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Alves CS, Dias J, Azevedo S, Sousa F, Santos M, Lino J, Meireles L. Keep Calm: Does parental preoperative anxiety affect post-tonsillectomy pain scores in children? Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2024:10.1007/s00405-024-08683-0. [PMID: 38739185 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-024-08683-0] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand if high parental anxiety leads to increased post-tonsillectomy pain in children. METHODS Prospective study including parents of children aged 3-10 years old submitted to tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy. To evaluate anxiety, parents were asked to fill the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory form-Y, with postoperative pain being evaluated with the Wong-Baker FACES pain scale at postoperative days 1, 3 and 7. Parents were also asked to register the number of days during which children took analgesic and the number of analgesic intakes needed. RESULTS 41 parents were enrolled, of which 95.1% (n = 39) were female with a mean age of 35.64 years (SD 5.751), with 41 children also being enrolled, of which 85.4% of children (n = 35) underwent tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. 43.9% (n = 18) of parents presented State anxiety scores above the cut-off level and 53.7% (n = 22) above the Trait anxiety scores above the cut-off. Children of parents with high State anxiety presented statistically higher pain scores in both the third (p = 0.035) and the seventh postoperative days (p = 0.006), with significantly longer use of analgesic medication (p = 0.043) being found, as well as a statistically higher number of analgesic intakes (p = 0.045) (Table 4). CONCLUSION The present study establishes an association between preoperative parental anxiety, postoperative pain scores and the need for longer analgesic use in children undergoing tonsillectomy. This reinforces the importance of reducing parental anxiety and opens the door for further strategies to better post-tonsillectomy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joana Dias
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Azevedo
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | | | - Joao Lino
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luis Meireles
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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2
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Vaccaro MG, Innocenti B, Cione E, Gallelli L, De Sarro G, Bonilla DA, Cannataro R. Acute effects of a chewable beetroot-based supplement on cognitive performance: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial. Eur J Nutr 2024; 63:303-321. [PMID: 37875637 PMCID: PMC10799154 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03265-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary nitrate (NO3-) has been shown to be useful as an ergogenic aid with potential applications in health and disease (e.g., blood pressure control). However, there is no consensus about the effects of dietary NO3- or beetroot (BR) juice supplementation on cognitive function. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a single dose of a chewable BR-based supplement on cognitive performance. METHODS A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled two-period crossover clinical trial was carried out based on the extension of the CONSORT guidelines for randomized crossover trials. A total of 44 participants (24 F; 20 M; 32.7 [12.5] years; 66.3 [9.0] kg; 170 [9.2] cm; 22.8 [1.4] kg/m2) were randomly allocated to receive first either four BR-based chewable tablets (BR-CT) containing 3 g of a Beta vulgaris extract (RedNite®) or four tablets of a placebo (maltodextrin). A 4-day washout period was used before crossover. Ninety minutes after ingestion of the treatments, a neuropsychological testing battery was administered in each period. The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT05509075. RESULTS Significant improvements with moderate effect size were found on memory consolidation at the short and long term only after BR-CT supplementation via the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test immediate (+ 20.69%) and delayed (+ 12.34%) recalls. Likewise, enhancement on both frontal lobe functions (+ 2.57%) and cognitive flexibility (+ 11.16%) were detected after BR-CT. There was no significant change (p < 0.05) on verbal memory of short-term digits, working memory and information processing speed. Mixed results were found on mood and anxiety through the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y1 and STAI-Y2); however, sequence and period effects were seen on STAI-Y2. CONCLUSIONS The acute administration of a chewable BR-based supplement improves certain aspects of cognitive function in healthy females and males, particularly memory capacity and frontal skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Vaccaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Erika Cione
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
- Galascreen Laboratories, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Luca Gallelli
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance Operative Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Magna Graecia, Mater Domini Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovambattista De Sarro
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance Operative Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Magna Graecia, Mater Domini Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Diego A Bonilla
- Research Division, Dynamical Business and Science Society-DBSS International SAS, 110861, Bogotá, Colombia
- Research Group in Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences (GICAFS), Universidad de Córdoba, 230002, Montería, Colombia
- Research Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, 110311, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Roberto Cannataro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
- Galascreen Laboratories, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
- Research Division, Dynamical Business and Science Society-DBSS International SAS, 110861, Bogotá, Colombia.
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Ilardi CR, La Marra M, Amato R, Di Cecca A, Di Maio G, Ciccarelli G, Migliaccio M, Cavaliere C, Federico G. The "Little Circles Test" (LCT): a dusted-off tool for assessing fine visuomotor function. Aging Clin Exp Res 2023; 35:2807-2820. [PMID: 37910290 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-023-02571-z] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fine visuomotor function is commonly impaired in several neurological conditions. However, there is a scarcity of reliable neuropsychological tools to assess such a critical domain. AIMS The aim of this study is to explore the psychometric properties and provide normative data for the Visual-Motor Speed and Precision Test (VMSPT). RESULTS Our normative sample included 220 participants (130 females) aged 18-86 years (mean education = 15.24 years, SD = 3.98). Results showed that raw VMSPT scores were affected by higher age and lower education. No effect of sex or handedness was shown. Age- and education-based norms were provided. VMSPT exhibited weak-to-strong correlations with well-known neuropsychological tests, encompassing a wide range of cognitive domains of clinical relevance. By gradually intensifying the cognitive demands, the test becomes an indirect, performance-oriented measure of executive functioning. Finally, VMSPT seems proficient in capturing the speed-accuracy trade-off typically observed in the aging population. CONCLUSIONS This study proposes the initial standardization of a versatile, time-efficient, and cost-effective neuropsychological tool for assessing fine visuomotor coordination. We propose renaming the VMSPT as the more approachable "Little Circles Test" (LCT).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco La Marra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Amato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Angelica Di Cecca
- IRCCS SYNLAB SDN S.P.A., Via Emanuele Gianturco 113, 80143, Naples, Italy
| | - Girolamo Di Maio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Miriana Migliaccio
- IRCCS SYNLAB SDN S.P.A., Via Emanuele Gianturco 113, 80143, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Cavaliere
- IRCCS SYNLAB SDN S.P.A., Via Emanuele Gianturco 113, 80143, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Federico
- IRCCS SYNLAB SDN S.P.A., Via Emanuele Gianturco 113, 80143, Naples, Italy
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4
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Altieri M, Maggi G, Rippa V, Santangelo G. Evaluation of apathy in non-clinical populations: validation, psychometric properties, and normative data of the Italian version of Apathy-Motivation Index (AMI). Neurol Sci 2023; 44:3099-3106. [PMID: 37012520 PMCID: PMC10415455 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06774-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evaluation of apathy in non-clinical populations is relevant to identify individuals at risk for developing cognitive decline in later stages of life, and it should be performed with questionnaires specifically designed for healthy individuals, such as the Apathy-Motivation Index (AMI); therefore, the aim of the present study was to validate the AMI in a healthy Italian population, and to provide normative data of the scale. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data collection was performed using a survey completed by 500 healthy participants; DAS, MMQ-A, BIS-15, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 were used to investigate convergent and divergent validity. Internal consistency and factorial structure were also evaluated. A regression-based procedure and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analyses were used to evaluate the influence of socio-demographic variables on AMI scores and to provide adjusting factors and three cut-offs for the detection of mild, moderate, and severe apathy. RESULTS The Italian version of the AMI included 17 items (one item was removed because it was not internally consistent) and demonstrated good psychometric properties. The three-factor structure of AMI was confirmed. Multiple regression analysis revealed no effect of sociodemographic variables on the total AMI score. ROC analyses revealed three cut-offs of 1.5, 1.66, and 2.06 through the Youden's J statistic to detect mild, moderate, and severe apathy, respectively. CONCLUSION The Italian version of the AMI reported similar psychometric properties, factorial structure, and cut-offs to the original scale. This may help researchers and clinicians to identify people at risk and address them in specific interventions to lower their apathy levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Altieri
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Maggi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Valentina Rippa
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Santangelo
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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5
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Marinelli V, Mazzi MA, Rimondini M, Danzi OP, Bonamini D, Bassi C, Salvia R, Del Piccolo L. Preoperative Anxiety in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer: What Contributes to Anxiety Levels in Patients Waiting for Surgical Intervention. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2039. [PMID: 37510480 PMCID: PMC10380009 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11142039] [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: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies. Currently, the only treatment is surgical resection, which contributes to significant preoperative anxiety, reducing quality of life and worsening surgical outcomes. To date, no standard preventive or therapeutic methods have been established for preoperative anxiety in pancreatic patients. This observational study aims to identify which patients' socio-demographic, clinical and psychological characteristics contribute more to preoperative anxiety and to identify which are their preoperative concerns. Preoperative anxiety was assessed the day before surgery in 104 selected cancer patients undergoing similar pancreatic major surgery, by administering the STAI-S (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form) and the APAIS (Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale). Our data suggest that patients with high STAI-S showed higher levels of APAIS and that major concerns were related to surgical aspects. Among psychological characteristics, depressive symptoms and trait anxiety appeared as risk factors for the development of preoperative anxiety. Findings support the utility of planning a specific psychological screening to identify patients who need more help, with the aim of offering support and preventing the development of state anxiety and surgery worries in the preoperative phase. This highlights also the importance of good communication by the surgeon on specific aspects related to the operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Marinelli
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Mazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Rimondini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Olivia Purnima Danzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Deborah Bonamini
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Bassi
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvia
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Lidia Del Piccolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Zagaria A, Vacca M, Cerolini S, Terrasi M, Bacaro V, Ballesio A, Baglioni C, Spinhoven P, Lombardo C. Differential Associations of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies with Depression, Anxiety, and Insomnia in Adolescence and Early Adulthood. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105857. [PMID: 37239583 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
While difficulties with emotion regulation (ER) are consistently linked to poor mental health in adulthood, findings in adolescence have been more mixed. Cognitive ER strategies, which involve the ability to manage emotions through mental processes, may be particularly important during different stages of development due to age-specific adjustments. We conducted two exploratory and cross-sectional studies to examine the relationships between cognitive ER strategies and mental health (i.e., depressive, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms) in two samples: 431 young adults (Mage = 20.66 ± 2.21; 70% women and 30% men) and 271 adolescents (Mage = 14.80 ± 0.0.59; 44.6% girls and 55.4% boys). The participants completed a group of questionnaires, including the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, the Insomnia Severity Index, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Youth Self Report. We employed hierarchical multiple regressions to assess the unique contribution of cognitive ER strategies to mental health outcomes. Maladaptive strategies (such as rumination and catastrophizing) were consistently associated with impaired mental health in both samples, while adaptive strategies (such as positive refocusing and positive reappraisal) were only associated with better mental health in young adults. These findings support the importance of cognitive ER strategies as potential risk factors for psychopathology and suggest that interventions aimed at improving emotion regulation may be beneficial. The age-specific differences in the relationship between cognitive ER strategies and mental health may reflect the refinement of emotion regulation abilities across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Zagaria
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Cerolini
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Terrasi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Bacaro
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballesio
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Baglioni
- Department of Human Sciences, University of Rome Guglielmo Marconi, 00193 Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, 79098 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philip Spinhoven
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, 2333 AK Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Caterina Lombardo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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7
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Barel E, Shahrabani S, Mahagna L, Massalha R, Colodner R, Tzischinsky O. State Anxiety and Procrastination: The Moderating Role of Neuroendocrine Factors. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13030204. [PMID: 36975229 PMCID: PMC10045520 DOI: 10.3390/bs13030204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Procrastination is prevalent among students, as well as the general population, and has negative impacts on various domains. Several models aimed to understand factors associated with procrastination, with some suggesting that anxiety plays a significant role. Biological factors have been shown to contribute to individual differences in procrastination; however, little attention has been paid to the role of neuroendocrine factors on procrastination. The primary question addressed in the present study is whether neuroendocrine factors (testosterone and cortisol) moderate the association between state anxiety and procrastination. Eighty-eight participants (29 men; 32 women using oral contraceptives; and 27 women not using oral contraceptives and in their luteal phase) were tested for biomarkers and completed questionnaires. Results show that state anxiety is positively correlated with procrastination. Furthermore, testosterone levels moderate the correlation between state anxiety and procrastination. As testosterone levels drop, the positive correlation between state anxiety and procrastination becomes stronger, but when testosterone levels are higher, no significant association between state anxiety and procrastination is found. Cortisol levels do not moderate the relationship between state anxiety and procrastination. The role of neuroendocrine factors for psychological outcomes is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efrat Barel
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The Max Stern Academic College of Emek Yezreel, Emek Yezreel 1930000, Israel
- Correspondence:
| | - Shosh Shahrabani
- Department of Economics and Management, The Max Stern Academic College of Emek Yezreel, Emek Yezreel 1930000, Israel
| | - Lila Mahagna
- Endocrinology Laboratory, Emek Medical Center, Afula 1855701, Israel
| | - Refaat Massalha
- Endocrinology Laboratory, Emek Medical Center, Afula 1855701, Israel
| | - Raul Colodner
- Endocrinology Laboratory, Emek Medical Center, Afula 1855701, Israel
| | - Orna Tzischinsky
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, The Max Stern Academic College of Emek Yezreel, Emek Yezreel 1930000, Israel
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Scuotto C, Ilardi CR, Maggi G, Ilardi A, Gamboz N, Staiano M, Borrelli G, La Marra M, Perrella R. What makes us more susceptible to false memories in the era of COVID-19? A focus on vaccines and Green Pass. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2815. [PMID: 36448933 PMCID: PMC9847604 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was accompanied by an overabundance of fake news increasing the risk of developing false memories (FMs). Previous studies have shown that the relationship between fake news and FMs could be mediated by some individual variables, including attitudinal biases. We explored the role of these variables in true memories (TMs) and FMs formation, with special emphasis on vaccine- and Green Pass (GP)-related topics. METHOD We set up a large online survey exploring several constructs including media usage, attitude toward vaccines and GP, perceived (PK) and objective knowledge (OK) about COVID-19-related information, fear of the disease, depression and anxiety symptoms, coping mechanisms, and reasoning skills. Then, we asked participants whether they remembered certain news (true or fake), providing confidence ratings. RESULTS Data from 289 respondents (198 females) from the general population were analyzed. Participants with positive attitude reported a greater fear that their loved ones contracted the COVID-19, a more frequent use of traditional media, and a higher PK when compared with respondents with negative attitude. On the whole sample, participants reported higher confidence levels when required to judge their memory of true than fake news; however, participants with positive attitude reported a higher confidence for both true and fake news. The relationship between attitude and TM confidence was mediated by the PK, whereas the relationship between attitude and FM confidence was probably affected by OK. CONCLUSION Attitude can modulate individual behaviors in the context of health issues. The PK and OK may interact with attitude in the memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Scuotto
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Ciro Rosario Ilardi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Maggi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alfonso Ilardi
- Inmates Ward, Department of Internal Medicine, Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Nadia Gamboz
- Laboratory of Experimental Psychology, Suor Orsola Benincasa University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Staiano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Borrelli
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Marco La Marra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Perrella
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
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9
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Ilardi CR, Menichelli A, Michelutti M, Cattaruzza T, Manganotti P. Optimal MoCA cutoffs for detecting biologically-defined patients with MCI and early dementia. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:159-170. [PMID: 36169756 PMCID: PMC9816212 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06422-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this phase II psychometric study on the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA), we tested the clinicometric properties of Italian norms for patients with mild cognitive impairment (PwMCI) and early dementia (PwD) and provided optimal cutoffs for diagnostic purposes. METHODS Retrospective data collection was performed for consecutive patients with clinically and biologically defined MCI and early dementia. Forty-five patients (24 PwMCI and 21 PwD) and 25 healthy controls were included. Raw MoCA scores were adjusted according to the conventional 1-point correction (Nasreddine) and Italian norms (Conti, Santangelo, Aiello). The diagnostic properties of the original cutoff (< 26) and normative cutoffs, namely, the upper limits (uLs) of equivalent scores (ES) 1, 2, and 3, were evaluated. ROC curve analysis was performed to obtain optimal cutoffs. RESULTS The original cutoff demonstrated high sensitivity (0.93 [95% CI 0.84-0.98]) but low specificity (0.44 [0.32-0.56]) in discriminating between patients and controls. Nominal normative cutoffs (ES0 uLs) showed excellent specificity (SP range = 0.96-1.00 [0.88-1.00]) but poor sensitivity (SE range = 0.09-0.24 [0.04-0.36]). The optimal cutoff for Nasreddine's method was 23.50 (SE = 0.82 [0.71-0.90]; SP = 0.72 [0.60-0.82]). Optimal cutoffs were 20.97, 22.85, and 22.29 (SE range = 0.69-0.73 [0.57-0.83], SP range = 0.88-0.92 [0.77-0.97]) for Conti's, Santangelo's, and Aiello's methods, respectively. CONCLUSION Using the 1-point correction, combined with a cutoff of 23.50, might be useful in ambulatory settings with a large turnout. Our optimal cutoffs can offset the poor sensitivity of Italian cutoffs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Rosario Ilardi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Viale Ellittico 31, 81100, Caserta, Italy.
| | - Alina Menichelli
- Neuropsychology Service, Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, Trieste University Hospital-ASUGI, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Michelutti
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, Trieste University Hospital-ASUGI, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tatiana Cattaruzza
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, Trieste University Hospital-ASUGI, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Manganotti
- Clinical Unit of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, Trieste University Hospital-ASUGI, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Aiello EN, D’Iorio A, Montemurro S, Maggi G, Giacobbe C, Bari V, Di Tella GS, Pischedda F, Bolognini N, Appollonio I, Arcara G, Santangelo G. Psychometrics, diagnostics and usability of Italian tools assessing behavioural and functional outcomes in neurological, geriatric and psychiatric disorders: a systematic review. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:6189-6214. [PMID: 35932375 PMCID: PMC9616758 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06300-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Psychometric instruments assessing behavioural and functional outcomes (BFIs) in neurological, geriatric and psychiatric populations are relevant towards diagnostics, prognosis and intervention. However, BFIs often happen not to meet methodological-statistical standards, thus lowering their level of recommendation in clinical practice and research. This work thus aimed at (1) providing an up-to-date compendium on psychometrics, diagnostics and usability of available Italian BFIs and (2) delivering evidence-based information on their level of recommendation. Methods This review was pre-registered (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021295430) and performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Several psychometric, diagnostic and usability measures were addressed as outcomes. Quality assessment was performed via an ad hoc checklist, the Behavioural and Functional Instrument Quality Assessment. Results Out of an initial N = 830 reports, 108 studies were included (N = 102 BFIs). Target constructs included behavioural/psychiatric symptoms, quality of life and physical functioning. BFIs were either self- or caregiver-/clinician-report. Studies in clinical conditions (including neurological, psychiatric and geriatric ones) were the most represented. Validity was investigated for 85 and reliability for 80 BFIs, respectively. Criterion and factorial validity testing were infrequent, whereas content and ecological validity and parallel forms were almost never addressed. Item response theory analyses were seldom carried out. Diagnostics and norms lacked for about one-third of BFIs. Information on administration time, ease of use and ceiling/floor effects were often unreported. Discussion Several available BFIs for the Italian population do not meet adequate statistical-methodological standards, this prompting a greater care from researchers involved in their development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10072-022-06300-8.
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Panebianco M, Caprì T, Panebianco M, Fabio RA. Implicit and explicit measures of positivity effect in the elderly adults. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03333-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Neuropsychology of posteromedial parietal cortex and conversion factors from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer's disease: systematic search and state-of-the-art review. Aging Clin Exp Res 2022; 34:289-307. [PMID: 34232485 PMCID: PMC8847304 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-021-01930-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the present review, we discuss the rationale and the clinical implications of assessing visuospatial working memory (VSWM), awareness of memory deficits, and visuomotor control in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). These three domains are related to neural activity in the posteromedial parietal cortex (PMC) whose hypoactivation seems to be a significant predictor of conversion from MCI to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as indicated by recent neuroimaging evidence. A systematic literature search was performed up to May 2021. Forty-eight studies were included: 42 studies provided analytical cross-sectional data and 6 studies longitudinal data on conversion rates. Overall, these studies showed that patients with MCI performed worse than healthy controls in tasks assessing VSWM, awareness of memory deficits, and visuomotor control; in some cases, MCI patients’ performance was comparable to that of patients with overt dementia. Deficits in VSWM and metamemory appear to be significant predictors of conversion. No study explored the relationship between visuomotor control and conversion. Nevertheless, it has been speculated that the assessment of visuomotor abilities in subjects at high AD risk might be useful to discriminate patients who are likely to convert from those who are not. Being able to indirectly estimate PMC functioning through quick and easy neuropsychological tasks in outpatient settings may improve diagnostic and prognostic accuracy, and therefore, the quality of the MCI patient’s management.
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Ilardi CR. Commentary on the pilot validation of the Swedish version of the Frontal Assessment Battery. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2022; 30:634-635. [PMID: 35099337 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2022.2032709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Rosario Ilardi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Du Q, Liu H, Yang C, Chen X, Zhang X. The Development of a Short Chinese Version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:854547. [PMID: 35619610 PMCID: PMC9128482 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.854547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies on anxiety in China have used the full version of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) due to its length, despite its numerous advantages. The goal of this study was to develop a short Chinese version of the STAI and examine its reliability and validity among the general Chinese population and psychiatric patients diagnosed with anxiety. METHOD A total of 1,142 participants were invited to test the short Chinese version of the STAI; item analysis, validity testing and internal consistency reliability analysis were performed. Subsequently, 40 participants were enrolled to assess retest reliability 1 week later. Finally, 330 participants, including 33 psychiatric patients with anxiety, were used to assess the criterion and empirical validity. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used as criteria, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to evaluate the discrimination of the short version of the STAI between the groups with and without anxiety disorders. RESULT The short Chinese version of the STAI contains six items for each subscale (STAI-S-6 and STAI-T-6). The Pearson correlation coefficients between the two shortened Chinese versions of the STAI and the full-length STAI were 0.970 and 0.962, the Cronbach's α coefficients were 0.871 and 0.842, and the retest reliability values were 0.728 and 0.813 (p < 0.001). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the 2-factor model achieved an adequate model fit: for the STAI-S-6, CFI = 0.986, TLI = 0.974, and RMSEA = 0.075, and for the STAI-T-6, CFI = 0.994, TLI = 0.988, and RMSEA = 0.052. The short Chinese version of the STAI had a significant positive correlation with the SAS score (r = 0.289, 0.313; p < 0.001) and a negative correlation with the SWLS score (r = -0.476, 0.554; p < 0.001). A significant difference in the level of anxiety was found between participants with and without anxiety disorders. The diagnostic accuracy of the STAI-S-6 and STAI-T-6 for major anxiety disorder was acceptable, with areas under the ROC curves of 0.798 and 0.745, respectively. CONCLUSION The short Chinese version of the STAI demonstrates sound psychometric properties and is applicable in evaluating the level of anxiety in Chinese populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Du
- Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haowen Liu
- Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengjiao Yang
- Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Zhang
- Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Esposito M, Antinolfi L, Carotenuto M. Neuropsychological Profile in Pediatric Migraine without Aura: A Pilot Study. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11121582. [PMID: 34942884 PMCID: PMC8699751 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11121582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of headache in developmental age, current reports about its neuropsychological effects are still lacking. The aim of the present pilot study is to assess the neuropsychological skills among children affected by migraine without aura (MwoA). Fifteen children (7M/8F) (mean age 10.73 ± 2.13) with MwoA, consecutively referred to the Center for Childhood Headache at Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, underwent the Italian version of the NEPSY-2 after cognitive evaluation. Moreover, to assess the pain level and disability grade during daily activity, the VAS and PedMIDAS scales were used. MwoA children were comparable with the control group of 38 children with respect to age, gender, language, and education level. Written informed consent was obtained from all parents and from children directly, when appropriate. MwoA children differed from controls significantly among the NEPSY-2 subscales, with a relevant relationship between the frequency and intensity of the attacks. In conclusion, the results of the present pilot study may suggest that MwoA could impact significantly neuropsychological functioning in children.
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Villano I, Ilardi CR, Arena S, Scuotto C, Gleijeses MG, Messina G, Messina A, Monda V, Monda M, Iavarone A, Chieffi S, La Marra M. Obese Subjects without Eating Disorders Experience Binge Episodes Also Independently of Emotional Eating and Personality Traits among University Students of Southern Italy. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091145. [PMID: 34573166 PMCID: PMC8465169 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely acknowledged that obesity is a growing public clinical issue involving both physical and psychological well-being. Nevertheless, the relationship between psychological features and weight gain is still unclear. Although emotional eating (EE) and personality traits are considered significant predictors of eating disorders, their role in obesity without eating disorders (OB-wed) is far from proven. The present study aimed at investigating the cumulative effect of EE and personality traits on overeating behavior in a sample of 266 university students (169 female; mean age = 21.85, SD = 2.39) stratified based on their body mass index (BMI; normal weight, overweight, obese). They were enrolled during free screening days promoted by the Human Dietetic and Sport Service of a Southern Italian university. The results show a psychological pattern of increasing overeating behavior and lower Self-Directedness combined with higher Sadness and Anger. However, OB-wed subjects overate regardless of this emotional/personological configuration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Villano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
- Correspondence: (I.V.); (C.R.I.)
| | - Ciro Rosario Ilardi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
- Correspondence: (I.V.); (C.R.I.)
| | - Stefania Arena
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Chiara Scuotto
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Maria Gloria Gleijeses
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Antonietta Messina
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Monda
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Marcellino Monda
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Alessandro Iavarone
- Neurological Unit, CTO Hospital, AORN “Ospedali dei Colli”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Sergio Chieffi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Marco La Marra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.G.G.); (A.M.); (V.M.); (M.M.); (S.C.); (M.L.M.)
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