imaging techniques are increasingly being used to examine the neural correlates of stress and emotion processing; however, relations between the primary stress hormone cortisol, the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) environment, and individual differences in response to emotional challenges are not yet well studied. The present study investigated whether cortisol activity prior to, and during, an fMRI scan may be related to neural processing of emotional information. METHODS Twenty-six healthy individuals (10 female) completed a facial emotion perception test during 3-tesla fMRI. RESULTS Prescan cortisol was significantly correlated with enhanced amygdala, hippocampal, and subgenual cingulate reactivity for facial recognition. Cortisol change from pre- to postscanning predicted a greater activation in the precuneus for both fearful and angry faces. A negative relationship between overall face accuracy and activation in limbic regions was observed. CONCLUSION Individual differences in response to the fMRI environment might lead to a greater heterogeneity of brain activation in control samples, decreasing the power to detect differences between clinical and comparison groups. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.
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360
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Keulers EHH, Stiers P, Nicolson NA, Jolles J. The association between cortisol and the BOLD response in male adolescents undergoing fMRI. Brain Res 2014; 1598:1-11. [PMID: 25514334 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
MRI participation has been shown to induce subjective and neuroendocrine stress reactions. A recent aging study showed that cortisol levels during fMRI have an age-dependent effect on cognitive performance and brain functioning. The present study examined whether this age-specific influence of cortisol on behavioral and brain activation levels also applies to adolescence. Salivary cortisol as well as subjective experienced anxiety were assessed during the practice session, at home, and before, during and after the fMRI session in young versus old male adolescents. Cortisol levels were enhanced pre-imaging relative to during and post-imaging in both age groups, suggesting anticipatory stress and anxiety. Overall, a negative correlation was found between cortisol output during the fMRI experiment and brain activation magnitude during performance of a gambling task. In young but not in old adolescents, higher cortisol output was related to stronger deactivation of clusters in the anterior and posterior cingulate cortex. In old but not in young adolescents, a negative correlation was found between cortisol and activation in the inferior parietal and in the superior frontal cortex. In sum, cortisol increased the deactivation of several brain areas, although the location of the affected areas in the brain was age-dependent. The present findings suggest that cortisol output during fMRI should be considered as confounder and integrated in analyzing developmental changes in brain activation during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther H H Keulers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Peter Stiers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nancy A Nicolson
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle Jolles
- Centre Brain and Learning and AZIRE Research Institute, Faculty of Psychology and Education, VU Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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361
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Bystritsky A, Kronemyer D. Stress and anxiety: counterpart elements of the stress/anxiety complex. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2014; 37:489-518. [PMID: 25455062 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between stress and anxiety is complicated. Stress initially arises from one's environment; anxiety overlays physiological arousal, cognitive appraisals, emotional states, and behavioral responses. Both are components of a stress-anxiety complex, which has evolved to enable individuals to adapt to their environment and achieve equilibrium. Anxiety disorders, which result when this mechanism goes awry, occur along a spectrum. One of the main variables affecting anxiety disorders is the extent of stress. Each anxiety disorder should be evaluated along a stress axis, leading to improved case conceptualization and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bystritsky
- UCLA Anxiety and Related Disorders Program, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Room 2335, Los Angeles, CA 90095-6968, USA.
| | - David Kronemyer
- UCLA Anxiety and Related Disorders Program, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Room 2330, Los Angeles, CA 90095-6968, USA
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362
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Frisch JU, Häusser JA, van Dick R, Mojzisch A. Making support work: The interplay between social support and social identity. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jesp.2014.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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363
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Kuebler U, Wirtz PH, Sakai M, Stemmer A, Meister RE, Ehlert U. Anticipatory cognitive stress appraisal modulates suppression of wound-induced macrophage activation by acute psychosocial stress. Psychophysiology 2014; 52:499-508. [DOI: 10.1111/psyp.12368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Kuebler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Petra H. Wirtz
- Biological and Health Psychology; University of Bern; Bern Switzerland
- Biological Work and Health Psychology; University of Konstanz; Konstanz Germany
| | - Miho Sakai
- Nanotechnology Group; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Andreas Stemmer
- Nanotechnology Group; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Rebecca E. Meister
- Department of General Internal Medicine; Division of Psychosomatic Medicine; Inselspital; Bern University Hospital; University of Bern; Bern Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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364
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Gaffey AE, Wirth MM. Stress, rejection, and hormones: Cortisol and progesterone reactivity to laboratory speech and rejection tasks in women and men. F1000Res 2014; 3:208. [PMID: 25580228 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.5142.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress and social rejection have important impacts on health. Among the mechanisms implicated are hormonal systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which produces cortisol in humans. Current research employs speech stressors and social rejection stressors to understand hormonal responses in a laboratory setting. However, it is not clear whether social rejection stressors elicit hormonal reactivity. In addition to cortisol, progesterone has been highlighted as a potential stress- and affiliation-related hormone in humans. In the present study, 131 participants (70 men and 61 women) were randomly assigned to be exposed to one of four conditions: standardized speech stressor; speech control; social rejection task; or a control (inclusion) version of the social rejection task. Saliva samples were collected throughout the study to measure cortisol and progesterone. As hypothesized, we found the expected increase in cortisol in the speech stressor, and we also found that the social rejection task did not increase cortisol, underscoring the divergence between unpleasant experiences and HPA axis activity. However, we did not find evidence for progesterone increase either during the speech- or social rejection tasks. Compared with past studies on progesterone and stress in humans, the present findings present a mixed picture. Future work is needed to delineate the contexts and types of manipulations which lead to progesterone increases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E Gaffey
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, 46656, USA
| | - Michelle M Wirth
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, 46656, USA
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365
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Gaffey AE, Wirth MM. Stress, rejection, and hormones: Cortisol and progesterone reactivity to laboratory speech and rejection tasks in women and men. F1000Res 2014; 3:208. [PMID: 25580228 PMCID: PMC4288428 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.5142.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress and social rejection have important impacts on health. Among the mechanisms implicated are hormonal systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which produces cortisol in humans. Current research employs speech stressors and social rejection stressors to understand hormonal responses in a laboratory setting. However, it is not clear whether social rejection stressors elicit hormonal reactivity. In addition to cortisol, progesterone has been highlighted as a potential stress- and affiliation-related hormone in humans. In the present study, 131 participants (70 men and 61 women) were randomly assigned to be exposed to one of four conditions: standardized speech stressor; speech control; social rejection task; or a control (inclusion) version of the social rejection task. Saliva samples were collected throughout the study to measure cortisol and progesterone. As hypothesized, we found the expected increase in cortisol in the speech stressor, and we also found that the social rejection task did not increase cortisol, underscoring the divergence between unpleasant experiences and HPA axis activity. However, we did not find evidence for progesterone increase either during the speech- or social rejection tasks. Compared with past studies on progesterone and stress in humans, the present findings present a mixed picture. Future work is needed to delineate the contexts and types of manipulations which lead to progesterone increases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E Gaffey
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, 46656, USA
| | - Michelle M Wirth
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, 46656, USA
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366
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Schulte PM. What is environmental stress? Insights from fish living in a variable environment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 217:23-34. [PMID: 24353201 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.089722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Although the term environmental stress is used across multiple fields in biology, the inherent ambiguity associated with its definition has caused confusion when attempting to understand organismal responses to environmental change. Here I provide a brief summary of existing definitions of the term stress, and the related concepts of homeostasis and allostasis, and attempt to unify them to develop a general framework for understanding how organisms respond to environmental stressors. I suggest that viewing stressors as environmental changes that cause reductions in performance or fitness provides the broadest and most useful conception of the phenomenon of stress. I examine this framework in the context of animals that have evolved in highly variable environments, using the Atlantic killifish, Fundulus heteroclitus, as a case study. Consistent with the extreme environmental variation that they experience in their salt marsh habitats, killifish have substantial capacity for both short-term resistance and long-term plasticity in the face of changing temperature, salinity and oxygenation. There is inter-population variation in the sensitivity of killifish to environmental stressors, and in their ability to acclimate, suggesting that local adaptation can shape the stress response even in organisms that are broadly tolerant and highly plastic. Whole-organism differences between populations in stressor sensitivity and phenotypic plasticity are reflected at the biochemical and molecular levels in killifish, emphasizing the integrative nature of the response to environmental stressors. Examination of this empirical example highlights the utility of using an evolutionary perspective on stressors, stress and stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia M Schulte
- Department of Zoology, 6270 University Blvd, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4 Canada
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367
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Hostinar CE, Johnson AE, Gunnar MR. Parent support is less effective in buffering cortisol stress reactivity for adolescents compared to children. Dev Sci 2014; 18:281-97. [PMID: 24942038 DOI: 10.1111/desc.12195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The goal of the present study was to investigate developmental differences in the effectiveness of parent support to alleviate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stress responses of children (ages 9-10, N = 40) and adolescents (ages 15-16, N = 41). We experimentally manipulated the provision of parent support during the speech preparation period before a modified Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and examined its effect on levels of salivary cortisol secreted in response to this laboratory stressor. Analyses revealed a significant interaction of condition and age group such that social support from the parent (versus a stranger) significantly eliminated the cortisol stress response in children, but had no effect on the response among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camelia E Hostinar
- Cells to Society - The Center on Social Disparities and Health, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, USA; Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, USA
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Creswell JD, Pacilio LE, Lindsay EK, Brown KW. Brief mindfulness meditation training alters psychological and neuroendocrine responses to social evaluative stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 44:1-12. [PMID: 24767614 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test whether a brief mindfulness meditation training intervention buffers self-reported psychological and neuroendocrine responses to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) in young adult volunteers. A second objective evaluates whether pre-existing levels of dispositional mindfulness moderate the effects of brief mindfulness meditation training on stress reactivity. METHODS Sixty-six (N=66) participants were randomly assigned to either a brief 3-day (25-min per day) mindfulness meditation training or an analytic cognitive training control program. All participants completed a standardized laboratory social-evaluative stress challenge task (the TSST) following the third mindfulness meditation or cognitive training session. Measures of psychological (stress perceptions) and biological (salivary cortisol, blood pressure) stress reactivity were collected during the social evaluative stress-challenge session. RESULTS Brief mindfulness meditation training reduced self-reported psychological stress reactivity but increased salivary cortisol reactivity to the TSST, relative to the cognitive training comparison program. Participants who were low in pre-existing levels of dispositional mindfulness and then received mindfulness meditation training had the greatest cortisol reactivity to the TSST. No significant main or interactive effects were observed for systolic or diastolic blood pressure reactivity to the TSST. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides an initial indication that brief mindfulness meditation training buffers self-reported psychological stress reactivity, but also increases cortisol reactivity to social evaluative stress. This pattern may indicate that initially brief mindfulness meditation training fosters greater active coping efforts, resulting in reduced psychological stress appraisals and greater cortisol reactivity during social evaluative stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- J David Creswell
- Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Laura E Pacilio
- Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Emily K Lindsay
- Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kirk Warren Brown
- Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23284-2018, USA
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369
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Lewis AH, Porcelli AJ, Delgado MR. The effects of acute stress exposure on striatal activity during Pavlovian conditioning with monetary gains and losses. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:179. [PMID: 24904331 PMCID: PMC4033231 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pavlovian conditioning involves the association of an inherently neutral stimulus with an appetitive or aversive outcome, such that the neutral stimulus itself acquires reinforcing properties. Across species, this type of learning has been shown to involve subcortical brain regions such as the striatum and the amygdala. It is less clear, however, how the neural circuitry involved in the acquisition of Pavlovian contingencies in humans, particularly in the striatum, is affected by acute stress. In the current study, we investigate the effect of acute stress exposure on Pavlovian conditioning using monetary reinforcers. Participants underwent a partial reinforcement conditioning procedure in which neutral stimuli were paired with high and low magnitude monetary gains and losses. A between-subjects design was used, such that half of the participants were exposed to cold stress while the remaining participants were exposed to a no stress control procedure. Cortisol measurements and subjective ratings were used as measures of stress. We observed an interaction between stress, valence, and magnitude in the ventral striatum, with the peak in the putamen. More specifically, the stress group exhibited an increased sensitivity to magnitude in the gain domain. This effect was driven by those participants who experienced a larger increase in circulating cortisol levels in response to the stress manipulation. Taken together, these results suggest that acute stress can lead to individual differences in circulating cortisol levels which influence the striatum during Pavlovian conditioning with monetary reinforcers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea H Lewis
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University Newark, NJ, USA
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370
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Ehlert U. Psychoendokrinologie: Trends und ihr Bezug zur Praxis. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2014. [DOI: 10.1159/000362915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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371
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One left dorsolateral prefrontal cortical HF-rTMS session attenuates HPA-system sensitivity to critical feedback in healthy females. Neuropsychologia 2014; 57:112-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2014.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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372
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Boesch M, Sefidan S, Ehlert U, Annen H, Wyss T, Steptoe A, La Marca R. Mood and autonomic responses to repeated exposure to the Trier Social Stress Test for Groups (TSST-G). Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 43:41-51. [PMID: 24703169 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A group version of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST-G) was introduced as a standardized, economic and efficient tool to induce a psychobiological stress response simultaneously in a group of subjects. The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of the TSST-G to repeatedly induce an affective and autonomic stress response while comparing two alternative protocols for the second examination. METHODS AND MATERIALS Healthy young male recruits participated twice in the TSST-G 10 weeks apart. In the first examination, the TSST-G consisted of a combination of mental arithmetic and a fake job interview (TSST-G-1st; n=294). For the second examination, mental arithmetic was combined with either (a) a defensive speech in response to a false shoplifting accusation (TSST-G-2nd-defence; n=105), or (b) a speech on a more neutral topic selected by the investigators (TSST-G-2nd-presentation; n=100). Affect ratings and salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) were determined immediately before and after the stress test, while heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured continuously. RESULTS TSST-G-1st resulted in a significant increase of negative affect, HR, and sAA, and a significant decrease in positive affect and HRV. TSST-G-2nd, overall, resulted in a significant increase of HR and sAA (the latter only in response to TSST-G-2nd-defence) and a decrease in HRV, while no significant affect alterations were found. When comparing both, TSST-G-2nd-defence and -2nd-presentation, the former resulted in a stronger stress response with regard to HR and HRV. DISCUSSION The findings reveal that the TSST-G is a useful protocol to repeatedly evoke an affective and autonomic stress response, while repetition leads to affective but not necessarily autonomic habituation. When interested in examining repeated psychosocial stress reactivity, a task that requires an ego-involving effort, such as a defensive speech, seems to be significantly superior to a task using an impersonal speech.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Boesch
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Military Academy, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Sefidan
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Military Academy, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hubert Annen
- Military Academy, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Wyss
- Swiss Federal Institute of Sports Magglingen SFISM, Magglingen, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London UCL, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roberto La Marca
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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373
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Impulsivity, risk taking, and cortisol reactivity as a function of psychosocial stress and personality in adolescents. Dev Psychopathol 2014; 26:1093-111. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579414000212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAlthough adolescence is characterized by hormonal changes and increased disinhibited behaviors, explanations for these developmental changes that include personality and environmental factors have not been fully elucidated. We examined the interactions between psychosocial stress and the traits of negative emotionality and constraint on impulsive and risk-taking behaviors as well as salivary cortisol reactivity in 88 adolescents. In terms of behavioral outcomes, analyses revealed that negative emotionality and constraint were protective of impulsivity and risk taking, respectively, for adolescents in the no-stress condition; personality did not relate to either behavior in the stress condition. Low-constraint adolescents in the stress condition engaged in less risk taking than low-constraint adolescents in the no-stress condition, whereas there was no effect of stress group for high-constraint adolescents. In terms of cortisol reactivity, analyses revealed that low-constraint adolescents in the stress condition exhibited greater cortisol reactivity compared to high-constraint adolescents, which suggests that low-constraint adolescents mobilize greater resources (e.g., increased cognitive control, heightened attention to threat) in stressful situations relative to nonstressful ones. These results demonstrate that two facets of disinhibition and cortisol reactivity are differentially affected by psychosocial stress and personality (and their interactions) in adolescents.
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374
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Chawla L, Keena K, Pevec I, Stanley E. Green schoolyards as havens from stress and resources for resilience in childhood and adolescence. Health Place 2014; 28:1-13. [PMID: 24691122 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2014.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This paper investigates how green schoolyards can reduce stress and promote protective factors for resilience in students. It documents student responses to green schoolyards in Maryland and Colorado in the United States under three conditions: young elementary school children׳s play in wooded areas during recess; older elementary school children׳s use of a naturalized habitat for science and writing lessons; and high school students׳ involvement in gardening. Drawing on ethnographic observations and interviews, it describes how the natural areas enabled students to escape stress, focus, build competence, and form supportive social groups. These findings have implications for theories of resilience and restoration and school interventions for stress management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Chawla
- Environmental Design Program, University of Colorado, P.O. Box 314, Boulder, CO 80309-0314, USA.
| | - Kelly Keena
- Achieve Academy, Mapleton Public Schools, 9308 West Nichols Drive, Littleton, CO 80128, USA.
| | - Illène Pevec
- Children, Youth and Environments Center for Community Engagement, University of Colorado, P.O. Box 314, Boulder, CO 80309-0314, USA.
| | - Emily Stanley
- Jemicy School, 11 Celadon Road, Owings Mill, MD 21117, USA.
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375
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La Marca-Ghaemmaghami P, Ehlertl U. The association between perceived emotional support, maternal mood, salivary cortisone, and the ratio between the two compounds, in relation to acute stress in second trimester pregnant women: reply to C. Schubert. J Psychosom Res 2014; 76:262-3. [PMID: 24529049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pearl La Marca-Ghaemmaghami
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Ulrike Ehlertl
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
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376
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Buchanan TW, Laures-Gore JS, Duff MC. Acute stress reduces speech fluency. Biol Psychol 2014; 97:60-6. [PMID: 24555989 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2014.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
People often report word-finding difficulties and other language disturbances when put in a stressful situation. There is, however, scant empirical evidence to support the claim that stress affects speech productivity. To address this issue, we measured speech and language variables during a stressful Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) as well as during a less stressful "placebo" TSST (Het et al., 2009). Compared to the non-stressful speech, participants showed higher word productivity during the TSST. By contrast, participants paused more during the stressful TSST, an effect that was especially pronounced in participants who produced a larger cortisol and heart rate response to the stressor. Findings support anecdotal evidence of stress-impaired speech production abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony W Buchanan
- Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University, United States.
| | - Jacqueline S Laures-Gore
- Communication Sciences & Disorders Program and Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, United States
| | - Melissa C Duff
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders and Neurology, University of Iowa, United States
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377
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Abstract
Whereas fear memories are rapidly acquired and enduring over time, extinction memories are slow to form and are susceptible to disruption. Consequently, behavioral therapies that involve extinction learning (e.g., exposure therapy) often produce only temporary suppression of fear and anxiety. This review focuses on the factors that are known to influence the relapse of extinguished fear. Several phenomena associated with the return of fear after extinction are discussed, including renewal, spontaneous recovery, reacquisition, and reinstatement. Additionally, this review describes recent work, which has focused on the role of psychological stress in the relapse of extinguished fear. Recent developments in behavioral and pharmacological research are examined in light of treatment of pathological fear in humans.
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378
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Tsuru J, Tanaka Y, Ishitobi Y, Maruyama Y, Inoue A, Kawano A, Ikeda R, Ando T, Oshita H, Aizawa S, Masuda K, Higuma H, Kanehisa M, Ninomiya T, Akiyoshi J. Association of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism with HPA and SAM axis reactivity to psychological and physical stress. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2014; 10:2123-33. [PMID: 25419135 PMCID: PMC4234157 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s68629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decreased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in enhanced stress responses. The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism is associated with psychological changes; for example, carriers of the Met allele exhibit increased harm avoidance as well as a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety disorder. METHODS To analyze the effects of BDNF Val66Met on stress responses, we tested 226 university students (88 women and 138 men) using a social stress procedure (Trier Social Stress Test [TSST]) and an electrical stimulation stress test. Stress indices were derived from repeated measurements of salivary α-amylase, salivary cortisol, heart rate, and psychological testing during the stress tests. All subjects were genotyped for the Val66Met polymorphism (G196A). RESULTS A significant three-way interaction (time [3 levels] × BDNF [Val/Val, Val/Met, Met/Met]; P<0.05) was demonstrated that revealed different salivary cortisol responses in the TSST but not in electrical stimulation. Met/Met women had stronger cortisol responses than Val/Met and Val/Val individuals in the TSST. Met/Met men exhibited stronger salivary cortisol responses than Val/Met and Val/Val individuals in the TSST. CONCLUSION These results indicate that a common, functionally significant polymorphism in BDNF had different effects on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis reactivity but not on sympathetic adrenomedullary reactivity in TSST and electrical stimulation tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jusen Tsuru
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Ayako Inoue
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Aimi Kawano
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Rie Ikeda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ando
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Harumi Oshita
- Department of Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Saeko Aizawa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Koji Masuda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Haruka Higuma
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | | | - Taiga Ninomiya
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Oita University, Oita, Japan
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379
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Duchesne A, Pruessner JC. Association between subjective and cortisol stress response depends on the menstrual cycle phase. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:3155-9. [PMID: 24055042 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The relation between the physiologic and subjective stress responses is inconsistently reported across studies. Menstrual cycle phases variations have been found to influence the psychophysiological stress response; however little is known about possible cycle phase differences in the relationship between physiological and subjective stress responses. This study examined the effect of menstrual cycle phase in the association between subjective stress and physiological response. Forty-five women in either the follicular (n=21) or the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle were exposed to a psychosocial stress task. Salivary cortisol, cardiovascular, and subjective stress were assessed throughout the experiment. Results revealed a significant group difference in the association between peak levels of cortisol and post task subjective stress. In women in the follicular phase a negative association was observed (r(2)=0.199, p=0.04), while this relation was positive in the group of women in the luteal phase (r(2)=0.227, p=0.02). These findings suggest a possible role of sex hormones in modulating the cortisol stress response function in emotion regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Duchesne
- Faculty of Medicine, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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380
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Allen AP, Kennedy PJ, Cryan JF, Dinan TG, Clarke G. Biological and psychological markers of stress in humans: focus on the Trier Social Stress Test. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2013; 38:94-124. [PMID: 24239854 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 442] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Validated biological and psychological markers of acute stress in humans are an important tool in translational research. The Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), involving public interview and mental arithmetic performance, is among the most popular methods of inducing acute stress in experimental settings, and reliably increases hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation. However, although much research has focused on HPA axis activity, the TSST also affects the sympathetic-adrenal-medullary system, the immune system, cardiovascular outputs, gastric function and cognition. We critically assess the utility of different biological and psychological markers, with guidance for future research, and discuss factors which can moderate TSST effects. We outline the effects of the TSST in stress-related disorders, and if these responses can be abrogated by pharmacological and psychological treatments. Modified TSST protocols are discussed, and the TSST is compared to alternative methods of inducing acute stress. Our analysis suggests that multiple readouts are necessary to derive maximum information; this strategy will enhance our understanding of the psychobiology of stress and provide the means to assess novel therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Allen
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul J Kennedy
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Timothy G Dinan
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Gerard Clarke
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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381
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Schultheiss OC, Wiemers US, Wolf OT. Implicit need for achievement predicts attenuated cortisol responses to difficult tasks. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN PERSONALITY 2013; 48:84-92. [PMID: 34531619 DOI: 10.1016/j.jrp.2013.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The present research tested the hypothesis that the implicit need for achievement (n Achievement) predicts attenuated cortisol (C) responses to difficult tasks, because it represents a propensity to view difficulty as a cue to mastery reward. In two studies, n Achievement was assessed through content-coding of imaginative stories and salivary C was assessed both at baseline and post-task. In Study 1 (N = 108 US students), n Achievement predicted an attenuated C response to a one-on-one competition in the laboratory, regardless of whether participants won or lost. In Study 2 (N = 62 German students), n Achievement predicted an attenuated C response to the Trier Social Stress Test (Kirschbaum, Pirke, & Hellhammer, 1993), but not to a non-stressful control task. In Study 2 only, the attenuating effect of n Achievement was moderated by gender, with only men showing the effect. Across both studies, the average effect size of the association between n Achievement and C responses to difficult tasks was r = -.28. These findings point to a role of n Achievement in emotion regulation.
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382
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Stawski RS, Cichy KE, Piazza JR, Almeida DM. Associations among daily stressors and salivary cortisol: findings from the National Study of Daily Experiences. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:2654-65. [PMID: 23856186 PMCID: PMC3914662 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
While much research has focused on linking stressful experiences to emotional and biological reactions in laboratory settings, there is an emerging interest in extending these examinations to field studies of daily life. The current study examined day-to-day associations among naturally occurring daily stressors and salivary cortisol in a national sample of adults from the second wave of the National Study of Daily Experiences (NSDE). A sample of 1694 adults (age=57, range=33-84; 44% male) completed telephone interviews detailing their stressors and emotions on eight consecutive evenings. Participants also provided saliva samples upon waking, 30min post-waking, before lunch and before bed, on four consecutive interview days resulting in 5995 days of interview/cortisol data. Analyses revealed three main findings. First, cortisol AUC was significantly higher on stressor days compared to stressor-free days, particularly for arguments and overloads at home, suggesting that daily stressors are associated with increased cortisol output, but that not all daily stressors have such an influence. Second, individuals reporting a greater frequency of stressor days also exhibited a steeper diurnal cortisol slope. Finally, daily stressor-cortisol associations were unaltered after adjustment for daily negative affect and physical symptoms. Our discussion focuses on the influence of naturally occurring daily stressors on daily cortisol and the role of daily diary approaches for studying healthy cortisol responses to psychosocial stressors outside of traditional laboratory settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S. Stawski
- Corresponding Author: Robert S. Stawski, Ph.D., Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson St. MISQ 4107, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, Phone: +1.734.647.2827, Fax: +1.734.647.1186,
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383
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Habersaat S, Borghini A, Faure N, Nessi J, Forcada-Guex M, Pierrehumbert B, Ansermet F, Müller-Nix C. Emotional and neuroendocrine regulation in very preterm and full-term infants at six months of age. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/17405629.2013.787924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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384
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Leitzke BT, Hilt LM, Pollak SD. Maltreated youth display a blunted blood pressure response to an acute interpersonal stressor. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY 2013; 44:305-13. [PMID: 24175880 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2013.848774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Although there is much evidence of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction among individuals who have experienced child maltreatment, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) has received less attention. Understanding the role of the ANS in maltreated children may help clarify how these children respond to subsequent life stress. We explored ANS reactivity among 111 youth (ages 9-14), 34 of whom had experienced verified child maltreatment. ANS activity was assessed via blood pressure-a convenient, noninvasive physiological index-while youth underwent a social stress task. Blood pressure and subjective mood ratings were obtained prior to and following the task. Nonmaltreated youth experienced an increase in systolic blood pressure following the stressor, whereas maltreated youth did not. Self-reported subjective mood worsened for both groups. The current data suggest that children who experienced early stress exposure demonstrate blunted ANS reactivity. Results are discussed in terms of children's healthy adaptations to transient social stressors. In addition, we discuss the cost-effectiveness and benefits of physiological measures such as blood pressure for understanding risk for psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T Leitzke
- a Department of Psychology , University of Wisconsin-Madison
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385
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Simic I, Adzic M, Maric N, Savic D, Djordjevic J, Mihaljevic M, Mitic M, Pavlovic Z, Soldatovic I, Krstic-Demonacos M, Jasovic-Gasic M, Radojcic M. A preliminary evaluation of leukocyte phospho-glucocorticoid receptor as a potential biomarker of depressogenic vulnerability in healthy adults. Psychiatry Res 2013; 209:658-64. [PMID: 23477901 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism of maladaptive chronic stress response involves altered phosphorylation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). In this study, we investigated if important depressogenic vulnerability factors, such as neuroticism and self-reports of negative affective states, may be associated with alterations in levels of the GR and GR phosphoisoforms in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of healthy adults. In 21 women and 16 men we evaluated PMBC levels of total GR (tGR), GR phosphorylated at serine 211 (pGR-S211) and serine 226 (pGR-S226) and correlated these data with personality traits and current reports of stress, anxiety and depression. Also, we assessed plasma cortisol levels in all tested subjects. Our results showed that in women nuclear pGR-S226 was positively correlated with neuroticism and current reports of depression, anxiety and stress, while the ratio of nuclear pGR-S211/pGR-S226 was negatively correlated with reports of depression. None of the aforementioned correlations were significant in men. No significant relations between cortisol levels and any of GR parameters were observed. These preliminary findings highlight the value of GR phosphorylation-related research in identifying molecular biomarkers of depressogenic vulnerability, at least in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Simic
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, VINCA Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, P.O. BOX 522 MBE090, Belgrade 11001, Serbia
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386
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Vinkers CH, Penning R, Hellhammer J, Verster JC, Klaessens JHGM, Olivier B, Kalkman CJ. The effect of stress on core and peripheral body temperature in humans. Stress 2013; 16:520-30. [PMID: 23790072 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2013.807243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though there are indications that stress influences body temperature in humans, no study has systematically investigated the effects of stress on core and peripheral body temperature. The present study therefore aimed to investigate the effects of acute psychosocial stress on body temperature using different readout measurements. In two independent studies, male and female participants were exposed to a standardized laboratory stress task (the Trier Social Stress Test, TSST) or a non-stressful control task. Core temperature (intestinal and temporal artery) and peripheral temperature (facial and body skin temperature) were measured. Compared to the control condition, stress exposure decreased intestinal temperature but did not affect temporal artery temperature. Stress exposure resulted in changes in skin temperature that followed a gradient-like pattern, with decreases at distal skin locations such as the fingertip and finger base and unchanged skin temperature at proximal regions such as the infra-clavicular area. Stress-induced effects on facial temperature displayed a sex-specific pattern, with decreased nasal skin temperature in females and increased cheek temperature in males. In conclusion, the amplitude and direction of stress-induced temperature changes depend on the site of temperature measurement in humans. This precludes a direct translation of the preclinical stress-induced hyperthermia paradigm, in which core temperature uniformly rises in response to stress to the human situation. Nevertheless, the effects of stress result in consistent temperature changes. Therefore, the present study supports the inclusion of body temperature as a physiological readout parameter of stress in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiaan H Vinkers
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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387
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Andrews J, Ali N, Pruessner JC. Reflections on the interaction of psychogenic stress systems in humans: the stress coherence/compensation model. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:947-61. [PMID: 23522990 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2012] [Revised: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although stress simultaneously affects and causes changes in central nervous system systems together with the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, this interaction and its behavioral consequences are rarely assessed. The current paper first describes the different systems involved in the perception and processing of stressful stimuli on an anatomical and functional level, and the available measures to assess changes in these systems. It then explores, based on theoretical and empirical grounds, the interaction of the systems. This is followed by a review of previous stress models, and how these attempted to integrate the interaction of these systems. Then, it complements previous models by suggesting a complementary regulation of the stress systems, and discusses potential behavioral consequences. Finally, based on the three-system approach to assess stress it is argued that psychological measures, together with physiological and endocrine measures are indispensable. However, the lack of consensus on how to best assess the central and sympathetic nervous system components of stress make it more difficult to include measures of all systems routinely in future stress studies. Thus, the paper closes by giving some recommendations on how to include a minimum of feasible stress measures for all systems involved in stress processing and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Andrews
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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388
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Ghaemmaghami P, Dainese SM, La Marca R, Zimmermann R, Ehlert U. The association between the acute psychobiological stress response in second trimester pregnant women, amniotic fluid glucocorticoids, and neonatal birth outcome. Dev Psychobiol 2013; 56:734-47. [PMID: 23775363 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The underlying biological mechanism of prenatal stress in humans is poorly understood, but maternal cortisol (F) excess seems to play an important role. In pregnant rats, acute stress causes an up-regulation of placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), an enzyme present throughout the body (e.g., placenta, salivary glands) that inactivates F to cortisone (E), thereby protecting the fetus from maternal F overexposure. Whether acute stress influences human 11β-HSD2 is unclear. We aimed to explore the association between the maternal stress reactivity and amniotic fluid F, E, and the E/(E + F) ratio as a marker of fetoplacental 11β-HSD2. The predictive value of all markers for birth outcome was investigated. We examined 34 healthy pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis, which served as a standardized, real-life stressor. F, E, and E/(E + F) were determined from a single aliquot of amniotic fluid, and from saliva samples collected repeatedly. Subjects filled out state questionnaires repeatedly and were re-examined in a control condition after notification of a normal amniocentesis result. During amniocentesis, psychological stress, salivary F (SalF), and salivary E (SalE) increased significantly, whereas SalE/(E + F) decreased. The SalF reactivity was positively associated with amniotic E, while SalE/(E + F) was inversely associated with amniotic E/(E + F). SalF and SalE predicted lower and SalE/(E + F) higher birth weight. Psychological and amniotic fluid variables were unrelated to birth outcome. Findings indicate that maternal F is inactivated to E in the human fetoplacental unit during acute stress. Increased 11β-HSD2 activity within the maternal salivary glands following acute stress may mirror further stress protective mechanisms worthwhile investigating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearl Ghaemmaghami
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/Box 26, CH-8050, Zurich, Switzerland
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389
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Yang Y, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Tang J, Zhu X, Miao D. Bifactor item response theory model of acute stress response. PLoS One 2013; 8:e65291. [PMID: 23762336 PMCID: PMC3676469 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Better understanding of acute stress responses is important for revision of DSM-5. However, the latent structure and relationship between different aspects of acute stress responses haven’t been clarified comprehensively. Bifactor item response model may help resolve this problem. Objective The purpose of this study is to develop a statistical model of acute stress responses, based on data from earthquake rescuers using Acute Stress Response Scale (ASRS). Through this model, we could better understand acute stress responses comprehensively, and provide preliminary information for computerized adaptive testing of stress responses. Methods Acute stress responses of earthquake rescuers were evaluated using ASRS, and state/trait anxiety were assessed using State-trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). A hierarchical item response model (bifactor model) was used to analyze the data. Additionally, we tested this hierarchical model with model fit comparisons with one-dimensional and five-dimensional models. The correlations among acute stress responses and state/trait anxiety were compared, based on both the five-dimensional and bifactor models. Results Model fit comparisons showed bifactor model fit the data best. Item loadings on general and specific factors varied greatly between different aspects of stress responses. Many symptoms (40%) of physiological responses had positive loadings on general factor, and negative loadings on specific factor of physiological responses, while other stress responses had positive loadings on both general and specific factors. After extracting general factor of stress responses using bifactor analysis, significant positive correlations between physiological responses and state/trait anxiety (r = 0.185/0.112, p<0.01) changed into negative ones (r = −0.177/−0.38, p<0.01). Conclusion Our results demonstrated bifactor structure of acute stress responses, and positive and negative correlations between physiological responses and stress responses suggested physiological responses could have negative feedback on severity of stress responses. This finding has not been convincingly demonstrated in previous research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yebing Yang
- Department of Psychology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, PR China
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390
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Pruessner M, Béchard-Evans L, Boekestyn L, Iyer SN, Pruessner JC, Malla AK. Attenuated cortisol response to acute psychosocial stress in individuals at ultra-high risk for psychosis. Schizophr Res 2013; 146:79-86. [PMID: 23510595 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Revised: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We recently reported that individuals at ultra-high risk for the development of psychosis (UHR) have elevated levels of chronic stress and deficits in the putative protective factors self-esteem, social support and coping skills. The aim of the present study was to assess endocrine and autonomic responses to acute psychosocial stress and their associations with self-ratings of stress and protective factors in individuals at UHR. Twenty-one patients diagnosed with an "at risk mental state" (12 male, 9 female; mean age 20.8 ± 3.27) and 21 healthy age and gender matched community controls were exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Saliva samples for cortisol assessment and measurements of heart rate and blood pressure were taken throughout the testing period. Levels of perceived chronic stress, protective factors and depression were assessed with reference to the preceding month and year (stress only). Compared to healthy controls, individuals at UHR reported significantly higher levels of depression, deficits in protective factors, and a trend for higher chronic stress levels. Cortisol levels and systolic blood pressure during the TSST were significantly lower in the UHR group, while heart rate changes were comparable to controls. Lower cortisol levels in the UHR group were associated with higher self-ratings of stress in the past year and a lower level of education. Attenuated cortisol responses to acute psychosocial stress in the presence of high chronic stress could indicate a desensitization of the HPA axis. Associated poor metabolic and psychological adjustment to stress might increase vulnerability for the development of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Pruessner
- Prevention and Early Intervention Program for Psychoses, PEPP-Montreal, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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391
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Schrepf A, Clevenger L, Christensen D, DeGeest K, Bender D, Ahmed A, Goodheart MJ, Dahmoush L, Penedo F, Lucci JA, Ganjei-Azar P, Mendez L, Markon K, Lubaroff DM, Thaker PH, Slavich GM, Sood AK, Lutgendorf SK. Cortisol and inflammatory processes in ovarian cancer patients following primary treatment: relationships with depression, fatigue, and disability. Brain Behav Immun 2013; 30 Suppl:S126-34. [PMID: 22884960 PMCID: PMC3697797 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2012.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevations in the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) and alterations in the anti-inflammatory hormone cortisol have been reported in a variety of cancers. IL-6 has prognostic significance in ovarian cancer and cortisol has been associated with fatigue, disability, and vegetative depression in ovarian cancer patients prior to surgery. Ovarian cancer patients undergoing primary treatment completed psychological self-report measures and collected salivary cortisol and plasma IL-6 prior to surgery, at 6 months, and at 1 year. Patients included in this study had completed chemotherapy and had no evidence of disease recurrence. At 6 months, patients showed significant reductions in nocturnal cortisol secretion, plasma IL-6, and a more normalized diurnal cortisol rhythm, changes that were maintained at 1 year. The reductions in IL-6 and nocturnal cortisol were associated with declines in self-reported fatigue, vegetative depression, and disability. These findings suggest that primary treatment for ovarian cancer reduces the inflammatory response. Moreover, patients who have not developed recurrent disease by 1 year appear to maintain more normalized levels of cortisol and IL-6. Improvement in fatigue and vegetative depression is associated with the normalization of IL-6 and cortisol, a pattern which may be relevant for improvements in overall quality of life for ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Koen DeGeest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa
| | - David Bender
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa
| | - Amina Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa
| | - Michael J. Goodheart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa
| | | | - Frank Penedo
- Department of Psychology and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami
| | - Joseph A. Lucci
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami
| | - Parvin Ganjei-Azar
- Department of Pathology and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami
| | - Luis Mendez
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University School of Medicine
| | | | - David M. Lubaroff
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa
- Department of Urology, University of Iowa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Iowa
| | | | - George M. Slavich
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Anil K. Sood
- Departments of Gynecologic Oncology and Cancer Biology, UT MD Anderson Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Susan K. Lutgendorf
- Department of Psychology, University of Iowa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa
- Department of Urology, University of Iowa
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392
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Andrews J, Pruessner JC. The combined propranolol/TSST paradigm--a new method for psychoneuroendocrinology. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57567. [PMID: 23451243 PMCID: PMC3579809 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Upon perception of a stimulus as stressful, the human brain reacts with the activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), to mobilize energy resources to better cope with the stressor. Since the perception of the stressor is the initial stimulus, a synchronicity between the subjective perception of stress and the physiological stress reactivity should be expected. However, according to a recent meta-analysis, these associations are weak and inconsistent. The goal of the current study was to investigate the interaction between the SNS, HPA and subjective stress perceptions, by introducing an experimental manipulation of this interaction. For this purpose, we combined the SNS inhibitor propranolol with the Trier Social Stress Test, and measured endocrinological and psychological responses to the stressor. Thirty healthy male participants were recruited and randomly assigned to either a propranolol (PROP; n = 15) or placebo (PLC; n = 15) group. All subjects were administered 80 mg of propranolol 60 minutes prior to exposure to psychosocial stress. Salivary cortisol and alpha amylase (sAA), heart rate, blood pressure and subjective stress responses were assessed throughout the study. We observed significantly reduced sAA levels and heart rate increases in the PROP group in response to stress, with no effects of the drug on systolic or diastolic blood pressure changes. In line with previous studies, a significant increase in cortisol was seen in response to the stress exposure. Importantly, the cortisol increase was significantly higher in the PROP group. A typical increase in subjective stress could be seen in both groups, with no significant group differences emerging. Complementing previous work, this study further demonstrates a significant interaction between the HPA and the SNS during acute stress. The HPA activity was found to be elevated in the presence of a suppressed SNS in reactivity to the TSST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Andrews
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jens C. Pruessner
- McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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393
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Boyle NB, Lawton C, Arkbage K, Thorell L, Dye L. Dreading the boards: stress response to a competitive audition characterized by social-evaluative threat. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2013; 26:690-9. [PMID: 23394624 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2013.766327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The capacity of psychosocial stressors to provoke the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis has been demonstrated to vary depending upon a number of psychological factors. Laboratory stressors characterized by social-evaluative threat are proposed to be the most efficacious in the elicitation of a cortisol stress response. Salivary cortisol, cardiovascular, and subjective responses of 16 healthy adults facing a naturalistic stressor characterized by social-evaluative threat (competitive performance auditions) were examined. Audition exposure was sufficient to provoke significant cortisol, arterial blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), and subjective stress responses. Cortisol response reactivity (area under the curve with respect to increase [AUCi]) also correlated with participants' subjective rating of social-evaluative threat. The competitive performance audition context is therefore considered a promising context in which to further explore cortisol responsivity to social-evaluative threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Bernard Boyle
- a Institute of Psychological Sciences , University of Leeds , Leeds , UK
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394
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Bibbey A, Carroll D, Roseboom TJ, Phillips AC, de Rooij SR. Personality and physiological reactions to acute psychological stress. Int J Psychophysiol 2012; 90:28-36. [PMID: 23147393 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2012.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Stable personality traits have long been presumed to have biological substrates, although the evidence relating personality to biological stress reactivity is inconclusive. The present study examined, in a large middle aged cohort (N=352), the relationship between key personality traits and both cortisol and cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress. Salivary cortisol and cardiovascular activity were measured at rest and in response to a psychological stress protocol comprising 5min each of a Stroop task, mirror tracing, and a speech task. Participants subsequently completed the Big Five Inventory to assess neuroticism, agreeableness, openness to experience, extraversion, and conscientiousness. Those with higher neuroticism scores exhibited smaller cortisol and cardiovascular stress reactions, whereas participants who were less agreeable and less open had smaller cortisol and cardiac reactions to stress. These associations remained statistically significant following adjustment for a range of potential confounding variables. Thus, a negative personality disposition would appear to be linked to diminished stress reactivity. These findings further support a growing body of evidence which suggests that blunted stress reactivity may be maladaptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Bibbey
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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395
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Polizzi di Sorrentino E, Schino G, Tiddi B, Aureli F. Scratching as a Window into the Emotional Responses of Wild Tufted Capuchin Monkeys. Ethology 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriele Schino
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, C.N.R; Roma; Italy
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396
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Berndt C, Strahler J, Kirschbaum C, Rohleder N. Lower stress system activity and higher peripheral inflammation in competitive ballroom dancers. Biol Psychol 2012; 91:357-64. [PMID: 22951517 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2012] [Revised: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Although regular physical exercise is beneficial for health, competitive ballroom dancers anecdotally report increased disease susceptibility. This study aims to uncover possible biological mechanisms and pathways that may lead to higher disease susceptibility in a population of otherwise healthy young athletes. Experienced ballroom dancers and healthy controls provided blood and saliva samples in order to assess diurnal cortisol and alpha-amylase (sAA) output as well as inflammatory parameters interleukin (IL)-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP). We found diurnal cortisol and sAA output to be significantly lower in dancers. Additionally, higher levels in IL-6 but not in CRP were shown in dancers. Dancers described themselves as being more anxious and reported more physical health complaints. Competitive ballroom dancers show evidence for hypoactivity in stress systems and peripheral inflammation along with more self-reported physical complaints. Therefore, competitive ballroom dancing represents a chronic stressor that can lead to important functional consequences. It remains to be investigated whether these alterations are causally related to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Berndt
- Department of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
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397
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Erni K, Shaqiri-Emini L, La Marca R, Zimmermann R, Ehlert U. Psychobiological effects of prenatal glucocorticoid exposure in 10-year-old-children. Front Psychiatry 2012; 3:104. [PMID: 23233841 PMCID: PMC3517968 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2012.00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal stress seems to have long-lasting effects on biological and psychological processes of the offspring. However, to date, there have been no studies investigating the effects of prenatal glucocorticoid exposure on psychological, endocrine, and autonomic responses to a standardized psychosocial stress test in children. METHODS A sample of 115 healthy, 10-year-old children was examined. The Glucocorticoids + Tocolytics group was characterized by tocolytic treatment of the mothers due to preterm labor (n = 43). In addition, the pregnant women received glucocorticoid treatment in order to accelerate fetal lung maturation in case of preterm birth. The first comparison group (Tocolytics) consisted of children whose mothers also experienced preterm labor, but did not receive glucocorticoid treatment (n = 35). In the second comparison group (CONTROL), children whose mothers had a complication-free pregnancy were assessed (n = 37). Psychological parameters (stress appraisal and mood) using self-report questionnaires as well as salivary cortisol, salivary alpha-amylase, and heart rate were measured during a standardized psychosocial stress test (Trier Social Stress Test for Children). RESULTS Group comparisons revealed that a subscale of stress appraisal, control expectancies, significantly differed in children who were prenatally exposed to glucocorticoids as compared to both comparison groups (F = 4.889, p = 0.009). Furthermore, significant differences between the groups were revealed for salivary cortisol. With respect to overall stress appraisal and heart rate, trends toward significance were observed between the three groups. CONCLUSION At the age of ten, those children who have been exposed to prenatal maternal glucocorticoids show changed psychobiological stress reactivity to a standardized psychosocial stress test as compared to control children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Erni
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland ; Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
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