1
|
Park HRP, Chilver MR, Quidé Y, Montalto A, Schofield PR, Williams LM, Gatt JM. Heritability of cognitive and emotion processing during functional MRI in a twin sample. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26557. [PMID: 38224545 PMCID: PMC10785190 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite compelling evidence that brain structure is heritable, the evidence for the heritability of task-evoked brain function is less robust. Findings from previous studies are inconsistent possibly reflecting small samples and methodological variations. In a large national twin sample, we systematically evaluated heritability of task-evoked brain activity derived from functional magnetic resonance imaging. We used established standardised tasks to engage brain regions involved in cognitive and emotional functions. Heritability was evaluated across a conscious and nonconscious Facial Expressions of Emotion Task (FEET), selective attention Oddball Task, N-back task of working memory maintenance, and a Go-NoGo cognitive control task in a sample of Australian adult twins (N ranged from 136 to 226 participants depending on the task and pairs). Two methods for quantifying associations of heritability and brain activity were utilised; a multivariate independent component analysis (ICA) approach and a univariate brain region-of-interest (ROI) approach. Using ICA, we observed that a significant proportion of task-evoked brain activity was heritable, with estimates ranging from 23% to 26% for activity elicited by nonconscious facial emotion stimuli, 27% to 34% for N-back working memory maintenance and sustained attention, and 32% to 33% for selective attention in the Oddball task. Using the ROI approach, we found that activity of regions specifically implicated in emotion processing and selective attention showed significant heritability for three ROIs, including estimates of 33%-34% for the left and right amygdala in the nonconscious processing of sad faces and 29% in the medial superior prefrontal cortex for the Oddball task. Although both approaches show similar levels of heritability for the Nonconscious Faces and Oddball tasks, ICA results displayed a more extensive network of heritable brain function, including additional regions beyond the ROI analysis. Furthermore, multivariate twin modelling of both ICA networks and ROI activation suggested a mix of common genetic and unique environmental factors that contribute to the associations between networks/regions. Together, the results indicate a complex relationship between genetic factors and environmental interactions that ultimately give rise to neural activation underlying cognition and emotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haeme R. P. Park
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Miranda R. Chilver
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Yann Quidé
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Arthur Montalto
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Peter R. Schofield
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Leanne M. Williams
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of MedicineStanford UniversityCaliforniaUSA
| | - Justine M. Gatt
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Montalto A, Park HRP, Williams LM, Korgaonkar MS, Chilver MR, Jamshidi J, Schofield PR, Gatt JM. Negative association between anterior insula activation and resilience during sustained attention: an fMRI twin study. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3187-3199. [PMID: 37449488 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721005262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While previous studies have suggested that higher levels of cognitive performance may be related to greater wellbeing and resilience, little is known about the associations between neural circuits engaged by cognitive tasks and wellbeing and resilience, and whether genetics or environment contribute to these associations. METHODS The current study consisted of 253 monozygotic and dizygotic adult twins, including a subsample of 187 early-life trauma-exposed twins, with functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging data from the TWIN-E study. Wellbeing was measured using the COMPAS-W Wellbeing Scale while resilience was defined as a higher level of positive adaptation (higher levels of wellbeing) in the presence of trauma exposure. We probed both sustained attention and working memory processes using a Continuous Performance Task in the scanner. RESULTS We found significant negative associations between resilience and activation in the bilateral anterior insula engaged during sustained attention. Multivariate twin modelling showed that the association between resilience and the left and right insula activation was mostly driven by common genetic factors, accounting for 71% and 87% of the total phenotypic correlation between these variables, respectively. There were no significant associations between wellbeing/resilience and neural activity engaged during working memory updating. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that greater resilience to trauma is associated with less activation of the anterior insula during a condition requiring sustained attention but not working memory updating. This possibly suggests a pattern of 'neural efficiency' (i.e. more efficient and/or attenuated activity) in people who may be more resilient to trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Montalto
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Haeme R P Park
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers VISN21, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-151-Y, USA
| | - Mayuresh S Korgaonkar
- Brain Dynamics Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Miranda R Chilver
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Javad Jamshidi
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter R Schofield
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chilver MR, Champaigne-Klassen E, Schofield PR, Williams LM, Gatt JM. Predicting wellbeing over one year using sociodemographic factors, personality, health behaviours, cognition, and life events. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5565. [PMID: 37019908 PMCID: PMC10076502 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32588-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Various sociodemographic, psychosocial, cognitive, and life event factors are associated with mental wellbeing; however, it remains unclear which measures best explain variance in wellbeing in the context of related variables. This study uses data from 1017 healthy adults from the TWIN-E study of wellbeing to evaluate the sociodemographic, psychosocial, cognitive, and life event predictors of wellbeing using cross-sectional and repeated measures multiple regression models over one year. Sociodemographic (age, sex, education), psychosocial (personality, health behaviours, and lifestyle), emotion and cognitive processing, and life event (recent positive and negative life events) variables were considered. The results showed that while neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, and cognitive reappraisal were the strongest predictors of wellbeing in the cross-sectional model, while extraversion, conscientiousness, exercise, and specific life events (work related and traumatic life events) were the strongest predictors of wellbeing in the repeated measures model. These results were confirmed using tenfold cross-validation procedures. Together, the results indicate that the variables that best explain differences in wellbeing between individuals at baseline can vary from the variables that predict change in wellbeing over time. This suggests that different variables may need to be targeted to improve population-level compared to individual-level wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda R Chilver
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | | | - Peter R Schofield
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305-5717, USA
- Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers VISN21, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-151-Y, USA
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Stevens ES, Funkhouser CJ, Auerbach RP, Talati A, Gameroff MG, Posner JE, Weissman MM, Shankman SA. Inhibition Predicts the Course of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Among Adolescents: The Moderating Role of Familial Risk. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:100-107. [PMID: 36044650 PMCID: PMC9892173 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Numerous theoretical models suggest that inhibition difficulties-the inability to moderate automatic responses-contribute to the onset and/or maintenance of internalizing symptoms. Inhibition deficits and internalizing disorders run in families and share overlapping genetic risk factors, suggesting that inhibition deficits may be particularly prognostic of internalizing symptoms in those with high familial risk. This study tested this hypothesis in a longitudinal sample during the transition from adolescence to early adulthood. As hypothesized, prospective associations between inhibition and anxiety and depressive symptoms 8 years later were moderated by familial risk for depression. Specifically, poorer inhibition prospectively predicted greater anxiety and depressive symptoms in those at high (but not low) familial risk for major depressive disorder. These findings provide preliminary support for impaired inhibition as an indicator of risk for later internalizing symptoms in those at high familial risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S. Stevens
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychology, 1007 W. Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60607
| | - Carter J. Funkhouser
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychology, 1007 W. Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60607
| | - Randy P. Auerbach
- Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon, Department of Psychiatry, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Translational Epidemiology, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
| | - Ardesheer Talati
- Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon, Department of Psychiatry, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Translational Epidemiology, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
| | - Marc G. Gameroff
- Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon, Department of Psychiatry, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Translational Epidemiology, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
| | - Jonathan E. Posner
- Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon, Department of Psychiatry, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Translational Epidemiology, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
| | - Myrna M. Weissman
- Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon, Department of Psychiatry, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Translational Epidemiology, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032
| | - Stewart A. Shankman
- Northwestern University, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 680 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rumination, automatic thoughts, dysfunctional attitudes, and thought suppression as transdiagnostic factors in depression and anxiety. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-01086-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
6
|
Cilhoroz BT, DeBlois JP, Lefferts WK, Keller AP, Pagan Lassalle P, Meyer ML, Stoner L, Heffernan KS. Exploration of cerebral hemodynamic pathways through which large artery function affects neurovascular coupling in young women. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:914439. [PMID: 36035945 PMCID: PMC9411931 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.914439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe interactions between large artery function and neurovascular coupling (NVC) are emerging as important contributors to cognitive health. Women are disproportionally affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementia later in life. Understanding large artery correlates of NVC in young women may help with preservation of cognitive health with advancing age.PurposeTo explore the association between large artery function, NVC and cognitive performance in young women.MethodsVascular measurements were made in 61 women (21 ± 4 yrs) at rest and during a cognitive challenge (Stroop task). Transcranial Doppler was used to measure left middle cerebral artery (MCA) maximum velocity (Vmax), mean velocity (Vmean), and pulsatility index (PI). NVC was determined as MCA blood velocity reactivity to the Stroop task. Large artery function was determined using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) as a proxy measure of aortic stiffness and carotid ultrasound-derived measures of compliance and reactivity (diameter change to the Stroop task). Cognitive function was assessed separately using a computerized neurocognitive battery that included appraisal of response speed, executive function, information processing efficiency, memory, attention/concentration, and impulsivity.ResultsMCA Vmax reactivity was positively associated with executive function (β = 0.26, 95% CI 0.01–0.10); MCA Vmean reactivity was negatively associated with response speed (β = −0.33, 95% CI −0.19 to −0.02) and positively with memory score (β = 0.28, 95% CI 0.01–0.19). MCA PI reactivity was negatively associated with attention performance (β = −0.29, 95% CI −14.9 to −1.0). Path analyses identified significant paths (p < 0.05) between carotid compliance and carotid diameter reactivity to select domains of cognitive function through MCA reactivity.ConclusionsNVC was associated with cognitive function in young women. Carotid artery function assessed as carotid compliance and carotid reactivity may contribute to optimal NVC in young women through increased blood flow delivery and reduced blood flow pulsatility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burak T. Cilhoroz
- Department of Exercise Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Jacob P. DeBlois
- Department of Exercise Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Wesley K. Lefferts
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Allison P. Keller
- Department of Exercise Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Patricia Pagan Lassalle
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Michelle L. Meyer
- Department of Epidemiology, Gilling's School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Lee Stoner
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Gilling's School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kevin S. Heffernan
- Department of Exercise Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Kevin S. Heffernan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Park HRP, Williams LM, Turner RM, Gatt JM. TWIN-10: protocol for a 10-year longitudinal twin study of the neuroscience of mental well-being and resilience. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058918. [PMID: 35777871 PMCID: PMC9252211 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental well-being is a core component of mental health, and resilience is a key process of positive adaptive recovery following adversity. However, we lack an understanding of the neural mechanisms that contribute to individual variation in the trajectories of well-being and resilience relative to risk. Genetic and/or environmental factors may also modulate these mechanisms. The aim of the TWIN-10 Study is to characterise the trajectories of well-being and resilience over 12 years across four timepoints (baseline, 1 year, 10 years, 12 years) in 1669 Australian adult twins of European ancestry (to account for genetic stratification effects). To this end, we integrate data across genetics, environment, psychological self-report, neurocognitive performance and brain function measures of well-being and resilience. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Twins who took part in the baseline TWIN-E Study will be invited back to participate in the TWIN-10 Study, at 10-year and 12-year follow-up timepoints. Participants will complete an online battery of psychological self-reports, computerised behavioural assessments of neurocognitive functions and MRI testing of the brain structure and function during resting and task-evoked scans. These measures will be used as predictors of the risk versus resilience trajectory groups defined by their changing levels of well-being and illness symptoms over time as a function of trauma exposure. Structural equation models will be used to examine the association between the predictors and trajectory groups of resilience and risk over time. Univariate and multivariate twin modelling will be used to determine heritability of the measures, as well as the shared versus unique genetic and environmental contributions. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study involves human participants. This study was approved by the University of New South Wales Human Research Ethics Committee (HC180403) and the Scientific Management Panel of Neuroscience Research Australia Imaging (CX2019-05). Results will be disseminated through publications and presentations to the public and the academic community. Participants gave informed consent to participate in the study before taking part.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haeme R P Park
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Robin M Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, Central Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Egan LA, Mulcahy M, Tuqiri K, Gatt JM. The Thrive online wellbeing program for healthcare workers: Protocol for a randomised controlled trial (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 11:e34005. [PMID: 35451973 PMCID: PMC9073619 DOI: 10.2196/34005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mental health has come to be understood as not merely the absence of mental illness but also the presence of mental well-being, and recent interventions have sought to increase well-being in various populations. A population that deserves particular attention is that of health care workers, whose occupations entail high levels of stress, especially given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A neuroscience-based web-based well-being program for health care workers—the Thrive program—has been newly developed to promote habits and activities that contribute to brain health and overall mental well-being. Objective This paper describes the protocol for a randomized controlled trial whose objective is to evaluate the Thrive program in comparison with an active control condition to measure whether the program is effective at increasing well-being and decreasing symptoms of psychological distress in health care workers at a designated Australian hospital. Methods The trial will comprise two groups (intervention vs active control) and 4 measurement occasions over a 12-week period. A survey will be administered in each of weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12, and the well-being program will be delivered in weeks 1-7 (via web-based video presentations or digital pamphlets). Each of the 4 surveys will comprise a range of questionnaires to measure well-being, psychological distress, and other key variables. The planned analyses will estimate group-by-time interaction effects to test the hypothesis that mental health will increase over time in the intervention condition relative to the active control condition. Results The Thrive program was delivered to a small number of wards at the hospital between February 2021 and July 2021, and it will be delivered to the remaining wards from October 2021 to December 2021. A power calculation has recommended a sample size of at least 200 participants in total. A linear mixed model will be used to estimate the interaction effects. Conclusions This trial seeks to evaluate a new web-based well-being program for health care workers at a major public hospital. It will contribute to the growing body of research on mental well-being and ways to promote it. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12621000027819; https://tinyurl.com/58wwjut9 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/34005
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Egan
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Australia
| | - Mary Mulcahy
- Person Centred Care, The Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Karen Tuqiri
- The Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Australia
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alexander R, Aragón OR, Bookwala J, Cherbuin N, Gatt JM, Kahrilas IJ, Kästner N, Lawrence A, Lowe L, Morrison RG, Mueller SC, Nusslock R, Papadelis C, Polnaszek KL, Helene Richter S, Silton RL, Styliadis C. The neuroscience of positive emotions and affect: Implications for cultivating happiness and wellbeing. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 121:220-249. [PMID: 33307046 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This review paper provides an integrative account regarding neurophysiological correlates of positive emotions and affect that cumulatively contribute to the scaffolding for happiness and wellbeing in humans and other animals. This paper reviews the associations among neurotransmitters, hormones, brain networks, and cognitive functions in the context of positive emotions and affect. Consideration of lifespan developmental perspectives are incorporated, and we also examine the impact of healthy social relationships and environmental contexts on the modulation of positive emotions and affect. The neurophysiological processes that implement positive emotions are dynamic and modifiable, and meditative practices as well as flow states that change patterns of brain function and ultimately support wellbeing are also discussed. This review is part of "The Human Affectome Project" (http://neuroqualia.org/background.php), and in order to advance a primary aim of the Human Affectome Project, we also reviewed relevant linguistic dimensions and terminology that characterizes positive emotions and wellbeing. These linguistic dimensions are discussed within the context of the neuroscience literature with the overarching goal of generating novel recommendations for advancing neuroscience research on positive emotions and wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Alexander
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia; Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Oriana R Aragón
- Yale University, 2 Hillhouse Ave, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Clemson University, 252 Sirrine Hall, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Jamila Bookwala
- Department of Psychology and Program in Aging Studies, Lafayette College, 730 High Road, Easton, PA, USA
| | - Nicolas Cherbuin
- Centre for Research on Ageing, Health, and Wellbeing, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Ian J Kahrilas
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, 1032 W. Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL, 60660, USA
| | - Niklas Kästner
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Münster, Badestraße 13, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Alistair Lawrence
- Scotland's Rural College, King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG, United Kingdom; The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Leroy Lowe
- Neuroqualia (NGO), Truro, NS, B2N 1X5, Canada
| | - Robert G Morrison
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, 1032 W. Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL, 60660, USA
| | - Sven C Mueller
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Robin Nusslock
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, 2029 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Christos Papadelis
- Jane and John Justin Neurosciences Center, Cook Children's Health Care System, 1500 Cooper St, Fort Worth, TX, 76104, USA; Laboratory of Children's Brain Dynamics, Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kelly L Polnaszek
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, 1032 W. Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL, 60660, USA
| | - S Helene Richter
- Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Münster, Badestraße 13, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Rebecca L Silton
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, 1032 W. Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL, 60660, USA; Institute for Innovations in Developmental Sciences, Northwestern University, 633 N. Saint Clair, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Charis Styliadis
- Neuroscience of Cognition and Affection group, Lab of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Webb EK, Weis CN, Huggins AA, Parisi EA, Bennett KP, Miskovich T, Krukowski J, deRoon-Cassini TA, Larson CL. Neighborhood disadvantage is associated with stable deficits in neurocognitive functioning in traumatically-injured adults. Health Place 2021; 67:102493. [PMID: 33321457 PMCID: PMC7854519 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In trauma-exposed adults, the relationship between an individual's socioeconomic position (SEP) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been well demonstrated. One potential mechanism by which the stress associated with lower SEPs may impact trauma outcomes is through changes in neurocognition. In both healthy and clinical samples, area-level factors also appear to be independently related to neurocognition. Far less is known about how neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage, may impact cognition in traumatically-injured adults. The current study employed hierarchical linear modeling to longitudinally investigate whether neighborhood disadvantage was associated with neurocognitive functioning in five domains: processing speed, sustained attention, controlled attention, cognitive flexibility, and response inhibition. METHODS One-hundred and ninety-five socioeconomically diverse traumatically-injured subjects (mean age = 32.8, 52.8% female) were recruited from an Emergency Department. Two-weeks, three-months, and six-months post-trauma, participants completed self-report measures and a computerized test battery to evaluate neurocognition. An Area Deprivation Index (ADI) score, a measure of a neighborhood's socioeconomic disadvantage, was derived from each participants' home address. RESULTS Greater neighborhood disadvantage was significantly related to lower scores in all domains. Results of hierarchical linear models revealed neighborhood disadvantage was significantly associated with processing speed, controlled attention, cognitive flexibility, and response inhibition across time, even after adjusting for individual annual household income, baseline PTSD symptoms, and previous adverse life experiences. This relationship was stable for all domains except sustained attention, which varied across time. CONCLUSION These findings indicate neighborhood disadvantage contributes uniquely to neurocognitive functioning and, for the majority of domains, these contributions are stable across time. The relationship between area-level variables and cognitive function may underlie individual vulnerability to developing psychiatric disorders. Future work should continue to examine the interaction between socioenvironmental stressors and PTSD symptoms longitudinally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Kate Webb
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Carissa N Weis
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Ashley A Huggins
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Parisi
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Tara Miskovich
- VA Northern California Healthcare System, Martinez, CA, USA
| | | | - Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Christine L Larson
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cheng PX, Park HRP, Gatt JM. Approach Coping Mitigates Distress of COVID-19 Isolation for Young Men With Low Well-Being in a Sample of 1,749 Youth From Australia and the USA. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:634925. [PMID: 34054598 PMCID: PMC8153185 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.634925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has led to lockdowns across the world with people being separated from their loved ones including partners, family, and friends. Here, using a large sample of 1,749 Australians and Americans, we investigated the impact of COVID-19 isolation on younger populations (13-25 years), and the influence of coping strategies and mental well-being on this impact. Overall, COVID-19 isolation had a more negative impact on adolescence (13-17 years) than young adulthood (18-25 years), but with no difference apparent between men and women, or between Australian and American residents. However, a deeper analysis revealed a gender-specific effect: the type of coping strategies differentially influenced the negative impact of COVID-19 isolation on men with various levels of well-being, an interaction effect not apparent in women. For men with lower levels of mental well-being, COVID-19 isolation appeared to have a less negative impact on them if they used more approach-oriented coping strategies (e.g., actively focusing on the problem). Our results provide cross-sectional evidence for a differential impact on young men at low levels of wellbeing by pandemic isolation. In sum, young men and adolescent boys with lower well-being coped better with COVID-19 isolation when they used more approach coping strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Xin Cheng
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Haeme R P Park
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chilver MR, Keller AS, Park HRP, Jamshidi J, Montalto A, Schofield PR, Clark CR, Harmon-Jones E, Williams LM, Gatt JM. Electroencephalography profiles as a biomarker of wellbeing: A twin study. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 126:114-121. [PMID: 32450375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Alterations to electroencephalography (EEG) power have been reported for psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety, but not for mental wellbeing in a healthy population. This study examined the resting EEG profiles associated with mental wellbeing, and how genetics and environment contribute to these associations using twin modelling. Mental wellbeing was assessed using the COMPAS-W Wellbeing Scale which measures both subjective and psychological wellbeing. In 422 healthy adult monozygotic and dizygotic twins aged 18-61 years, we examined the association between mental wellbeing and EEG power (alpha, beta, theta, delta) using linear mixed models. This was followed by univariate and multivariate twin modelling to assess the heritability of wellbeing and EEG power, and whether the association was driven by shared genetics or environment. A significant association between wellbeing and an interaction of alpha, beta, and delta (ABD) power was found (β = -0.33, p < 0.001) whereby a profile of high alpha and delta and low beta was associated with higher wellbeing, independent of depression and anxiety symptoms. This finding was supported by a five-fold cross-validation analysis. A significant genetic correlation (rG = -0.43) was found to account for 94% of the association between wellbeing and the EEG power interaction. Together, this study has identified a novel EEG profile with a common genetic component that may be a potential biomarker of mental wellbeing. Future studies need to clarify the causal direction of this association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda R Chilver
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Arielle S Keller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305-5717, USA
| | - Haeme R P Park
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Javad Jamshidi
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Arthur Montalto
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Peter R Schofield
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - C Richard Clark
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Eddie Harmon-Jones
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305-5717, USA; Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers VISN21, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, California, 94304-151-Y, USA
| | - Justine M Gatt
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gustavson DE, Franz CE, Panizzon MS, Reynolds CA, Xian H, Jacobson KC, Toomey R, Lyons MJ, Kremen WS. Genetic and Environmental Associations Among Executive Functions, Trait Anxiety, and Depression Symptoms in Middle Age. Clin Psychol Sci 2019; 7:127-142. [PMID: 30923645 PMCID: PMC6433407 DOI: 10.1177/2167702618805075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Multiple executive functions (EFs) are associated with trait anxiety and depression symptoms, but it is unclear how genetic and/or environmental factors account for these associations, and if they are explained by general variance underlying multiple EFs (i.e., Common EF). In this study, 1207 male twins completed seven EF tasks and measures of trait anxiety and depression symptoms at average age 62. The Common EF factor was associated with both anxiety (r= -.25) and depression symptoms (r= -.35). Anxiety and depression had near complete genetic overlap (r g=.96). Genetic influences shared with depression accounted for 83% of the phenotypic correlation between anxiety and Common EF. For depression, the phenotypic correlation with Common EF was explained by genetic influences shared with anxiety (69%), but also nonshared environmental influences distinct from anxiety (20%). These results suggest that genetic influences on Common EF play a role in the observed genetic overlap between anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Gustavson
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | - Carol E Franz
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | - Matthew S Panizzon
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | | | - Hong Xian
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Louis University and Clinical Epidemiology Center, Veterans Affairs St. Louis Healthcare System
| | - Kristen C Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago
| | - Rosemary Toomey
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University
| | - Michael J Lyons
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University
| | - William S Kremen
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, University of California, San Diego and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Baselmans BML, Willems YE, van Beijsterveldt CEM, Ligthart L, Willemsen G, Dolan CV, Boomsma DI, Bartels M. Unraveling the Genetic and Environmental Relationship Between Well-Being and Depressive Symptoms Throughout the Lifespan. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:261. [PMID: 29962975 PMCID: PMC6010548 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether well-being and depressive symptoms can be considered as two sides of the same coin is widely debated. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the etiology of the association between well-being and depressive symptoms across the lifespan. In a large twin-design, including data from 43,427 twins between age 7 and 99, we estimated the association between well-being and depressive symptoms throughout the lifespan and assessed genetic and environmental contributions to the observed overlap. For both well-being (range 31-47%) and depressive symptoms (range 49-61%), genetic factors explained a substantial part of the phenotypic variance across the lifespan. Phenotypic correlations between well-being and depressive symptoms across ages ranged from -0.34 in childhood to -0.49 in adulthood. In children, genetic effects explained 49% of the phenotypic correlation while in adolescents and young adults, genetic effects explained 60-77% of the phenotypic correlations. Moderate to high genetic correlations (ranging from -0.59 to -0.66) were observed in adolescence and adulthood, while in childhood environmental correlations were substantial but genetic correlations small. Our results suggest that in childhood genetic and environmental effects are about equally important in explaining the relationship between well-being and depressive symptoms. From adolescence onwards, the role of genetic effects increases compared to environmental effects. These results provided more insights into the etiological underpinnings of well-being and depressive symptoms, possibly allowing to articulate better strategies for health promotion and resource allocation in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bart M. L. Baselmans
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Yayouk E. Willems
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Lannie Ligthart
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gonneke Willemsen
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Conor V. Dolan
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dorret I. Boomsma
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Neuroscience Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Meike Bartels
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Neuroscience Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|