Chronic stress, cognitive functioning and mental health

Chronic stress triggers impairments of the redox status of salivary glands associated with different histological responses in rats

Stress occurs as a reaction to mental and emotional pressure, anxiety, or scarring. Chronic stress is defined as constant submission to these moments. It can affect several body systems, increase blood pressure, and weaken immunity, thereby interfering with physiological health processes. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effects of chronic stress on the redox status and histomorphological parameters of salivary glands. Thirty-two albino Wistar male rats were randomly divided into two groups: chronic stress and control. Chronically stressed animals were subjected to a restraint protocol by introducing them into a polyvinyl tube for 4 hours daily for 28 days, allowing immobilization of their movements. Subsequently, the animals were euthanized for further collection of the parotid and submandibular salivary glands. The redox state of the glands was evaluated using the antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assays. Histological analysis was performed through morphometry of the tissues stained with hematoxylin and eosin and histochemical through picrosirius red staining. Both the parotid and submandibular glands of stressed rats exhibited oxidative stress due to a decrease in ACAP and an increase in TBARS levels. However, the parotid glands are more susceptible to harmful changes in the tissue, such as an increase in the stromal area and in the collagen area fraction, decrease in the acinar area, and smaller size of the acinus and ducts. Our results suggest that chronic stress may cause harmful modulation of the redox state of the salivary glands, with different histological repercussions.

Daily relationship satisfaction and markers of health: Findings from a smartphone-based assessment

Relationship satisfaction is associated consistently with better physical and mental health. Less is known about these associations in daily life, particularly the association between relationship satisfaction and cognitive health. This study examined the daily, within-person association between relationship satisfaction and subjective health markers, including cognitive health. Participants from the United States (N = 303; Mage = 51.71, SD = 7.32) in the Couples Healthy Aging Project (CHAP) completed assessments of relationship satisfaction and health markers every night for eight days. Multilevel modeling was performed by accounting for personal (sex, age, race, education), relational (relationship duration), and contextual (day in the study, weekend day) factors. Within-person, on days when participants were more satisfied with their relationship, they felt healthier, younger, more satisfied with their life, and more purposeful. They also reported a sharper mind, better memory, and clearer thinking; relationship satisfaction was unrelated to whether participants were bothered and disrupted by forgetting. Results indicated that a satisfying romantic relationship is closely associated with better physical, psychological, and cognitive health markers in daily life.

Variables associated with cognitive function: an exposome-wide and mendelian randomization analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence indicates that cognitive function is influenced by potential environmental factors. We aimed to determine the variables influencing cognitive function.

METHODS

Our study included 164,463 non-demented adults (89,644 [54.51%] female; mean [SD] age, 56.69 [8.14] years) from the UK Biobank who completed four cognitive assessments at baseline. 364 variables were finally extracted for analysis through a rigorous screening process. We performed univariate analyses to identify variables significantly associated with each cognitive function in two equal-sized split discovery and replication datasets. Subsequently, the identified variables in univariate analyses were further assessed in a multivariable model. Additionally, for the variables identified in multivariable model, we explored the associations with longitudinal cognitive decline. Moreover, one- and two- sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted to confirm the genetic associations. Finally, the quality of the pooled evidence for the associations between variables and cognitive function was evaluated.

RESULTS

252 variables (69%) exhibited significant associations with at least one cognitive function in the discovery dataset. Of these, 231 (92%) were successfully replicated. Subsequently, our multivariable analyses identified 41 variables that were significantly associated with at least one cognitive function, spanning categories such as education, socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, body measurements, mental health, medical conditions, early life factors, and household characteristics. Among these 41 variables, 12 were associated with more than one cognitive domain, and were further identified in all subgroup analyses. And LASSO, rigde, and principal component analysis indicated the robustness of the primary results. Moreover, among these 41 variables, 12 were significantly associated with a longitudinal cognitive decline. Furthermore, 22 were supported by one-sample MR analysis, and 5 were further confirmed by two-sample MR analysis. Additionally, the quality of the pooled evidence for the associations between 10 variables and cognitive function was rated as high. Based on these 10 identified variables, adopting a more favorable lifestyle was significantly associated with 38% and 34% decreased risks of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

CONCLUSION

Overall, our study constructed an evidence database of variables associated with cognitive function, which could contribute to the prevention of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Mortality causes and health spending by gender and health conditions in octogenarians, nonagenarians and centenarians in Colombia

This document determines the causes of mortality (2008-2022) and calculate per capita health expenditure (2013-2021) in octogenarians, nonagenarians and centenarians in the Colombian population, considering year, gender and age group. For this nationwide retrospective descriptive observational study, epidemiological regions, urban/rural areas and morbidities were also studied. A mean of 75,552 deaths was observed from 2008 to 2022. Deaths were higher due to ischemic heart disease, COVID-19, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, and cerebrovascular diseases in the oldest old Colombian population with urban areas having higher mortality rates than rural areas (an average of 948 (min: 847, max: 1207) against 630 (min: 558, max: 789) per 10,000 people, respectively). Conditions of cerebrovascular diseases, cancer, influenza pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were the most expensive in health care, summing above 5000 purchasing power parity USD on average (min: 2234, max: 7539). These conditions, along with hypertension and diabetes mellitus, were the most frequently recorded. COVID-19 incurred higher health expenditure in rural areas compared to urban areas (1090 vs. 519 purchasing power parity USD respectively). High prevalence (14·3%) and medical attention (16·8 health care utilisations per capita) were shown for organic mental disorders. Our analysis found that centenarians survived COVID-19 more than octogenarians and nonagenarians, with several hypotheses attributing this to their immune profiles. We found high expenditure on HIV/AIDS among older males suggesting the need for further study on sexually transmitted diseases prevention in this population. Lastly, Alzheimer's disease, particularly in rural areas, had substantial expenditure. Therefore, neurodegenerative diseases and the impact of stressful events on mental health must be priorities for the health system to ensure adequate resource management.

Association of residential greenness exposures on disability: Findings from the cohort study on global AGEing and Adult Health (SAGE) in China

BACKGROUND

With the accelerating population ageing globally, disability has become a major public concern. Residential greenness may be one of the influencing factors of disability, but epidemiological evidence in the associations of residential greenness exposures with disability is limited. We aimed to investigate the associations of residential greenness exposures with the risk of disability in the elderly.

METHODS

Data of 8408 residents were obtained from the World Health Organization Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health (WHO SAGE) implemented in China during 2007-2018. Participants were matched to the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) at their residential address. Disability was measured by the 12-item Chinese version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0). The associations were examined using a generalized linear mixed model with stratified analyses by the covariates.

RESULTS

We observed significantly negative associations of greenness exposures with the summary WHODAS score [NDVI500m: -0.290, 95% Confidence Intervals (95%CI): -0.510, -0.070; EVI500m: -0.453, 95%CI: -0.757, -0.149], and with the score of cognition (EVI500m: -0.472, 95%CI: -0.881, -0.063), mobility (NDVI500m: -0.632, 95%CI: -0.965, -0.299; EVI500m: -0.739, 95%CI: -1.199, -0.280), and participation (NDVI500m: -0.388, 95%CI: -0.651, -0.125; EVI500m: -0.530, 95%CI: -0.893, -0.166). People living alone had a more pronounced association in cognition (NDVI500m: -1.546, 95%CI: -2.471, -0.621). The associations with summary WHODAS score were stronger among participants living in rural areas (NDVI500m: -0.420, 95%CI: -0.683, -0.157), having less education level (NDVI500m: -0.618, 95%CI: -0.982, -0.253), and living in northern China (NDVI500m: -0.381, 95%CI: -0.776, 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

Residential greenness may reduce the onset and worsening of disability, particularly for domains of cognition, mobility, and social participation. Because of its stronger influence among people with low socioeconomic status, increasing greenness levels in areas with lower socioeconomic status may promote health equity.

Chronic pain is specifically associated with updating working memory: a longitudinal twin study

ABSTRACT

Worse executive function (EF) is associated with chronic pain and could mechanistically contribute to pain chronification. It is unclear whether there is overall impairment in EFs or whether there are impairments in specific cognitive domains. Furthermore, the possible genetic risk underlying these associations has not been tested. Participants were from the Colorado Longitudinal Twin study; 786 same-sex twins completed a battery of EF tasks at ages 23 and/or 28 and 634 of these twins self-reported chronic pain at mean age = 28.1; prevalence = 27.76% using the Brief Pain History Questionnaire. The EF tasks were used to define a Common EF factor and 2 factors specific to updating working memory and shifting mental set. We estimated the phenotypic and genetic associations of stable EF variance across ages 23 and 28, as well as EF variance unique to age 28, with pain. With respect to stable EF variance, pain phenotypically correlated with the Updating-specific factor ( r = -0.21, P = 0.008) but did not significantly correlate with the Common EF factor ( r = -0.06, P = 0.350) nor with the Shifting-specific factor ( r = -0.03, P = 0.709). There were no significant phenotypic correlations between pain and EF variance unique to age 28. A twin model indicated that pain and Updating-specific variance share genetic risk ( r A = -0.46, P = 0.005) but not environmental risk ( r E = 0.05, P = 0.844). Updating working memory shares a phenotypic and genetic relationship with pain in young adults. Impairments in gating or monitoring pain signals may play a mechanistic role in pain development.

Allostatic Interoceptive Overload Across Psychiatric and Neurological Conditions

Emerging theories emphasize the crucial role of allostasis (anticipatory and adaptive regulation of the body's biological processes) and interoception (integration, anticipation, and regulation of internal bodily states) in adjusting physiological responses to environmental and bodily demands. In this review, we explore the disruptions in integrated allostatic interoceptive mechanisms in psychiatric and neurological disorders, including anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's disease, and frontotemporal dementia. We assess the biological mechanisms associated with allostatic interoception, including whole-body cascades, brain structure and function of the allostatic interoceptive network, heart-brain interactions, respiratory-brain interactions, the gut-brain-microbiota axis, peripheral biological processes (inflammatory, immune), and epigenetic pathways. These processes span psychiatric and neurological conditions and call for developing dimensional and transnosological frameworks. We synthesize new pathways to understand how allostatic interoceptive processes modulate interactions between environmental demands and biological functions in brain disorders. We discuss current limitations of the framework and future transdisciplinary developments. This review opens a new research agenda for understanding how allostatic interoception involves brain predictive coding in psychiatry and neurology, allowing for better clinical application and the development of new therapeutic interventions.

The differences in symptom networks of depression, anxiety, and sleep in college students with different stress levels

BACKGROUND

Stress is closely related to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. However, few studies have explored the complex symptom-level relationships among these variables at different stress levels among college students.

METHODS

From March to April 2024, a survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method in three universities in Daqing City, Heilongjiang Province. A total of 7,845 participants (2,447 males and 5,398 females) were assessed using the Psychological Stress Tolerance Index (PSTR), the General Health Questionnaire-20 (GHQ-20), and the Self-Rating Scale of Sleep (SRSS). Based on the GHQ-20 scores, college students were categorized into low, medium, and high-stress levels. Non-parametric tests and Post-hoc tests were conducted to explore the impact of stress levels on depression, anxiety, and sleep. Network analysis methods were used to reveal the differences in the symptom networks of depression, anxiety, and sleep among college students at different stress levels.

RESULTS

Non-parametric test results indicate significant differences in depression, anxiety, and sleep scores among high, medium, and low-stress groups. Post-hoc tests reveal that the high-stress group scores significantly higher in depression, anxiety, and sleep than the medium and low-stress groups. The medium-stress group scored significantly higher than the low-stress group. Network analysis shows that the core symptoms in the low-stress group are "Difficulty falling asleep", "Anxious and restless", and "Taking sleeping pills", with bridging symptoms including "Hopeless future", "Feeling useless", "Life is a battlefield", and "Anxious and restless". For the medium-stress group, the core symptoms are "Difficulty falling asleep", "Easily awakened after sleeping", and "Life is hopeless", with bridging symptoms including "Feeling useless", "Life is a battlefield", "Anxious and restless", and "Taking sleeping pills". In the high-stress group, the core symptoms are "Difficulty falling asleep", "Feeling useless", and "Anxious and resless", with bridging symptoms including "Feeling useless", "Life is a battlefield", "Anxious and restless", and "Stress hinders tasks".

CONCLUSION

Stress exacerbates depression, anxiety, and sleep problems among college students, with differences in core symptoms and bridging symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances at varying levels of stress. Therefore, precise interventions can be implemented based on the core and bridge symptoms of the three networks, further improving university students' physical and mental health.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms as early indicators of brain tumors

Brain tumors, despite the high mortality and morbidity, they are a rare type of heterogenous tumors that are highly dependent on sex, age, race, level of education, and socioeconomic status. Due to their high mortality rates, it is important to identify as many potential biomarkers for early detection as the earlier the tumor is discovered, the better the prognosis. One such early biomarker we propose in the current paper is the assessment of anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes. In most cancer patients, a certain degree of anxiety and depression is expected upon receiving the diagnosis as it triggers fears regarding the prognosis, possible side effects of the treatment, and even the possibility of the treatment failing. In this paper we analyzed the way anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes present themselves in the case of several types of tumors and whether these could be used as early markers. We have observed that most of the cognitive changes present are due to the location, size, and type of the tumor with some highly connected to anxiety and depression. Moreover, in the case of certain tumors, the removal of the mass has not improved the mood or cognitive function.

Alzheimer's disease: a comprehensive review of epidemiology, risk factors, symptoms diagnosis, management, caregiving, advanced treatments and associated challenges

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired reasoning. It is the leading cause of dementia in older adults, marked by the pathological accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. These pathological changes lead to widespread neuronal damage, significantly impacting daily functioning and quality of life.

Objective

This comprehensive review aims to explore various aspects of Alzheimer's disease, including its epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic advancements, management strategies, caregiving challenges, and emerging therapeutic interventions.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, from their inception to May 2024. The search strategy incorporated a combination of keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms such as "Alzheimer's disease," "epidemiology," "risk factors," "symptoms," "diagnosis," "management," "caregiving," "treatment," and "novel therapies." Boolean operators (AND, OR) were used to refine the search, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature on Alzheimer's disease.

Results

AD is significantly influenced by genetic predispositions, such as the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele, along with modifiable environmental factors like diet, physical activity, and cognitive engagement. Diagnostic approaches have evolved with advances in neuroimaging techniques (MRI, PET), and biomarker analysis, allowing for earlier detection and intervention. The National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association have updated diagnostic criteria to include biomarker data, enhancing early diagnosis.

Conclusion

The management of AD includes pharmacological treatments, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists, which provide symptomatic relief but do not slow disease progression. Emerging therapies, including amyloid-beta and tau-targeting treatments, gene therapy, and immunotherapy, offer potential for disease modification. The critical role of caregivers is underscored, as they face considerable emotional, physical, and financial burdens. Support programs, communication strategies, and educational interventions are essential for improving caregiving outcomes. While significant advancements have been made in understanding and managing AD, ongoing research is necessary to identify new therapeutic targets and enhance diagnostic and treatment strategies. A holistic approach, integrating clinical, genetic, and environmental factors, is essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges of Alzheimer's disease and improving outcomes for both patients and caregivers.

Regulator of G protein signalling 14 (RGS14) protein expression profile in the adult mouse brain

Regulator of G protein signalling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional signalling protein that serves as a natural suppressor of synaptic plasticity in the mouse brain. Our previous studies showed that RGS14 is highly expressed in postsynaptic dendrites and spines of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal area CA2 of the developing mouse brain. However, our more recent work with monkey brain shows that RGS14 is found in multiple neuron populations throughout hippocampal area CA1 and CA2, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, substantia nigra and amygdala. In the mouse brain, we also have observed RGS14 protein in discrete limbic regions linked to reward behaviour and addiction, including the central amygdala and the nucleus accumbens, but a comprehensive mapping of RGS14 protein expression in the adult mouse brain is lacking. Here, we report that RGS14 is more broadly expressed in mouse brain than previously known. Intense RGS14 staining is observed in specific neuron populations of the hippocampal formation, amygdala, septum, bed nucleus of stria terminalis and ventral striatum/nucleus accumbens. RGS14 is also observed in axon fibre tracts including the dorsal fornix, fimbria, stria terminalis and the ventrohippocampal commissure. Moderate RGS14 staining is observed in various other adjacent regions not previously reported. These findings show that RGS14 is expressed in brain regions that govern aspects of core cognitive functions such as sensory perception, emotion, memory, motivation and execution of actions and suggest that RGS14 may serve to suppress plasticity and filter inputs in these brain regions to set the overall tone on experience-to-action processes.

Super Astragalus polysaccharide in specific gut microbiota metabolism alleviates chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced cognitive deficits mice

Chronic stress affects intestinal microbiota. Astragaloside IV (AS), called super Astragalus polysaccharide, is a monomer component of traditional herbs Astragalus membranaceus which belongs to medicinal food homology (MFH), exerts a neuroprotection effect, but the underlying mechanism has not yet been elucidated. Intestinal flora is also involved in the biotransformation of the active ingredients of MFH species, thus affecting their physiological and pharmacological properties. In this study, we found that AS improved CUMS-induced cognitive impairment, inhibited neuroinflammation, and restored intestinal barrier damage, but the improvement was suppressed by the elimination of gut microbiota, suggesting a key regulatory role for the microbiota. The results of 16S rDNA sequencing showed that AS treatment significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) and Bacteroides acidifaciens. Furthermore, supplementation of L. reuteri rather than Lactobacillus plantarum restored the effect of AS-supplied dysbiosis mice via inhibition of inflammatory repose and the maintenance of the intestinal epithelial barrier, indicating that dietary AS requires L. reuteri to ameliorate cognitive injury. These findings provide evidence for new therapeutic strategies to treat chronic stress and support the role of specific bacteria in the intestinal environment that metabolizes the AS.

Depression predicts decreased lumbar bone mineral density: A scoping review of chronic psychological stress and spinal tissue pathology

Objective

Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is a complex disease with biological, psychological, and social components and the complex interactions of these components are poorly understood. Chronic psychological stress (CPS) (anxiety, depression, etc.) and pathological changes in spinal tissue (osteoporosis, disc degeneration, etc.) are frequently and independently associated with cLBP, yet their explicit relationship has not been collectively reviewed. The objective of this scoping review is to investigate the current state of research on how CPS may impact spinal tissue pathology.

Design

Five steps were utilized to conduct this scoping review: 1) identify a research objective and establish a search strategy, 2) identify research articles, 3) select research articles that meet search criteria, 4) extract data, 5) summarize and report results.

Results

We identified N ​= ​56 articles relating CPS to spinal pathology. Of those that identified a relationship between CPS and spine pathology (N ​= ​39), most (N ​= ​24) described decreased lumbar vertebral bone mineral density (BMD) between depression and control groups. Animal studies (N ​= ​8) were limited to mice and confirmed a causal relationship between CPS and lower vertebral BMD. Only a few additional human studies (N ​= ​9) documented relationships between other various forms of CPS and spinal tissue pathologies.

Conclusion

This scoping review documents evidence of a relationship between CPS and decreased spine health in humans as well as a causal relationship between the initiation of CPS and decreased BMD in animals. As few studies evaluated disease in other spinal anatomy in relationship to CPS, future work in this area is warranted. Further exploration of CPS beyond depression is warranted as well.

Bereavement due to child loss, divorce, and depressive mood in older age across European welfare regimes

While bereavement, particularly the loss of a child, is a well-known risk factor for mental health in the short term, its long-term consequences on depressive mood in old age and across different welfare regimes have been investigated less. This study focused on the combined role of child loss and divorce on depressive symptoms, measured using the EURO-D scale in Central, Nordic, Southern, and Eastern European countries. We used data from the European SHARE project, covering 22,959 participants aged 50+ over a 16-year period. Using OLS regressions, we found that, compared to no child loss and no divorce, the association between depressive symptoms and child loss was significant ( β  = 0.22, 95% C.I. = [0.13, 0.30]), among both women and men. The absolute increase was even stronger when the mutual effect of child loss and divorce was considered ( β  = 0.34, 95% C.I. = [0.18, 0.48]). Employing Generalized Estimating Equations, we found that depressive symptoms related to divorce did not increase over time, regardless of past bereavement. Compared with people in the Nordic countries, those living in Southern Europe experienced more depressive symptoms related to child loss and no divorce, but fewer depressive symptoms related to the combined effect of child loss and divorce. In sum, our findings indicate that bereavement due to child loss may lead to more depressive symptoms among both women and men in old age, especially in combination with divorce. In the latter case, we posit that participants living in Southern European countries may be protected by higher levels of social support through family ties or informal social networks.

The Healthy Caregiver? A Positive Impact of Informal Caregiving Status on Cognitive Functions Over Time From the Midlife in the United States Study

OBJECTIVES

The current study examined whether informal caregivers performed worse, better, or similar to non-caregivers on cognitive tests of executive functioning and episodic memory over 10 years. Methods: Data were from waves 2 (2003-04) and 3 (2013-14) of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study (N = 2086). Multiple linear regression models examined whether caregiving at both waves 2 and 3 predicted better cognitive functioning at wave 3, than caregiving at only one time point or no caregiving (reference) while controlling for baseline covariates (i.e., sociodemographic, health, and functional status).

RESULTS

After controlling for covariates, caregiving at both waves was independently associated with better performance in episodic memory (b = .24, SE = .10, p = .013) but not executive function (b = -.06, SE = .05, p = .246). Discussion:The findings partially supported both healthy caregiver and stress process models, indicating caregiving may be associated with better episodic memory but not executive functioning over time among the middle-aged and older adults.

Central and peripheral regulation of the GH/IGF-1 axis: GHRH and beyond

The regulation of growth hormone (GH) synthesis and secretion by somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary is a highly complex process, mediated by a variety of neuroendocrine and peripheral influences. In particular, a key role is played by the hypothalamic peptides growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and somatostatin, which regulate the somatotroph axis with opposite actions, stimulating and inhibiting GH release, respectively. Since the discovery of GHRH about 50 years ago, many pathophysiological studies have explored the underlying intricate hormonal balance that regulates GHRH secretion and its interplay with the somatotroph axis. Various molecules and pathophysiological states have been shown to modulate the release of GH, GHRH, somatostatin and GH secretagogues. Collectively, the available evidence demonstrates how a vast number of neural and peripheral signals are conveyed and integrated to orchestrate a finely tuned response of the somatotroph axis that adapts to the body's varying needs for growth, metabolism, and repair. The present review aims to summarize the available evidence regarding the key regulators involved in the modulation of the somatotroph axis in humans, presenting detailed molecular insights on the signaling cascades at play. The interplay between different mechanisms governing somatotroph secretion is highlighted, underscoring the nuanced interdependence that maintains homeostasis and facilitates the body's ability to respond to internal and external stimuli.

Factors Affecting Well-Being and Work Activity in Italian Dental Hygienists During COVID-19 Emergency

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to assess the effect of the COVID 19 pandemic in terms of work-related stress on a sample of 424 Italian dental hygienists (rate response 98%). It was tested which factors may influence most the perception of stress among Italian dental hygienists, which coping strategies hygienists adopted, and which protective factors may help them to cope with stress.

METHODS

Data were collected during a phase of moderate improvement of epidemiological conditions in Italy (Summer 2021-from June to September) through an online questionnaire, 424 questionnaires were considered for analysis.

RESULTS

Results show a perception of good satisfaction among participants about their job, although the level of stress perception seems to be significant. They have also a perception of effective risk management in the workplace. The elements that seem to influence mostly work-related stress levels are associated to (1) repetitive movements and postural changes due to the use of mechanical tools; (2) the use of personal protective equipment (e.g., surgery masks, gloves, etc.); and (3) relations with patients. Results show that participants tend to implement coping strategies such as physical activity and/or spending time with family and/or friends, but it seems that at an organisational level, no systematic measures have been taken.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows some protective factors that may help in coping with work-related stress, such as support from the dentist, a good work-life balance, role clarity with respect to the operational and professional role, the perception of self-efficacy at work, good integration into the teamwork and perceived support from colleagues.

The prospective impact of extradyadic stress on depressive symptoms and the mediating role of intradyadic stress in parents-an actor-partner interdependence mediation model

BACKGROUND

Stress outside of the couple relationship (extradyadic stress) can spill over into the couple relationship, increasing stress between the partners (intradyadic stress). Extra- and intradyadic stress are furthermore associated with depressive symptoms. Due to the interdependence of romantic partners, this study aimed to investigate the influence of the person's own and their partner's extra- and intradyadic stress on the person's depressive symptoms in parents of toddlers. The second aim was to evaluate whether intradyadic stress mediates the within-person and between-partner association between extradyadic stress and depressive symptoms.

METHODS

Longitudinal data of a community sample of 878 opposite-sex couples, participating in the prospective cohort study DREAM, were collected two and three years after birth. Extra- and intradyadic stress were assessed by the Multidimensional Stress Questionnaire for Couples and depressive symptoms were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. An actor-partner interdependence mediation model was applied to the data, while controlling for the confounder academic degree.

RESULTS

The person's own extradyadic stress predicted their depressive symptoms one year later, partially mediated by their intradyadic stress. The partner's extradyadic stress and the person's own depressive symptoms one year later were only indirectly associated through the person's own intradyadic stress. In a sensitivity analysis, between-partner effects were no longer significant after including autoregressive pathways.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the importance of the extradyadic-intradyadic stress spillover for the mental health of women and men with young children. Early targeted interventions could help to prevent later depressive symptoms by reducing stress inside the couple relationship that results from both partners' stress from outside the couple relationship.

Safety and Efficacy of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognition, Energy and Mood Problems in Adults: Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

This prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study assessed the effects of Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) on cognition, energy, and mood in adults with self-reported cognitive and energy problems. Healthy subjects aged 30-75 years were randomized to receive ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract (ARE) 600 mg/day (n = 60)/identical placebo (n = 60) orally for 8 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and week 8 using a Computerized Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS). Secondary outcomes were Profile of Mood States Abbreviated Version (POMS-A), Mental Fatigue Scale (MFS) and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult (BRIEF-A) for effects on mood, mental fatigue and executive function, respectively, assessed at baseline, week 4 and 8. Greater improvement (p < .05) from baseline scores were seen with ARE as against placebo for COMPASS items episodic memory, working memory and accuracy of attention. ARE also improved the POMS-A, MFS and BRIEF-A scores from baseline suggesting an improvement in mood, vigor, and an increase in the executive functioning respectively with ARE. The herb was well tolerated and had a good patient compliance with no serious adverse events reported in either of the groups. This study suggests that a dose of 600 mg a day can improve cognition, energy, and mood in adults with self-reported cognitive and energy problems.

Acceptability and Feasibility of Using Hair Samples for Chronic Stress Measurement Among Transgender Women in Brazil

INTRODUCTION

The ability to objectively measure chronic stress has important implications for research, prevention, and treatment. Cortisol is currently the most used biological marker in the investigation of stress and can be measured via blood, saliva, and urine; however, these methods have disadvantages. The measurement of cortisol in hair is a more recently developed method that quantifies the cumulative production of cortisol over longer periods of time. Given the potential benefits of hair as a chronic stress biometric, research with this novel method is burgeoning, yet rarely involves transgender ("trans") populations, despite high levels of reported stress among trans people due to experiences of stigma and discrimination. Since hair is a key part of gender presentation, trans people might be less likely than cisgender people to donate hair for research. To explore the feasibility and acceptability of hair collection for use as a stress biometric with trans women, we nested a study into an ongoing clinical trial in São Paulo, Brazil, "Manas por Manas" (Sisters for Sisters). Here, we describe the hair biometric substudy protocol, as well as the feasibility and acceptability of collecting hair in the study cohort.

METHODS

We randomly selected a subsample (n = 180) from the Manas por Manas cohort (n = 392), all of whom are trans women, age 18 or older. We messaged participants via phone, WhatsApp, or social media for at least three attempted contacts. Study visits included four components: (1) video introduction, including a demonstration of hair sampling; (2) informed consent; (3) a brief survey with the validated Short Stress Overload Scale (translated to Portuguese) and questions on hair care that could moderate stress hormone results; and (4) hair sample collection. Hair samples were collected and stored using validated protocols. Participants were reimbursed for travel costs.

RESULTS

Between April and December 2022, we messaged with 143 individuals out of the 180 sampled (79%) and invited them to participate in the study. Of those invited to participate, we scheduled study visits with 102 people (71.3% of those invited to participate), of whom 100 attended their study visits and completed all activities. Two people did not attend their study visits and stopped communication. Of those who were invited to participate and declined a study visit, four individuals declined due to the hair sample collection procedures (2.8% of those invited to participate). Other reasons for declining to participate included having moved (n = 7), lack of time (n = 11), not interested in research participation (n = 8), or unknown/stopped responding to messages (n = 11). Most participants reported that they chemically treated their hair to bleach, color, or straighten it, which could impact laboratory assays.

CONCLUSION

We found hair sampling for stress measurement to be feasible and acceptable to our participants. We successfully completed all study activities for our desired sample size, and most recruited individuals volunteered to participate. Reasons provided for declining study participation reflected general barriers to research participation, with only four people declining due to hair sample collection procedures.

The association between sensory processing and stress in the adult population: A systematic review

There is emerging empirical evidence indicating that differences in self-reported sensory processing may be associated with differences in levels of stress in the adult populations. Understanding how sensory processing relates to stress is of clinical relevance, given the well-established impact of stress on physical health, mental health and well-being. Although several studies have examined the association between sensory processing and stress in adult populations, no published reviews have systematically summarised and synthesised these findings. We aimed to fill this gap by conducting a systematic review to synthesise the available evidence examining the association between self-reported sensory processing and self-reported measures of stress in the adult population. The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-S) checklist. Twenty studies were included in the final review. Quality assessment was conducted with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Overall, the evidence is strong for an association between differences in sensory processing and self-reported stress in adults. This association was found across a range of populations and measures of stress, in cross-sectional studies. The most commonly used measure of sensory processing was the Highly Sensitive Person Scale, which was consistently moderately associated with a range of measures of stress. The quality of the included studies was generally good, with most meeting four or five out of five criteria. Longitudinal studies are lacking. There is strong evidence for a cross-sectional association between sensory processing and stress in an adult population. Further research, in particular longitudinal studies and studies including clinical populations, would be of benefit in order to establish causality.

The Hidden Dangers of Sedentary Living: Insights into Molecular, Cellular, and Systemic Mechanisms

With the aging of the global population, neurodegenerative diseases are emerging as a major public health issue. The adoption of a less sedentary lifestyle has been shown to have a beneficial effect on cognitive decline, but the molecular mechanisms responsible are less clear. Here we provide a detailed analysis of the complex molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive decline and how lifestyle choices influence these processes. A review of the evidence from animal models, human studies, and postmortem analyses emphasizes the importance of integrating physical exercise with cognitive, multisensory, and motor stimulation as part of a multifaceted approach to mitigating cognitive decline. We highlight the potential of these non-pharmacological interventions to address key aging hallmarks, such as genomic instability, telomere attrition, and neuroinflammation, and underscore the need for comprehensive and personalized strategies to promote cognitive resilience and healthy aging.

Stress increases sperm respiration and motility in mice and men

Semen quality and fertility has declined over the last 50 years, corresponding to ever-increasing environmental stressors. However, the cellular mechanisms involved and their impact on sperm functions remain unknown. In a repeated sampling human cohort study, we identify a significant effect of prior perceived stress to increase sperm motility 2-3 months following stress, timing that expands upon our previous studies revealing significant stress-associated changes in sperm RNA important for fertility. We mechanistically examine this post-stress timing in mice using an in vitro stress model in the epididymal epithelial cells responsible for sperm maturation and find 7282 differentially H3K27me3 bound DNA regions involving genes critical for mitochondrial and metabolic pathways. Further, prior stress exposure significantly changes the composition and size of epithelial cell-secreted extracellular vesicles that when incubated with mouse sperm, increase mitochondrial respiration and sperm motility, adding to our prior work showing impacts on embryo development. Together, these studies identify a time-dependent, translational signaling pathway that communicates stress experience to sperm, ultimately affecting reproductive functions.

Does Perceived Generativity Mediate the Association Between Optimism and Cognitive Function Over Time? Findings from Midlife in the United States Study

Cognitive function is a vital component of healthy aging. However, whether a persistently high optimism benefits late-life cognitive function is debatable. The current study examined associations between high optimism status, perceived generativity, and cognitive functions across adulthood. Data were from waves 2 and 3 (2004-14) of the Midlife in the United States study. We used structural equation modeling to examine whether participants' (N = 2,205; Mage = 65 ± 11) persistent high optimism predicts better cognitive functions over time, compared to high optimism at only one time-point or not at all while controlling for covariates; we also examined whether individuals' perceived generativity mediates the above association. The findings revealed that persistent high optimism was significantly associated with better episodic memory and executive function. Further, perceived generativity positively mediated the association between persistent high optimism and episodic memory. Future research should examine mechanisms for potential aspects of high optimism and perceived generativity on late-life cognitive performances.

Unraveling psychological burden: the interplay of socio-economic status, anxiety sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, and stress in first-year medical students

BACKGROUND

The escalating prevalence of mental health issues among young adults, set against the backdrop of a global healthcare system under pressure, underscores the necessity for cultivating a resilient medical workforce. This study investigates the influence of socio-economic status (SES) on psychological well-being, with a particular focus on Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) and Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) among first-year medical students. Understanding the psychological dimensions affecting medical students is crucial for fostering a future medical workforce that is both capable and mentally healthy.

METHODS

This research involved 321 first-year medical students, evaluated using the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (UI-18), and the Student Self-Efficacy Scale (SSE), alongside socio-economic categorization. Employing descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and correlation analyses, the study aimed at elucidating the SES impact on AS and IU, among other psychological constructs.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed significant SES-related differences, especially in the realms of Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty. Notably, ASI_C (cognitive concerns) exhibited strong positive correlations with both UI_A (reduced ability to act due to IU) (Pearson's r = 0.562, p < 0.001) and UI_B (burden due to IU) (Pearson's r = 0.605, p < 0.001), highlighting the link between cognitive aspects of anxiety and uncertainty intolerance. Furthermore, UI_C (vigilance due to IU) was significantly associated with SES (F(4, 316) = 2.719, p = 0.030, η² = 0.033), pointing to the complex ways in which socio-economic factors modulate responses to uncertainty. Self-efficacy emerged as a significant counterbalance, showing protective associations against the adverse effects of heightened Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that lower socio-economic status is associated with higher levels of Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty, which contribute to increased stress among first-year medical students. Additionally, Self-Efficacy emerged as a significant protective factor, mitigating the expressions of AS and IU. Although medical faculties cannot change SES characteristics within their student body, recognizing its impact allows for the development of tailored support systems to address the unique challenges faced by students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. This study underscores the necessity of considering social diversity, particularly regarding AS and IU characteristics, to foster a supportive and effective medical education environment with an outlook on sustainable mental health in a demanding work context.

Specific Activation of Dopamine Receptor D1 Expressing Neurons in the PrL Alleviates CSDS-Induced Anxiety-Like Behavior Comorbidity with Postoperative Hyperalgesia in Male Mice

Postoperative pain is a type of pain that occurs in clinical patients after surgery. Among the factors influencing the transition from acute postoperative pain to chronic postoperative pain, chronic stress has received much attention in recent years. Here, we investigated the role of dopamine receptor D1/D2 expressing pyramidal neurons in the prelimbic cortex (PrL) in modulating chronic social defeat stress (CSDS)-induced anxiety-like behavior comorbidity with postoperative hyperalgesia in male mice. Our results showed that preoperative CSDS induced anxiety-like behavior and significantly prolonged postoperative pain caused by plantar incision, but did not affect plantar wound recovery and inflammation. Reduced activation of dopamine receptor D1 or D2 expressing neurons in the PrL is a remarkable feature of male mice after CSDS, and chronic inhibition of dopamine receptor D1 or D2 expressing neurons in the PrL induced anxiety-like behavior and persistent postoperative pain. Further studies found that activation of D1 expressing but not D2 expressing neurons in the PrL ameliorated CSDS-induced anxiety-like behavior and postoperative hyperalgesia. Our results suggest that dopamine receptor D1 expressing neurons in the PrL play a crucial role in CSDS-induced anxiety-like behavior comorbidity with postoperative hyperalgesia in male mice.

Comprehensive Review of Chronic Stress Pathways and the Efficacy of Behavioral Stress Reduction Programs (BSRPs) in Managing Diseases

The connection between chronic psychological stress and the onset of various diseases, including diabetes, HIV, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions, is well documented. This review synthesizes current research on the neurological, immune, hormonal, and genetic pathways through which stress influences disease progression, affecting multiple body systems: nervous, immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, musculoskeletal, and integumentary. Central to this review is an evaluation of 16 Behavioral Stress Reduction Programs (BSRPs) across over 200 studies, assessing their effectiveness in mitigating stress-related health outcomes. While our findings suggest that BSRPs have the potential to enhance the effectiveness of medical therapies and reverse disease progression, the variability in study designs, sample sizes, and methodologies raises questions about the generalizability and robustness of these results. Future research should focus on long-term, large-scale studies with rigorous methodologies to validate the effectiveness of BSRPs.

Gender differences in the associations of psychosocial trauma and acute medical stressors with immune system activation and dementia risk

Objective: The purpose of this article is to provide a narrative review synthesizing the literature on differences between women and men in relationships among certain stressors associated with immune system activation and their relationship to cognitive dysfunction and dementia. Method: We review the cycle of stress leading to neuroinflammation via cortisol and neurochemical alterations, cell-mediated immune system activation, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and how this is implicated in the development of dementia. We follow this by discussing sex differences in stress physiology and immune function. We then review the work on early life adversity (ELA) and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), post-traumatic stress disorder, acute medical stressors, and their associations with cognitive dysfunction and dementia. Throughout, we emphasize women's presentations and issues unique to women (e.g. trauma disorder prevalence). Conclusions: There is a need for more mechanistic and longitudinal studies that consider trauma accumulation, both physical and emotional, as well as a greater focus on traumas more likely to occur in women (e.g. sexual abuse), and their relationship to early cognitive decline and dementia.

The relationship between personality and cognition in older adults with and without early-onset depression

Introduction

It is well established that personality traits impact cognition, as certain personality factors are associated with performance in specific cognitive domains. However, the findings on the relationships between the Big Five traits and cognition are mixed. Additionally, few studies have explored these relationships in older adults with a history of depression. The present study aimed to (a) evaluate the impact of the Big Five personality traits in older adults with and without a lifetime history of depression; and (b) test the hypotheses that higher trait neuroticism would correlate negatively with cognitive performance, while openness to experience would correlate positively with cognition.

Methods

The sample consisted of 138 participants between the ages of 55 and 78 (M = 65.56, SD = 6.36). Sixty-two participants met criteria for current or remitted Major Depressive Disorder, while 76 had no history of depression or other mental health disorders. Participants underwent comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Personality was assessed using the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (NEO-PI-R), while depression status was determined using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5). Following a series of Pearson correlations of cognitive variables and the five personality factors, linear regression models were estimated for each significant correlation. Demographic variables (i.e., age, education and sex) were entered in block 1, depression status (never vs. ever) was entered in block 2, and the personality factor score, or sub-facet was entered in block 3.

Results

Neuroticism was not associated with cognitive performance on any outcome measure. The facets Openness to Feelings and Openness to Values were positively related to phonemic fluency. Further Openness to Values was positively related to cognitive flexibility.

Discussion

Our results suggest that older people who are (a) more capable of identifying and understanding their feelings and the feelings of others, and (b) who are more willing to re-examine social, political, and religious values perform stronger on tasks measuring verbal fluency and cognitive flexibility, which are aspects of executive functioning. Interventions that aim to enhance open mindedness in older adults may have a parallel impact on improving executive functioning, though this would need to be examined prospectively.

Dopamine D1 receptor in medial prefrontal cortex mediates the effects of TAAR1 activation on chronic stress-induced cognitive and social deficits

Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is an intracellular expressed G-protein-coupled receptor that is widely expressed in major dopaminergic areas and plays a crucial role in modulation of central dopaminergic neurotransmission and function. Pharmacological studies have clarified the roles of dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) in cognitive function and social behaviors, and chronic stress can inhibit D1R expression due to its susceptibility. Recently, we identified TAAR1 in the mPFC as a potential target for treating chronic stress-induced cognitive and social dysfunction, but whether D1R is involved in mediating the effects of TAAR1 agonist remains unclear. Combined genomics and transcriptomic studies revealed downregulation of D1R in the mPFC of TAAR1-/- mice. Molecular dynamics simulation showed that hydrogen bond, salt bridge, and Pi-Pi stacking interactions were formed between TAAR1 and D1R indicating a stable TAAR1-D1R complex structure. Using pharmacological interventions, we found that D1R antagonist disrupted therapeutic effect of TAAR1 partial agonist RO5263397 on stress-related cognitive and social dysfunction. Knockout TAAR1 in D1-type dopamine receptor-expressing neurons reproduced adverse effects of chronic stress, and TAAR1 conditional knockout in the mPFC led to similar deficits, along with downregulation of D1R expression, all of these effects were ameliorated by viral overexpression of D1R in the mPFC, suggesting the functional interaction between TAAR1 and D1R. Collectively, our data elucidate the possible molecular mechanism that D1R in the mPFC mediates the effects of TAAR1 activation on chronic stress-induced cognitive and social deficits.

Chronic academic stress improves attentional control: Behavioral and electrophysiological evidence

Background

Detecting and responding to target objects in the visual environment is a key factor in goal-directed behavior. Exposure to chronic stress often results in alterations of prefrontal cortex (PFC) function, which may impact PFC-dependent selective attention process. This study aimed to investigate the effect of chronic academic stress on attentional control process.

Method

Both the stress group and the control group performed an arrow-based version of the Eriksen Flanker task. Event-related potentials (ERP) were recorded while the participants performed the task.

Results

The behavioural results exhibited decreased Flanker RT effect for the stress group compared to the control group, suggesting a reduced interference under stress. The ERP results showed that stress group showed decreased frontal N2 but increased early P3 and late P3/LPC activities compared to the control group. These results suggest reduced conflict monitoring but increased conflict resolution process under stress.

Conclusions

The chronic academic stress improves attentional control by reducing the conflict monitoring and enhancing conflict resolution processes.

Does Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status Alter Memory Change Associated with a Cancer Diagnosis? Preliminary Evidence from the US Health and Retirement Study

BACKGROUND

Neighborhood disadvantage has been linked to cognitive impairment, but little is known about the effect of neighborhood disadvantage on long-term cancer-related memory decline.

METHODS

Incident cancer diagnosis and memory (immediate and delayed recall, combined with proxy-reported memory) were assessed at biennial interviews in the US Health and Retirement Study (N = 13,293, 1998-2016). Neighborhood disadvantage was measured using the National Neighborhood Data Archive disadvantage index, categorized into tertiles (T1: least disadvantaged-T3: most disadvantaged). Linear mixed-effects models estimated the standardized memory trajectories in participants with or without cancer, by neighborhood disadvantage.

RESULTS

Living in more disadvantaged neighborhoods was associated with worse mean memory function and steeper memory declines, regardless of cancer status. An incident cancer diagnosis was associated with an acute memory drop for those living in least disadvantaged neighborhoods but not more disadvantaged neighborhoods [T1: -0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.08, -0.01; T3: -0.13, 95% CI: -0.06, 0.03]. Cancer survivors in the least disadvantaged neighborhoods had a slight memory advantage in the years prior to diagnosis (T1: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.13) and after diagnosis (T1: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

An incident cancer diagnosis among those living in the least disadvantaged neighborhoods was associated with an acute memory drop at the time of diagnosis and a long-term memory advantage before and after diagnosis compared with cancer-free individuals in similar neighborhoods.

IMPACT

These findings could inform interventions to promote cancer survivor's long-term aging. Future studies should investigate the social and biological pathways through which neighborhood socioeconomic status could influence cancer-related memory changes.

Prenatal tobacco and tobacco-cannabis co-exposure: Relationship with attention and memory in middle childhood

We examined associations between prenatal tobacco exposure (with and without cannabis exposure) and children's performance on laboratory measures of sustained attention, attentional set shifting, and working memory in middle childhood (9-12 years of child age). Participants were recruited in the first trimester of pregnancy and oversampled for prenatal tobacco exposure; with a smaller sample (n = 133; n = 34 non-substance exposed, n = 37 exposed to tobacco only, n = 62 co-exposed) invited (oversampled for co-exposure) to participate in the middle-childhood assessment (M age = 10.6, SD = 0.77; 68% Black, 20% Hispanic). Results for sustained attention indicated lower attention (percent hits) at the first epoch for tobacco only exposed compared to non-exposed and co-exposed; a trend (p = .07) towards increases in impulsive responding across time (a total of 8 epochs) for tobacco exposed (with and without cannabis) compared to non-exposed children; and a significant association between higher number of cigarettes in the first trimester and greater increases in impulsive responding across epochs. However, children prenatally exposed to tobacco (with and without cannabis) demonstrated greater short-term memory compared to children not prenatally exposed, and this difference was driven by higher scores for children prenatally co-exposed to tobacco and cannabis compared to those who were non-exposed. Overall, results suggest that prenatal tobacco exposure, especially in the first trimester, may increase risk for impulsive responding on tasks requiring sustained attention, and that co-use of cannabis did not exacerbate these associations. The higher short-term memory scores among children who were co-exposed compared to non-exposed are perplexing and need replication, particularly in studies with larger sample sizes and samples exposed only to cannabis to examine this more closely.

Regulator of G Protein Signaling 14 protein expression profile in the adult mouse brain

Regulator of G protein signaling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional signaling protein that serves as a natural suppressor of synaptic plasticity in the mouse brain. Our previous studies showed that RGS14 is highly expressed in postsynaptic dendrites and spines of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal area CA2 of the developing mouse brain. However, our more recent work with adult rhesus macaque brain shows that RGS14 is found in multiple neuron populations throughout hippocampal area CA1 and CA2, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, substantia nigra, and amygdala in the adult rhesus monkey brain. In the mouse brain, we also have observed RGS14 protein in discrete limbic regions linked to reward behavior and addiction, including the central amygdala and the nucleus accumbens, but a comprehensive mapping of RGS14 protein expression in the adult mouse brain is lacking. Here, we report that RGS14 is more broadly expressed in mouse brain than previously known. Intense RGS14 staining is observed in specific neuron populations of the hippocampal formation, amygdala, septum, bed nucleus of stria terminalis and ventral striatum/nucleus accumbens. RGS14 is also observed in axon fiber tracts including the dorsal fornix, fimbria, stria terminalis, and the ventrohippocampal commissure. Moderate RGS14 staining is observed in various other adjacent regions not previously reported. These findings show that RGS14 is expressed in brain regions that govern aspects of core cognitive functions such as sensory perception, emotion, memory, motivation, and execution of actions, and suggests that RGS14 may serve to suppress plasticity and filter inputs in these brain regions to set the overall tone on experience-to-action processes.

Chronic unpredictable stress induces autophagic death of adult hippocampal neural stem cells

Chronic psychological stress is a critical factor for neurological complications like anxiety disorders, dementia, and depression. Our previous results show that chronic restraint stress causes cognitive deficits and mood dysregulation by inducing autophagic death of adult hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs). However, it is unknown whether other models of psychological stress also induce autophagic death of adult hippocampal NSCs. Here, we show that chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) for 10 days impaired memory function and increased anxiety in mice. Immunohistochemical staining with SOX2 and KI67 revealed a significant reduction in the number of NSCs in the hippocampus following exposure to CUS. However, these deficits were prevented by NSC-specific, inducible conditional deletion of Atg7. These findings suggest that autophagic death of adult hippocampal NSCs is a critical pathogenic mechanism underlying stress-induced brain disorders.

Discrepancies between self- and informant-ratings of functional abilities and objective cognition: predictors of bias in mild cognitive impairment

OBJECTIVE

Self- and informant-ratings of functional abilities are used to diagnose mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and are commonly measured in clinical trials. Ratings are assumed to be accurate, yet they are subject to biases. Biases in self-ratings have been found in individuals with dementia who are older and more depressed and in caregivers with higher distress, burden, and education. This study aimed to extend prior findings using an objective approach to identify determinants of bias in ratings.

METHOD

Participants were 118 individuals with MCI and their informants. Three discrepancy variables were generated including the discrepancies between (1) self- and informant-rated functional status, (2) informant-rated functional status and objective cognition (in those with MCI), and (3) self-rated functional status and objective cognition. These variables served as dependent variables in forward linear regression models, with demographics, stress, burden, depression, and self-efficacy as predictors.

RESULTS

Informants with higher stress rated individuals with MCI as having worse functional abilities relative to objective cognition. Individuals with MCI with worse self-efficacy rated their functional abilities as being worse compared to objective cognition. Informant-ratings were worse than self-ratings for informants with higher stress and individuals with MCI with higher self-efficacy.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights biases in subjective ratings of functional abilities in MCI. The risk for relative underreporting of functional abilities by individuals with higher stress levels aligns with previous research. Bias in individuals with MCI with higher self-efficacy may be due to anosognosia. Findings have implications for the use of subjective ratings for diagnostic purposes and as outcome measures.

Moderating effect of negative emotion differentiation in chronic stress and fatigue among Chinese employees

Introduction

According to the reactivity hypothesis and the diathesis-stress model, repeated activation of the stress system has a negative effect on health, and this effect may differ because of individual characteristics. Thus, the present study explores the effect of chronic stress on fatigue and investigates its mechanism.

Methods

A questionnaire survey of 288 participants selected from the northwest part of China was conducted (13.89% females; ages ranged from 18 to 34 years, with M ± SD = 23.14 ± 3.79 years) on chronic stress, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and negative emotion differentiation. SPSS 28.0 was used to process descriptive statistics and correlation analysis and the PROCESS macro was used to analyze the moderated chained multi-mediation.

Results

Chronic stress was found to be positively correlated with fatigue, depression, and anxiety; depression and anxiety played a chained multi-mediating role between chronic stress and fatigue, and negative emotion differentiation played a moderating role in the chained multi-mediation model.

Discussion

Compared with depression, anxiety plays a more important role in the influence of chronic stress on fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention to anxiety symptoms and take appropriate intervention measures. Negative emotion differentiation plays a moderating role. Improving negative emotion differentiation through mindfulness and adaptive emotion regulation is an effective way to reduce the influence of chronic stress on fatigue.

Personalized Stress Detection Using Biosignals from Wearables: A Scoping Review

Stress is a natural yet potentially harmful aspect of human life, necessitating effective management, particularly during overwhelming experiences. This paper presents a scoping review of personalized stress detection models using wearable technology. Employing the PRISMA-ScR framework for rigorous methodological structuring, we systematically analyzed literature from key databases including Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and PubMed. Our focus was on biosignals, AI methodologies, datasets, wearable devices, and real-world implementation challenges. The review presents an overview of stress and its biological mechanisms, details the methodology for the literature search, and synthesizes the findings. It shows that biosignals, especially EDA and PPG, are frequently utilized for stress detection and demonstrate potential reliability in multimodal settings. Evidence for a trend towards deep learning models was found, although the limited comparison with traditional methods calls for further research. Concerns arise regarding the representativeness of datasets and practical challenges in deploying wearable technologies, which include issues related to data quality and privacy. Future research should aim to develop comprehensive datasets and explore AI techniques that are not only accurate but also computationally efficient and user-centric, thereby closing the gap between theoretical models and practical applications to improve the effectiveness of stress detection systems in real scenarios.

Aging-induced tRNAGlu-derived fragment impairs glutamate biosynthesis by targeting mitochondrial translation-dependent cristae organization

Mitochondrial cristae, infoldings of the mitochondrial inner membrane, undergo aberrant changes in their architecture with age. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and their contribution to brain aging are largely elusive. Here, we observe an age-dependent accumulation of Glu-5'tsRNA-CTC, a transfer-RNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), derived from nuclear-encoded tRNAGlu in the mitochondria of glutaminergic neurons. Mitochondrial Glu-5'tsRNA-CTC disrupts the binding of mt-tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase2 (LaRs2), impairing mt-tRNALeu aminoacylation and mitochondria-encoded protein translation. Mitochondrial translation defects disrupt cristae organization, leading to damaged glutaminase (GLS)-dependent glutamate formation and reduced synaptosomal glutamate levels. Moreover, reduction of Glu-5'tsRNA-CTC protects aged brains from age-related defects in mitochondrial cristae organization, glutamate metabolism, synaptic structures, and memory. Thus, beyond illustrating a physiological role for normal mitochondrial cristae ultrastructure in maintaining glutamate levels, our study defines a pathological role for tsRNAs in brain aging and age-related memory decline.

Association between plasma long-chain polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids concentrations and cognitive function: findings from NHANES III

Background

With increased life expectancy, cognitive decline has emerged as a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the correlation between concentrations of Plasma long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) and cognitive performance in elderly Americans.

Methods

Data were analyzed from older adults enrolled in two NHANES cycles. Participants completed four cognitive assessments, including the Immediate Recall Test (IRT), Delayed Recall Test (DRT), Animal Fluency Test (AFT), and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Linear regression and restricted cubic spline modeling examined associations between plasma LCPUFAs levels and cognitive test outcomes.

Results

The cohort included 610 adults aged 69 years on average, 300 (49.2%) males and 310 (50.8%) females. The median LCPUFAs concentration was 309.4 μmol/L, with an interquartile range of 244.7-418.9 μmol/L. In unadjusted and adjusted generalized linear regression model analyses, circulating LCPUFAs exhibited significant positive correlations with DRT performance. No relationships were detected among those with chronic conditions (chronic heart failure, stroke, diabetes). A significant association between LCPUFAs levels and DRT scores was evident in males but not females.

Conclusion

Plasma LCPUFAs concentrations were significantly associated with DRT performance in males free of chronic illnesses, including heart failure, stroke, and diabetes.

Cognitive function following early life war-time stress exposure in a cohort of Vietnamese older adults

Although Alzheimer's Disease is a leading cause of death in Vietnam and other post-conflict, low- and middle-income countries, aside from studies of veterans in western populations, research on war-related violence and deprivation as risk factors for cognitive disorders remains sparse. Using data from the Vietnam Health and Aging Study, which relied upon a multistage probability sample of 2447 older adults residing in districts of northern Vietnam differentially exposed to wartime bombing and numerous war-related stressors, this paper investigates associations between early-life war-related stressors and later-life cognitive function in a cohort whose transition to adulthood took place during the American-Vietnam War. Relationships among experiences of severe childhood hunger, war-related violence and environmental hardships, military service, and cognitive function in an analytical sample of 2162 Vietnamese older adults are estimated using quantile regression. Cognitive function is assessed by a modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. Analyses also address posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cardiovascular health, and health behaviors as potential mediators between early life war-related stressors and current cognitive function. Results indicate that experiences of severe hunger in childhood and environmental hardships are associated with poorer cognitive function in older adulthood. PTSD, cardiovascular risk (i.e., hypertension) and disease (i.e., stroke), each of which is heightened by exposure to wartime stressors, are associated with lower cognitive scores. Results suggest that certain war exposures, like involvement in combat duties, are associated with higher cognitive function scores, suggesting that military service either positively selects for cognitive function, or certain forms of service may impart cognitive resilience. Following recent calls to incorporate population-specific stressors to advance explanatory models of cognitive function, these findings suggest that it is critical to assess the enduring scars and resilience of armed conflict in global efforts to understand, prevent, and treat cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's Disease, and related dementias.

CRF binding protein activity in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus is essential for stress adaptations and normal maternal behaviour in lactating rats

To ensure the unrestricted expression of maternal behaviour peripartum, activity of the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system needs to be minimised. CRF binding protein (CRF-BP) might be crucial for this adaptation, as its primary function is to sequester freely available CRF and urocortin1, thereby dampening CRF receptor (CRF-R) signalling. So far, the role of CRF-BP in the maternal brain has barely been studied, and a potential role in curtailing activation of the stress axis is unknown. We studied gene expression for CRF-BP and both CRF-R within the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus. In lactating rats, Crh-bp expression in the parvocellular PVN was significantly higher and Crh-r1 expression in the PVN significantly lower compared to virgin rats. Acute CRF-BP inhibition in the PVN with infusion of CRF(6-33) increased basal plasma corticosterone concentrations under unstressed conditions in dams. Furthermore, while acute intra-PVN infusion of CRF increased corticosterone secretion in virgin rats, it was ineffective in vehicle (VEH)-pre-treated lactating rats, probably due to a buffering effect of CRF-BP. Indeed, pre-treatment with CRF(6-33) reinstated a corticosterone response to CRF in lactating rats, highlighting the critical role of CRF-BP in maintaining attenuated stress reactivity in lactation. To our knowledge, this is the first study linking hypothalamic CRF-BP activity to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation in lactation. In terms of behaviour, acute CRF-BP inhibition in the PVN under non-stress conditions reduced blanket nursing 60 min and licking/grooming 90 min after infusion compared to VEH-treated rats, while increasing maternal aggression towards an intruder. Lastly, chronic intra-PVN inhibition of CRF-BP strongly reduced maternal aggression, with modest effects on maternal motivation and care. Taken together, intact activity of the CRF-BP in the PVN during the postpartum period is essential for the dampened responsiveness of the stress axis, as well as for the full expression of appropriate maternal behaviour.

Effects of trace element dietary supplements on voice parameters and some physiological and psychological parameters related to stress

Trace elements, often used as dietary supplements, are widely accessible without prescription at pharmacies. Pronutri has pioneered Nutripuncture®, a methodology that utilizes orally consumed trace elements to elicit a physiological response akin to that of acupuncture. Pronutri has empirically observed that the user's voice becomes deeper following an exclusive ingestion procedure. Given that alterations in vocal characteristics are often linked to stress, the Pronutri researchers postulated that the pills have the capacity to promptly alleviate stress upon ingestion. Nevertheless, there is a lack of scientific substantiation about the impact of these supplements on voice (or stress) indicators. The aim of this research was to determine whether there is a consistent impact of trace element ingestion on vocal characteristics, namely the fundamental frequency of the voice, as well as other physiological and psychological stress measurements. In order to achieve this objective, we have devised a unique methodology to examine this hypothesis. This involves conducting a monocentric crossover, randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial with a sample size of 43 healthy individuals. This study demonstrates that compared to placebo tablets, consuming 10 metal traces containing tablets at once is enough to cause noticeable changes in the vocal spectrum in the direction of an improvement of the voice timbre "richness", and a decrease in the occurrence of spontaneous electrodermal activity, suggesting a stress reduction. However, there were no significant changes observed in the other parameters that were tested. These parameters include vocal measures such as voice frequency F0, standard deviation from this frequency, jitter, and shimmer. Additionally, physiological measures such as respiratory rate, oxygenation and heart rate variability parameters, as well as psychological measures such as self-assessment analogic scales of anxiety, stress, muscle tension, and nervous tension, did not show any significant changes. Ultimately, our research revealed that the ingestion of 10 trace elements pills may promptly elicit a targeted impact on both vocal spectrum and electrodermal activity. Despite the limited impact, these findings warrant more research to explore the long-term effects of trace elements on voice and stress reduction.

Effectiveness of stress arousal reappraisal and stress-is-enhancing mindset interventions on task performance outcomes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Stress arousal reappraisal (SAR) and stress-is-enhancing (SIE) mindset interventions aim to promote a more adaptive stress response by educating individuals about the functionality of stress. As part of this framework, an adaptive stress response is coupled with improved performance on stressful tasks. The goal of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions on task performance. The literature search yielded 44 effect sizes, and a random-effects model with Knapp-Hartung adjustment was used to pool them. The results revealed an overall small significant improvement in task performance (d = 0.23, p < 0.001). The effect size was significantly larger for mixed interventions (i.e., SAR/SIE mindset instructions combined with additional content, k = 5, d = 0.45, p = 0.004) than SAR-only interventions (k = 33, d = 0.22, p < 0.001) and SIE mindset-only interventions (k = 6, d = 0.18, p = 0.22) and tended to be larger for public performance tasks than cognitive written tasks (k = 14, d = 0.34, p < 0.001 vs. k = 30, d = 0.20, p = 0.002). Although SAR and SIE mindset interventions are not "silver bullets", they offer a promising cost-effective low-threshold approach to improve performance across various domains.

The association between trouble sleeping and obesity among the U.S. elderly from NHANES 2011-2014: A moderated mediation model of depressive symptoms and cognitive function

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown a close association between trouble sleeping and obesity in older adults. However, no studies have explored the underlying mechanism of this relationship. The present study was designed to evaluate the roles of depressive symptoms and cognitive function in the association between trouble sleeping and obesity in older American adults.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 2575 participants (≥60 years old) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014 was used for analysis. Obesity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function (including Established Consortium for Word Learning in Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD-WL) (immediate learning and recall and delayed recall), Animal Fluency Test (AFT), and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST)) were objectively measured, and trouble sleeping was assessed using a self-reported questionnaire. The moderated mediation analysis was conducted by Hayes' PROCESS macro.

RESULTS

Trouble sleeping was positively associated with obesity among older adults. Depressive symptoms partially and indirectly mediated this association, and DSST moderated the association between trouble sleeping and depressive symptoms. Trouble sleeping had a lower impact on depressive symptoms in older adults with higher cognitive function.

LIMITATIONS

The cross-sectional design prevents making causal inferences, and part of self-reported information was not objective enough.

CONCLUSION

Cognitive function moderated the mediation of depressive symptoms on the indirect, positive association between trouble sleeping and obesity; hence, incorporating methods to strengthen cognitive function and alleviate depressive symptoms may help weak the link between trouble sleeping and obesity among older adults.

Higher adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet is associated with reduced psychosocial stress levels in baby boomers: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet among Korean baby boomers and their levels of psychosocial stress.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

The study included 1,656 adults (889 men and 797 women) born between 1955 and 1963 who participated in the 2005-2006 survey of the community-based Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). The Mediterranean-type diet score (MTDS) was calculated from the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQFFQ) data. The psychosocial stress levels were calculated using the psychosocial well-being index-short form (PWI-SF). Logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the association between the MTDS (tertiles) and the prevalence of high psychosocial stress by gender.

RESULTS

The ranges of the MTDS tertile groups were T1 (20-33 points), T2 (34-37 points), and T3 (38-39 points) for men, T1 (20-33 points), T2 (34-37 points), and T3 (38-48 points) for women. In both men and women, the consumption of whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and fish increased with higher MTDS, while the consumption of red meat and dairy products decreased (P for trend < 0.05). As MTDS score increased the intake of energy, fiber, vitamins, and minerals (P for trend < 0.05). Men in the highest MTDS tertile had a 41% lower odds ratio (OR) of high psychosocial stress compared with those in the lowest tertile (OR, 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38-0.91). Similarly, women in the highest tertile of the MTDS had a 39% lower OR of high psychosocial stress compared with those in the lowest tertile (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.40-0.95).

CONCLUSION

Promoting adherence to the Mediterranean diet among baby boomers may have a positive impact on reducing their levels of psychosocial stress.

Psychological Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Disease on University Students: A Systematic Review

Entering and acclimatizing to a university is crucial for achieving academic goals and graduation. Chronic illnesses can reduce a person's capacity to perform tasks, whether physically, cognitively, or emotionally, about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), there is a lack of research about the impact of IBD on the daily lives of students. IBD can be seen as having an adverse effect on the life of college students. The objective of this review was to examine the psychological ramifications, particularly in relation to stress levels, that IBD elicits in the daily lives of students.  The elementary search utilized specific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search terms employed were "IBD," "University," "Students," and "Stress." We reviewed 80 papers and selected 25 for their applicability and relevance. The current review includes at least a total of 12 articles.  The following issues arose: 1) adaption to university, 2) managing IBD individually and from the university setting, 3) social impact, and 4) methods of controlling and coping with the IBD.  Students with IBD have a tough time adapting to new situations. Their emotional and social status plays a significant role in this. The proper management and treatment of IBD throughout studies can have a significant impact on student's academic achievement as well as their later lives.

COVID-19-Related Stressors and Psychophysical Health Conditions among Italian University Students: A Post Pandemic Insight

The COVID-19 medical emergency has ended worldwide, yet the psychological impact of these years of unprecedented changes on students' lives still needs to be deepened.

METHODS

This study aims to assess and compare COVID-19-related stressors (relationships and academic life; isolation; and fear of contagion) and psychophysical symptoms reported by 637 university students at three times, i.e., April 2020 (n = 197), April 2021 (n = 200), and April 2022 (n = 240). The impact of COVID-19-related stressors on psychophysical symptoms within each time was also tested.

RESULTS

In April 2022, perceived isolation and fear of contagion decreased from the peak registered in April 2021, but stress related to relationships and academic life remained high. An ongoing increase in psychophysical symptoms was found. More than 50% of students reported clinical levels of sleep disorders, depression, psychoticism, and interpersonal sensitivity. In April 2022, students still perceiving stress related to relationships and academic life and isolation were at risk for anxiety, somatization, and sleep disorders. Students still perceiving stress related to fear of contagion were also at risk for depression, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and psychoticism.

CONCLUSION

The findings emphasized the long-lasting effects of COVID-19-related stress on students' psychophysical health. Interventions must aim at supporting students in dealing with the complex post-pandemic adjustment process.

NrCAM-deficient mice exposed to chronic stress exhibit disrupted latent inhibition, a hallmark of schizophrenia

The neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) is widely expressed and has important physiological functions in the nervous system across the lifespan, from axonal growth and guidance to spine and synaptic pruning, to organization of proteins at the nodes of Ranvier. NrCAM lies at the core of a functional protein network where multiple targets (including NrCAM itself) have been associated with schizophrenia. Here we investigated the effects of chronic unpredictable stress on latent inhibition, a measure of selective attention and learning which shows alterations in schizophrenia, in NrCAM knockout (KO) mice and their wild-type littermate controls (WT). Under baseline experimental conditions both NrCAM KO and WT mice expressed robust latent inhibition (p = 0.001). However, following chronic unpredictable stress, WT mice (p = 0.002), but not NrCAM KO mice (F < 1), expressed latent inhibition. Analyses of neuronal activation (c-Fos positive counts) in key brain regions relevant to latent inhibition indicated four types of effects: a single hit by genotype in IL cortex (p = 0.0001), a single hit by stress in Acb-shell (p = 0.031), a dual hit stress x genotype in mOFC (p = 0.008), vOFC (p = 0.020), and Acb-core (p = 0.032), and no effect in PrL cortex (p > 0.141). These results indicating a pattern of differential effects of genotype and stress support a complex stress × genotype interaction model and a role for NrCAM in stress-induced pathological behaviors relevant to schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.

The change of psychosocial stress factors in families with infants and toddlers during the COVID-19 pandemic. A longitudinal perspective on the CoronabaBY study from Germany

Background

Over nearly three years, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on people's lives and mental health worldwide with its far-reaching restrictions and concerns about infections and other personal consequences. Families were particularly affected and showed increased stress and psychological problems. Long-term effects cannot be ruled out. So far, data on young families are sparse. The present longitudinal analysis (n = 932) of the CoronabaBY study investigated the development of parenting stress, parental affective symptoms, and child's mental health in young families with children aged 0-3 years in Germany as well as potential influencing factors.

Methods

The observational study includes two measurement points over the course of the pandemic (baseline and follow-up). Data was collected by app using standardized questionnaires.

Results

N = 932 participants, mainly mothers (94.7%) born in Germany (93.1%) with higher education (61.3% with at least high school diploma) and a comfortable financial situation participated in the longitudinal study. Children were on average 14.7 months old at baseline (SD: 12, range: 1-39 months). While the proportion of parents who perceived the pandemic as stressful decreased significantly from baseline (60%) to follow-up (52.3%), the proportion with parenting stress increased significantly (from 40.1% to 45.4%). Both parental and child mental health problems remained constant over time, with infants crying/feeding/sleeping problems ranging above pre-pandemic comparative data. Most predictive for high parenting stress at follow-up was high parenting stress at baseline. This was also true for parental affective symptoms (depression/anxiety) and child mental health problems.

Conclusions

Despite faded pandemic restrictions, parents remained burdened. Support services do not appear to have been sufficient to help families out of their stressful situation. Our results indicate a need for action regarding low-threshold services that effectively reach affected families.

Trial registration

The study was pre-registered in OSF (https://osf.io/search/?q=tksh5&page=1).