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Scarpelli S, Alfonsi V, De Gennaro L, Gorgoni M. Dreaming for two: A systematic review of mental sleep activity during pregnancy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 163:105763. [PMID: 38852848 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Changes in sleep and dreams are often observed during pregnancy. Dreaming may represent privileged access to the inner world of individuals, providing relevant information about their well-being. For this reason, a growing but heterogeneous literature has investigated dream experiences of pregnant women. The present paper aimed to systematically review the available evidence on the relationship between pregnancy and oneric activity, focusing on dream and nightmare frequency, dream contents, and emotional features. Moreover, dream changes between pre-partum and post-partum periods and the impact of previous pregnancy-related adverse events on dreaming have been summarized. Overall, 17 studies have been examined. The reviewed evidence suggests that women tend to have an abundant production of dreams and nightmares during pregnancy, and some results support the view that a high rate of dream recall is associated with poor sleep quality. Most studies have shown a high presence of pregnancy-related dream content, likely reflecting waking experiences and concerns. Additionally, dreaming may promote psychological preparation and activation of functional coping strategies to face life changes after childbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Scarpelli
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Gorgoni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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Nashwan AJ, Hendy A, Abujaber AA. Dreams: The Mind's Minecraft. Cureus 2024; 16:e61561. [PMID: 38962610 PMCID: PMC11220730 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Minecraft is a game known for its limitless potential for creation, allowing players to construct elaborate structures, explore vast landscapes, and encounter a variety of creatures and scenarios, all within a controlled, virtual environment. Similarly, our dreams are constructed by the subconscious mind, using the "blocks" of memories, emotions, and sensory experiences accumulated during waking life. This editorial highlights the intricate relationship between the dream worlds created in sleep and the virtual landscapes we explore in Minecraft, highlighting how both territories are constructed from the building blocks of our subconscious mind. It emphasizes the role of dreams as simulators for real-life events, particularly in mitigating potential risks, much like Minecraft allows players to engage in risk-free exploration and problem-solving within its pixelated universe. In addition, this editorial aims to illuminate the functions of dreams in memory consolidation, emotional processing, and brain development while showcasing the importance of creativity and imagination in enhancing our mental health and understanding of reality.
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Desai D, Momin A, Hirpara P, Jha H, Thaker R, Patel J. Exploring the Role of Circadian Rhythms in Sleep and Recovery: A Review Article. Cureus 2024; 16:e61568. [PMID: 38962617 PMCID: PMC11221196 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Sleep is essential for every living organism. Humans spend about one-third of their lives sleeping. Sleep has been studied extensively, and the role of sleep in psychological, mental, and physical well-being is established to be the best. The rhythm of the brain between wakefulness and sleep is called the circadian rhythm, which is mainly controlled by melatonin and the pineal gland. The imbalance of this rhythm can lead to devastating effects on health. Vigorous workouts close to bedtime can interfere with falling asleep. Meal timing and composition can significantly affect sleep quality. It is advised to avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime. Heavy meals close to bedtime can lead to poor sleep and hormone disruption. By following these guidelines enumerated in the article, individuals can improve sleep quality and overall health. Sleep cycles, especially rapid eye movement sleep, have a profound influence on mental and physical health. Adhering to recommended sleep practices enhances bodily restoration, fortifies the immune system, and upholds metabolic equilibrium. Sleep hygiene aligned with circadian rhythms is crucial for disease prevention and well-being. Healthcare professionals should prioritize sleep optimization strategies for patient care and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dev Desai
- Internal Medicine, Smt. Nathiba Hargovandas Lakhmichand Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Aryan Momin
- Internal Medicine, Smt. Nathiba Hargovandas Lakhmichand Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Priya Hirpara
- Internal Medicine, Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society Medical College, Vadnagar, IND
| | - Hemali Jha
- Internal Medicine, Integral Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Lucknow, IND
| | - Ravi Thaker
- Physiology, Dr. Narendra Dharmsinh Desai Faculty of Medical Science and Research, Dharmsinh Desai University, Nadiad, IND
| | - Jitendra Patel
- Physiology, Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society Medical College, Vadnagar, IND
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Camaioni M, Scarpelli S, Alfonsi V, Gorgoni M, Calzolari R, De Bartolo M, Mangiaruga A, Couyoumdjian A, De Gennaro L. How COVID-19 Affected Sleep Talking Episodes, Sleep and Dreams? Brain Sci 2024; 14:486. [PMID: 38790464 PMCID: PMC11119596 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic increased symptoms of stress and anxiety and induced changes in sleep quality, dream activity, and parasomnia episodes. It has been shown that stressful factors and/or bad sleep habits can affect parasomnia behaviors. However, investigations on how COVID-19 has affected sleep, dreams, and episode frequency in parasomnias are rare. The current study focuses on the impact of the pandemic on a specific parasomnia characterized by speech production (sleep talking, ST). METHODS We selected 27 participants with frequent ST episodes (STs) during the pandemic and compared them with 27 participants with frequent STs from a previous study conducted during a pre-pandemic period. All participants performed home monitoring through sleep logs and recorded their nocturnal STs for one week. RESULTS We observed a higher frequency of STs in the pandemic group. Moreover, STs were related to the emotional intensity of dreams, independent of the pandemic condition. The pandemic was associated with lower bizarreness of dreams in the pandemic group. There were no differences in sleep variables between the two groups. CONCLUSION Overall, these results suggest a stressful effect of COVID-19 on the frequency of STs. Both the pandemic and the frequency of STs affect qualitative characteristics of dreams in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Camaioni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Serena Scarpelli
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Valentina Alfonsi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Maurizio Gorgoni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossana Calzolari
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Mina De Bartolo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Anastasia Mangiaruga
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Alessandro Couyoumdjian
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.S.); (V.A.); (M.G.); (M.D.B.); (A.C.)
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Salvesen L, Capriglia E, Dresler M, Bernardi G. Influencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review. Sleep Med Rev 2024; 74:101908. [PMID: 38417380 PMCID: PMC11009489 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2024.101908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Sleep is typically considered a state of disconnection from the environment, yet instances of external sensory stimuli influencing dreams have been reported for centuries. Explaining this phenomenon could provide valuable insight into dreams' generative and functional mechanisms, the factors that promote sleep continuity, and the processes that underlie conscious awareness. Moreover, harnessing sensory stimuli for dream engineering could benefit individuals suffering from dream-related alterations. This PRISMA-compliant systematic review assessed the current evidence concerning the influence of sensory stimulation on sleep mentation. We included 51 publications, of which 21 focused on auditory stimulation, ten on somatosensory stimulation, eight on olfactory stimulation, four on visual stimulation, two on vestibular stimulation, and one on multimodal stimulation. Furthermore, nine references explored conditioned associative stimulation: six focused on targeted memory reactivation protocols and three on targeted lucid reactivation protocols. The reported frequency of stimulus-dependent dream changes across studies ranged from 0 to ∼80%, likely reflecting a considerable heterogeneity of definitions and methodological approaches. Our findings highlight a lack of comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms, functions, and neurophysiological correlates of stimulus-dependent dream changes. We suggest that a paradigm shift is required for meaningful progress in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Salvesen
- Sleep, Plasticity, and Conscious Experience Group, MoMiLab Research Unit, IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca, Lucca, Italy; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Elena Capriglia
- Sleep, Plasticity, and Conscious Experience Group, MoMiLab Research Unit, IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca, Lucca, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Martin Dresler
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Giulio Bernardi
- Sleep, Plasticity, and Conscious Experience Group, MoMiLab Research Unit, IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca, Lucca, Italy.
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Sayk C, Saftien S, Koch N, Ngo HVV, Junghanns K, Wilhelm I. Cortical hyperarousal in individuals with frequent nightmares. J Sleep Res 2024; 33:e14003. [PMID: 37688512 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.14003] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Nightmares are common among the general population and psychiatric patients and have been associated with signs of nocturnal arousal such as increased heart rate or increased high-frequency electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. However, it is still unclear, whether these characteristics are more of a trait occurring in people with frequent nightmares or rather indicators of the nightmare state. We compared participants with frequent nightmares (NM group; n = 30) and healthy controls (controls; n = 27) who spent 4 nights in the sleep laboratory over the course of 8 weeks. The NM group received six sessions of imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT), the 'gold standard' of cognitive-behavioural therapy for nightmares, between the second and the third night. Sleep architecture and spectral power were compared between groups, and between nights of nightmare occurrence and nights without nightmare occurrence in the NM group. Additionally, changes before and after therapy were recorded. The NM group showed increased beta (16.25-31 Hz) and low gamma (31.25-35 Hz) power during the entire night compared to the controls, but not when comparing nights of nightmare occurrence to those without. Moreover, low gamma activity in rapid eye movement sleep was reduced after therapy in the NM group. Our findings indicate, cortical hyperarousal is more of a trait in people with frequent nightmares within a network of other symptoms, but also malleable by therapy. This is not only a new finding for IRT but could also lead to improved treatment options in the future that directly target high-frequency EEG activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Sayk
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sophia Saftien
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Nicole Koch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hong-Viet V Ngo
- Department of Psychology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behaviour and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Klaus Junghanns
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ines Wilhelm
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Translational Psychiatry Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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Andrillon T, Oudiette D. What is sleep exactly? Global and local modulations of sleep oscillations all around the clock. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 155:105465. [PMID: 37972882 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Wakefulness, non-rapid eye-movement (NREM) and rapid eye-movement (REM) sleep differ from each other along three dimensions: behavioral, phenomenological, physiological. Although these dimensions often fluctuate in step, they can also dissociate. The current paradigm that views sleep as made of global NREM and REM states fail to account for these dissociations. This conundrum can be dissolved by stressing the existence and significance of the local regulation of sleep. We will review the evidence in animals and humans, healthy and pathological brains, showing different forms of local sleep and the consequences on behavior, cognition, and subjective experience. Altogether, we argue that the notion of local sleep provides a unified account for a host of phenomena: dreaming in REM and NREM sleep, NREM and REM parasomnias, intrasleep responsiveness, inattention and mind wandering in wakefulness. Yet, the physiological origins of local sleep or its putative functions remain unclear. Exploring further local sleep could provide a unique and novel perspective on how and why we sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Andrillon
- Paris Brain Institute, Sorbonne Université, Inserm-CNRS, Paris 75013, France; Monash Centre for Consciousness & Contemplative Studies, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia.
| | - Delphine Oudiette
- Paris Brain Institute, Sorbonne Université, Inserm-CNRS, Paris 75013, France
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Gao JX, Yan G, Li XX, Xie JF, Spruyt K, Shao YF, Hou YP. The Ponto-Geniculo-Occipital (PGO) Waves in Dreaming: An Overview. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1350. [PMID: 37759951 PMCID: PMC10526299 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is the main sleep correlate of dreaming. Ponto-geniculo-occipital (PGO) waves are a signature of REM sleep. They represent the physiological mechanism of REM sleep that specifically limits the processing of external information. PGO waves look just like a message sent from the pons to the lateral geniculate nucleus of the visual thalamus, the occipital cortex, and other areas of the brain. The dedicated visual pathway of PGO waves can be interpreted by the brain as visual information, leading to the visual hallucinosis of dreams. PGO waves are considered to be both a reflection of REM sleep brain activity and causal to dreams due to their stimulation of the cortex. In this review, we summarize the role of PGO waves in potential neural circuits of two major theories, i.e., (1) dreams are generated by the activation of neural activity in the brainstem; (2) PGO waves signaling to the cortex. In addition, the potential physiological functions during REM sleep dreams, such as memory consolidation, unlearning, and brain development and plasticity and mood regulation, are discussed. It is hoped that our review will support and encourage research into the phenomenon of human PGO waves and their possible functions in dreaming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Xian Gao
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Guizhong Yan
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Xin-Xuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Jun-Fan Xie
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Karen Spruyt
- NeuroDiderot-INSERM, Université de Paris, 75019 Paris, France;
| | - Yu-Feng Shao
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Yi-Ping Hou
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Departments of Neuroscience, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (J.-X.G.); (G.Y.); (X.-X.L.); (J.-F.X.)
- Sleep Medicine Center of Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Fattal D, Platti N, Hester S, Wendt L. Vivid dreams are associated with a high percentage of REM sleep: a prospective study in veterans. J Clin Sleep Med 2023; 19:1661-1668. [PMID: 37128719 PMCID: PMC10476037 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10642] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Vivid dreams are dreams that feel real or are associated with dream enactment behavior. They are prevalent in veterans, especially in those with psychiatric disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorders. Such psychiatric disorders have known association with abnormalities in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Vivid dreams are also described in neurological conditions, such Lewy body dementias, which are also associated with REM sleep abnormality. Although vivid dreams occur in neuropsychiatric disorders that have REM sleep abnormalities, there are no studies that have directly investigated an association between vivid dreams and REM sleep. We sought to study vivid dreams and REM sleep in veterans. METHODS Veterans undergoing polysomnography at our hospital were invited to enroll. Participants completed a dream-related questionnaire the morning after their polysomnography. RESULTS We prospectively enrolled 505 veterans. After a night in the sleep laboratory, 196 of 504 (39%) reported experiencing a dream, and, of those, 117 of 190 (62%) described their dream as vivid. Discrepancies in patient totals are secondary to missing questionnaire data. Our novel finding is that participants with a high percentage of REM sleep (above 25%) were more than twice likely to report a vivid dream than participants with a lower percentage of REM sleep (P < .0001). Nonvivid dreams were not associated with a high percentage of REM sleep. CONCLUSIONS Vivid dreams are associated with a high percentage of REM sleep. Further research into the role of REM sleep abnormalities in vivid dreams may help to advance understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders. CITATION Fattal D, Platti N, Hester S, Wendt L. Vivid dreams are associated with a high percentage of REM sleep: a prospective study in veterans. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(9):1661-1668.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deema Fattal
- Neurology Department, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- Iowa City VA Medical Center, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Nicole Platti
- University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | | | - Linder Wendt
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Scarpelli S, Alfonsi V, Camaioni M, Gorgoni M, Albano A, Musetti A, Quattropani MC, Plazzi G, De Gennaro L, Franceschini C. Longitudinal Findings on the Oneiric Activity Changes Across the Pandemic. Nat Sci Sleep 2023; 15:435-447. [PMID: 37313311 PMCID: PMC10259600 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s410732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose COVID-19 pandemic waves have strongly influenced individuals' behaviors and mental health. Here, we analyzed longitudinal data collected in the Spring 2020 and 2021 from a large Italian sample with the aim of assessing changes in dream features between the first and third wave. Specifically, we evaluated the modifications of pandemic dream activity as a function of the general distress variations over time. Also, we detected the best explanatory variables of nightmare frequency and distress. Materials and Methods Participants previously involved in the web survey during the first wave of the pandemic were asked to complete a new online survey on sleep and dream features available in Spring 2021 (N=728). Subjects decreasing their level of psychological general distress in the third (T3) vs the first (T1) pandemic wave were defined as "Improved" (N=330). In contrast, participants with an unchanged or increased level of general distress were defined as "Not Improved" (N=398). Results Statistical comparisons revealed that dream recall frequency, nightmare frequency, lucid dream frequency, and emotional intensity show a reduction in T3 than T1. Moreover, the Improved group is characterized by lower nightmare rate and nightmare distress than Not Improved people. Our findings confirmed that beyond the trait-like variables (ie, age, sex), specific sleep-related measures are related to nightmare features. In particular, poor sleep hygiene was one of the best determinants of nightmare distress among Not Improved subjects. Conclusion Our findings revealed that people experienced an adaptation to the pandemic during the third wave. We also strengthen the notion that nightmares and their variations over time are strongly related to human well-being, suggesting that specific trait-like and sleep-related factors could modulate the relationship between mental health and nightmare features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Scarpelli
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Milena Camaioni
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Gorgoni
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Albano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Catena Quattropani
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Franceschini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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11
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Raffaelli Q, Andrews ES, Cegavske CC, Abraham FF, Edgin JO, Andrews-Hanna JR. Dreams share phenomenological similarities with task-unrelated thoughts and relate to variation in trait rumination and COVID-19 concern. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7102. [PMID: 37130841 PMCID: PMC10152021 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33767-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
While recent neurocognitive theories have proposed links between dreams and waking life, it remains unclear what kinds of waking thoughts are most similar in their phenomenological characteristics to those of dreams. To investigate this question and examine relevance of dreams to significant personal concerns and dispositional mental health traits, we employed ecological momentary assessment and trait questionnaires across 719 young adults who completed the study during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by considerable societal concern. Across the group and at the level of individual differences, dreams showed the highest correspondence with task-unrelated thoughts. Participants who self-reported greater COVID-19 concern rated their dreams as more negative and unconstructive, a relationship which was moderated by trait rumination. Furthermore, dreams perceived as more negative unconstructive and immersive in nature associated with increased trait rumination beyond variation in rumination explained by waking task-unrelated thoughts alone. Together, these results point to similarities between perceived characteristics of dreams and task-unrelated thoughts, and support a relationship between dreams, current concerns, and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Raffaelli
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
- Cognitive Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Eric S Andrews
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
- Cognitive Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Caitlin C Cegavske
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Freya F Abraham
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Jamie O Edgin
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Jessica R Andrews-Hanna
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, 1503 E University Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
- Cognitive Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
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Simor P, Peigneux P, Bódizs R. Sleep and dreaming in the light of reactive and predictive homeostasis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 147:105104. [PMID: 36804397 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Dreams are often viewed as fascinating but irrelevant mental epihenomena of the sleeping mind with questionable functional relevance. Despite long hours of oneiric activity, and high individual differences in dream recall, dreams are lost into oblivion. Here, we conceptualize dreaming and dream amnesia as inherent aspects of the reactive and predictive homeostatic functions of sleep. Mental activity during sleep conforms to the interplay of restorative processes and future anticipation, and particularly during the second half of the night, it unfolds as a special form of non-constrained, self-referent, and future-oriented cognitive process. Awakening facilitates constrained, goal-directed prospection that competes for shared neural resources with dream production and dream recall, and contributes to dream amnesia. We present the neurophysiological aspects of reactive and predictive homeostasis during sleep, highlighting the putative role of cortisol in predictive homeostasis and forgetting dreams. The theoretical and methodological aspects of our proposal are discussed in relation to the study of dreaming, dream recall, and sleep-related cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Simor
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; UR2NF, Neuropsychology and Functional Neuroimaging Research Unit at CRCN - Center for Research in Cognition and Neurosciences and UNI - ULB Neurosciences Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Peigneux
- UR2NF, Neuropsychology and Functional Neuroimaging Research Unit at CRCN - Center for Research in Cognition and Neurosciences and UNI - ULB Neurosciences Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Róbert Bódizs
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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13
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Violent and Complex Behaviors and Non-Restorative Sleep Are the Main Features of Disorders of Arousal in Adulthood: Real Picture or a More Severe Phenotype? J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12010372. [PMID: 36615171 PMCID: PMC9821298 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Disorders of arousal (DoA) are NREM parasomnias characterized by motor and emotional behaviors emerging from incomplete arousals from deep sleep. DoA are largely present in pediatric populations, a period during which they are labeled as self-limited manifestations. However, an extensive literature has shown that DoA can persist in adulthood, with different characteristics from childhood DoA. Adult DoA patients usually report excessive daily sleepiness, sleep-related violence during DoA episodes or potentially harmful behaviors, which are rare in childhood. The semeiological features of DoA episodes in adulthood may complicate differential diagnoses with other motor manifestations during sleep, in particular sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy. However, it cannot be excluded that adults with DoA attending sleep centers constitute a more severe phenotype, thus not being representative of adult DoA in the general population. Video-polysomnographic studies of DoA document a spectrum of motor patterns of different complexities, the simplest of which may often go unnoticed. Despite the different complexities of the episodes, neurophysiologic studies showed the co-existence of deep sleep and wakefulness during DoA episodes or even before their onset. These aspects make DoA an ideal model to investigate the mechanisms regulating local sleep, sleep arousal and cognitive functions including spatial and temporal orientation, attention or memory.
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14
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Wang J, Song B, Feng X, Shen H, Liu R. Presleep focusing on positive spontaneous thoughts enhanced the possibility of dreaming of them. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1042857. [PMID: 36591071 PMCID: PMC9794732 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1042857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dreaming is the subjective experience during sleep. A spontaneous thought is a thought that comes to one's mind involuntarily. This study investigated whether presleep focusing on a positive spontaneous thought enhanced the possibility of dreaming of the thought. Methods Ninety-seven participants were quasi-randomly assigned to an expression condition (focus on an spontaneous thought for 5-Min before sleeping; N = 45) and a control condition (think about anything for 5-Min before sleeping; N = 45). Participants completed a dream diary upon waking. Then, both participants themselves (the selfrating method) and external judges (the external-rating method) rated the correlation between the positive spontaneous thought and the dream. Results The result of the external-rating method indicated that presleep focusing on positive spontaneous thoughts enhanced the possibility of dreaming of the thoughts. In addition, the external-rating method found that presleep focusing on positive spontaneous thoughts enhanced the possibility of dreaming of thoughts that were related to the positive spontaneous thoughts but not the positive spontaneous thoughts themselves. Discussion These results supported the current concern theory which suggests that one's current concerns increase responses to cues related to the concerns implicitly. In addition, these results supported the continuity hypothesis which states that dreaming is in continuous with waking life, and thus the intensity of a daily concern may be related to the possibility of dreaming of the daily concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxi Wang
- School of Psychology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Song
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Bin Song,
| | - Xiaoling Feng
- Institute of Analytical Psychology, City University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Heyong Shen
- Institute of Analytical Psychology, City University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ruoqiao Liu
- School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an, China
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15
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Scarpelli S, De Santis A, Alfonsi V, Gorgoni M, Morin CM, Espie C, Merikanto I, Chung F, Penzel T, Bjorvatn B, Dauvilliers Y, Holzinger B, Wing YK, Partinen M, Plazzi G, De Gennaro L. The role of sleep and dreams in long‐
COVID. J Sleep Res 2022; 32:e13789. [PMID: 36398720 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent investigations show that many people affected by SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) report persistent symptoms 2-3 months from the onset of the infection. Here, we report the Italian findings from the second International COVID-19 Sleep Study survey, aiming to investigate sleep and dream alterations in participants with post-acute symptoms, and identify the best determinants of these alterations among patients with long-COVID. Data from 383 participants who have had COVID-19 were collected through a web-survey (May-November 2021). Descriptive analyses were performed to outline the sociodemographic characteristics of long-COVID (N = 270, with at least two long-lasting symptoms) and short-COVID (N = 113, with none or one long-lasting symptom) participants. They were then compared concerning sleep and dream measures. We performed multiple linear regressions considering as dependent variables sleep and dream parameters discriminating the long-COVID group. Age, gender, work status, financial burden, COVID-19 severity and the level of care were significantly different between long-COVID and short-COVID subjects. The long-COVID group showed greater sleep alterations (sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, sleep inertia, naps, insomnia, sleep apnea, nightmares) compared with the short-COVID group. We also found that the number of long-COVID symptoms, psychological factors and age were the best explanatory variables of sleep and oneiric alterations. Our findings highlight that sleep alterations are part of the clinical presentation of the long-COVID syndrome. Moreover, psychological status and the number of post-acute symptoms should be considered as state-like variables modulating the sleep problems in long-COVID individuals. Finally, according to previous investigations, oneiric alterations are confirmed as a reliable mental health index.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maurizio Gorgoni
- Department of Psychology Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia Rome Italy
| | - Charles M. Morin
- Centre d'étude des troubles du sommeil, École de psychologie, Institut universitaire en santé mentale, Centre de recherche CERVO, Université Laval Quebec QC Canada
| | - Colin Espie
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Ilona Merikanto
- SleepWell Research Program, Faculty of Medicine University of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
- Department of Public Health Solutions Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare Helsinki Finland
| | - Frances Chung
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine University Health Network, University of Toronto Toronto ON Canada
| | - Thomas Penzel
- Interdisciplinary Sleep Medicine Center Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Bjørn Bjorvatn
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care University of Bergen Bergen Norway
- Norwegian Competence Center for Sleep Disorders Haukeland University Hospital Bergen Norway
| | - Yves Dauvilliers
- Sleep‐Wake Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Gui‐de‐Chauliac Hospital CHU Montpellier, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM Montpellier France
| | - Brigitte Holzinger
- Institute for Consciousness and Dream Research Vienna Austria
- Medical University Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Yun K. Wing
- Li Chiu Kong Family Sleep Assessment Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Markku Partinen
- Helsinki Sleep Clinic, Terveystalo Healthcare Helsinki Finland
- Department of Neurosciences, Clinicum University of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM) University of Bologna Bologna Italy
- IRCCS, Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche Bologna Italy
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia Rome Italy
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16
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Margherita G, Caffieri A. An observatory on changes in dreaming during a pandemic: a living systematic review (part 1). J Sleep Res 2022; 32:e13742. [PMID: 36320190 PMCID: PMC9877779 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
A 'new' way of dreaming has emerged during the pandemic, enhancing the interest of psychological literature. Indeed, during the years of the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), many studies have investigated dream-related phenomena and dreaming functions. Considering the constant and rapid emergence of new results on this topic, the main aim of this study was to create an 'observatory' on the short- and long-term consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on dreaming, by means of a living systematic review. The baseline results are presented, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement guidelines, to identify and discuss existing studies about dreams and dreaming during the COVID-19 pandemic published until February 2022. Web of Science, Embase, EBSCO, and PubMed were used for the search strategy, yielding 71 eligible papers included in the review. Our results show: (a) a more intense oneiric activity during lockdown; (b) changes in dreaming components (especially dream-recall and nightmare frequency); (c) a particular dreaming scenario ('pandemic dreams'); (d) an alteration of the dreaming-waking-life continuum and a specific function of dreaming as emotional regulator. Findings suggest that monitoring changes in dreaming provides important information about psychological health and could also contribute to the debate on the difficulties of dreaming, as well as sleeping, in particular during and after a period of 'collective trauma'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Margherita
- Department of Humanistic StudiesUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Alessia Caffieri
- Department of Humanistic StudiesUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
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Camaioni M, Scarpelli S, Alfonsi V, Gorgoni M, De Bartolo M, Calzolari R, De Gennaro L. The Influence of Sleep Talking on Nocturnal Sleep and Sleep-Dependent Cognitive Processes. J Clin Med 2022; 11:6489. [PMID: 36362716 PMCID: PMC9658338 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep talking (ST) is characterized by the production of unaware verbal vocal activations (VBs) during sleep. ST seems potentially linked to linguistic and memory consolidation processes. However, sleep and dream characteristics and the relationship between verbal vocalizations (VBs) and cognitive functions are still unknown. Our study aimed to investigate qualitative sleep and dream features in sleep talkers (STs) compared to healthy subjects (CNTs) through retrospective and longitudinal measures and explore the relationship between ST and memory consolidation. METHODS We recruited N = 29 STs and N = 30 CNTs (age range of 18-35). Participants recorded their dreams and filled out sleep logs for seven consecutive days. Vocal activations of STs were audio-recorded. On the eighth day, we administered a word-pair task. RESULTS We showed that STs had significantly worse self-reported sleep quality. VBs were positively correlated with sleep fragmentation and negatively associated with the oneiric emotional load. No difference between groups was found in the memory consolidation rate. CONCLUSIONS Although ST is a benign phenomenon, we revealed that ST is associated with more sleep alterations and lower emotional intensity of dreams. In this vein, we support that ST depends on sleep fragmentation and could represent a potential window into sleep-dependent cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Camaioni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Scarpelli
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Alfonsi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Gorgoni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Mina De Bartolo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossana Calzolari
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Body and Action Lab, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Parasomnias and Disruptive Sleep-Related Disorders: Insights from Local Sleep Findings. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154435. [PMID: 35956054 PMCID: PMC9369078 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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Dreaming during the COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104710. [PMID: 35643121 PMCID: PMC9132492 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
According to several influential models, dreams can be affected by state- and trait-like factors, sleep features, and diurnal experiences. The COVID-19 pandemic globally affected daily habits, emotional experiences, and sleep. Previous studies suggested an influence of collective traumatic events on dreaming. Starting from these premises, several studies assessed the effect of the pandemic on dreams. This paper aims to review findings concerning the oneiric activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. We report pandemic-related changes in dreams and nightmares, and we consider the possible factors associated with dreaming. Moreover, we provide results about changes in the oneiric activity in different phases of the pandemic. The reviewed findings suggest a pandemic-related enhancement of dream and nightmare frequency, emotional intensity, and distressing contents, modulated by modifications in restrictive measures and associated with diurnal experiences, emotional status, and sleep pattern. We highlight several methodological issues and a large heterogeneity in the present literature, limiting results’ generalizability. However, we provide possible interpretations of the most consistent findings in light of the main theoretical frameworks about dreaming.
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