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Lazeron-Savu E, Lenaert B, Dijkstra J, Ponds R, van Heugten C. Feasibility of a novel blended-care intervention for fatigue after acquired brain injury: a pilot study of the Tied by Tiredness intervention. Brain Inj 2024; 38:448-458. [PMID: 38324645 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2311346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence-based treatments for fatigue after brain injury are scarce and often not personalized. An approach to foster personalization is Experience Sampling Methodology (ESM), consisting of repeated daily measurements of fatigue and related factors in daily life. We investigated the feasibility and usability of a novel six-week ESM-based intervention for fatigue after brain injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten individuals with acquired brain injury (six men; four women) aged between 36-70 years (M = 53.3, SD = 12.9) used a mHealth application for three days each week during six-weeks; seven completed the intervention. Momentary fatigue, activities, mood, worrying, and social context were assessed with ESM and participants received weekly personalized feedback by a therapist.. RESULTS 56% of ESM-questionnaires (568/1008) were completed, providing detailed insights into individual fatigue patterns. No statistically significant decrease in response rate was found over the course of treatment. Qualitative feedback from participants revealed increased insight into factors underlying fatigue, and no problems with treatment duration or difficulties using the app. Five participants showed a decline in fatigue level during treatment. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study provides initial support for the feasibility and usability of this novel blended-care intervention, aimed at alleviating fatigue through personalized feedback and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ela Lazeron-Savu
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bert Lenaert
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Lifespan Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeanette Dijkstra
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rudolf Ponds
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Limburg Brain Injury Center, Maasticht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline van Heugten
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Limburg Brain Injury Center, Maasticht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Juárez-Belaúnde A, Orcajo E, Lejarreta S, Davila-Pérez P, León N, Oliviero A. Fatigue in patients with acquired brain damage. Neurologia 2024; 39:178-189. [PMID: 38278413 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2024.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is a complex, multidimensional syndrome that is prevalent in patients with acquired brain damage and has a negative impact on the neurorehabilitation process. It presents from early stages after the injury, and may persist over time, regardless of whether sequelae have resolved. Fatigue is conditioned by upper neuronal circuits, and is defined as an abnormal perception of overexertion. Its prevalence ranges from 29% to 77% after stroke, from 18% to 75% after traumatic brain injury, and from 47% to 97% after brain tumours. Fatigue is associated with factors including female sex, advanced age, dysfunctional families, history of specific health conditions, functional status (eg, fatigue prior to injury), comorbidities, mood, secondary disability, and the use of certain drugs. Assessment of fatigue is fundamentally based on such scales as the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Advances have recently been made in imaging techniques for its diagnosis, such as in functional MRI. Regarding treatment, no specific pharmacological treatment currently exists; however, positive results have been reported for some conventional neurorehabilitation therapies, such as bright light therapy, neurofeedback, electrical stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. This review aims to assist neurorehabilitation professionals to recognise modifiable factors associated with fatigue and to describe the treatments available to reduce its negative effect on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Juárez-Belaúnde
- Fundación Instituto San José Hospital, Área de Neurorrehabilitación y Atención al Daño Cerebral, Madrid, España.
| | - E Orcajo
- Fundación Instituto San José Hospital, Área de Neurorrehabilitación y Atención al Daño Cerebral, Madrid, España; Unidad avanzada de neurorehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - S Lejarreta
- Fundación Instituto San José Hospital, Área de Neurorrehabilitación y Atención al Daño Cerebral, Madrid, España; Consorci Sanitari Alt Penedès-Garraf, Departmento de Neurología, Cataluña, España
| | - P Davila-Pérez
- Unidad avanzada de neurorehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España; Hospital Universitario Rey Juan Carlos (HURJC), Departmento de Neurofisiología Clínica, Madrid, España; Health Research Institute - Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, España
| | - N León
- Fundación Instituto San José Hospital, Área de Neurorrehabilitación y Atención al Daño Cerebral, Madrid, España; Unidad avanzada de neurorehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - A Oliviero
- Fundación Instituto San José Hospital, Área de Neurorrehabilitación y Atención al Daño Cerebral, Madrid, España; Unidad avanzada de neurorehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España; Hospital Nacional para Paraplégicos (SESCAM), Grupo FENNSI, Toledo, España
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3
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Elliott TR, Hsiao YY, Randolph K, Urban RJ, Sheffield-Moore M, Pyles RB, Masel BE, Wexler T, Wright TJ. Efficient assessment of brain fog and fatigue: Development of the Fatigue and Altered Cognition Scale (FACs). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295593. [PMID: 38079429 PMCID: PMC10712873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Debilitating symptoms of fatigue and accompanying "brain fog" are observed among patients with various chronic health conditions. Unfortunately, an efficient and psychometrically sound instrument to assess these co-occurring symptoms is unavailable. Here, we report the development and initial psychometric properties of the Fatigue and Altered Cognition Scale (the FACs), a measure of self-reported central fatigue and brain fog. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) was chosen to model and develop the FACs due to research team expertise and established links between TBI and the symptom complex. Potential items were generated by researchers and clinicians with experience treating these symptoms, drawing from relevant literature and review of patient responses to measures from past and current TBI studies. The 20 candidate items for the FACs-ten each to assess altered cognition (i.e., brain fog) and central fatigue-were formatted on an electronic visual analogue response scale (eVAS) via an online survey. Demographic information and history of TBI were obtained. A total of 519 participants consented and provided usable data (average age = 40.23 years; 73% female), 204 of whom self-reported a history of TBI (75% reported mild TBI). Internal consistency and reliability values were calculated. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) examined the presumed two-factor structure of the FACs and a one-factor solution for comparison. A measurement invariance test of the two latent constructs (altered cognition, fatigue) among participants with and without TBI was conducted. All items demonstrated normal distribution. Cronbach's alpha coefficients indicated good internal consistency for both factors (α's = .95). Omega reliability values were favorable (α's = .95). CFA supported the presumed two-factor model and item loadings which outperformed the one-factor model. Measurement invariance found the two-factor structure was consistent between the two groups. Implications of these findings, study limitations, and potential use of the FACs in clinical research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R. Elliott
- Department of Educational Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Yu-Yu Hsiao
- Department of Individual, Family, and Community Education, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Randolph
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Randall J. Urban
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Melinda Sheffield-Moore
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Brent E. Masel
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Tamara Wexler
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Traver J. Wright
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
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Wylie GR, Genova HM, Yao B, Chiaravalloti N, Román CAF, Sandroff BM, DeLuca J. Evaluating the effects of brain injury, disease and tasks on cognitive fatigue. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20166. [PMID: 37978235 PMCID: PMC10656417 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46918-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Because cognitive fatigue (CF) is common and debilitating following brain injury or disease we investigated the relationships among CF, behavioral performance, and cerebral activation within and across populations by combining the data from two cross-sectional studies. Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) were included to model CF resulting from neurological disease; individuals who had sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) were included to model CF resulting from neurological insult; both groups were compared with a control group (Controls). CF was induced while neuroimaging data was acquired using two different tasks. CF significantly differed between the groups, with the clinical groups reporting more CF than Controls-a difference that was statistically significant for the TBI group and trended towards significance for the MS group. The accrual of CF did not differ across the three groups; and CF ratings were consistent across tasks. Increasing CF was associated with longer response time for all groups. The brain activation in the caudate nucleus and the thalamus was consistently correlated with CF in all three groups, while more dorsally in the caudate, activation differed across the groups. These results suggest the caudate and thalamus to be central to CF while more dorsal aspects of the caudate may be sensitive to damage associated with particular types of insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn R Wylie
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA.
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA.
- Department of Veterans' Affairs, The War Related Illness and Injury Center, East Orange Campus, East Orange, NJ, 07018, USA.
| | - Helen M Genova
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
| | - Bing Yao
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
| | - Nancy Chiaravalloti
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
| | - Cristina A F Román
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
| | - Brian M Sandroff
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
| | - John DeLuca
- Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
- Department of Neurology, Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA
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Chen SM, Chen WL, Tai CJ, Hsieh SH, Lin CK, Chen PY, Huang HC, Fan YC, Chiu HY. Effects of Self-Administered Acupressure on Fatigue Following Traumatic Brain Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2023; 38:E404-E413. [PMID: 36951471 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue is a common symptom after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may persist for weeks or years. However, nonpharmacological management strategies for fatigue alleviations are almost nonexistent; thus, effective fatigue management programs are needed urgently. PURPOSES We aimed to evaluate the effects of self-administered acupressure programs on post-TBI fatigue and heart rate variability and identify the possible correlation between the improvements in fatigue symptoms and the changes in heart rate variability. DESIGN This randomized controlled trial included 2-point acupressure (TPA; n = 27), 5-point acupressure (FPA; n = 27), and usual care (UC, control; n = 27) groups who underwent several assessments before and after the study intervention. Heart rate variability was evaluated at baseline, weeks 2 and 3, and treatment completion. METHODS The TPA and FPA groups self-administered acupressure (3 minutes per acupoint; bilateral), thrice daily for 4 weeks, whereas the UC group received routine treatment without acupressure. RESULTS Both the TPA and FPA groups exhibited substantial improvements in fatigue symptoms compared with the baseline findings in the UC group. In addition, the TPA and FPA groups exhibited increased high-frequency power and mean number of times per hour in which the changes in successive normal sinus intervals (RR) gradually exceeded 50 ms (pNN50). Changes in high-frequency power and pNN50 were correlated with improvements in post-TBI fatigue symptoms. CONCLUSION Acupressure may alleviate chronic fatigue and enhance parasympathetic activity in TBI survivors. The enhancement of parasympathetic activity may be correlated with improvements in post-TBI fatigue symptoms. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Healthcare providers should incorporate self-administered acupressure into the care plans for TBI survivors to improve their fatigue symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital and School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan (Dr S. M. Chen); Departments of Nursing (Ms W. L. Chen) and Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery (Dr Lin), Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan; School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan (Ms W. L. Chen and Drs Huang, and Chiu); Departments of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr Tai) and Nursing (Dr Chiu), Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, En Chu Kong Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan (Ms Hsieh); Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Community Medicine Research Center, Keelung Branch, Keelung, Taiwan (Dr P.Y. Chen); School of Public Health, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan (Dr Fan); and Research Center of Sleep Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan (Dr Chiu)
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6
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Gavelin HM, Neely AS, Aronsson I, Josefsson M, Andersson L. Mental fatigue, cognitive performance and autonomic response following sustained mental activity in clinical burnout. Biol Psychol 2023; 183:108661. [PMID: 37598882 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of sustained mental activity on perceptions of mental fatigue, cognitive performance, and autonomic response in patients with clinical burnout as compared to a healthy control group. METHODS Patients with clinical burnout (n = 30) and healthy control participants (n = 30) completed a 3-hour test session, in which they were administered a set of cognitive tests before and after an effortful cognitive task with concurrent sound exposure. Perceptions of mental fatigue and task demands (mental effort and concentration difficulties) were assessed repeatedly over the course of the test session. Heart rate variability was recorded to index autonomic response. RESULTS In comparison with controls, perceived mental fatigue increased earlier in the session for the clinical burnout group and did not recover following a short rest period. Throughout the session, patients rated the tasks as more demanding and showed less improvement on measures of attention and processing speed, inhibition and working memory. While autonomic responses were initially comparable, there was a unique decrease in high-frequency heart rate variability in the clinical burnout group after extended testing and exposure. CONCLUSION Patients with clinical burnout are affected differently than healthy controls by sustained mental activity, as reflected by ratings of perceived mental fatigue, aspects of cognitive performance and autonomic response. Further investigation into the role of autonomic regulation in relation to cognitive symptoms in clinical burnout is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Stigsdotter Neely
- Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts; Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Sweden; Department of Social and Psychological studies, Karlstad University, Sweden
| | | | - Maria Josefsson
- Department of Statistics, Umeå School of Business, Economics and Statistics, Umeå University, Sweden
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7
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Campos MC, Nery T, Starke AC, de Bem Alves AC, Speck AE, S Aguiar A. Post-viral fatigue in COVID-19: A review of symptom assessment methods, mental, cognitive, and physical impairment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104902. [PMID: 36202253 PMCID: PMC9528075 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus 2 is responsible for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the main sequela is persistent fatigue. Post-viral fatigue is common and affects patients with mild, asymptomatic coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). However, the exact mechanisms involved in developing post-COVID-19 fatigue remain unclear. Furthermore, physical and cognitive impairments in these individuals have been widely described. Therefore, this review aims to summarize and propose tools from a multifaceted perspective to assess COVID-19 infection. Herein, we point out the instruments that can be used to assess fatigue in long-term COVID-19: fatigue in a subjective manner or fatigability in an objective manner. For physical and mental fatigue, structured questionnaires were used to assess perceived symptoms, and physical and cognitive performance assessment tests were used to measure fatigability using reduced performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Aderbal S Aguiar
- Correspondence to: Labioex, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Pedro João Pereira, nº 150, Mato Alto, Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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8
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Erani F, Patel D, Deck BL, Hamilton RH, Schultheis MT, Medaglia JD. Investigating the influence of an effort-reward interaction on cognitive fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis. J Neuropsychol 2022. [PMID: 36208463 PMCID: PMC10082133 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study examined whether an alteration in the effort-reward relationship, a theoretical framework based on cognitive neuroscience, could explain cognitive fatigue. Forty persons with MS and 40 healthy age- and education-matched cognitively healthy controls (HC) participated in a computerized switching task with orthogonal high- and low-demand (effort) and reward manipulations. We used the Visual Analog Scale of Fatigue (VAS-F) to assess subjective state fatigue before and after each condition during the task. We used mixed-effects models to estimate the association and interaction between effort and reward and their relationship to subjective fatigue and task performance. We found the high-demand condition was associated with increased VAS-F scores (p < .001), longer response times (RT) (p < .001) and lower accuracy (p < .001). The high-reward condition was associated with faster RT (p = .006) and higher accuracy (p = .03). There was no interaction effect between effort and reward on VAS-F scores or performance. Participants with MS reported higher VAS-F scores (p = .02). Across all conditions, participants with MS were slower (p < .001) and slower as a function of condition demand compared with HC (p < .001). This behavioural study did not find evidence that an effort-reward interaction is associated with cognitive fatigue. However, our findings support the role of effort in subjective cognitive fatigue and both effort and reward on task performance. In future studies, more salient reward manipulations could be necessary to identify effort-reward interactions on subjective cognitive fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fareshte Erani
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Darshan Patel
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Benjamin L Deck
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Roy H Hamilton
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria T Schultheis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John D Medaglia
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Holmberg J, Jondell B, Abzhandadze T, Sunnerhagen KS. Very Early Cognitive Screening and Self-Reported Feeling of Fatigue Three Months After Stroke. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:742105. [PMID: 34858152 PMCID: PMC8632493 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.742105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a major cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Post-stroke fatigue has been reported as one of the most limiting symptoms after a stroke. Early identification of risk factors for developing post-stroke fatigue is important for providing timely rehabilitation. A correlation has been found between fatigue and cognitive impairment after stroke, but 2 months after stroke at the earliest. In the present study, we examined whether cognitive function screening using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) very early after stroke could explain fatigue 3 months after stroke. A total of 311 stroke patients admitted to a comprehensive stroke unit in Sweden between 2011 and 2016 were included in this longitudinal study. Cognition was screened within 2 days after admission to the stroke unit. Data on self-reported feeling of fatigue were retrieved from Riksstroke's 3-month follow-up form. The data were analyzed using binary logistic regression. We found that the cognitive function in an acute phase after stroke could not explain self-reported feeling of fatigue in a later stage. The correlation between cognitive impairment and fatigue that has been reported may be detectable no earlier than the subacute phase of stroke. As previous studies have shown that functional outcome, severity of stroke, and sex also correlate with fatigue after stroke, we controlled for these variables in our analysis. In line with previous studies, we found that female patients had higher odds of experiencing fatigue. This is something that health care professionals should be aware of when working with stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Holmberg
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Beatrice Jondell
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tamar Abzhandadze
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Katharina S Sunnerhagen
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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10
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Burke V, O’Rourke L, Duffy E. Returning to work after acquired brain injury: A mixed method case study. JOURNAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021. [DOI: 10.3233/jvr-211164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Vocation is a meaningful area of rehabilitation after Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). There is a discrepancy between the number of individuals with an ABI who feel able to work and those who are employed in Ireland. Research suggests that Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs enhance Return to Work (RTW) outcomes after ABI, however existing literature is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study explores the experience of engaging in VR post ABI, and its impact upon work self-efficacy. METHODS: A mixed methods case study design was selected to represent the individuality of ABI presentations. Participants completed a qualitative interview at VR follow up (N = 2) and the Work Self-Efficacy Inventory at pre/post VR. RESULTS: Four overarching themes emerged including Stigma, Adjustment, Support and Readiness. RTW challenges included fatigue, accepting support, adjusting to work and stigma. RTW benefits included routine, pride in work, skills development, and empowerment. Wilcoxon signed rank indicated that work self-efficacy scores mildly improved post VR. CONCLUSIONS: This research may inform VR Programs and offers pragmatic clinical implications based on the data. Future research should consider the role that readiness plays in facilitating RTW. Limitations include sample size, a lack of longitudinal data and control group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emer Duffy
- Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relationship between fatigue and cognition has not been fully elucidated in children and adolescent survivors of brain tumours. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential relationship between fatigue and cognitive impairments in these survivors, as this group is at risk for both types of deficits. METHODS Survivors of paediatric brain tumours (n = 45) underwent a neuropsychological testing on average 4 years after diagnosis. Mean age at follow-up was 13.41 years. Cognition was assessed with neuropsychological tests, and fatigue with the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL™) Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Regression analysis, adjusted for cranial radiotherapy and age at diagnosis, was used to investigate the associations between cognitive variables and fatigue subscales. Cognitive variables associated with fatigue were subsequently exploratively assessed. RESULTS Significant associations were found for cognitive fatigue and measures of cognitive processing speed; Coding: p = .003, r = .583, 95% CI [9.61; 22.83] and Symbol Search: p = .001, r = .585, 95% CI [10.54; 24.87]. Slower processing speed was associated with poorer results for cognitive fatigue. Survivors with the largest decrease in processing speed from baseline to follow-up also experienced the most cognitive fatigue. Survivors expressed more cognitive fatigue compared to other types of fatigue. CONCLUSIONS The association between cognitive fatigue and cognitive processing speed in children and adolescents treated for brain tumours is in concordance with the results previously reported in adults. Some survivors experience fatigue without impairment in processing speed, indicating the need for comprehensive assessments. Moreover, the study supports that fatigue is a multidimensional concept which should be measured accordingly.
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12
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Juárez-Belaúnde A, Orcajo E, Lejarreta S, Davila-Pérez P, León N, Oliviero A. Fatigue in patients with acquired brain damage. Neurologia 2021:S0213-4853(21)00111-0. [PMID: 34538507 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is a complex, multidimensional syndrome that is prevalent in patients with acquired brain damage and has a negative impact on the neurorehabilitation process. It presents from early stages after the injury, and may persist over time, regardless of whether sequelae have resolved. Fatigue is conditioned by upper neuronal circuits, and is defined as an abnormal perception of overexertion. Its prevalence ranges from 29% to 77% after stroke, from 18% to 75% after traumatic brain injury, and from 47% to 97% after brain tumours. Fatigue is associated with factors including female sex, advanced age, dysfunctional families, history of specific health conditions, functional status (eg, fatigue prior to injury), comorbidities, mood, secondary disability, and the use of certain drugs. Assessment of fatigue is fundamentally based on such scales as the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Advances have recently been made in imaging techniques for its diagnosis, such as in functional MRI. Regarding treatment, no specific pharmacological treatment currently exists; however, positive results have been reported for some conventional neurorehabilitation therapies, such as bright light therapy, neurofeedback, electrical stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. This review aims to assist neurorehabilitation professionals to recognise modifiable factors associated with fatigue and to describe the treatments available to reduce its negative effect on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Juárez-Belaúnde
- Unidad Avanzada de Neurorrehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España.
| | - E Orcajo
- Unidad Avanzada de Neurorrehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - S Lejarreta
- Unidad Avanzada de Neurorrehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - P Davila-Pérez
- Servicio de Neurofisiología, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - N León
- Unidad Avanzada de Neurorrehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España
| | - A Oliviero
- Unidad Avanzada de Neurorrehabilitación, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España; Servicio de Neurofisiología, Hospital Los Madroños, Madrid, España; Grupo FENNSI, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, Toledo, España
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Schieffler DA, Matta SE. Evidence to Support the Use of S-Adenosylmethionine for Treatment of Post-Concussive Sequelae in the Military. Mil Med 2021; 187:e1182-e1192. [PMID: 33900393 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the year 2000, over 413,000 service members have sustained traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may present with post-concussive sequelae including headaches, fatigue, irritability, cognitive problems, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain. Although the focus of the article is on military TBI, the usefulness of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) would extend to both civilian and military populations. This narrative review examines the preclinical and clinical literature of SAMe's metabolism and alterations seen in disease states such as depressive disorders, pain disorders, fatigue, cognition, dementia, use in pregnancy and peripartum, children, adolescents, and adults, to the elderly with and without dementia, stroke, and neurodegeneration, in order to highlight its potential benefit in post-concussive sequelae after TBI. MATERIALS AND METHODS A MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane Database search was conducted between May 3, 2018 and July 30, 2019 by combining search terms for SAMe with terms for relevant disease states including depression, brain injury, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cognition, fatigue, and pain. This search retrieved a total of 676 references. 439 were excluded for being over a 10-year publication date, except where clinically relevant. After additional removal of repeated articles, the number of articles were totaled 197. An additional 59 articles were excluded: 10 not in English, 4 duplicates, 4 not original investigations, and 41 outside the scope of this article. The remaining 138 articles were used in this review and included 25 clinical studies, 46 preclinical studies, 63 reviews, and 4 case reports. RESULTS This narrative review examined the preclinical and clinical literature of SAMe's metabolism and alterations seen in MDD, pain disorders, fatigue, cognition and memory, dementia, and other disorders to highlight the potential benefit of SAMe in post-concussive sequelae in mTBI. The literature showed potential for improvement, safety, and tolerability in these symptom clusters commonly seen in military mild TBI (mTBI). CONCLUSION There is evidence of a potential benefit of SAMe as an intervention to help with symptoms across the range of post-concussive sequelae and syndromes commonly seen in military mTBI. Since the discovery of SAMe in 1952, this pleiotropic molecule has shown the significance of its involvement in several metabolic cascades in such disparate systems as epigenetics, bioenergetics, DNA methylation, neurotransmitter systems, and potential usefulness in military TBI. Significant limitations include disparate presentations seen in patients with mild TBI, those with post-concussive syndrome, as well as those with comorbid depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. Also, over-the-counter medications are not regulated and SAMe products may vary widely in price and quality. Given the potential for mania in patients with bipolar disorder, evaluation and recommendations should be made by a physician able to evaluate the underlying bipolar diathesis. Furthermore, this narrative review serves as the rationale for future open-label and double-blind placebo-controlled trials in military mTBI and SAMe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia E Matta
- Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, CA 92055, USA
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Acute cognitive impairment after traumatic brain injury predicts the occurrence of brain atrophy patterns similar to those observed in Alzheimer's disease. GeroScience 2021; 43:2015-2039. [PMID: 33900530 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00355-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are often followed by persistent structural brain alterations and by cognitive sequalae, including memory deficits, reduced neural processing speed, impaired social function, and decision-making difficulties. Although mild TBI (mTBI) is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), the extent to which these conditions share patterns of macroscale neurodegeneration has not been quantified. Comparing such patterns can not only reveal how the neurodegenerative trajectories of TBI and AD are similar, but may also identify brain atrophy features which can be leveraged to prognosticate AD risk after TBI. The primary aim of this study is to systematically map how TBI affects white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) properties in AD-analogous patterns. Our findings identify substantial similarities in the regional macroscale neurodegeneration patterns associated with mTBI and AD. In cerebral GM, such similarities are most extensive in brain areas involved in memory and executive function, such as the temporal poles and orbitofrontal cortices, respectively. Our results indicate that the spatial pattern of cerebral WM degradation observed in AD is broadly similar to the pattern of diffuse axonal injury observed in TBI, which frequently affects WM structures like the fornix, corpus callosum, and corona radiata. Using machine learning, we find that the severity of AD-like brain changes observed during the chronic stage of mTBI can be accurately prognosticated based on acute assessments of post-traumatic mild cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that acute post-traumatic cognitive impairment predicts the magnitude of AD-like brain atrophy, which is itself associated with AD risk.
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Long-term psychosocial outcome following mild traumatic brain injury and minor stroke: a direct longitudinal comparison. J Neurol 2021; 268:2132-2140. [PMID: 33439328 PMCID: PMC8179914 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10385-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Background and purpose Research suggests comparable long-term psychosocial outcomes following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and minor stroke, but no direct comparison has been made. This study aimed to directly compare psychosocial outcome over time in persons with mTBI and minor stroke. Methods In this multicenter, prospective longitudinal cohort study, community-dwelling persons with mTBI (n = 182) and minor stroke (n = 48) were assessed at 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months post-injury. Outcome measures included anxiety and depression symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale—HADS), cognitive problems in daily life (Checklist for Cognitive and Emotional Consequences of Stroke—CLCE-24) and quality of life (EuroQol-5D-5L—EQ-5D-5L). Multilevel growth curve modeling, controlled for demographic variables, was used to determine outcomes over time between groups. Proportions of persons reporting persistent psychosocial symptoms at 6 months post-injury were compared using Pearson’s Chi-squared tests. Results Improvements in outcomes were observed in the first 6 months and effects stabilized to 12 months post-injury in both groups. Minor stroke cases reported significantly higher levels of HADS anxiety and a significantly reduced increase in EQ-5D-5L utility scores than mTBI cases, but differences were small in absolute numbers. No significant differences were observed between groups regarding HADS depression and CLCE-24 cognition scores. Proportions of persons reporting persistent psychosocial symptoms were equal between groups. Conclusions Psychosocial outcome is largely comparable following mTBI and minor stroke. Specific attention should be paid to anxiety symptoms and cognitive problems in daily life for which uniform aftercare seems appropriate.
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Is Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20) adequate to measure brain injury related fatigue? Disabil Health J 2020; 13:100913. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2020.100913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Levin H, Troyanskaya M, Petrie J, Wilde EA, Hunter JV, Abildskov TJ, Scheibel RS. Methylphenidate Treatment of Cognitive Dysfunction in Adults After Mild to Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: Rationale, Efficacy, and Neural Mechanisms. Front Neurol 2019; 10:925. [PMID: 31572283 PMCID: PMC6751302 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Positive effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on attention and cognitive processing speed have been reported in studies of patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Studies which have acquired functional brain imaging before and while using MPH have also found alteration of brain activation while performing a cognitive task; in some studies, this alteration of activation in selective brain regions was also related to improved performance on cognitive tests administered outside of the scanning environment. Enhanced cognitive performance has been reported after single doses of MPH and after daily treatment over durations of up to and exceeding 1 month. Preclinical research and both positron emission tomography and single photon emission tomography of humans have shown that MPH increases extracellular dopamine and norepinephrine; the dose effects of MPH have an inverted U-shaped function where high doses may cause insomnia, nervousness, and increased heart rate among other symptoms and impair cognitive performance, whereas too low a dose fails to improve cognitive performance. In the past 5 years, small clinical trials, and experimental pilot studies have found therapeutic effects of single and repeated low doses of MPH in patients with mild TBI who reported cognitive dysfunction. This literature also suggests that MPH may interact with concurrent cognitive interventions to enhance their effects. This focused review will critically evaluate the recent literature on MPH effects on cognitive dysfunction after mild to moderate TBI. To elucidate the neural mechanisms of MPH effects, this review will also include recent imaging research, preclinical, and experimental human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Levin
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maya Troyanskaya
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - JoAnn Petrie
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Elisabeth A. Wilde
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- George E. Wahlen VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Jill V. Hunter
- Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Tracy J. Abildskov
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Randall S. Scheibel
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Skau S, Bunketorp-Käll L, Kuhn HG, Johansson B. Mental Fatigue and Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) - Based Assessment of Cognitive Performance After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Hum Neurosci 2019; 13:145. [PMID: 31139065 PMCID: PMC6527600 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological mental fatigue after mild traumatic brain injury (TBI-MF) is characterized by pronounced mental fatigue after cognitive activity. The neurological origin is unknown, and we aimed in the present study to investigate how prolonged mental activity affects cognitive performance and its neural correlates in individuals with TBI-MF. We recruited individuals with TBI-MF (n = 20) at least 5 months after injury, and age-matched healthy controls (n = 20). We used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to assess hemodynamic changes in the frontal cortex. The self-assessed mental energy level was measured with a visual analog scale (VAS) before and after the experimental procedure. A battery of six neuropsychological tests including Stroop–Simon, Symbol Search, Digit Span, Parallel Serial Mental Operation (PaSMO), Sustained Attention and Working Memory test, and Digit Symbol Coding (DSC) were used. The sequence was repeated once after an 8 min sustained-attention test. The test procedure lasted 2½ h. The experimental procedure resulted in a decrease in mental energy in the TBI-MF group, compared to controls (interaction, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.331). The TBI-MF group performed at a similar level on both DSC tests, whereas the controls improved their performance in the second session (interaction, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.268). During the Stroop–Simon test, the fNIRS event-related response showed no time effect. However, the TBI-MF group exhibited lower oxygenated hemoglobin (oxy-Hb) concentrations in the frontal polar area (FPA), ventrolateral motor cortex, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) from the beginning of the test session. A Stroop and Group interaction was found in the left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex showing that the TBI-MF group did have the same oxy-Hb concentration for both congruent and incongruent trials, whereas the controls had more oxy-Hb in the incongruent trial compared to the congruent trial (interaction, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.227). In sum these results indicate that individuals with TBI-MF have a reduced ability to recruit the frontal cortex, which is correlated with self-reported mental fatigue. This may result both in deterioration of cognitive function and the experience of a mental fatigue after extended mental activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Skau
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lina Bunketorp-Käll
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Advanced Reconstruction of Extremities, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Hans Georg Kuhn
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Center for Stroke Research, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Birgitta Johansson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Jonasson A, Levin C, Renfors M, Strandberg S, Johansson B. Mental fatigue and impaired cognitive function after an acquired brain injury. Brain Behav 2018; 8:e01056. [PMID: 29956894 PMCID: PMC6085903 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mental fatigue is a common subjective symptom following an acquired brain injury. In many cases, this is long-lasting with a considerable negative impact on work, studies, social activities, and quality of life. No objective test for mental fatigue exists today. The aim of this study was to investigate whether mental fatigue can be objectively measured. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study included 32 controls with no mental fatigue and 42 well-rehabilitated participants who suffered from long-term mental fatigue following stroke, traumatic brain injury, encephalitis or meningitis, and late effects after brain tumor. Attention, processing speed and working memory were assessed using a test and retest design following a demanding reading exercise. RESULTS Significant interactions were found for tests measuring processing speed, working memory, and attention. The control group improved at the second test, while those who suffered from mental fatigue did not. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates impaired cognitive performance over time after cognitive activity for individuals suffering from mental fatigue after an acquired brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Birgitta Johansson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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