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Koskelo J, Lehmusaho A, Laitinen TP, Hartikainen JEK, Lahtinen TMM, Leino TK, Huttunen K. Cardiac autonomic responses in relation to cognitive workload during simulated military flight. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 121:104370. [PMID: 39186837 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2024.104370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the operator's cognitive workload is crucial for efficiency and safety in human-machine systems. This study investigated how cognitive workload modulates cardiac autonomic regulation during a standardized military simulator flight. Military student pilots completed simulated flight tasks in a Hawk flight simulator. Continuous electrocardiography was recorded to analyze time and frequency domain heart rate variability (HRV). After the simulation, a flight instructor used a standardized method to evaluate student pilot's individual cognitive workload from video-recorded flight simulator data. Results indicated that HRV was able to differentiate flight phases that induced varying levels of cognitive workload; an increasing level of cognitive workload caused significant decreases in many HRV variables, mainly reflecting parasympathetic deactivation of cardiac autonomic regulation. In conclusion, autonomic physiological responses can be used to examine reactions to increased cognitive workload during simulated military flights. HRV could be beneficial in assessing individual responses to cognitive workload and pilot performance during simulator training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jukka Koskelo
- Unit of Research and Development, A-Clinic Foundation, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aleksi Lehmusaho
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Tomi P Laitinen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland
| | - Juha E K Hartikainen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Heart Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland
| | - Taija M M Lahtinen
- Finnish Defence Forces, Centre for Military Medicine, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Tuomo K Leino
- National Defence University, Helsinki, Finland; Air Force Command Finland, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Kerttu Huttunen
- Research Unit of Logopedics, University of Oulu, Finland; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Finland
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2
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Quigley KS, Gianaros PJ, Norman GJ, Jennings JR, Berntson GG, de Geus EJC. Publication guidelines for human heart rate and heart rate variability studies in psychophysiology-Part 1: Physiological underpinnings and foundations of measurement. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14604. [PMID: 38873876 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
This Committee Report provides methodological, interpretive, and reporting guidance for researchers who use measures of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in psychophysiological research. We provide brief summaries of best practices in measuring HR and HRV via electrocardiographic and photoplethysmographic signals in laboratory, field (ambulatory), and brain-imaging contexts to address research questions incorporating measures of HR and HRV. The Report emphasizes evidence for the strengths and weaknesses of different recording and derivation methods for measures of HR and HRV. Along with this guidance, the Report reviews what is known about the origin of the heartbeat and its neural control, including factors that produce and influence HRV metrics. The Report concludes with checklists to guide authors in study design and analysis considerations, as well as guidance on the reporting of key methodological details and characteristics of the samples under study. It is expected that rigorous and transparent recording and reporting of HR and HRV measures will strengthen inferences across the many applications of these metrics in psychophysiology. The prior Committee Reports on HR and HRV are several decades old. Since their appearance, technologies for human cardiac and vascular monitoring in laboratory and daily life (i.e., ambulatory) contexts have greatly expanded. This Committee Report was prepared for the Society for Psychophysiological Research to provide updated methodological and interpretive guidance, as well as to summarize best practices for reporting HR and HRV studies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen S Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter J Gianaros
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Greg J Norman
- Department of Psychology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - J Richard Jennings
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gary G Berntson
- Department of Psychology & Psychiatry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Eco J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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3
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Keur-Huizinga L, Huizinga NA, Zekveld AA, Versfeld NJ, van de Ven SRB, van Dijk WAJ, de Geus EJC, Kramer SE. Effects of hearing acuity on psychophysiological responses to effortful speech perception. Hear Res 2024; 448:109031. [PMID: 38761554 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2024.109031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
In recent studies, psychophysiological measures have been used as markers of listening effort, but there is limited research on the effect of hearing loss on such measures. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of hearing acuity on physiological responses and subjective measures acquired during different levels of listening demand, and to investigate the relationship between these measures. A total of 125 participants (37 males and 88 females, age range 37-72 years, pure-tone average hearing thresholds at the best ear between -5.0 to 68.8 dB HL and asymmetry between ears between 0.0 and 87.5 dB) completed a listening task. A speech reception threshold (SRT) test was used with target sentences spoken by a female voice masked by male speech. Listening demand was manipulated using three levels of intelligibility: 20 % correct speech recognition, 50 %, and 80 % (IL20 %/IL50 %/IL80 %, respectively). During the task, peak pupil dilation (PPD), heart rate (HR), pre-ejection period (PEP), respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), and skin conductance level (SCL) were measured. For each condition, subjective ratings of effort, performance, difficulty, and tendency to give up were also collected. Linear mixed effects models tested the effect of intelligibility level, hearing acuity, hearing asymmetry, and tinnitus complaints on the physiological reactivity (compared to baseline) and subjective measures. PPD and PEP reactivity showed a non-monotonic relationship with intelligibility level, but no such effects were found for HR, RSA, or SCL reactivity. Participants with worse hearing acuity had lower PPD at all intelligibility levels and showed lower PEP baseline levels. Additionally, PPD and SCL reactivity were lower for participants who reported suffering from tinnitus complaints. For IL80 %, but not IL50 % or IL20 %, participants with worse hearing acuity rated their listening effort to be relatively high compared to participants with better hearing. The reactivity of the different physiological measures were not or only weakly correlated with each other. Together, the results suggest that hearing acuity may be associated with altered sympathetic nervous system (re)activity. Research using psychophysiological measures as markers of listening effort to study the effect of hearing acuity on such measures are best served by the use of the PPD and PEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Keur-Huizinga
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Nicole A Huizinga
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adriana A Zekveld
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Niek J Versfeld
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sjors R B van de Ven
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wieke A J van Dijk
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eco J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sophia E Kramer
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Ear & Hearing, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Tyra AT, Fergus TA, Ginty AT. Emotion suppression and acute physiological responses to stress in healthy populations: a quantitative review of experimental and correlational investigations. Health Psychol Rev 2024; 18:396-420. [PMID: 37648224 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2023.2251559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Emotion suppression may be linked to poor health outcomes through elevated stress-related physiology. The current meta-analyses investigate the magnitude of the association between suppression and physiological responses to active psychological stress tasks administered in the laboratory. Relevant articles were identified through Medline, PsychINFO, PubMed, and ProQuest. Studies were eligible if they (a) used a sample of healthy, human subjects; (b) assessed physiology during a resting baseline and active psychological stress task; and (c) measured self-report or experimentally manipulated suppression. Twenty-four studies were identified and grouped within two separate random effects meta-analyses based on study methodology, namely, manipulated suppression (k = 12) and/or self-report (k = 14). Experimentally manipulated suppression was associated with greater physiological stress reactivity compared to controls (Hg = 0.20, 95% CI [0.08, 0.33]), primarily driven by cardiac, hemodynamic, and neuroendocrine parameters. Self-report trait suppression was not associated with overall physiological stress reactivity but was associated with greater neuroendocrine reactivity (r = 0.08, 95% CI [0.01, 0.14]). Significant moderator variables were identified (i.e., type/duration of stress task, nature of control instructions, type of physiology, and gender). This review suggests that suppression may exacerbate stress-induced physiological arousal; however, this may differ based upon the chosen methodological assessment of suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra T Tyra
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Thomas A Fergus
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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Rasero J, Verstynen TD, DuPont CM, Kraynak TE, Barinas-Mitchell E, Scudder MR, Kamarck TW, Sentis AI, Leckie RL, Gianaros PJ. Stressor-evoked brain activity, cardiovascular reactivity, and subclinical atherosclerosis in midlife adults. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.02.05.24302236. [PMID: 38370849 PMCID: PMC10871357 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.05.24302236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Background Cardiovascular responses to psychological stressors have been separately associated with preclinical atherosclerosis and hemodynamic brain activity patterns across different studies and cohorts; however, what has not been established is whether cardiovascular stress responses reliably link indicators of stressor-evoked brain activity and preclinical atherosclerosis that have been measured in the same individuals. Accordingly, the present study used cross-validation and predictive modeling to test for the first time whether stressor-evoked systolic blood pressure (SBP) responses statistically mediated the association between concurrently measured brain activity and a vascular marker of preclinical atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries. Methods 624 midlife adults (aged 28-56 years, 54.97% female) from two different cohorts underwent two information-conflict fMRI tasks, with concurrent SBP measures collected. Carotid artery intima-media thickness (CA-IMT) was measured by ultrasonography. A mediation framework that included harmonization, cross-validation, and penalized principal component regression was then employed, while significant areas in possible direct and indirect effects were identified through bootstrapping. Sensitivity analysis further tested the robustness of findings after accounting for prevailing levels of cardiovascular disease risk and brain imaging data quality control. Results Task-averaged patterns of hemodynamic brain responses exhibited a generalizable association with CA-IMT, which was mediated by an area-under-the-curve measure of aggregate SBP reactivity. Importantly, this effect held in sensitivity analyses. Implicated brain areas in this mediation included the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, insula and amygdala. Conclusions These novel findings support a link between stressor-evoked brain activity and preclinical atherosclerosis accounted for by individual differences in corresponding levels of stressor-evoked cardiovascular reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Rasero
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, PA
- School of Data Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | | | - Caitlin M DuPont
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Thomas E Kraynak
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - Mark R Scudder
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Thomas W Kamarck
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Amy I Sentis
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Regina L Leckie
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Peter J Gianaros
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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6
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Palitsky R, Chen ZJ, Rentscher KE, Friedman SE, Wilson DMT, Ruiz JM, Sullivan D, Grant GH, O'Connor M. Associations of religious and existential variables with psychosocial factors and biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in bereavement. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14014. [PMID: 37840393 PMCID: PMC10776136 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14014] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bereavement increases in prevalence as people age and is associated with multiple psychological and health risks, including cardiovascular risk. Religious and existential variables may play an important role in the health impacts of bereavement. Theorized pathways linking religious and existential variables with health have suggested these associations are due to intermediary psychosocial variables, but have not been tested in bereavement. This research empirically tested these pathways in a bereaved population. In N = 73 adults within 1 year of bereavement (mean age = 64.36), this study examined associations between (1) religious and existential characteristics (religious and spiritual struggles, intrinsic religiosity, and existential quest) and intermediary psychosocial variables (depression, loneliness, and difficulties in emotion regulation), and between (2) intermediary psychosocial variables and bereavement-relevant health outcomes (self-reported health, change in health since last year, grief severity, and cardiovascular biomarkers). Cardiovascular biomarkers (heart rate, heart rate variability, and blood pressure) were collected before, during, and after a laboratory grief recall emotion elicitation. Anticipated associations between self-reported religious and existential characteristics and intermediary variables, and between intermediary variables and self-reported bereavement-relevant outcomes, were consistently observed. However, associations between intermediary variables and cardiovascular biomarkers were largely unobserved. This study examined the role of religious and existential variables in whole-person health after bereavement and is among the first to include biomarkers of cardiovascular risk. Results suggest that although religious and existential variables are associated with important bereavement-related outcomes, these associations may be "skin-deep," and extensions to cardiovascular functioning should be re-examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Palitsky
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
- Emory UniversitySpiritual Health, Woodruff Health Sciences CenterAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Zhuo Job Chen
- School of NursingUniversity of North Carolina, CharlotteCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Kelly E. Rentscher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral MedicineMedical College of WisconsinMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
| | | | | | - John M. Ruiz
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | - Daniel Sullivan
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | - George H. Grant
- Emory UniversitySpiritual Health, Woodruff Health Sciences CenterAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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Baynham R, Weaver SRC, Rendeiro C, Veldhuijzen van Zanten JJCS. Fat intake impairs the recovery of endothelial function following mental stress in young healthy adults. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1275708. [PMID: 38024378 PMCID: PMC10665837 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1275708] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mental stress has been identified as a trigger of cardiovascular events. A single episode of stress can induce acute impairments in endothelial function in healthy adults. Importantly, during stressful periods, individuals often resort to unhealthy behaviors, such as increased consumption of high-fat foods, which is also known to negatively impact endothelial function. Therefore, this study examined whether consumption of a high-fat meal would further exacerbate the negative effect of mental stress on vascular function. Methods In a randomized, counterbalanced, cross- over, postprandial intervention study, 21 healthy males and females ingested a high-fat (56.5 g fat) or a low-fat (11.4 g fat) meal 1.5 h before an 8-min mental stress task (Paced-Auditory-Serial-Addition-Task, PASAT). Plasma triglyceride (TAG) concentration was assessed pre-and post-meal. Forearm blood flow (FBF), blood pressure (BP), and cardiovascular activity were assessed pre-meal at rest and post-meal at rest and during stress. Endothelial function, measured by brachial flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) was assessed pre-meal and 30 and 90 min following mental stress. Results Plasma TAG concentration was significantly increased following the high-fat meal compared to the low-fat condition. Mental stress induced similar increases in peripheral vasodilation, BP, and cardiovascular activity, and impaired FMD 30 min post-stress, in both conditions. FMD remained significantly impaired 90 min following stress in the high-fat condition only, suggesting that consumption of fat attenuates the recovery of endothelial function following mental stress. Discussion Given the prevalence of fat consumption during stressful periods among young adults, these findings have important implications for dietary choices to protect the vasculature during periods of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Baynham
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel R. C. Weaver
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Catarina Rendeiro
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Cococcetta C, Coutant T, Phouratsamay A, Zoller G, Bagur S, Huynh M. Effect of Hooding on Physiological Parameters During Manual Restraint in Rhode Island Red Hybrid Hens ( Gallus gallus domesticus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:155-164. [PMID: 37733454 DOI: 10.1647/21-00027] [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] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Manual handling of chickens is required for many veterinary, research, and breeding procedures. This study aimed to assess the changes in physiological parameters over time during manual restraint of chickens, as well as the effect of hooding on these parameters. Heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, and body temperature were measured every 3 minutes for 15 minutes during manual restraint in 13 adult laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus). Heart rate variability was significantly higher in hooded hens than in nonhooded hens (P= 0.003) but was not significant over time. Hooded hens were also found to have significantly lower heart rate (P = 0.043) and respiratory rate (P = 0.042) compared to nonhooded hens. Heart rate and respiratory rate significantly decreased over time, independent of the use of the hood (P = 0.008; P = 0.01, respectively). Temperature was found to increase significantly (P = 0.001) over time for both groups. Overall, hooding increased heart rate variability, a factor associated with a lower stress level, and decreased heart rate and respiratory rate. In conclusion, these data suggest that the use of the hood reduces stress levels in birds during manual restraint. Therefore, the use of the hood is encouraged for short (less than 15 minutes) painless procedures, such as physical examination or radiographic acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Cococcetta
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France,
| | - Thomas Coutant
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Albert Phouratsamay
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Graham Zoller
- Unité des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Clinique Vétérinaire Only Vet, 69800 Saint-Priest, France
| | - Sophie Bagur
- Institut de l'Audition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Minh Huynh
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
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Lin FV, Heffner KL. Autonomic nervous system flexibility for understanding brain aging. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102016. [PMID: 37459967 PMCID: PMC10530154 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102016] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
A recent call was made for autonomic nervous system (ANS) measures as digital health markers for early detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (AD/ADRD). Nevertheless, contradictory or inconclusive findings exist. To help advance understanding of ANS' role in dementia, we draw upon aging and dementia-related literature, and propose a framework that centers on the role of ANS flexibility to guide future work on application of ANS function to differentiating the degree and type of dementia-related brain pathologies. We first provide a brief review of literature within the past 10 years on ANS and dementia-related brain pathologies. Next, we present an ANS flexibility model, describing how the model can be applied to understand these brain pathologies, as well as differentiate or even be leveraged to modify typical brain aging and dementia. Lastly, we briefly discuss the implication of the model for understanding resilience and vulnerability to dementia-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng V Lin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, USA; Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University, USA.
| | - Kathi L Heffner
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, USA; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, USA; Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, USA
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10
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Cycowicz YM, Cuchacovich S, Cheslack-Postava K, Merrin J, Hoven CW, Rodriguez-Moreno DV. Sex differences in stress responses among underrepresented minority adolescents at risk for substance use disorder. Int J Psychophysiol 2023; 191:42-48. [PMID: 37517602 PMCID: PMC10528589 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2023.07.003] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of dramatic physiological changes preparing individuals to face future challenges. Prolonged exposure to stressors during childhood can result in dysregulated stress systems which alter normative physiological progression, leading to exacerbated risk for developing psychiatric disorders. Parental substance use disorder (SUD) is considered a significant childhood stressor which increases risk for the offspring to develop SUD. Thus, it is important to understand stress reactivity among adolescents with parental SUD. We used the Trier Social Stress Task (TSST), which includes a public speech presentation, as an acute stressor. Changes in heart-rate (HR) were measured while disadvantaged minority adolescents with and without a family history (FH+/FH-) of SUD performed the TSST. We investigated sex-specific stress response patterns during the TSST. HR peaked during the speech presentation and was overall higher in females than males. Changes in HR measures between baseline and speech showed an interaction between biological sex and FH group. Specifically, FH- females and FH+ males had significantly larger positive HR changes than FH- males. These results suggest that male and female adolescents with parental SUD have atypical, but divergent changes in stress reactivity that could explain their increased risk for developing SUD via different sexually dimorphic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael M Cycowicz
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America.
| | - Sharon Cuchacovich
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Keely Cheslack-Postava
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jacob Merrin
- PGSP-Stanford Consortium, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America
| | - Christina W Hoven
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Diana V Rodriguez-Moreno
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
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11
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Bossenger NR, Lewis GN, Rice DA, Shepherd D. The autonomic and nociceptive response to acute experimental stress is impaired in people with knee osteoarthritis: A preliminary study. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 14:100144. [PMID: 38099282 PMCID: PMC10719531 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective Alterations in autonomic function are evident in some chronic pain conditions but have not been thoroughly examined in people with osteoarthritis (OA). The study aimed to examine resting autonomic nervous system (ANS) function in people with knee OA, and the response of the autonomic and nociceptive systems to acute stress. Methods A preliminary cross-sectional study was undertaken involving people with knee OA (n = 14), fibromyalgia (n = 13), and pain-free controls (n = 15). The sympathetic and parasympathetic components of the ANS were assessed through measures of pre-ejection period (PEP), skin conductance level (SCL), and high frequency heart rate variability (HF HRV). The nociceptive system was assessed through pain ratings associated with a tonic heat pain stimulus. In separate sessions, ANS and heat pain measures were assessed at rest and in response to nociceptive and mental arithmetic stressors. Results The knee OA group showed reduced HF HRV at rest and reduced modulation in response to stress. Resting PEP and SCL were normal in the knee OA group but PEP modulation was impaired in both chronic pain groups during nociceptive stress. The expected reduction in tonic heat pain ratings in response to stress was lacking in the knee OA and FM groups. Conclusion Preliminary evidence shows impaired parasympathetic nervous system function at rest and in response to nociceptive and mental stress in people with knee OA, with some evidence of altered sympathetic nervous system function. Impaired ANS function could contribute to ongoing pain experienced, and interventions that target ANS function could be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil R Bossenger
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gwyn N Lewis
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David A Rice
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Waitematā Pain Service, Te Whatu Ora Waitematā, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Daniel Shepherd
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Nieuwenhuis S, van der Mee DJ, Janssen TWP, Verstraete LLL, Meeter M, van Atteveldt NM. Growth mindset and school burnout symptoms in young adolescents: the role of vagal activity as potential mediator. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1176477. [PMID: 37519400 PMCID: PMC10374320 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1176477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Experiencing school burnout symptoms can have negative consequences for learning. A growth mindset, the belief that human qualities such as intelligence are malleable, has previously been correlated with fewer school burnout symptoms in late adolescents. This might be because adolescents with a stronger growth mindset show more adaptive self-regulation strategies and thereby increasing resilience against academic setbacks. Here we confirmed in a sample of 426 Dutch young adolescents (11-14 years old; 48% female) that this relationship between growth mindset and school burnout symptoms holds after controlling for other potential predictors of school burnout symptoms such as academic achievement, school track, gender, and socio-economic status. Our second aim was to increase our understanding of the mechanism underlying the relation between mindset and school burnout, by measuring physiological resilience (vagal activity, a measure of parasympathetic activity, also known as heart rate variability or HRV) in a subsample (n = 50). We did not find any relation between vagal activity and growth mindset or school burnout symptoms, nor could we establish a mediating effect of vagal activity in their relation. In conclusion, we found evidence for a potential protective effect of a growth mindset on school burnout symptoms in young adolescents, but not for physiological resilience (vagal activity) as an underlying mechanism. The protective effect of growth mindset as confirmed in our younger sample can be leveraged in interventions to prevent increasing school burnout symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smiddy Nieuwenhuis
- Section Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- LEARN! Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Denise J. van der Mee
- Section Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tieme W. P. Janssen
- Section Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- LEARN! Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Leonie L. L. Verstraete
- Section Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Meeter
- LEARN! Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nienke M. van Atteveldt
- Section Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute for Brain and Behavior Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- LEARN! Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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O'Riordan A, Young DA, Tyra AT, Ginty AT. Extraversion is associated with lower cardiovascular reactivity to acute psychological stress. Int J Psychophysiol 2023; 189:20-29. [PMID: 37146652 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Extraversion has been associated with positive physical health outcomes, with adaptive cardiovascular responses to stress being one potential physiological mechanism. The present study examined the influence of extraversion on both cardiovascular reactivity and cardiovascular habituation to an acute psychological stress task (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT)) in a sample of healthy undergraduate students. METHODS A sample of 467 undergraduate students completed the Big Five Inventory (BFI) to assess trait extraversion and attended a single stress testing session. The testing session included two identical stress-testing protocols, each consisting of a 10-minute baseline and 4-minute PASAT. Cardiovascular parameters including heart rate (HR), systolic/diastolic blood pressure (S/DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded throughout the testing session. State measures of positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA), as well as post task measures of self-reported stress were used to assess psychological experiences of the stress task. RESULTS Extraversion was significantly associated with lower self-reported stress in response to the initial stress exposure, but not the second stress exposure. Higher levels of extraversion were associated with lower SBP, DBP, MAP and HR reactivity in responses to both exposures to the stressor. However, no significant associations were observed between extraversion and cardiovascular habituation to recurring psychological stress. CONCLUSION Extraversion is associated with lower cardiovascular reactivity to acute psychological stress and this relationship persists upon repeated exposures to the same stressor. Cardiovascular responses to stress may indicate a potential mechanism facilitating the association between extraversion and positive physical health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam O'Riordan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States.
| | - Danielle A Young
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
| | - Alexandra T Tyra
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
| | - Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
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14
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Yuksel D, Kiss O, Prouty D, Arra N, Volpe L, Baker FC, de Zambotti M. Stress, hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis activity and autonomic nervous system function in adolescents with insomnia. Int J Psychophysiol 2023; 187:43-53. [PMID: 36822502 PMCID: PMC10041935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2023.02.006] [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: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abnormal stress responses have been linked to the etiology of insomnia. We investigated the relationship between insomnia, stress, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) function in adolescence. METHODS Forty-seven post-pubertal adolescents (16-20 years old, 28 female) with (N = 16; insomnia group) and without (N = 31; control group) DSM-5 insomnia symptoms were assessed for stress levels and stress reactivity and underwent a standardized stress protocol (Trier Social Stress Test (TSST)), after an overnight laboratory stay. Cortisol was measured upon awakening and 30-minutes later to calculate the cortisol awakening response (CAR). During the TSST, perceived stress, salivary cortisol (HPA activity), heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) measures were collected. RESULTS Participants in the insomnia group reported more stress from school performance and work overload, with insomnia girls experiencing more stress from peer pressure and future uncertainty than control girls (p < 0.05). No group differences were detected in the CAR and pre-TSST stress levels. All participants showed significant increases in perceived stress (~19 %), HR (~33 %), systolic (~13 %), and diastolic (~15 %) BP in response to the TSST (p < 0.05). Overall HR stress response did not differ between groups, but was lower in boys with insomnia than in girls with insomnia (p < 0.05). Cortisol stress responses were inconclusive, possibly due to a masking effect of CAR, as the task was performed shortly after awakening and larger CARs were associated with blunted cortisol stress responses. DISCUSSION Results mostly show no group difference in physiological stress responses, although some interaction effects suggest a potential sex by insomnia interaction. Larger samples are needed to understand the physiological disturbances of insomnia in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Yuksel
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Orsolya Kiss
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Devin Prouty
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Nicole Arra
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Laila Volpe
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Fiona C Baker
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA; Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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15
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Mikneviciute G, Pulopulos MM, Allaert J, Armellini A, Rimmele U, Kliegel M, Ballhausen N. Adult age differences in the psychophysiological response to acute stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 153:106111. [PMID: 37075654 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Age-related differences in the psychophysiology of the acute stress response are poorly understood given the limited number of studies and the high heterogeneity of findings. The present study contributes by investigating age differences in both the psychological and physiological responses to acute stress in a sample of healthy younger (N = 50; 18-30; Mage = 23.06; SD = 2.90) and older adults (N = 50; 65-84; Mage = 71.12; SD = 5.02). Specifically, the effects of psychosocial stress (i.e., age-adapted Trier Social Stress Test) were investigated at numerous timepoints throughout the stress response phases (i.e., baseline, anticipation, reactivity, recovery) on cortisol, heart rate, subjective stress, and anticipatory appraisal of the stressful situation. The study was conducted in a between-subject (younger vs. older) cross-over (stress vs. control) design. Results revealed age-related differences in both physiological and psychological variables: older adults had overall lower salivary cortisol levels in the stress and control conditions and lower stress-induced cortisol increase (i.e., AUCi). In addition, older adults' cortisol reactivity was delayed compared to younger adults. Older adults showed a lower heart rate response in the stress condition while no age differences were observed in the control condition. Finally, older adults reported less subjective stress and a less negative stress appraisal during the anticipation phase than younger adults, which could potentially explain lower physiological reactivity in this age group. Results are discussed in relation to the existing literature, potential underlying mechanisms, and future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Mikneviciute
- NCCR LIVES-Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Matias M Pulopulos
- Psychopathology and Affective Neuroscience Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jens Allaert
- Psychopathology and Affective Neuroscience Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, University Hospital Ghent (UZ Ghent), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alexis Armellini
- NCCR LIVES-Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Rimmele
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Swiss Center for Affective Sciences (CISA), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Neurocenter, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- NCCR LIVES-Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Ballhausen
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
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16
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van der Mee DJ, Gevonden MJ, Westerink JHDM, de Geus EJC. Cardiorespiratory fitness, regular physical activity, and autonomic nervous system reactivity to laboratory and daily life stress. Psychophysiology 2023; 60:e14212. [PMID: 36379911 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14212] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The cross-stressor adaptation hypothesis-which posits that adjustment to physical stress as a result of regular physical activity and its effects on fitness crosses over to psychological stress reactivity-has been around for over four decades. However, the literature has been plagued by heterogeneities preventing definitive conclusions. We address these heterogeneity issues in a combined laboratory and daily life study of 116 young adults (M = 22.48 SD = 3.56, 57.76% female). The exposure, i.e., the potential driver of adaptation, was defined in three ways. First, a submaximal test was performed to obtain aerobic fitness measured as the VO2 max (kg/ml/min). Second, leisure time exercise behavior, and third, overall moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), were obtained from a structured interview. Outcomes were autonomic nervous system (ANS) reactivity and affective responsiveness to stressors. ANS activity was measured continuously and expressed as inter-beat-interval (IBI), pre-ejection-period (PEP), respiratory sinus arrythmia (RSA), and non-specific Skin Conductance Responses (ns.SCR). Negative and positive affect were recorded after each experimental condition in the laboratory and hourly in daily life with a nine-item digital questionnaire. Linear regressions were performed between the three exposure measures as predictors and the various laboratory and daily life stress measurements as outcomes. Our results support the resting heart rate reducing effect of aerobic fitness and total MVPA in both the laboratory and daily life. We did not find evidence for the cross-stressor adaptation hypothesis, irrespective of ANS or affective outcome measure or whether the exposure was defined as exercise/MVPA or aerobic fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin J Gevonden
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce H D M Westerink
- Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Philips Research, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Eco J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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O' Riordan A, Howard S, Gallagher S. Blunted cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress and prospective health: a systematic review. Health Psychol Rev 2023; 17:121-147. [PMID: 35445639 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2022.2068639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Novel research demonstrates that lower or 'blunted' cardiovascular reactions to stress are associated with a range of adverse outcomes. The aim of the current review was (1) to examine the prospective outcomes predicted by blunted cardiovascular reactivity and (2) to identify a range of blunted cardiovascular reaction levels that predict these outcomes. Electronic databases were systematically searched (Medline, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science). Studies were included if they examined the prospective influence of blunted cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress (SBP, DBP or HR) on a negative health, behavioural or psychological outcome. A total of 23 studies were included in the review. Blunted reactivity predicted (1) adverse cardiovascular health, primarily in cardiac samples (e.g., myocardial infarction, carotid atherosclerosis) and (2) outcomes associated with motivational and behavioural dysregulation in healthy samples (e.g., obesity, smoking addiction, depression). The cardiovascular reactivity threshold levels that were predictive of adverse health outcomes ranged between -3.00-12.59 bpm (14.41% to 136.59% lower than the sample mean) and -2.4-5.00 mmhg (65.99% to 133.80% lower than sample mean), for HR and DBP respectively. We posit that blunted reactions lower than, or equal to, the ranges reported here may be utilised by clinicians and researchers to identify individuals who are at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular health outcomes, as well as outcomes associated with motivational and behavioural dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam O' Riordan
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Laboratory, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Siobhán Howard
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Laboratory, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Stephen Gallagher
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Laboratory, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Sedentary behaviour, but not moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, is associated with respiratory responses to acute psychological stress. Biol Psychol 2023; 177:108510. [PMID: 36716988 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108510] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute psychological stress induces respiratory responses, and stress-induced respiratory changes can be used to non-invasively reflect metabolic regulation. Respiratory and cardiovascular responses to stress are both driven by sympathetic mechanisms. Higher volumes of sedentary behaviour and lower volumes of physical activity are associated with elevated sympathetic tone and larger cardiovascular responses to stress. The aim of this study was to test whether these associations translate to measures of respiratory stress reactivity. METHODS Daily hours of sedentary behaviour (thigh-mounted activPAL) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; wrist-mounted ActiGraph) were assessed across seven days. Breath-by-breath respiratory (e.g., breathing frequency [BF], end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure [PetCO2], carbon dioxide output [V̇CO2] and respiratory exchange ratio [RER]) responses to an 8-min Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test were then measured using a Cortex MetaLyzer3B. RESULTS Healthy participants (N = 61, mean age ± SD = 25.7 ± 8.9 years) recorded high volumes of sedentary behaviour (9.96 ± 1.48 h/day) and MVPA (1.70 ± 0.71 h/day). In adjusted models (with the inclusion of sedentary behaviour, MVPA, and other a priori selected covariates) hours of daily sedentary behaviour were associated with baseline to stress changes in BF (Β = 0.695, 95% CI = 0.281 - 1.109, p = .014), VT (Β = -0.042, 95% CI = -0.058 - -0.026, p = .014), PetCO2 (Β = -0.537, 95% CI = -0.829 - -0.245, p = .014), V̇CO2 (Β = -0.008, 95% CI = -0.014 - -0.003, p = .030), and RER (Β = -0.013, 95% CI = -0.021 - -0.005, p = .022). Daily hours of MVPA were not linked with respiratory responses to stress. DISCUSSION Sedentary behaviour, but not MVPA, is associated with respiratory stress reactivity. Future work should untangle the underlying mechanisms of these findings and explore the consequences for cardiometabolic disease.
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Moses TE, Gray E, Mischel N, Greenwald MK. Effects of neuromodulation on cognitive and emotional responses to psychosocial stressors in healthy humans. Neurobiol Stress 2023; 22:100515. [PMID: 36691646 PMCID: PMC9860364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100515] [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: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiological and psychological stressors can exert wide-ranging effects on the human brain and behavior. Research has improved understanding of how the sympatho-adreno-medullary (SAM) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axes respond to stressors and the differential responses that occur depending on stressor type. Although the physiological function of SAM and HPA responses is to promote survival and safety, exaggerated psychobiological reactivity can occur in psychiatric disorders. Exaggerated reactivity may occur more for certain types of stressors, specifically, psychosocial stressors. Understanding stressor effects and how the body regulates these responses can provide insight into ways that psychobiological reactivity can be modulated. Non-invasive neuromodulation is one way that responding to stressors may be altered; research into these interventions may provide further insights into the brain circuits that modulate stress reactivity. This review focuses on the effects of acute psychosocial stressors and how neuromodulation might be effective in altering stress reactivity. Although considerable research into stress interventions focuses on treating pathology, it is imperative to first understand these mechanisms in non-clinical populations; therefore, this review will emphasize populations with no known pathology and consider how these results may translate to those with psychiatric pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mark K. Greenwald
- Corresponding author. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Tolan Park Medical Building, 3901 Chrysler Service Drive, Suite 2A, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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20
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Emotion regulation difficulties in the relation between stress-related insomnia symptoms and brain response to emotional faces: An fMRI study. Sleep Med 2023; 101:561-569. [PMID: 36584501 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2022.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to investigate whether the experience of insomnia symptoms per se and symptoms of insomnia due to stress are associated with an increased brain response to the presentation of emotional faces. In addition, we also examined whether the effect of these sleep difficulties on emotional reactivity at the brain level depends on the experience of emotion regulation (ER) difficulties. The current sample consisted of 37 individuals (20 females, 17 males) selected from a larger group of 120 respondents who completed a survey about sleep problems and ER difficulties. Our results indicate that the tendency to experience stress-related insomnia symptoms but not insomnia symptoms per se modulates brain responses to emotional facial expressions, especially in areas of the parietal cortex, insula, and surrounding opercular voxels. Furthermore, difficulties in ER might play an important role, as the effect of stress-related insomnia symptoms on most of these brain regions disappears when controlling for difficulties in ER. However, an effect in the insula was maintained during the presentation of angry faces, suggesting that stress-related insomnia symptoms may increase the brain response to anger in the insula relatively independent from difficulties in ER. These findings suggest that individuals affected by stress-related insomnia symptoms show an enhanced brain response when presented with emotional stimuli (either positive or negative) in brain areas associated with hyperarousal, which could represent a possible ER deficit in these individuals. Thus, interventions that focus on targeting ER difficulties might be effective in reducing the hyperarousal state in individuals affected by stress-related insomnia symptoms.
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21
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Beopoulos A, Géa M, Fasano A, Iris F. Autism spectrum disorders pathogenesis: Toward a comprehensive model based on neuroanatomic and neurodevelopment considerations. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:988735. [PMID: 36408388 PMCID: PMC9671112 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.988735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves alterations in neural connectivity affecting cortical network organization and excitation to inhibition ratio. It is characterized by an early increase in brain volume mediated by abnormal cortical overgrowth patterns and by increases in size, spine density, and neuron population in the amygdala and surrounding nuclei. Neuronal expansion is followed by a rapid decline from adolescence to middle age. Since no known neurobiological mechanism in human postnatal life is capable of generating large excesses of frontocortical neurons, this likely occurs due to a dysregulation of layer formation and layer-specific neuronal migration during key early stages of prenatal cerebral cortex development. This leads to the dysregulation of post-natal synaptic pruning and results in a huge variety of forms and degrees of signal-over-noise discrimination losses, accounting for ASD clinical heterogeneities, including autonomic nervous system abnormalities and comorbidities. We postulate that sudden changes in environmental conditions linked to serotonin/kynurenine supply to the developing fetus, throughout the critical GW7 - GW20 (Gestational Week) developmental window, are likely to promote ASD pathogenesis during fetal brain development. This appears to be driven by discrete alterations in differentiation and patterning mechanisms arising from in utero RNA editing, favoring vulnerability outcomes over plasticity outcomes. This paper attempts to provide a comprehensive model of the pathogenesis and progression of ASD neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessio Fasano
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Center for Celiac Research and Treatment, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
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22
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Roberts RL, Garland EL. Association between opioid use disorder and blunted heart rate variability among opioid-treated chronic pain patients. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13230. [PMID: 36301218 PMCID: PMC10234179 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13230] [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: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Given the severity of the ongoing opioid epidemic, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of risk for development and maintenance of opioid use disorder (OUD). The aim of the current large-scale psychophysiological investigation was to test whether patients with OUD had lower resting-state high-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) than those without OUD, controlling for sociodemographic and clinical confounds. Additionally, we tested whether HF-HRV was associated with opioid craving in this population. Participants in this cross-sectional study were 490 chronic pain patients (50.4% female) treated with long-term opioid therapy. OUD diagnosis was determined by psychiatric interview. HF-HRV was measured at resting baseline. We computed the association between OUD and resting-state HF-HRV, controlling for age, gender, race, pain severity, emotional distress and opioid dose. Opioid craving was measured with visual analogue scales to assess whether HF-HRV was associated with craving. Results showed that resting HF-HRV was significantly lower for patients with OUD than for those without OUD (p < 0.001, d = 0.36), indicating deficits in autonomic flexibility. OUD diagnosis (p = 0.002) and OUD severity (p = 0.03) were associated with lower HF-HRV in regression models accounting for a range of confounders. Additionally, lower HF-HRV was significantly (but weakly) correlated with heightened opioid craving (r = -0.166, p < 0.001). Overall, findings suggest that resting-state HF-HRV may serve as a valid biomarker of addiction among people on long-term opioid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lynae Roberts
- Center on Mindfulness and Integrative Health Intervention Development (C-MIIND), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Eric L Garland
- Center on Mindfulness and Integrative Health Intervention Development (C-MIIND), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Veterans Health Care Administration VISN 19 Whole Health, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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Turnbull A, Seitz A, Tadin D, Lin FV. Unifying framework for cognitive training interventions in brain aging. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 81:101724. [PMID: 36031055 PMCID: PMC10681332 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101724] [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: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive training is a promising tool for slowing or preventing cognitive decline in older adults at-risk for dementia. Its success, however, has been limited by a lack of evidence showing that it reliably causes broad training effects: improvements in cognition across a range of domains that lead to real-world benefits. Here, we propose a framework for enhancing the effect of cognitive training interventions in brain aging. The focus is on (A) developing cognitive training task paradigms that are informed by population-level cognitive characteristics and pathophysiology, and (B) personalizing how these sets are presented to participants during training via feedback loops that aim to optimize "mismatch" between participant capacity and training demands using both adaptation and random variability. In this way, cognitive training can better alter whole-brain topology in a manner that supports broad training effects in the context of brain aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Turnbull
- University of Rochester, USA; Stanford University, USA
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Parker MN, Faulkner LM, Shank LM, Schvey NA, Loch LK, Haynes HE, Bloomer BF, Moursi NA, Fatima S, Te-Vazquez JA, Brady SM, Yang SB, Turner SA, Tanofsky-Kraff M, Yanovski JA. Heart Rate Variability and Laboratory-Based Loss-of-Control Eating in Children and Adolescents. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14194027. [PMID: 36235684 PMCID: PMC9570996 DOI: 10.3390/nu14194027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Among youth, greater heart rate (HR) and lesser HR variability (HRV) are precursors to loss-of-control (LOC) eating episodes in the natural environment. However, there are limited data examining whether pre-meal HR and HRV are associated with greater LOC-eating in the laboratory setting. We therefore examined temporal relationships between pre-meal HR, frequency- and time-based metrics of pre-meal HRV, perceived LOC-eating, and energy intake during a meal designed to simulate a LOC-eating episode. Among 209 participants (54.5% female, 12.58 ± 2.72 years, 0.52 ± 1.02 BMIz), 19 reported LOC-eating in the prior month. Perceived LOC-eating during the laboratory meal was not significantly linked to pre-meal HR (p = 0.37), but was positively related to pre-meal HRV (ps = 0.02–0.04). This finding was driven by youth with recent LOC-eating, as these associations were not significant when analyses were run only among participants without recent reported LOC-eating (p = 0.15–0.99). Pre-meal HR and HRV were not significantly related to total energy intake (ps = 0.27–0.81). Additional research is required to determine whether early-stage pediatric LOC-eating is preceded by a healthy pre-meal stress response. Longitudinal studies could help clarify whether this pattern becomes less functional over time among youth who develop recurrent LOC-eating episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan N. Parker
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Loie M. Faulkner
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lisa M. Shank
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Natasha A. Schvey
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Lucy K. Loch
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Hannah E. Haynes
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bess F. Bloomer
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Nasreen A. Moursi
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Syeda Fatima
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Te-Vazquez
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sheila M. Brady
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Shanna B. Yang
- Nutrition Department, NIH Clinical Center, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sara A. Turner
- Nutrition Department, NIH Clinical Center, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Marian Tanofsky-Kraff
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Jack A. Yanovski
- Section on Growth and Obesity, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, Room 1-3330, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-301-496-0858
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Lü W, Zhu W, Wang S. Associations between general trait anxiety, trait social anxiety and cardiovascular responses to social and non-social stressors. J Psychosom Res 2022; 160:110979. [PMID: 35777178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.110979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study sought to examine whether anxiety propensity dimensions (general trait anxiety vs. trait social anxiety) interact with stressor types (tasks with social vs. non-social challenges) to determine cardiovascular stress responses. METHODS A 2 × 3 mixed-factorial experimental design was employed. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Social Performance and Social Interaction Anxiety Scales were administered to 233 participants, who engaged in a stress task with either social or non-social challenges during which their cardiovascular data were continuously collected. RESULTS General trait anxiety negatively predicted heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reactivity (β = -0.16, p = 0.001; β = -0.17, p = 0.001; β = -0.18, p < 0.001), and positively predicted HR, SBP, DBP recovery (β = 0.16, p = 0.012; β = 0.15, p = 0.014; β = 0.15, p = 0.011), regardless of stress types. Social performance anxiety (β = -0.23, p = 0.002; β = -0.25, p = 0.001; β = -0.24, p = 0.001) and social interaction anxiety (β = -0.22, p < 0.001; β = -0.25, p < 0.001; β = -0.22, p < 0.001) only negatively predicted HR, SBP, DBP reactivity to the stress task with social challenges. No associations were observed between trait social anxiety and cardiovascular recovery from the stress task with social or non-social challenges. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that different trait anxiety dimensions interact with stressor types in affecting cardiovascular stress responses, which have different health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lü
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Behavior and Cognitive Neuroscience, Shaanxi Key Research Center for Children Mental and Behavior Health, School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University, China.
| | - Wenke Zhu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Behavior and Cognitive Neuroscience, Shaanxi Key Research Center for Children Mental and Behavior Health, School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- School of Business, Xi'an Technology and Business College, China
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26
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Chauntry AJ, Bishop NC, Hamer M, Paine NJ. Frequently Interrupting Prolonged Sitting With Light Body-Weighted Resistance Activity Alters Psychobiological Responses to Acute Psychological Stress: A Randomized Crossover Trial. Ann Behav Med 2022; 57:301-312. [PMID: 36005837 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaac055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uninterrupted prolonged sitting and exaggerated psychobiological reactivity to acute psychological stress are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Breaking up prolonged sitting with frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity acutely lowers CVD risk markers under resting conditions. PURPOSE To examine whether frequent interruptions to prolonged sitting with body-weighted resistance activity can acutely lower systolic blood pressure (SBP; primary outcome) and other cardiovascular (CV), inflammatory, and cortisol (secondary outcomes) responses to acute psychological stress. METHODS This randomized crossover trial included 17 sedentary participants (9 men; mean ± SD age; 24.0 ± 0.5 years) who completed two conditions: (i) interrupting 4 hr of sitting with 4 min of light body-weighted resistance activity every 30-min (BREAK), and (ii) 4 hr of uninterrupted sitting (SIT). Following the BREAK and SIT intervention windows, CV, inflammatory, and cortisol markers were measured at rest, during stress tasks (8-min Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test [PASAT] and 3-min cold pressor [CP]), and 45-min recovery periods. RESULTS There were main effects of time for CV parameters (SBP, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, and total peripheral resistance [all p < .001]), inflammatory markers (interleukin-6 [IL-6]), and cortisol (p < .05) in response to stress. Time-by-condition interaction effects revealed that in the BREAK-condition there was lower SBP during immediate recovery from the CP (mean {95% confidence interval [CI]}: 127.2 [121.3, 133.4] vs 133.4 [125.5, 141.7] mmHg; p = .020), higher concentrations of plasma IL-6 45-min post-PASAT (2.70 [1.97, 3.70] vs 1.71 [1.32, 2.22] pg/mL; p = .010), and larger (nonsignificant) salivary cortisol concentrations 8-min post-CP (6.29 [4.60, 8.58] vs 3.97 [3.16, 4.99] nmol/L; p = .079). CONCLUSIONS Interrupting prolonged sitting with frequent bouts of light intensity body-weighted resistance activity alters psychobiological responses to acute psychological stress. Further research should explore the longer-term implications for CVD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiden J Chauntry
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Nicolette C Bishop
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Mark Hamer
- The Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicola J Paine
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, UK
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27
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Martinez GJ, Grover T, Mattingly SM, Mark G, D'Mello S, Aledavood T, Akbar F, Robles-Granda P, Striegel A. Alignment Between Heart Rate Variability From Fitness Trackers and Perceived Stress: Perspectives From a Large-Scale In Situ Longitudinal Study of Information Workers. JMIR Hum Factors 2022; 9:e33754. [PMID: 35925662 PMCID: PMC9389384 DOI: 10.2196/33754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress can have adverse effects on health and well-being. Informed by laboratory findings that heart rate variability (HRV) decreases in response to an induced stress response, recent efforts to monitor perceived stress in the wild have focused on HRV measured using wearable devices. However, it is not clear that the well-established association between perceived stress and HRV replicates in naturalistic settings without explicit stress inductions and research-grade sensors. OBJECTIVE This study aims to quantify the strength of the associations between HRV and perceived daily stress using wearable devices in real-world settings. METHODS In the main study, 657 participants wore a fitness tracker and completed 14,695 ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) assessing perceived stress, anxiety, positive affect, and negative affect across 8 weeks. In the follow-up study, approximately a year later, 49.8% (327/657) of the same participants wore the same fitness tracker and completed 1373 EMAs assessing perceived stress at the most stressful time of the day over a 1-week period. We used mixed-effects generalized linear models to predict EMA responses from HRV features calculated over varying time windows from 5 minutes to 24 hours. RESULTS Across all time windows, the models explained an average of 1% (SD 0.5%; marginal R2) of the variance. Models using HRV features computed from an 8 AM to 6 PM time window (namely work hours) outperformed other time windows using HRV features calculated closer to the survey response time but still explained a small amount (2.2%) of the variance. HRV features that were associated with perceived stress were the low frequency to high frequency ratio, very low frequency power, triangular index, and SD of the averages of normal-to-normal intervals. In addition, we found that although HRV was also predictive of other related measures, namely, anxiety, negative affect, and positive affect, it was a significant predictor of stress after controlling for these other constructs. In the follow-up study, calculating HRV when participants reported their most stressful time of the day was less predictive and provided a worse fit (R2=0.022) than the work hours time window (R2=0.032). CONCLUSIONS A significant but small relationship between perceived stress and HRV was found. Thus, although HRV is associated with perceived stress in laboratory settings, the strength of that association diminishes in real-life settings. HRV might be more reflective of perceived stress in the presence of specific and isolated stressors and research-grade sensing. Relying on wearable-derived HRV alone might not be sufficient to detect stress in naturalistic settings and should not be considered a proxy for perceived stress but rather a component of a complex phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo J Martinez
- Computer Science and Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
| | - Ted Grover
- Informatics Department, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Stephen M Mattingly
- Computer Science and Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
| | - Gloria Mark
- Informatics Department, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Sidney D'Mello
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | | | - Fatema Akbar
- Informatics Department, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Pablo Robles-Granda
- Thomas M Siebel Center for Computer Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Aaron Striegel
- Computer Science and Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
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28
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Chauntry AJ, Bishop NC, Hamer M, Kingsnorth AP, Chen YL, Paine NJ. Sedentary behaviour is associated with heightened cardiovascular, inflammatory and cortisol reactivity to acute psychological stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 141:105756. [PMID: 35483244 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sedentary behaviour is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Exaggerated psychobiological responses to acute psychological stress increase CVD risk. Sedentary behaviour is associated with characteristics that can predict large psychobiological stress response patterns (e.g., elevated resting blood pressure and systemic inflammation), but it is currently unknown whether sedentary behaviour and stress reactivity are directly linked. The aim of this study was to examine associations between device-assessed sedentary behaviour and measures of stress reactivity. METHODS Sixty-one healthy adults wore an activPAL (thigh) and ActiGraph (wrist) for seven days to measure habitual levels of sedentary behaviour (mean ± SD = 9.96 ± 1.48 h/day) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (mean ± SD = 101.82 ± 42.92 min/day). Participants then underwent stress reactivity testing, where beat-to-beat cardiovascular (e.g., blood pressure, total peripheral resistance), inflammatory (plasma interleukin-6, leukocytes) and salivary cortisol measurements were taken in response to an 8-minute socially evaluative Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test. RESULTS Higher volumes of daily sedentary behaviour were associated with larger stress responses for diastolic blood pressure (Β=1.264, 95%CI=0.537-1.990, p = .005), total peripheral resistance (Β=40.563, 95%CI=19.310-61.812, p < .001), interleukin-6 (Β=0.219, 95%CI=0.109-0.329, p < .001) and cortisol (Β=1.844, 95%CI=1.139-2.549, p < .001). These findings emerged independent of a priori determined covariates, including daily levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and adiposity. DISCUSSION Exaggerated stress reactivity is characteristic of high sedentary behaviour and could be a novel mechanism linking sedentary behaviour with CVD. Future work should examine the impact of reducing sedentary behaviour on measures of stress reactivity, as this may have clinical relevance for preventing CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiden J Chauntry
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolette C Bishop
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Hamer
- The Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew P Kingsnorth
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Yu-Ling Chen
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola J Paine
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the University of Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom.
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29
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Sedentary Behaviour, Physical Activity and Psychobiological Stress Reactivity: A Systematic Review. Biol Psychol 2022; 172:108374. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2022.108374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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30
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al’Absi M, DeAngelis B, Fiecas M, Budney A, Allen S. Effects of regular cannabis and nicotine use on acute stress responses: chronic nicotine, but not cannabis use, is associated with blunted adrenocortical and cardiovascular responses to stress. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:1551-1561. [PMID: 35275227 PMCID: PMC9248975 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06087-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis is one of the most prevalent substances used by tobacco smokers and, in light of the growing list of states and territories legalizing cannabis, it is expected that co-use of cannabis and nicotine will escalate significantly and will lead to continuing challenges with tobacco use. OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to examine the interactive effects of chronic cannabis and nicotine use on adrenocortical, cardiovascular, and psychological responses to stress and to explore sex differences in these effects. METHODS Participants (N = 231) included cannabis-only users, nicotine-only users, co-users of both substances, and a non/light-user comparison group. After attending a medical screening session, participants completed a laboratory stress session during which they completed measures of subjective states, cardiovascular responses, and salivary cortisol during baseline (rest) and after exposure to acute stress challenges. RESULTS Nicotine use, but not cannabis use, was associated with blunted cortisol and cardiovascular responses to stress across both men and women. Men exhibited larger cortisol responses to stress than women. Co-users had significantly larger stress-related increases in cannabis craving than cannabis-only users. Cannabis users reported smaller increases in anxiety during stress than cannabis non/light-users, and both male nicotine-only users and male cannabis-only users experienced significantly smaller increases in stress than their non/light-user control counterparts. CONCLUSIONS This study replicates and extends earlier research on the impacts of sex and nicotine use on stress responses, and it provides novel findings suggesting that when co-used with nicotine, cannabis use may not confer additional alterations to physiological nor subjective responses to stress. Co-use, however, was associated with enhanced stress-related craving for cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa al’Absi
- Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 1035 University Drive, Duluth, MN 55812, USA
| | - Briana DeAngelis
- Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, 1035 University Drive, Duluth, MN 55812, USA
| | - Mark Fiecas
- School of Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Sharon Allen
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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31
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Becker L, Kaltenegger HC, Nowak D, Rohleder N, Weigl M. Differences in stress system (re-)activity between single and dual- or multitasking in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Psychol Rev 2022; 17:78-103. [PMID: 35477383 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2022.2071323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIn the age of digitization, multitasking requirements are ubiquitous, especially in the workplace. Multitasking (MT) describes the activity of performing multiple (at least two) tasks at the same time. Dual tasking (DT) refers to the sequential switching between two tasks. The aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was first to investigate whether physiological stress systems become activated in response to or during MT/DT and, secondly, whether this (re-)activity is higher compared to single tasking. We focused on the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS), the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS), the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, and the immune system. The systematic review has been pre-registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020181415). A total of twenty-five articles were identified as eligible, in which n = 26 studies were reported, with N = 1,142 participants. Our main findings are that SNS activity is significantly higher and PNS activity is significantly lower during MT/DT than during single tasking. Only two studies were found, in which HPA axis (re-)activity was surveyed. No eligible study was identified in which immune system (re-)activity was investigated. This is the first systematic synthesis of the literature base showing that stress system activity is increased during MT/DT in comparison to single-tasking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Becker
- Department of Psychology, Chair of Health Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Helena C Kaltenegger
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital Munich, Germany
| | - Dennis Nowak
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital Munich, Germany
| | - Nicolas Rohleder
- Department of Psychology, Chair of Health Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias Weigl
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, LMU University Hospital Munich, Germany.,Institute for Patient Safety, University Hospital, Bonn, Germany
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32
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Ginty AT, Tyra AT, Young DA, Brindle RC, de Rooij SR, Williams SE. Cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress and academic achievement. Psychophysiology 2022; 59:e14064. [PMID: 35353904 PMCID: PMC9541813 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14064] [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: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress have been associated with cognitive function. However, previous work has assessed cardiovascular reactions and cognitive function in the laboratory at the same time. The present study examined the association between cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress in the laboratory and academic performance in final year high school students. Heart rate, blood pressure, stroke volume, and cardiac output reactions to an acute psychological stress task were measured in 131 participants during their final year of high school. Performance on high school A‐levels were obtained the following year. Higher heart rate and cardiac output reactivity were associated with better A‐level performance. These associations were still statistically significant after adjusting for a wide range of potentially confounding variables. The present results are consistent with a body of literature suggesting that higher heart rate reactions to acute psychological stress are associated with better cognitive performance across a variety of domains. The present study is the first to examine the associations between cardiovascular reactions to stress in the laboratory and academic achievement. Additionally, it is the first to examine a more comprehensive hemodynamic profile of cardiovascular reactivity (e.g., cardiac output) with cognitive function. The present results are consistent with a body of literature suggesting that higher heart rate reactions to acute psychological stress are associated with better cognitive performance across a variety of domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Alexandra T Tyra
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Danielle A Young
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Ryan C Brindle
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science & Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia, USA
| | - Susanne R de Rooij
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sarah E Williams
- School of Sport, Exercise, and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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33
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Viola M, Ouyang D, Xu J, Maciejewski PK, Prigerson HG, Derry HM. Associations between beta-blocker use and psychological distress in bereaved adults with cardiovascular conditions. Stress Health 2022; 38:147-153. [PMID: 33977672 PMCID: PMC8581070 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The death of a close other is a major life stressor that disrupts mental and physical health. Beta-blocker medications are indicated treatments for cardiovascular conditions that may also mitigate psychological distress in the context of stressors by reducing adrenergic activity. We sought to examine observational links between beta-blocker medication use and psychological distress during bereavement. Using publicly available data from the Midlife in the United States Refresher study, we examined associations between beta-blocker use and general distress, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms (as measured by the Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire) among bereaved adults with cardiovascular conditions (n = 161) using t-tests and regression models. Beta-blocker users reported lower levels of anxiety-related general distress (b = -2.49, SE = 0.88, p = 0.005) and depression-related general distress than non-users (b = -2.39, SE = 1.14, p = 0.039) in multivariate linear regression models adjusting for demographic characteristics, mental health treatments, time since loss and comorbid health conditions. These observed links between beta-blockers and lower psychological distress in bereavement warrant further investigation in prospective and randomized studies, as beta-blockers could be a scalable intervention for mitigating distress following loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Viola
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Daniel Ouyang
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
- Department of Nephrology, SUNY Downstate Medical Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Jiehui Xu
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Paul K. Maciejewski
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Holly G. Prigerson
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Heather M. Derry
- Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
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Brindle RC, Pearson A, Ginty AT. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) relate to blunted cardiovascular and cortisol reactivity to acute laboratory stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 134:104530. [PMID: 35031343 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poor future mental and physical health. Altered biological reactivity to mental stress may be a possible mechanism linking ACEs to poor health. However, it is not clear if ACEs relate to blunted or exaggerated stress reactivity. This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether exposure to ACEs is associated with cardiovascular and cortisol stress reactivity. A systematic review yielded 37 sources. Random-effects modelling tested the aggregate effects of 83 studies of the association between ACEs and stress reactivity. Exposure to ACEs was associated with relatively blunted cardiovascular and cortisol stress reactivity. Effect sizes did not vary as a function of sample sex or reactivity measure (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, or cortisol). Meta-regression revealed preliminary evidence of greater blunting in samples of a younger age and samples reporting greater ACE exposure. Subgroup analyses for stress task, ACE measurement instrument, and sample race were not conducted because of a lack of between-study variability. Exposure to ACEs is associated with dysregulation of multiple components of the human stress response system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Brindle
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, United States; Neuroscience Program, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, United States.
| | - Alexandra Pearson
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, United States
| | - Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
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Abstract
Much of biology is rhythmical and comprises oscillators that can couple. These have optimized energy efficiency and have been preserved during evolution. The respiratory and cardiovascular systems contain numerous oscillators, and importantly, they couple. This coupling is dynamic but essential for an efficient transmission of neural information critical for the precise linking of breathing and oxygen delivery while permitting adaptive responses to changes in state. The respiratory pattern generator and the neural network responsible for sympathetic and cardiovagal (parasympathetic) tone generation interact at many levels ensuring that cardiac output and regional blood flow match oxygen delivery to the lungs and tissues efficiently. The most classic manifestations of these interactions are respiratory sinus arrhythmia and the respiratory modulation of sympathetic nerve activity. These interactions derive from shared somatic and cardiopulmonary afferent inputs, reciprocal interactions between brainstem networks and inputs from supra-pontine regions. Disrupted respiratory-cardiovascular coupling can result in disease, where it may further the pathophysiological sequelae and be a harbinger of poor outcomes. This has been well documented by diminished respiratory sinus arrhythmia and altered respiratory sympathetic coupling in animal models and/or patients with myocardial infarction, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and neurological disorders as stroke, brain trauma, Parkinson disease, or epilepsy. Future research needs to assess the therapeutic potential for ameliorating respiratory-cardiovascular coupling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Fisher
- Manaaki Manawa-The Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tymoteusz Zera
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julian F R Paton
- Manaaki Manawa-The Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Veiz E, Kieslich SK, Staab J, Czesnik D, Herrmann-Lingen C, Meyer T. Men Show Reduced Cardiac Baroreceptor Sensitivity during Modestly Painful Electrical Stimulation of the Forearm: Exploratory Results from a Sham-Controlled Crossover Vagus Nerve Stimulation Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111193. [PMID: 34769711 PMCID: PMC8582936 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents data from a transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation experiment that point towards a blunted cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity (cBRS) in young males compared to females during electrical stimulation of the forearm and a rhythmic breathing task. Continuous electrocardiography, impedance cardiography and continuous blood-pressure recordings were assessed in a sex-matched cohort of twenty young healthy subjects. Electrical stimulation of the median nerve was conducted by using a threshold-tracking method combined with two rhythmic breathing tasks (0.1 and 0.2 Hz) before, during and after active or sham transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation. Autonomic and hemodynamic parameters were calculated, and differences were analyzed by using linear mixed models and post hoc F-tests. None of the autonomic and hemodynamic parameters differed between the sham and active conditions. However, compared to females, male participants had an overall lower total cBRS independent of stimulation condition during nerve stimulation (females: 14.96 ± 5.67 ms/mmHg, males: 11.89 ± 3.24 ms/mmHg, p = 0.031) and rhythmic breathing at 0.2 Hz (females: 21.49 ± 8.47 ms/mmHg, males: 15.12 ± 5.70 ms/mmHg, p = 0.004). Whereas vagus nerve stimulation at the left inner tragus did not affect the efferent vagal control of the heart, we found similar patterns of baroreceptor sensitivity activation over the stimulation period in both sexes, which, however, significantly differed in their magnitude, with females showing an overall higher cBRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Veiz
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (S.-K.K.); (J.S.); (C.H.-L.)
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany;
- Correspondence: (E.V.); (T.M.)
| | - Susann-Kristin Kieslich
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (S.-K.K.); (J.S.); (C.H.-L.)
| | - Julia Staab
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (S.-K.K.); (J.S.); (C.H.-L.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dirk Czesnik
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Christoph Herrmann-Lingen
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (S.-K.K.); (J.S.); (C.H.-L.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Meyer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (S.-K.K.); (J.S.); (C.H.-L.)
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (E.V.); (T.M.)
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Whittaker AC, Ginty A, Hughes BM, Steptoe A, Lovallo WR. Cardiovascular Stress Reactivity and Health: Recent Questions and Future Directions. Psychosom Med 2021; 83:756-766. [PMID: 34297004 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High cardiovascular reactions to psychological stress are associated with the development of hypertension, systemic atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. However, it has become apparent that low biological stress reactivity also may have serious consequences for health, although less is known about the mechanisms of this. The objectives of this narrative review and opinion article are to summarize and consider where we are now in terms of the usefulness of the reactivity hypothesis and reactivity research, given that both ends of the reactivity spectrum seem to be associated with poor health, and to address some of the key criticisms and future challenges for the research area. METHODS This review is authored by the members of a panel discussion held at the American Psychosomatic Society meeting in 2019, which included questions such as the following: How do we measure high and low reactivity? Can high reactivity ever indicate better health? Does low or blunted reactivity simply reflect less effort on task challenges? Where does low reactivity originate from, and what is a low reactor? RESULTS Cardiovascular (and cortisol) stress reactivity are used as a model to demonstrate an increased understanding of the different individual pathways from stress responses to health/disease and show the challenges of how to understand and best use the reconstruction of the long-standing reactivity hypothesis given recent data. CONCLUSIONS This discussion elucidates the gaps in knowledge and key research issues that still remain to be addressed in this field, and that systematic reviews and meta-analyses continue to be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Whittaker
- From the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport (Whittaker), University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (Ginty), Baylor University, Waco, Texas; School of Psychology (Hughes), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland; Institute of Epidemiology & Health (Steptoe), University College London, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (Lovallo), Norman, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and VA Medical Center, Oklahoma
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Validity of electrodermal activity-based measures of sympathetic nervous system activity from a wrist-worn device. Int J Psychophysiol 2021; 168:52-64. [PMID: 34418464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Measuring electrodermal activity (EDA) on the wrist with the use of dry electrodes is a promising method to help identify person-specific stressors during prolonged recordings in daily life. While the feasibility of this method has been demonstrated, detailed testing of validity of such ambulatory EDA is scarce. In a controlled laboratory study, we examine SCL and ns.SCR derived from wrist-based dry electrodes (Philips DTI) and palm-based wet electrodes (VU-AMS) in 112 healthy adults (57% females, mean age = 22.3, SD = 3.4) across 26 different conditions involving mental stressors or physical activities. Changes in these EDA measures were compared to changes in the Pre-ejection period (PEP) and stressor-induced changes in affect. Absolute SCL and ns.SCR frequency were lower at the wrist compared to the palm. Wrist-based ns.SCR and palm-based ns.SCR and SCL responded directionally consistent with our experimental manipulation of sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity. Average within-subject correlations between palm-based and wrist-based EDA were significant but modest (r SCL = 0.31; r ns.SCR = 0.42). Changes in ns.SCR frequency at the palm (r = -0.44) and the wrist (r = -0.36) were correlated with changes in PEP. Both palm-based and wrist based EDA predicted changes in affect (6.5%-14.5%). Our data suggest that wrist-based ns.SCR frequency is a useful addition to the psychophysiologist's toolkit, at least for epidemiology-sized ambulatory studies of changes in sympathetic activity during daily life.
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Ginty AT, Young DA, Tyra AT, Hurley PE, Brindle RC, Williams SE. Heart Rate Reactivity to Acute Psychological Stress Predicts Higher Levels of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Psychosom Med 2021; 83:351-357. [PMID: 32796336 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased autonomic arousal is a proposed risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Few studies have prospectively examined the association between physiological responses to acute psychological stress before a traumatic event and later PTSD symptoms. The present prospective study examined whether cardiovascular responses to an acute psychological stress task before the COVID-19 global pandemic predicted PTSD symptoms related to the ongoing pandemic. METHODS Participants (n = 120) were a subsample of an ongoing research study. Phase 1 consisted of a 10-minute baseline and 4-minute acute psychological stress task with blood pressure and heart rate recorded throughout. Phase 2 was initiated 2 weeks after the COVID-19 pandemic declaration. Participants completed the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) with respect to the ongoing pandemic. Hierarchical linear regression analyses were used to examine whether cardiovascular stress reactivity predicted COVID-19 PTSD symptoms. RESULTS Heart rate reactivity significantly predicted IES intrusion (β = -0.208, t = -2.28, p = .025, ΔR2 = 0.041, confidence interval = -0.021 to -0.001) and IES hyperarousal (β = -0.224, t = -2.54, p = .012, ΔR2 = 0.047, confidence interval = -0.22 to - 0.003), but not IES avoidance (p = .077). These results remained statistically significant after adjustment for sex, socioeconomic status, baseline cardiovascular activity, neuroticism, race, ethnicity, body mass index, and adverse childhood experiences. There were no statistically significant associations between blood pressure and any of the Impact of Event Scale-Revised subscales (p values > .12). CONCLUSIONS Diminished heart rate responses (i.e., lower physiological arousal) to acute psychological stress before the COVID-19 pandemic significantly predicted reported PTSD symptoms during the crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie T Ginty
- From the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience (Ginty, Young, Tyra, Hurley), Baylor University, Waco, Texas; Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science and Neuroscience Program (Brindle), Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Virginia; and School of Sport, Exercise, and Rehabilitation Sciences (Williams), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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40
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Ahmad M, Tyra AT, Ginty AT, Brindle RC. Trait neuroticism does not relate to cardiovascular reactivity or habituation to repeated acute psychosocial stress. Int J Psychophysiol 2021; 165:112-120. [PMID: 33915234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2021.04.007] [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: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuroticism has been associated with adverse cardiovascular health. Adverse cardiovascular health outcomes have also been linked to cardiovascular reactivity and cardiovascular reactivity habituation to acute psychosocial stress. As such, cardiovascular stress reactivity and habituation may be a factor in the association between neuroticism and disease risk. However, studies of the relationship between neuroticism and cardiovascular reactivity have produced mixed results. Moreover, the relationships between neuroticism, cardiovascular reactivity habituation, and general affect across a repeated stress paradigm have not been examined. The present study aimed to assess the relationships between neuroticism, positive and negative affect, and cardiovascular reactivity and habituation to acute psychosocial stress in a large, demographically diverse sample. Participants (N = 426) completed two 4-min mental arithmetic stressors, each with a separate baseline, in a single laboratory session while having discrete blood pressure and heart rate measurements taken. State positive and negative affect were measured immediately following informed consent, after receiving task instructions, and after each stress task. Trait neuroticism was measured using the Big Five Inventory. Each stress task elicited significant cardiovascular changes. Trait neuroticism was not significantly associated with cardiovascular reactivity or cardiovascular reactivity habituation, within or across stress tasks (all p's > 0.12). Across the entire study protocol, neuroticism was significantly related to lower positive affect and higher negative affect (both p's < 0.001). Trait neuroticism did not relate to stress-related cardiovascular adjustments but might confer a predisposition toward high negative affect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Midha Ahmad
- Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, United States of America
| | | | - Annie T Ginty
- Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States of America
| | - Ryan C Brindle
- Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, United States of America.
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Murray RJ, Apazoglou K, Celen Z, Dayer A, Aubry JM, Ville DVD, Vuilleumier P, Piguet C. Maladaptive emotion regulation traits predict altered corticolimbic recovery from psychosocial stress. J Affect Disord 2021; 280:54-63. [PMID: 33202338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adaptive recovery from stress promotes healthy cognitive affective functioning, whereas maladaptive recovery is linked to poor psychological outcomes. Neural regions, like the anterior cingulate and hippocampus, play critical roles in psychosocial stress responding and serve as hubs in the corticolimbic neural system. To date, however, it is unknown how cognitive emotion regulation traits (cER), adaptive and maladaptive, influence corticolimbic stress recovery. Here, we examined acute psychosocial stress neural recovery, accounting for cER. METHODS Functional neuroimaging data were collected while forty-seven healthy participants performed blocks of challenging, time-sensitive, mental calculations. Participants immediately received performance feedback (positive/negative/neutral) and their ranking, relative to fictitious peers. Participants rested for 90 seconds after each feedback, allowing for a neural stress recovery period. Collected before scanning, cER scores were correlated with neural activity during each recovery condition. RESULTS Negative feedback recovery yielded increased activity within the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex and amygdala, but this effect was ultimately explained by maladaptive cER (M-cER), like rumination. Isolating positive after-effects (i.e. positive > negative recovery) yielded a significant positive correlation between M-cER and the anterior cingulate, anterior insula, hippocampus, and striatum. CONCLUSIONS We provide first evidence of M-cER to predict altered neural recovery from positive stress within corticolimbic regions. Positive feedback may be potentially threatening to individuals with poor stress regulation. Identifying positive stress-induced activation patterns in corticolimbic neural networks linked to M-cER creates the possibility to identify these neural responses as risk factors for social-emotional dysregulation subsequent to rewarding social information, often witnessed in affective disorders, like depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Murray
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Kalliopi Apazoglou
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Neuroscience Department, Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zeynep Celen
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Dayer
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Mood Disorder Unit, Psychiatric Specialties Service, Geneva University Hospital, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Aubry
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Mood Disorder Unit, Psychiatric Specialties Service, Geneva University Hospital, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dimitri Van De Ville
- Medical Image Processing Laboratory, Center for Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrik Vuilleumier
- Neuroscience Department, Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Camille Piguet
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Mood Disorder Unit, Psychiatric Specialties Service, Geneva University Hospital, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
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Ginty AT, Tyra AT, Young DA, John-Henderson NA, Gallagher S, Tsang JAC. State gratitude is associated with lower cardiovascular responses to acute psychological stress: A replication and extension. Int J Psychophysiol 2020; 158:238-247. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Jennings JR, Muldoon MF, Allen B, Ginty AT, Gianaros PJ. Cerebrovascular function in hypertension: Does high blood pressure make you old? Psychophysiology 2020; 58:e13654. [PMID: 32830869 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The majority of individuals over an age of 60 have hypertension. Elevated blood pressure and older age are associated with very similar changes in brain structure and function. We review the parallel brain changes associated with increasing age and blood pressure. This review focuses on joint associations of aging and elevated blood pressure with neuropsychological function, regional cerebral blood flow responses to cognitive and metabolic challenges, white matter disruptions, grey matter volume, cortical thinning, and neurovascular coupling. Treatment of hypertension ameliorates many of these changes but fails to reverse them. Treatment of hypertension itself appears more successful with better initial brain function. We show evidence that sympathetic and renal influences known to increase blood pressure also impact brain integrity. Possible central mechanisms contributing to the course of hypertension and aging are then suggested. An emphasis is placed on psychologically relevant factors: stress, cardiovascular reactions to stress, and diet/obesity. The contribution of some of these factors to biological aging remains unclear and may provide a starting point for defining the independent and interacting effects of aging and increasing blood pressure on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Richard Jennings
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Matthew F Muldoon
- Department of Medicine, Heart and Vascular Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ben Allen
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Peter J Gianaros
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Yuksel D, Baker FC, Goldstone A, Claudatos SA, Forouzanfar M, Prouty DE, Colrain IM, de Zambotti M. Stress, sleep, and autonomic function in healthy adolescent girls and boys: Findings from the NCANDA study. Sleep Health 2020; 7:72-78. [PMID: 32732156 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleh.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Starting in adolescence, female sex is a strong risk factor for the development of insomnia. Reasons for this are unclear but could involve altered stress reactivity and/or autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation, which are strongly associated with the pathophysiology of insomnia. We investigated sex differences in the effect of stress on sleep and ANS activity in adolescents, using the first night in the laboratory as an experimental sleep-related stressor. DESIGN Repeated measures (first night vs. a subsequent night) with age (older/younger) and sex (males/females) as between factors. SETTING Recordings were performed at the human sleep laboratory at SRI International. PARTICIPANTS One hundred six healthy adolescents (Age, mean ± SD: 15.2 ± 2.0 years; 57 boys). MEASURES Polysomnographic sleep, nocturnal heart rate (HR), and frequency-domain spectral ANS HR variability (HRV) indices. RESULTS Boys and girls showed a first-night effect, characterized by lower sleep efficiency, lower %N1 and %N2 sleep, more wake after sleep onset and %N3 sleep, altered sleep microstructure (increased high-frequency sigma and Beta1 electroencephalographic activity), and reduced vagal activity (P < .05) on the first laboratory night compared to a subsequent night. The first night ANS stress effect (increases in HR and suppression in vagal HRV during rapid eye movement sleep) was greater in girls than boys (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Sleep and ANS activity were altered during the first laboratory night in adolescents, with girls exhibiting greater ANS alterations than boys. Findings suggest that girls may be more vulnerable than boys to sleep-specific stressors, which could contribute to their increased risk for developing stress-related sleep disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Yuksel
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Fiona C Baker
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, USA; Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Aimee Goldstone
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | | | | | - Devin E Prouty
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, USA
| | - Ian M Colrain
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, USA; Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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van der Mee DJ, Duivestein Q, Gevonden MJ, Westerink JHDM, de Geus EJC. The short Sing-a-Song Stress Test: A practical and valid test of autonomic responses induced by social-evaluative stress. Auton Neurosci 2020; 224:102612. [PMID: 31962195 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2019.102612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The Sing-a-Song Stress Test (SSST) was recently developed as an alternative to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) to investigate autonomic nervous system responses to social-evaluative stress. In the SSST, participants are suddenly cued to sing a song in the presence of confederates. However, the SSST is still quite long (~15 min) and the requirement for confederates makes it labor-intensive. The current study tested whether a shorter (~6.5 min), single-experimenter, version of the SSST can still reliably elicit subjective and physiological stress reactivity. Our sample consisted of 87 healthy young adult participants (age range: 18-35 years). During the short SSST and a speeded reaction time task, in which aversive loud tones were to be avoided (TA), we measured heart period (HP), sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity using pre-ejection-period (PEP), skin conductance level (SCL), and non-specific skin conductance responses (ns.SCR), and parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity using respiratory-sinus-arrhythmia (RSA) and the root-mean-square of successive differences (RMSSD). The short SSST induced significant decreases in positive affect and increases in negative affect. MANOVAs on the clusters of SNS and PNS variables showed that the short SSST elicited significant HP (-118.46 ms), PEP (-7.76 ms), SCL (+4.85 μS), ns.SCR (+8.42 peaks/min) and RMSSD (-14.67) reactivity. Affective, SNS, and PNS reactivity to the new SSST social-evaluative stress task were of comparable magnitude to that evoked by the TA mental stressor. We conclude that the short SSST is a valid and cost-effective task for large scaled studies to induce social-evaluative stress to a sufficient degree to evoke measurable changes in PNS and SNS activity and affective state.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J van der Mee
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Q Duivestein
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M J Gevonden
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J H D M Westerink
- Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Philips Research, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - E J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Roder E, Koehler-Dauner F, Krause S, Prinz J, Rottler E, Alkon A, Kolassa IT, Gündel H, Fegert JM, Ziegenhain U, Waller C. Maternal separation and contact to a stranger more than reunion affect the autonomic nervous system in the mother-child dyad. Int J Psychophysiol 2020; 147:26-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2019.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Köhler-Dauner F, Roder E, Krause S, Buchheim A, Gündel H, Fegert JM, Ziegenhain U, Waller C. Reduced caregiving quality measured during the strange situation procedure increases child's autonomic nervous system stress response. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2019; 13:41. [PMID: 31695745 PMCID: PMC6824052 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-019-0302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunctional maternal behavior has been shown to lead to disturbances in infant's regulatory capacities and alterations in vagal reactivity. We aim to investigate the autonomic nervous system (ANS) response of the child during the strange situation procedure (SSP) in relation to the quality of maternal behavior. METHODS Twelve month after birth, 163 mother-child-dyads were investigated during the SSP. Heart rate (HR) and both, the parasympathetic branch (PNS) via the respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and the sympathetic branch (SNS) via the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) of the ANS were continuously determined during the SSP using electrocardiogram (ECG) and impedance cardiogram (ICG) measures. Maternal behavior was assessed by using the AMBIANCE measure. RESULTS The ANS response in infants of mothers with disruptive behavior compared to infants of non-disruptive mothers was significantly altered during the SSP: HR increased especially when infants of disruptive mothers were alone with the stranger (F (1, 161) = 4.15, p = .04) with a significant vagal withdrawal when being in contact with the stranger despite of presence of the mother (F (1, 161) = 5.11, p = .03) and a significant increase in vagal tone during final reunion (F (1, 161) = 3.76, p = .05). HR increase was mainly based on a decrease in LVET (F (1, 161) = 4.08, p = .05) with a maximum infant's HR when the stranger came into the room instead of the mother. CONCLUSION Both, SNS and PNS branches of the child are significantly altered in terms of an ANS imbalance, especially during contract to a stranger, in relation to dysfunctional maternal behavior. Our findings suggest the importance of supporting high quality caregiving that enables the infant to adapt adequately to stressful interpersonal situations which is likely to promote later health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Köhler-Dauner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm Medical University of Ulm, Steinhövelstraße 5, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva Roder
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabrina Krause
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anna Buchheim
- Institute of Psychology, University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Harald Gündel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jörg M. Fegert
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm Medical University of Ulm, Steinhövelstraße 5, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ute Ziegenhain
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm Medical University of Ulm, Steinhövelstraße 5, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Christiane Waller
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg General Hospital, Nuremberg, Germany
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Lee EM, Hughes BM. Trait dominance and cardiovascular functioning during social stress. Stress Health 2019; 35:516-524. [PMID: 31276288 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular reactivity (CVR) to stress has been found to be an important indicator of future ill health, and individual differences in personality have been posited to explain disparities in outcomes. Dominance is associated with forceful persons who desire hierarchy in social interactions. This study investigated dominance and CVR during social or asocial stressors. Sixty-one women, categorized as low, moderate, or high in dominance using the Jackson Personality Research Form, completed a social or asocial stressor while undergoing cardiovascular measurement during baseline, stressor, and recovery phases. A 3 × 2 × 3 analysis of covariance revealed a significant Phase × Stressor × Dominance interaction for systolic blood pressure (SBP). Women with lower and moderate dominance-but not women with higher dominance-exhibited greater SBP responses to stress in the social condition compared with the asocial condition. No significant difference was found for women with higher dominance, indicative of blunted SBP during the social stressor. During recovery, women with lower dominance had marginally elevated SBP in the social condition compared with the asocial condition. The current study extends prior knowledge of the association between dominance and CVR, such that greater dominance was associated with blunted SBP and lower dominance was associated with attenuated recovery to social stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eimear M Lee
- School of Psychology and Sport Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Brian M Hughes
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Heart Rate Variability reveals the fight between racially biased and politically correct behaviour. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11532. [PMID: 31395895 PMCID: PMC6687825 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47888-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we explored vagally-mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV) responses, a psychophysiological index of cognitive self-regulatory control, to map the dynamics associated with empathic responses for pain towards an out-group member. Accordingly, Caucasian participants were asked to judge the experience of African and Caucasian actors touched with either a neutral or a harmful stimulus. Results showed that (1) explicit judgment of pain intensity in African actors yielded higher rating score and (2) took longer time compared to Caucasian actors, (3) these behavioural outcomes were associated with a significant increment of RMSSD, Log-HF-HRV and HF-HRV n.u., (4) resting HF-HRV n.u. predicted the participants’ lag-time to judge painful stimulations delivered to African actors. Interestingly, these dynamics were associated with a measure of implicit racial attitudes and were, in part, abolished when participants performed a concurrent task during videos presentation. Taken together our results support the idea that a cognitive effort is needed to self-regulate our implicit attitude as predicted by the ‘Contrasting Forces Model’.
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Trotman GP, Veldhuijzen van Zanten JJCS, Davies J, Möller C, Ginty AT, Williams SE. Associations between heart rate, perceived heart rate, and anxiety during acute psychological stress. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2019; 32:711-727. [PMID: 31382769 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2019.1648794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Acute psychological stress elicits increases in heart rate (HR) and anxiety. Theories propose associations between HR, perceived HR, and anxiety during stress. However, anxiety is often measured as a unidimensional construct which limits a comprehensive understanding of these relationships. Objectives: This research explored whether HR reactivity or perceived HR change was more closely associated with cognitive and somatic anxiety during acute psychological stress. Design: Two laboratory-based studies were conducted. Methods: In a single laboratory session, healthy male (N = 71; study 1) and female (N = 70; study 2) university students completed three laboratory psychological stress tasks (counterbalanced), each with a preceding baseline. Heart rate, perceived HR change, and cognitive and somatic anxiety intensity and interpretation of anxiety symptoms were assessed immediately following each task. Data were aggregated across tasks. Results: Actual HR change was unrelated to anxiety intensity, but was associated with more debilitative interpretations of anxiety (study 2). Perceptions of HR change were consistently associated with greater intensity of cognitive (study 1) and somatic (study 1 and 2) anxiety. Conclusions: Perceived HR rather than actual HR is more closely associated with anxiety intensity during psychological stress. The findings have implications for stress management and the clinical treatment of anxiety symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin P Trotman
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | | | - Jack Davies
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - Clara Möller
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - Annie T Ginty
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University , Waco , TX , USA
| | - Sarah E Williams
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
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