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Tsatali M, Avdikou K, Gialaouzidis M, Minopoulou D, Emmanouel A, Kouroundi E, Tsolaki M. The discriminant validity of Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT) in subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment (multiple domain) and Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD; mild stage) in Greek older adults. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. ADULT 2024; 31:476-485. [PMID: 35188843 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2022.2037089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Aim: The goal of this study was to determine the discriminant potential of the Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT) in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment multiple domain (mdMCI) and Alzheimer's Disease Dementia (ADD; mild subtype) as compared to older adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD).Materials and methods: We administered RCFT in 608 older adults, dividing them in three groups (217 individuals with SCD; 304 mdMCI population; 106 people with mild ADD, aged 50-90 years; M = 66.9, SD = 8.4) and a mean education of 10.20 (SD 4.3) years.Results: RCFT subtests have excellent discriminant validity, mainly between people with SCD and those with mild ADD. However, its discriminant validity in detecting older adults with SCD among mdMCI population is still questionable.Discussion: The use of RFCT in discriminating older adults with SCD from those with mild ADD both in research as well as in clinical practice is highly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Tsatali
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Avdikou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Moses Gialaouzidis
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despoina Minopoulou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Emmanouel
- Rehabilitation Center 'Anagennisi', Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Kouroundi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magda Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI- AUTh), Thessaloniki, Greece
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Mantadaki AE, Linardakis M, Tsakiri M, Baliou S, Fragkiadaki P, Vakonaki E, Tzatzarakis MN, Tsatsakis A, Symvoulakis EK. Benefits of Quercetin on Glycated Hemoglobin, Blood Pressure, PiKo-6 Readings, Night-Time Sleep, Anxiety, and Quality of Life in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3504. [PMID: 38930033 PMCID: PMC11205103 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13123504] [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: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a rapidly growing global morbidity issue with high prevalence, and the associated dysglycemia leads to complications. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often experience elevated anxiety levels, affecting their quality of life and diabetes management. This study investigated quercetin, a nutraceutical and potential senolytic with antioxidant activity, to detect its possible positive effect on the bio-clinical measurements and routine health of patients with T2DM. Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigated the clinical usefulness of quercetin in patients with T2DM receiving non-insulin medications. One hundred participants were stratified by age and sex (1:1) and randomized to control (n = 50) or intervention (n = 50) groups. The control received standard care only, while the intervention received 500 mg quercetin daily for 12 weeks, followed by an 8-week washout and a final consecutive 12-week supplementation period (total: 32 weeks), as adjunct to their usual care. Comprehensive health assessments, including blood analyses, were conducted at baseline and study termination. Quality of life and anxiety were assessed using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST-10). Results: Eighty-eight patients with T2DM concluded the trial. Compared with the control, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels showed a significant decrease (Δ%-change: -4.0% vs. 0.1%, p = 0.011). Quercetin also significantly improved PiKo-6 readings (FEV1: 5.6% vs. -1.5%, p = 0.002), systolic blood pressure (-5.0% vs. -0.2%, p = 0.029), night-time sleep (11.6% vs. -7.3%, p < 0.001), anxiety levels (SAST-10) (-26.2% vs. 3.3%, p < 0.001), and quality of life (SF-36) (both physical and mental components, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Based on the current open-label study, quercetin appears to be a promising supplement for T2DM, providing lifestyle and care support. Further research is warranted to shift this potential from clinical usefulness and feasibility to multidisciplinary evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini E. Mantadaki
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece; (M.L.); (E.K.S.)
| | - Manolis Linardakis
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece; (M.L.); (E.K.S.)
| | - Maria Tsakiri
- Iatrica, Local Unit of Lab Analysis and Diagnostics Network, 71303 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Stella Baliou
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece or (S.B.); (P.F.); (E.V.); (M.N.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece or (S.B.); (P.F.); (E.V.); (M.N.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece or (S.B.); (P.F.); (E.V.); (M.N.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Manolis N. Tzatzarakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece or (S.B.); (P.F.); (E.V.); (M.N.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece or (S.B.); (P.F.); (E.V.); (M.N.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Emmanouil K. Symvoulakis
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece; (M.L.); (E.K.S.)
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Bampa G, Moraitou D, Metallidou P, Masoura E, Papantoniou G, Sofologi M, Kougioumtzis GA, Tsolaki M. The Efficacy of a Metacognitive Training Program in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: A 6-Month Follow-Up Clinical Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1019. [PMID: 38786429 PMCID: PMC11121656 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12101019] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted in response to the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia and the significant risk faced by individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment with multiple-domain deficits (aMCI-md). Given the promising effects of MTPs, the primary aim of this study was to further explore their impact by assessing the maintenance of their benefits. Thus, 45 participants were randomly allocated in two groups: the Experimental group (n = 22), which received the metacognitive training program (MTP), and the Control group (n = 23) that received the cognitive exercises program (CEP). The training programs-the MTP and the CEP-included 10 individual sessions of a one-hour duration and took place once per week. To test the efficacy of the MTP, cognitive and metacognitive outcomes were compared between two groups-Experimental (EG) and Control (CG)-at four distinct time points: before-after-3 months-6 months after intervention. Based on this study's findings, the positive effects of the MTP were evident over a six-month period. Specifically, already three months post-training, the CG began to show a decline in training-related gains. In contrast, the EG's performance consistently improved, highlighting the superior efficacy of the MTP. Gains attributed to the MTP were detected in cognitive measures: cognitive flexibility and immediate visual recall, as well as in metacognitive measures: metacognitive control, improved metacognitive beliefs of attention, and an increased use of cognitive strategies. In conclusion, the results demonstrated the sustained effects of the MTP in cognitive and metacognitive measures over a period of six months, providing novel insight into the application and efficacy of the MTP in individuals with MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigoria Bampa
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Panagiota Metallidou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Elvira Masoura
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Georgia Papantoniou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (G.P.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Sofologi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (G.P.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios A. Kougioumtzis
- Department of Turkish and Modern Asian Studies, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Psychology, Neapolis University Pafos, 8042 Pafos, Cyprus
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Mantadaki AE, Linardakis M, Vafeiadi M, Anastasiou F, Tsatsakis A, Symvoulakis EK. The Impact of Three-Month Quercetin Intake on Quality of Life and Anxiety in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus: An Early Data Analysis From a Randomized Controlled Trial. Cureus 2024; 16:e58219. [PMID: 38745810 PMCID: PMC11091546 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58219] [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] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes is a high-prevalence, major chronic metabolic disease demanding effective interventions. Quercetin, a phytochemical with potential health benefits, has garnered interest for its therapeutic properties. AIM This study was designed to capture the early efficacy and clinical safety aspects following quercetin administration in patients with type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS The main study involved a randomized allocation procedure to assign non-insulin-treated patients attending the 4th Health Unit of Heraklion to intervention and control groups based on age and sex. The intervention group (n=50) received 500 mg of quercetin daily for 12 + (8 free intervals) + 12 weeks, alongside their usual treatment, while the control group (n=50) did not. After randomization, for the intermediary 12-week follow-up, data from 38 patients (intervention: 20; control: 18) were analyzed in this report. All subjects provided informed consent for the collection of anthropometric measurements, vital signs, daily habits data, and PiKo-6 spirometric readings. Additionally, participants responded to the Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaires. RESULTS Thirty-eight participants were included (60% men and 40% women in the intervention group; 38.9% men and 61.1% women in the control group). In the treatment arm, Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second (FEV1) measured with PiKo-6 showed a Δ%- change for the intervention arm: +6.8%, control: -0.2% (p=0.059), systolic blood pressure; intervention: -7.4%, control: -3.7% (p=0.117), waist circumference; intervention: -1.5% control: -0.7% (p=0.455) and night-time sleep; intervention: +5.3%, control: +1.4% (p=0.926) were favourably influenced. The treatment group exhibited significant enhancements in both anxiety levels assessed by the anxiety symptoms scale (SAST-10, p=0.026) and quality of life evaluated by the SF-36 (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Positive evidence is emerging for a pleiotropic effect of quercetin intake in patients with T2DM, specifically in terms of anxiety reduction and amelioration of life quality, in just 12 weeks of administration and without adverse effects, indicating clinical safety and underscoring its potential for integration in T2DM supportive care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manolis Linardakis
- Department of Social Medicine, Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, GRC
| | - Marina Vafeiadi
- Department of Social Medicine, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, GRC
| | - Foteini Anastasiou
- Department of Social Medicine, Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, GRC
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Morphology, Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, GRC
| | - Emmanouil K Symvoulakis
- Department of Social Medicine, Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, University of Crete, School of Medicine, Heraklion, GRC
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Bampa G, Moraitou D, Metallidou P, Masoura E, Papantoniou G, Sofologi M, Kougioumtzis G, Papatzikis E, Tsolaki M. Metacognitive beliefs of efficacy about daily life situations and use of cognitive strategies in amnestic mild cognitive impairment: a cross-sectional study. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1275678. [PMID: 38414872 PMCID: PMC10896964 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1275678] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Metacognition, the ability to monitor and regulate cognitive processes, is essential for individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to accurately identify their deficits and effectively manage them. However, previous studies primarily focused on memory awareness in MCI, neglecting other domains affected in daily life. This study aimed to investigate how individuals with MCI perceive their abilities to handle various cognitively challenging situations representing real-life scenarios and their use of compensatory strategies. Thus 100 participants were recruited, including 50 with amnestic MCI with multiple deficits (aMCI) and 50 cognitively healthy controls (HC) matched in age and education. Participants completed three metacognitive scales assessing self-perceived efficacy in everyday life scenarios and one scale evaluating use of cognitive strategies. Results indicated that aMCI participants reported significantly lower self-efficacy in memory and divided-shifted attention scenarios compared to HC. Surprisingly, no significant group differences were found in the self-reports about the use of cognitive strategies. This suggests a potential gap in understanding or applying effective strategies for compensating cognitive deficits. These findings emphasize the importance of cognitive training programs targeting metacognitive knowledge enhancement and practical use of cognitive strategies that could enhance the quality of life for individuals with MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigoria Bampa
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balcan Center, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balcan Center, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiota Metallidou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Elvira Masoura
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Papantoniou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Sofologi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios Kougioumtzis
- Department of Turkish and Modern Asian Studies, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychology, Neapolis University Pafos, Pafos, Cyprus
| | - Efthymios Papatzikis
- Department of Early Childhood Education and Care, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
- Bright Start Foundation for Maternal and Child Health, Geneva, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and Health, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balcan Center, Thessaloniki, Greece
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
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Kazaki S, Christodoulakis A, Tsiligianni I, Linardakis M, Mantadaki AE, Kaffesakis T, Symvoulakis EK. Health-Related Issues of Users of Social Care Services for Elderly and Their Caregivers: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Day Care Center. CURRENT HEALTH SCIENCES JOURNAL 2024; 50:117-124. [PMID: 38846480 PMCID: PMC11151951 DOI: 10.12865/chsj.50.01.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to examine two hypotheses: 1) Users of Day Care Center for Elderly (DCCE) would have frail health and multiple age-related care needs, and 2) caregivers would have to deal with some levels of anxiety due to the burden of care, and similar levels of quality of life to the users. MATERIALS AND METHODS The current cross-sectional study was carried out at a DCCE of the regional unit of Heraklion, Crete, Greece, between March-April 2022. The study sample comprised 29 DCCE social care services users and 51 caregivers. A short questionnaire sheet was created to record sociodemographic characteristics and general health-related issues. Additionally, the Anxiety Symptom Scale (Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST)) and the Quality of Life (SF-12) were used to measure anxiety and quality of life of the participants. Comparison analysis was performed to detect differences between the two groups. RESULTS The most common morbidities for users of DCCE were hypertension (58.6%), hypercholesterolemia (55.2%), rheumatoid arthritis (24.1%), diabetes (24.1%) and heart disease (41.4%). Users of social care services have significantly higher vaccination rates (influenza: 100%, COVID-19: 100%, herpes zoster: 44.8%, and pneumococcus: 86.2%) than their caregivers. About 75% (yes: 24% and sometimes: 51.8%) of the users and 45% of their caregivers (yes: 7.8%, and sometimes: 37.3%) felt lonely at least sometimes. All participants were found to have low mean levels of the SAST score (18.4, SD:4.9) and 18.7% were on the verge of severe symptoms. Users of social care services were found to have low average levels of quality of life (SF-12), with significantly lower physical health (28.2, SD: 6.6) compared to the Mental health subscale (39.6, SD: 9.3) (p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted the main health-issues of DCCE users, and that they have low quality of life. Additionally, we found that caregivers faced a few health-issues, and had higher quality of life and lower SAST levels than the users. Therefore, social and health policy providers should consider our findings and assess the users' and caregivers' needs to provide holistic care, thus improving their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Styliani Kazaki
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Antonios Christodoulakis
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioanna Tsiligianni
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Manolis Linardakis
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aikaterini E Mantadaki
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Theodosios Kaffesakis
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Emmanouil K Symvoulakis
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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Tsormpatzoudi SO, Moraitou D, Papaliagkas V, Pezirkianidis C, Tsolaki M. Resilience in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Examining the Level and the Associations of Resilience with Subjective Wellbeing and Negative Affect in Early and Late-Stage MCI. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:792. [PMID: 37887442 PMCID: PMC10603887 DOI: 10.3390/bs13100792] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study examines the relationship between the cognitive state of participants [healthy-early mild cognitive impairment (MCI)-late MCI], some subjective wellbeing factors (positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, meaning in life, accomplishment, and negative emotions), and negative psychological outcomes (depression, anxiety, stress), as well as psychological resilience. We expected that people with advanced MCI would perceive increased negative psychological outcomes, poorer psychological resilience, and lower levels of subjective wellbeing in contrast to early MCI and healthy participants. The study involved 30 healthy, 31 early, and 28 late MCI individuals. A series of questionnaires have been applied to assess the aforementioned constructs. To examine the hypotheses of the study, path analysis (EQS program) was applied. Results showed that early MCI persons maintain the same levels of positive emotions and feelings of accomplishment with healthy peers. Late-stage patients present those feelings in a diminished form, which adversely impacts psychological resilience. Individuals with early and late MCI exhibit negative emotions and stress that impact their resilience; however, those with early MCI experience greater stress, negative emotions, depression, and anxiety. These findings may be utilized to design psychological interventions for resilience enhancement and support brain health in elderly adults who are at risk of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Styliani Olympia Tsormpatzoudi
- Neurosciences and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Postgraduate Course, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Experimental and Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Christos Pezirkianidis
- Laboratory of Positive Psychology, Panteion University of Social & Political Sciences, Syggrou Ave. 136, 17671 Athens, Greece;
| | - Magda Tsolaki
- Neurosciences and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Postgraduate Course, Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Bampa G, Tsolaki M, Moraitou D, Metallidou P, Masoura E, Mintziviri M, Paparis K, Tsourou D, Papantoniou G, Sofologi M, Papaliagkas V, Kougioumtzis G, Papatzikis E. Metacognitive Differences in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Healthy Cognition: A Cross-Sectional Study Employing Online Measures. J Intell 2023; 11:184. [PMID: 37754914 PMCID: PMC10532837 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence11090184] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine metacognitive abilities in individuals diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) by using online metacognitive measures during cognitive tasks. A total of 100 participants were enrolled, all aged 50 or older (mean age = 61.98; SD = 6.27), and with a minimum of six years of education (mean = 14.95; SD = 2.94). The sample included 50 individuals with aMCI (34 females) and 50 healthy controls (HC) (33 females). Both groups underwent metacognitive versions of memory tasks (Doors and People) and executive functions tasks (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test). Metacognition was assessed through confidence ratings given after each answer (referred to as metacognitive monitoring) and the accuracy of the participants' decisions to include or exclude answers from their final scores (known as metacognitive control). The results showed that although individuals with aMCI were aware of their cognitive limitations-evidenced by their lower confidence ratings across all tasks-they still exhibited overconfidence relative to their actual performance. Moreover, they included a greater number of incorrect answers in their final scores compared to the healthy control group. These findings suggest that while individuals with aMCI retain some level of awareness, their self-evaluations appear to lack precision. This observation was consistent across both types of cognitive tasks. The results underscore the need for additional research to better understand metacognition in MCI as well as the interplay between metacognitive monitoring and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigoria Bampa
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI–AUTH), Balcan Center, Buildings A & B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Panagiota Metallidou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Elvira Masoura
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (P.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Maria Mintziviri
- School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Paparis
- School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dorothea Tsourou
- School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Papantoniou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (G.P.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Sofologi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (G.P.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Georgios Kougioumtzis
- Department of Turkish and Modern Asian Studies, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Psychology, Neapolis University Pafos, Pafos 8042, Cyprus
| | - Efthymios Papatzikis
- Department of Early Childhood Education and Care, Oslo Metropolitan University, 0167 Oslo, Norway
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Pikouli FA, Moraitou D, Papantoniou G, Sofologi M, Papaliagkas V, Kougioumtzis G, Poptsi E, Tsolaki M. Metacognitive Strategy Training Improves Decision-Making Abilities in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment. J Intell 2023; 11:182. [PMID: 37754911 PMCID: PMC10532678 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence11090182] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is associated with deficits in decision-making, which is of utmost importance for daily functioning. Despite evidence of declined decision-making abilities, research on decision-making interventions for MCI is scarce. As metacognition seems to play an important role in decision-making, the present study's aim was to examine whether a metacognitive strategy training can improve MCI patients' decision-making abilities. Older adults-patients of a day care center, diagnosed with amnestic MCI (n = 55) were randomly allocated in two groups, which were matched in gender, age and educational level. Τhe experimental group (n = 27, 18 women, mean age = 70.63, mean years of education = 13.44) received the metacognitive strategy training in parallel with the cognitive and physical training programs of the day care center, and the active control group (n = 28, 21 women, mean age = 70.86, mean years of education = 13.71) received only the cognitive and physical training of the center. The metacognitive strategy training included three online meeting sessions that took place once per week. The basis of the intervention was using analytical thinking, by answering four metacognitive-strategic questions, to make decisions about everyday situations. To examine the efficacy of the training, the ability to make decisions about everyday decision-making situations and the ability to apply decision rules were measured. Both groups participated in a pre-test session and a post-test session, while the experimental group also participated in a follow-up session, one month after the post-test session. The results showed that the experimental group improved its ability to decide, based on analytical thinking, about economic and healthcare-related everyday decision-making situations after they received the metacognitive strategy training. This improvement was maintained one month later. However, the ability to apply decision rules, which requires high cognitive effort, did not improve. In conclusion, it is important that some aspects of the analytical decision-making ability of amnestic MCI patients were improved due to the present metacognitive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Aikaterini Pikouli
- Cognitive Psychology and Applications, Postgraduate Course, School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Cognitive Psychology and Applications, Postgraduate Course, School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognition, Brain and Behavior, School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.P.); (E.P.); (M.T.)
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Papantoniou
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.P.); (E.P.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Sofologi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
- Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Research Centre of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Georgios Kougioumtzis
- Department of Turkish Studies and Modern Asian Studies, Faculty of Economic and Political Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Neapolis University Pafos, 8042 Pafos, Cyprus
| | - Eleni Poptsi
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.P.); (E.P.); (M.T.)
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Aristotle University, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.P.); (E.P.); (M.T.)
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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10
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Tsatali M, Moraitou D, Boza ES, Tsolaki M. Cognition and Functionality Were Not Affected Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic in People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and AD Dementia Attending Digital Non-Pharmacologic Interventions. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1044. [PMID: 37508975 PMCID: PMC10376995 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071044] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of previous studies showed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as well as Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD) had impaired cognition and mood status, as well as increased behavioral disturbances after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are still controversial data as regards the multifactorial impact of the restrictive measures on cognition, mood and daily function in older adults with MCI and ADD. AIM In the current study, the scope is to identify possible deterioration by means of cognitive and functional level due to mood and behavioral alterations during the second quarantine imposed in Greece between November 2020 and May 2021, as well as one year after the second quarantine, in May 2022. METHODS Participants were recruited from the two day centers of the Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD). They underwent three yearly follow up assessments from May 2020 to May 2022 and participated in cognitive training interventions (through digital online means) during the aforementioned period. Mixed measures analyses of variance as well as path models were used for the study's purposes. RESULTS The study sample comprised 210 participants (175 people with MCI and 35 people with ADD). The mean age was 71.59 and 77.94 for people with MCI and mild ADD, respectively, whereas the average number of years of education was 12.65 for those with MCI and 9.83 for people with mild ADD. The results show that participants' deterioration rate (D), calculated by means of their performance in neuropsychological and functional assessments between 2020 and 2021 (D1) and 2021 and 2022 (D2), did not change significantly, except for the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), since both groups displayed a larger D2 across the test conditions (immediate recall, fifth trial and delayed recall). Trail Making Test-B (TMT-B) performance, applied only in the MCI group, decreased more in relation to the deterioration rate D2. Additionally, two path models were applied to measure the direct relationships between diagnosis, performance in tests measuring mood and neuropsychiatric disturbances (NPI) and cognition, as measured by the RAVLT, in the 2020-2022 assessments. TMT-B was administered only in the MCI population, and therefore was not included in path models. The results show that participants' scores in RAVLT conditions were related to diagnosis and NPI performance, which was positively affected by diagnosis. No other relationships between RAVLT with mood tests were observed. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that after the second lockdown period, the neuropsychological performance of people with MCI and ADD, calculated by means of their D2, did not change, except from their verbal memory, as well as visual scanning and information processing, measured using the TMT-B. Therefore, it can be assumed that those who were enrolled in digital non-pharmacological interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic home restrictions did not experience increased cognitive and functional deterioration due to mood and behavioral alterations after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Tsatali
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI-AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evgenia Sakka Boza
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI-AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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11
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Poptsi E, Moraitou D, Tsardoulias E, Symeonidis AL, Papaliagkas V, Tsolaki M. R4Alz-Revised: A Tool Able to Strongly Discriminate 'Subjective Cognitive Decline' from Healthy Cognition and 'Minor Neurocognitive Disorder'. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13030338. [PMID: 36766444 PMCID: PMC9914647 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13030338] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of the minor neurocognitive diseases in the clinical course of dementia before the clinical symptoms' appearance is the holy grail of neuropsychological research. The R4Alz battery is a novel and valid tool that was designed to assess cognitive control in people with minor cognitive disorders. The aim of the current study is the R4Alz battery's extension (namely R4Alz-R), enhanced by the design and administration of extra episodic memory tasks, as well as extra cognitive control tasks, towards improving the overall R4Alz discriminant validity. METHODS The study comprised 80 people: (a) 20 Healthy adults (HC), (b) 29 people with Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD), and (c) 31 people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The groups differed in age and educational level. RESULTS Updating, inhibition, attention switching, and cognitive flexibility tasks discriminated SCD from HC (p ≤ 0.003). Updating, switching, cognitive flexibility, and episodic memory tasks discriminated SCD from MCI (p ≤ 0.001). All the R4Alz-R's tasks discriminated HC from MCI (p ≤ 0.001). The R4Alz-R was free of age and educational level effects. The battery discriminated perfectly SCD from HC and HC from MCI (100% sensitivity-95% specificity and 100% sensitivity-90% specificity, respectively), whilst it discriminated excellently SCD from MCI (90.3% sensitivity-82.8% specificity). CONCLUSION SCD seems to be stage a of neurodegeneration since it can be objectively evaluated via the R4Alz-R battery, which seems to be a useful tool for early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Poptsi
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Despina Moraitou
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Tsardoulias
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreas L. Symeonidis
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Day Center “Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)”, 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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12
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Poptsi E, Moraitou D, Tsatali M, Papaliagkas V, Tzanakaki-Melissari M, Kyriakoulaki E, Kounti F, Markou N, Liapi D, Batsila G, Ouzouni F, Vasiloglou M, Tsolaki M. Examining Voting Capacity in Older Adults with and without Cognitive Decline. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121614. [PMID: 36552074 PMCID: PMC9776084 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121614] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nowadays, controversy exists regarding the stage of cognitive decline and/or dementia where voting capacity is diminished. AIM To evaluate whether general cognitive status in advancing age predicts voting capacity in its specific aspects. METHODS The study sample comprised 391 people: 88 cognitively healthy older adults (CH), 150 people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and 153 people with Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD). The assessment included CAT-V for the voting capacity and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) for general cognitive ability. ANOVAs and ROC curves were the tools of statistical analysis towards (a) indicating under which MMSE rate participants are incapable of voting and (b) whether the CAT-V total score can discriminate people with dementia (PwADD) from people without dementia (PwtD). RESULTS Out of the six CAT-V questions, one question was associated with a low MMSE cutoff score (19.50), having excellent sensitivity (92.5%) and specificity (77.20%), whilst the other five questions presented a higher MMSE cutoff score, with a good sensitivity (78.4% to 87.6%) and specificity (75.3% to 81.7%), indicating that voting difficulties are associated with cognitive status. Secondarily, the total CAT-V score discriminates PwADD from PwtD of 51-65 years (sensitivity 93.2%/specificity 100%-excellent), PwADD from PwtD of 66-75 years (sensitivity 73.3%/specificity 97.1%-good), PwADD from PwtD of 76-85 years (sensitivity 92.2%/specificity 64.7%-good), whilst for 86-95 years, a cutoff of 9.5 resulted in perfect sensitivity and specificity (100%). CONCLUSION According to MMSE, PwADD have no full voting competence, whilst PwtD seem to have intact voting capacity. The calculated cut-off scores indicate that only people who score more than 28 points on the MMSE have voting capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Poptsi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marianna Tsatali
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2310-351-451
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Elia Kyriakoulaki
- Institute of Research and Education of Psychiatric and Dementia Patient’s, 73100 Chania, Greece
| | - Fotini Kounti
- Heraklion Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Healthy Aging “ALLILENGII”, 71201 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Nefeli Markou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Liapi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Batsila
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Fani Ouzouni
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Vasiloglou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magda Tsolaki
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI—AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Heraklion Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Healthy Aging “ALLILENGII”, 71201 Heraklion, Greece
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Sadeghian Nadooshan MR, Shahrivar Z, Mahmoudi Gharaie J, Salehi L. ADHD in adults with major depressive or bipolar disorder: does it affect clinical features, comorbidity, quality of life, and global functioning? BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:707. [PMID: 36380307 PMCID: PMC9667673 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04273-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study compared clinical characteristics, concurrent disorders, level of function, and quality of life in adults with bipolar (BD) or major depressive disorder (MDD) in those with/without adult attention defici1t hyperactivity disorder (AADHD). METHODS The participants were recruited among adult inpatients and outpatients with MDD or BD in their current partial remission in a psychiatric hospital. They were evaluated using the interview for adults with ADHD (DIVA-5), Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales-Self-Report-Screening Version (CAARS-SR-SV), Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-V (SCID-5), Beck Depression Inventory-II and Young Mania Rating Scale, Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) and World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Brief (WHOQoL-BREF). RESULTS In those with MDD (n = 105) and BD (n = 103), AADHD was detected as 13.3% and 16.5%, respectively. The inattentive presentation was the most prevalent type among patients with AADHD. Compared to the patients without AADHD, the results regarding the prevalence of comorbidities, suicidal attempts, severity of affective episodes, the early emergence of the affective disorders, and level of quality of life and global functioning were poorer in the group with AADHD (p < 0.05). LIMITATIONS The participants were individuals with major depressive or bipolar type I disorder with a mostly manic episode, chosen among the referrals to a tertiary psychiatric hospital with high comorbidity and more severe psychopathology. This may limit the generalizability of the findings. CONCLUSION ADHD was common in adults with MDD and BD, along with high psychiatric comorbidity and negative consequences. Clinicians are suggested to screen adults with mood disorders for the symptoms of ADHD for a more precise and comprehensive diagnosis and to provide a more appropriate therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Shahrivar
- Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Javad Mahmoudi Gharaie
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leyla Salehi
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Episodic Memory in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia (ADD): Using the “Doors and People” Tool to Differentiate between Early aMCI—Late aMCI—Mild ADD Diagnostic Groups. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071768. [PMID: 35885671 PMCID: PMC9324962 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Episodic memory is the type of memory that allows the recollection of personal experiences containing information on what has happened and, also, where and when it happened. Because of its sensitivity to neurodegenerative diseases and the aging of the brain, it is considered a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease dementia (ADD). The objective of the present study was to examine episodic memory in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and ADD. Patients with the diagnosis of early aMCI, late aMCI, and mild ADD were evaluated using the Doors and People tool which consists of four subtests examining different aspects of episodic memory. The statistical analysis with receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) showed the discriminant potential and the cutoffs of every subtest. Overall, the evaluation of episodic memory with the Doors and People tool can discriminate with great sensitivity between the different groups of people with AD and, especially, early aMCI, late aMCI, and mild ADD patients.
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15
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Poptsi E, Tsatali M, Agogiatou C, Bakoglidou E, Batsila G, Dellaporta D, Kounti-Zafeiropoulou F, Liapi D, Lysitsas K, Markou N, Mouzakidis C, Ouzouni F, Papasozomenou C, Soumpourou A, Vasiloglou M, Zafeiropoulos S, Tsolaki M. Longitudinal Cognitive and Physical Training Effectiveness in MCI, Based on the Experience of the Alzheimer's Hellas Day Care Centre. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2022; 35:512-526. [PMID: 34060355 DOI: 10.1177/08919887211016057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses the effectiveness of a multicomponent Longitudinal Cognitive Training (CT) program plus physical exercise (PE) for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). 155 people with MCI, completed a 3 years (3Y) CT+PE, whilst 133 were control. Neuropsychological assessment was performed at baseline and 3 years later, whilst CT+PE had additional annual assessments. According to the results, the 3Y CT+PE outperformed control in cognitive abilities (p < 0.002), and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (p < 0.001), stabilized their functional performances between 1st and 2nd year, but worsened in working and verbal memory between 2nd and 3 rd year (p < 0.002). Control deteriorated in cognitive functions (p < 0.001) and ADL (p < 0.001) after 3 years, whilst 1.33% of the experimental and 13.53% of the control group progressed to dementia (p < 0.001). Longitudinal CT+PE improves cognitive performance and ADL in MCI and delay the progression to dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Poptsi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece.,Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marianna Tsatali
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece.,University of Sheffield International Faculty, City College, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Agogiatou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evaggelia Bakoglidou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Batsila
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dionysia Dellaporta
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Despoina Liapi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Lysitsas
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nefeli Markou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos Mouzakidis
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Fani Ouzouni
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Chrysa Papasozomenou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Soumpourou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Vasiloglou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros Zafeiropoulos
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magda Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece.,Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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16
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Sendi MS, Zendehrouh E, Sui J, Fu Z, Zhi D, Lv L, Ma X, Ke Q, Li X, Wang C, Abbott CC, Turner JA, Miller RL, Calhoun VD. Abnormal Dynamic Functional Network Connectivity Estimated from Default Mode Network Predicts Symptom Severity in Major Depressive Disorder. Brain Connect 2021; 11:838-849. [PMID: 33514278 PMCID: PMC8713570 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2020.0748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a severe mental illness marked by a continuous sense of sadness and a loss of interest. The default mode network (DMN) is a group of brain areas that are more active during rest and deactivate when engaged in task-oriented activities. The DMN of MDD has been found to have aberrant static functional network connectivity (FNC) in recent studies. In this work, we extend previous findings by evaluating dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) within the DMN subnodes in MDD. Methods: We analyzed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data of 262 patients with MDD and 277 healthy controls (HCs). We estimated dFNCs for seven subnodes of the DMN, including the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), and precuneus (PCu), using a sliding window approach, and then clustered the dFNCs into five brain states. Classification of MDD and HC subjects based on state-specific FC was performed using a logistic regression classifier. Transition probabilities between dFNC states were used to identify relationships between symptom severity and dFNC data in MDD patients. Results: By comparing state-specific FNC between HC and MDD, a disrupted connectivity pattern was observed within the DMN. In more detail, we found that the connectivity of ACC is stronger, and the connectivity between PCu and PCC is weaker in individuals with MDD than in those of HC subjects. In addition, MDD showed a higher probability of transitioning from a state with weaker ACC connectivity to a state with stronger ACC connectivity, and this abnormality is associated with symptom severity. This is the first research to look at the dFC of the DMN in MDD with a large sample size. It provides novel evidence of abnormal time-varying DMN configuration in MDD and offers links to symptom severity in MDD subjects. Impact Statement This study is the first attempt that explored the temporal change on default mode network (DMN) connectivity in a relatively large cohort of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). We also introduced a new hypothesis that explains the inconsistency in DMN functional network connectivity (FNC) comparison between MDD and healthy control based on static FNC in the previous literature. Additionally, our findings suggest that within anterior cingulate cortex connectivity and the connectivity between the precuneus and posterior cingulate cortex are the potential biomarkers for the future intervention of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S.E. Sendi
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elaheh Zendehrouh
- Department of Computer Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jing Sui
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Brainnetome Center and National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Future Technologies, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Zening Fu
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dongmei Zhi
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Brainnetome Center and National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Future Technologies, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Luxian Lv
- Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaohong Ma
- Psychiatric Laboratory and Mental Health Center, The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Huaxi Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qing Ke
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianbin Li
- Beijing Key Lab of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanyue Wang
- Beijing Key Lab of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jessica A. Turner
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Robyn L. Miller
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vince D. Calhoun
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science: Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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17
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Zygouris S, Iliadou P, Lazarou E, Giakoumis D, Votis K, Alexiadis A, Triantafyllidis A, Segkouli S, Tzovaras D, Tsiatsos T, Papagianopoulos S, Tsolaki M. Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment in an At-Risk Group of Older Adults: Can a Novel Self-Administered Serious Game-Based Screening Test Improve Diagnostic Accuracy? J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 78:405-412. [PMID: 32986676 PMCID: PMC7683046 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Literature supports the use of serious games and virtual environments to assess cognitive functions and detect cognitive decline. This promising assessment method, however, has not yet been translated into self-administered screening instruments for pre-clinical dementia. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the performance of a novel self-administered serious game-based test, namely the Virtual Supermarket Test (VST), in detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in a sample of older adults with subjective memory complaints (SMC), in comparison with two well-established screening instruments, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). METHODS Two groups, one of healthy older adults with SMC (N = 48) and one of MCI patients (N = 47) were recruited from day centers for cognitive disorders and administered the VST, the MoCA, the MMSE, and an extended pencil and paper neuropsychological test battery. RESULTS The VST displayed a correct classification rate (CCR) of 81.91% when differentiating between MCI patients and older adults with SMC, while the MoCA displayed of CCR of 72.04% and the MMSE displayed a CCR of 64.89%. CONCLUSION The three instruments assessed in this study displayed significantly different performances in differentiating between healthy older adults with SMC and MCI patients. The VST displayed a good CCR, while the MoCA displayed an average CCR and the MMSE displayed a poor CCR. The VST appears to be a robust tool for detecting MCI in a population of older adults with SMC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stelios Zygouris
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.,Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Paraskevi Iliadou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eftychia Lazarou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Giakoumis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Votis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasios Alexiadis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreas Triantafyllidis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Sofia Segkouli
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tzovaras
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | - Magda Tsolaki
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.,Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
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18
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Tsolaki M, Tsatali M, Gkioka M, Poptsi E, Tsolaki A, Papaliagkas V, Tabakis IM, Lazarou I, Makri M, Kazis D, Papagiannopoulos S, Kiryttopoulos A, Koutsouraki E, Tegos T. Memory Clinics and Day Care Centers in Thessaloniki, Northern Greece: 30 Years of Clinical Practice and Experience. Front Neurol 2021; 12:683131. [PMID: 34512506 PMCID: PMC8425245 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.683131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This review describes the diagnostic and interventional procedures conducted in two university memory clinics (established network of G. Papanikolaou Hospital: 1988–2017 and AHEPA hospital: 2017–today) and 2 day care centers (established network of DCCs: 2005–today) in North Greece and their contribution in the scientific field of dementia. The aims of this work are (1) to provide a diagnosis and treatment protocol established in the network of memory clinics and DCCs and (2) to present further research conducted in the aforementioned network during the last 30 years of clinical practice. Methods: The guidelines to set a protocol demand a series of actions as follows: (1) set the diagnosis criteria, neuropsychological assessment, laboratory examinations, and examination of neurophysiological, neuroimaging, cerebrospinal fluid, blood, and genetic markers; and (2) apply non-pharmacological interventions according to the needs and specialized psychosocial interventions of the patient to the caregivers of the patient. Results: In addition to the guidelines followed in memory clinics at the 1st and 3rd Department of Neurology and two DCCs, a database of patients, educational programs, and further participation in international research programs, including clinical trials, make our contribution in the dementia field strong. Conclusion: In the current paper, we provide useful guidelines on how major and minor neurocognitive disorders are being treated in Thessaloniki, Greece, describing successful practices which have been adapted in the last 30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece.,1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.,Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI - AUTh) Balkan Center, Buildings A & B, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.,3rd University Department of Neurology "G. Papanikolaou" Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marianna Tsatali
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Mara Gkioka
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece.,1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Poptsi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anthoula Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece.,1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece.,Department of Biomedical Sciences International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Irene-Maria Tabakis
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioulietta Lazarou
- 1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marina Makri
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Greece.,1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Kazis
- 3rd University Department of Neurology "G. Papanikolaou" Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Sotirios Papagiannopoulos
- 3rd University Department of Neurology "G. Papanikolaou" Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreas Kiryttopoulos
- 1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efrosyni Koutsouraki
- 1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Thomas Tegos
- 1st University Department of Neurology UH "AHEPA", School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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19
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Romanopoulou ED, Zilidou VI, Gilou S, Dratsiou I, Varella A, Petronikolou V, Katsouli AM, Karagianni M, Bamidis PD. Technology Enhanced Health and Social Care for Vulnerable People During the COVID-19 Outbreak. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:721065. [PMID: 34566606 PMCID: PMC8461025 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.721065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has spread rapidly worldwide with critical consequences in health, as well as in social, economic, and particularly in psychological conditions of vulnerable people, especially older adults. Therefore, it is necessary the direct attention to their health care needs and related interventions. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) have direct impact on older adults' health and quality of life leading to decreased depression and loneliness, along with empowerment of independent life. Many studies involve cognitive training programs/software based on new technological systems that provide to vulnerable people access to gamified, attractive, cognitive exercises for overall functionality everywhere and at any time. Twenty-four participants (mean age 69.3 years) were assigned to this study. The cognitive training component of LLM Care was used as an interactive software to enhance participants' cognitive functions. The intervention lasted 12 weeks with the frequency of 2-4 times per week in sessions of at least 30 min. Participants used their personal devices (tablets/laptops) in their own residence, while technical and consulting guidance was provided by LLM Care certified trainers. They were informed about the purpose of the study, while consent forms along with psychological assessments were distributed every 2 weeks to periodically evaluate their psychosocial and mental health conditions. The assessments included the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), the Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST), the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Impact Factor Event Scale (IES-R). According to the results, the participants with improved well-being tended to report decreased subjective distress caused by COVID-19, and their engagement with new technologies can potentially minimize the negative outcomes occurred by the current stressful situation, mitigating the effect of hyperarousal symptoms, while increasing their overall well-being. Well-being seems to remain relatively stable among older adults and decreases only when adversities occur, while the usability of the software was perceived as marginally acceptable by participants. The exploitation of the LLM Care contributes to the improvement of older adults' well-being and alleviates the negative experience caused by stressful situations like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Panagiotis D. Bamidis
- Laboratory of Medical Physics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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20
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Poptsi E, Moraitou D, Tsardoulias E, Symeonidisd AL, Tsolaki M. Is the Discrimination of Subjective Cognitive Decline from Cognitively Healthy Adulthood and Mild Cognitive Impairment Possible? A Pilot Study Utilizing the R4Alz Battery. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 77:715-732. [PMID: 32741834 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders before the symptoms' onset is the ultimate goal of the scientific community. REMEDES for Alzheimer (R4Alz) is a battery, designed for assessing cognitive control abilities in people with minor and major neurocognitive disorders. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the R4Alz battery's tasks differentiate subjective cognitive decline (SCD) from cognitively healthy adults (CHA) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS The R4Alz battery was administered to 175 Greek adults, categorized in five groups a) healthy young adults (HYA; n = 42), b) healthy middle-aged adults (HMaA; n = 33), c) healthy older adults (HOA; n = 14), d) community-dwelling older adults with SCD (n = 34), and e) people with MCI (n = 52). RESULTS Between the seven R4Alz subtasks, four showcased the best results for differentiating HOA from SCD: the working memory updating (WMCUT-S3), the inhibition and switching subtask (ICT/RST-S1&S2), the failure sets (FS) of the ICT/RST-S1&S2, and the cognitive flexibility subtask (ICT/RST-S3). The total score of the four R4Alz subtasks (R4AlzTot4) leads to an excellent discrimination among SCD and healthy adulthood, and to fare discrimination among SCD and MCI. CONCLUSION The R4Alz battery is a novel approach regarding the neuropsychological assessment of people with SCD, since it can very well assist toward discriminating SCD from HOA. The R4Alz is able to measure decline of specific cognitive control abilities - namely of working memory updating, and complex executive functions - which seem to be the neuropsychological substrate of cognitive complaints in community dwelling adults of advancing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Poptsi
- Laboratory of Psychology, Section of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Macedonia, Hellas.,Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (LND, CIRI - AUTh) Macedonia, Hellas.,Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Hellas
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Laboratory of Psychology, Section of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Macedonia, Hellas.,Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (LND, CIRI - AUTh) Macedonia, Hellas.,Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Hellas
| | - Emmanouil Tsardoulias
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Macedonia, Hellas
| | - Andreas L Symeonidisd
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Macedonia, Hellas
| | - Magda Tsolaki
- Lab of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (LND, CIRI - AUTh) Macedonia, Hellas.,Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Hellas.,1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), Macedonia, Hellas
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21
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Tsatali M, Moraitou D, Poptsi E, Sia E, Agogiatou C, Gialaouzidis M, Tabakis IM, Avdikou K, Bakoglidou E, Batsila G, Bekiaridis-Moschou D, Chatziroumpi O, Diamantidou A, Gavra A, Kouroundi E, Liapi D, Markou N, Ouzouni F, Papasozomenou C, Soumpourou A, Tsolaki M. Are There Any Cognitive and Behavioral Changes Potentially Related to Quarantine Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic in People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and AD Dementia? A Longitudinal Study. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091165. [PMID: 34573186 PMCID: PMC8472805 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine potential cognitive, mood (depression and anxiety) and behavioral changes that may be related to the quarantine and the lockdown applied during the COVID-19 pandemic in Greek older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and AD dementia in mild and moderate stages. Method: 407 older adults, diagnosed either with MCI or AD dementia (ADD), were recruited from the Day Centers of the Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD). Neuropsychological assessment was performed at baseline (at the time of diagnosis) between May and July of 2018, as well as for two consecutive follow-up assessments, identical in period, in 2019 and 2020. The majority of participants had participated in non-pharmacological interventions during 2018 as well as 2019, whereas all of them continued their participation online in 2020. Results: Mixed measures analysis of variance showed that participants’ ‘deterioration difference—D’ by means of their performance difference in neuropsychological assessments between 2018–2019 (D1) and 2019–2020 (D2) did not change, except for the FUCAS, RAVLT, and phonemic fluency tests, since both groups resulted in a larger deterioration difference (D2) in these tests. Additionally, three path models examining the direct relationships between performance in tests measuring mood, as well as everyday functioning and cognitive measures, showed that participants’ worsened performance in the 2019 and 2020 assessments was strongly affected by NPI performance, in sharp contrast to the 2018 assessment. Discussion: During the lockdown period, MCI and ADD patients’ neuropsychological performance did not change, except from the tests measuring verbal memory, learning, and phonemic fluency, as well as everyday functioning. However, the natural progression of the MCI as well as ADD condition is the main reason for participants’ deterioration. Mood performance became increasingly closely related to cognition and everyday functioning. Hence, the role of quarantine and AD progression are discussed as potential factors associated with impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Tsatali
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTh) Balkan Center, Buildings A & B, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloni, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTh) Balkan Center, Buildings A & B, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloni, Greece
- Lab of Psychology, Section of Experimental & Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Poptsi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTh) Balkan Center, Buildings A & B, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloni, Greece
- Lab of Psychology, Section of Experimental & Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Sia
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Christina Agogiatou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Moses Gialaouzidis
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Irene-Maria Tabakis
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Konstantina Avdikou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Evaggelia Bakoglidou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Georgia Batsila
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Dimitrios Bekiaridis-Moschou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Ourania Chatziroumpi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Alexandra Diamantidou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Andromachi Gavra
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Eleni Kouroundi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Despina Liapi
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Nefeli Markou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Fani Ouzouni
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Chrysa Papasozomenou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Aikaterini Soumpourou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.M.); (E.P.); (E.S.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (I.-M.T.); (K.A.); (E.B.); (G.B.); (D.B.-M.); (O.C.); (A.D.); (A.G.); (E.K.); (D.L.); (N.M.); (F.O.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTh) Balkan Center, Buildings A & B, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloni, Greece
- 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Tsatali M, Poptsi E, Moraitou D, Agogiatou C, Bakoglidou E, Gialaouzidis M, Papasozomenou C, Soumpourou A, Tsolaki M. Discriminant Validity of the WAIS-R Digit Symbol Substitution Test in Subjective Cognitive Decline, Mild Cognitive Impairment (Amnestic Subtype) and Alzheimer's Disease Dementia (ADD) in Greece. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11070881. [PMID: 34209189 PMCID: PMC8301784 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11070881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the current study was to estimate the discriminant potential and validity of the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) of the WAIS-R in the Greek elderly population meeting criteria for subjective cognitive decline (SCD), mild cognitive impairment (aMCI; amnestic subtype), or Alzheimer’s disease dementia (ADD). Method: Four hundred eighty-eight community-dwelling older adults, visitors of the Day Center of Alzheimer Hellas, participated in the study. Two hundred forty-three of them met the criteria for ADD, one hundred eighty-two for aMCI and sixty-three for SCD. Results: Path analysis indicated that the DSST score is affected by age group, educational level, and diagnostic category, but is not affected by gender. The ROC curve analysis showed that the DSST sum score could perfectly differentiate SCD from ADD patients, whereas test’s discriminant potential between aMCI and dementia ADD’s subtype was satisfactory. However, DSST was unable to separate the SCD from the aMCI group. Conclusion: It appears that the DSST is unable to separate the SCD from aMCI population. Therefore, the test in question may be insensitive to incipient cognitive decline. On the contrary, the discriminant potential of the DSST as regards SCD and ADD is excellent, while discrimination between aMCI and ADD is good.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Tsatali
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Eleni Poptsi
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychology, Section of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Moraitou
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory of Psychology, Section of Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI-AUTh), 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Agogiatou
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Evaggelia Bakoglidou
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Moses Gialaouzidis
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Chrysa Papasozomenou
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Aikaterini Soumpourou
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- Department of Psychology, Greek Association of Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD), 54643 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.P.); (D.M.); (C.A.); (E.B.); (M.G.); (C.P.); (A.S.); (M.T.)
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (CIRI-AUTh), 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Valsamidis K, Printza A, Constantinidis J, Okalidou A, Triaridis S. Nasalance and perceived voice changes in patients undergoing septoplasty and turbinate hypertrophy reduction. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2021; 279:1899-1910. [PMID: 34125283 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-021-06937-9] [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: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in voice nasality after septoplasty and turbinate hypertrophy reduction and to evaluate the effect of these changes on patients' voice-related quality of life. METHODS Sixty patients with nasal obstruction symptoms caused by septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy who underwent septoplasty and inferior turbinate hypertrophy reduction and 25 healthy controls were included. Active anterior rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry were utilized for the evaluation of nasal patency and nasometry was used for quantitative assessment of nasalance. All participants completed validated questionnaires for assessing nasal obstruction symptom severity, psychological status and the impact of voice performance on their quality of life preoperatively and 6 months after septoplasty. RESULTS Patients presented preoperatively statistically significantly lower nasalance scores and higher VHI scores than controls (p < 0.05). Septoplasty and inferior turbinate hypertrophy reduction led to improvement of nasalance for the nasal text and the physical subscale of the VHI scores. Postoperatively, there were no statistically significant differences in nasalance and VHI scores between patients and controls. Significant correlations were found only for the baseline and the postoperative nasalance scores for the nasal text and the total nasal cavity volume (p < 0.05). Postoperatively, patients who presented significant improvement of nasal obstruction symptoms and resolution of stress levels were more likely to positively evaluate the impact of their voice quality on their daily life (OR: 2.32, 95% CI 1.08-5.15, p = 0.041 and OR: 3.06, 95% CI 1.15-7.04, p = 0.038, respectively). CONCLUSION Septoplasty and inferior turbinate hypertrophy reduction may increase the nasal resonance, but in the long term, this change appears not to be significant enough. The severity of nasal obstruction symptoms and psychological status mainly affect the patients' perceptual assessment regarding the effect of voice performance on their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Valsamidis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasia Printza
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Jannis Constantinidis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Areti Okalidou
- Department of Educational and Social Policy, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stefanos Triaridis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Iliadou P, Paliokas I, Zygouris S, Lazarou E, Votis K, Tzovaras D, Tsolaki M. A Comparison of Traditional and Serious Game-Based Digital Markers of Cognition in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Healthy Controls. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 79:1747-1759. [PMID: 33459650 PMCID: PMC7990420 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Electroencephalography (EEG) has been used to assess brain activity while users are playing an immersive serious game. Objective: To assess differences in brain activation as measured with a non-intrusive wearable EEG device, differences in game performance and correlations between EEG power, game performance and global cognition, between cognitively impaired and non-impaired older adults, during the administration of a novel self-administered serious game-based test, the Virtual Supermarket Test (VST). Methods: 43 older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and 33 older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were recruited from day centers for cognitive disorders. Global cognition was assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Brain activity was measured with a non-intrusive wearable EEG device in a resting state condition and while they were administered the VST. Results: During resting state condition, the MCI group showed increased alpha, beta, delta, and theta band power compared to the SCD group. During the administration of the VST, the MCI group showed increased beta and theta band power compared to the SCD group. Regarding game performance, alpha, beta, delta, and theta rhythms were positively correlated with average duration, while delta rhythm was positively correlated with mean errors. MoCA correlated with alpha, beta, delta, and theta rhythms and with average game duration and mean game errors indicating that elevated EEG rhythms in MCI may be associated with an overall cognitive decline. Conclusion: VST performance can be used as a digital biomarker. Cheap commercially available wearable EEG devices can be used for obtaining brain activity biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ioannis Paliokas
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stelios Zygouris
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.,Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Eftychia Lazarou
- Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Votis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tzovaras
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Information Technologies Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Magdalini Tsolaki
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.,Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Valsamidis K, Printza A, Constantinidis J, Triaridis S. The Impact of Olfactory Dysfunction on the Psychological Status and Quality of Life of Patients with Nasal Obstruction and Septal Deviation. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2020; 24:e237-e246. [PMID: 32296471 PMCID: PMC7153923 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1701269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction
Olfactory dysfunction may be present in patients with nasal obstruction and septal deviation. The impact of olfactory dysfunction on the psychological profile and quality of life (QoL) of these patients remains unexplored.
Objective
The present study aimed to investigate the emotional status and QoL of patients with olfactory dysfunction and septal deviation and to identify predictors associated with clinically significant improvement of psychological status and QoL, focusing mainly on the role of olfactory recovery after septoplasty.
Methods
The olfactory function was quantitatively assessed using the ‘‘Sniffin’ sticks'' test (Burghart Messtechnik GmbH, Wedel, Germany) in 60 patients and 25 controls enrolled in this prospective study. The participants completed validated questionnaires specific for general health (Short Form-36), nasal-symptom related QoL (SinoNasal Outcome Test-22), olfaction-associated QoL (Questionnaire of Olfactory Deficits) and for assessing their psychological state (Short Anxiety Screening Test and Beck Depression Inventory) preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. The patients used the Glasgow Benefit Inventory to evaluate their personal benefit after septoplasty with.
Results
Septoplasty led to significantly improved olfactory function. Patients with olfactory impairment had significantly lower nasal-symptom related QoL, higher stress levels, and more depressive mood compared with normosmics and controls before and after septoplasty. Postoperatively, personal benefit from surgery was higher in normosmic patients. Improvement of nasal-symptom related QoL was significantly associated with higher likelihood of clinically significant improvement of patients' psychological profile and more personal benefit from surgery. Olfactory dysfunction was negatively correlated with the emotional status of the patients.
Conclusion
Olfactory dysfunction appears to significantly affect the psychological status of patients with nasal obstruction, and olfactory recovery improves the patients' perception of personal benefit from septoplasty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Valsamidis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical school, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasia Printza
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical school, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Jannis Constantinidis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical school, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stefanos Triaridis
- 1st Otolaryngology Department, Medical school, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Valsamidis K, Titelis K, Karkos P, Markou K, Constantinidis J, Triaridis S. Predictive factors of patients' general quality of life after nasal septoplasty. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 276:429-438. [PMID: 30511105 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-018-5229-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although septoplasty is considered to be the definitive treatment of septal deviation and is associated with an increase of nasal patency, patients are not always satisfied with the surgical outcome as assessed by its effect on their general Quality of Life (QOL).The aim of this study was to identify the predictive factors that influence the patients' QOL after surgery. METHODS 60 patients with nasal obstruction and septal deviation were enrolled in this prospective study, and they all completed the follow-up survey of 6 postoperative months. Symptom severity (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation-NOSE, Sino nasal outcome test 22-SNOT-22), sleep quality (Epworth Sleepiness Scale-ESS), olfactory function (Threshold Discrimination Identification-TDI score), voice quality (Nasalance score and Voice Handicap Index-VHI), stress (SQ test) and emotional status (Beck Depression Index-BDI) were evaluated as predictive factors of patients' QOL (Glasgow Benefit Inventory-GBI) postoperatively. We also analyzed age, gender, smoking, socioeconomic status, type of septal deviation and changes of nasal patency (with the use of rhinomanometry, acoustic rhinometry, and peak nasal inspiratory flow). RESULTS From all the analyzed parameters, the nasal obstruction symptom severity, the sleep quality, and stress levels were only significantly associated with patients' overall QOL (p < 0.05; univariate analysis). However, on multiple regression, positive changes in NOSE score (OR 15.09, 95% CI 1.47-22.64, p < 0.05) and SQ test (OR 4, 95% CI 1.12-14.3, p < 0.05) were only related with higher likelihood of participants' QOL improvement after surgery. CONCLUSIONS Thorough preoperative evaluation of the symptom severity and stress levels is critical as these two factors are predictive of patient's satisfaction after septoplasty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Valsamidis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Georgios Gennimatas General Hospital, Ethinikis Amynis 41 str, 54635, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Konstantinos Titelis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Georgios Gennimatas General Hospital, Ethinikis Amynis 41 str, 54635, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Petros Karkos
- 1st University Department of Otorhinolaryngology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Kiriakidi 1 str, 54621, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Markou
- 2nd University Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Agiou Pavlou 76 str, Pavlos Melas, 56429, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Jiannis Constantinidis
- 1st University Department of Otorhinolaryngology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Kiriakidi 1 str, 54621, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stefanos Triaridis
- 1st University Department of Otorhinolaryngology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Kiriakidi 1 str, 54621, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Spangenberg K, Corten L, van Rensburg W, Kilian E, McKenzie J, Vorster H, Jelsma J. The validation of an educational database for children with profound intellectual disabilities. Afr J Disabil 2017; 5:237. [PMID: 28730055 PMCID: PMC5433460 DOI: 10.4102/ajod.v5i1.237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Western Cape Forum for Intellectual Disability took the South African Government to court in 2010 on its failure to implement the right to education for Children with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disability. Subsequently, multidisciplinary teams were appointed by the Western Cape Education Department to deliver services to the Special Care Centres (SCCs). Initially, minimal information was available on this population. Objectives The purpose is to document the process of developing and validating a database for the collection of routine data. Method A descriptive analytical study design was used. A sample of convenience was drawn from individuals under the age of 18 years, enrolled in SCCs in the Western Cape. The team who entered and analysed the data reached consensus regarding the utility and feasibility of each item. Results Data were collected on 134 children. The omission of certain items from the database was identified. Some information was not reliable or readily available. Of the instruments identified to assess function, the classification systems were found to be reliable and useful, as were the performance scales. The WeeFIM, on the other hand, was lengthy and expensive, and was therefore discarded. Discussion and conclusions A list of items to be included was identified. Apart from an individual profile, it can be useful for service planning and monitoring, if incorporated into the central information system used to monitor the performance of all children. Without such inclusion, this most vulnerable population, despite court ruling, will not have their right to education adequately addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlien Spangenberg
- Children with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities Inclusive Education Outreach Team, Western Cape Department of Education, South Africa
| | - Lieselotte Corten
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Winnie van Rensburg
- Children with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities Inclusive Education Outreach Team, Western Cape Department of Education, South Africa
| | - Elizma Kilian
- Children with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities Inclusive Education Outreach Team, Western Cape Department of Education, South Africa
| | - Judith McKenzie
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hein Vorster
- Children with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities Inclusive Education Outreach Team, Western Cape Department of Education, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Jelsma
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Bertrand D, Lee CHL, Flood D, Marger F, Donnelly-Roberts D. Therapeutic Potential of α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:1025-73. [DOI: 10.1124/pr.113.008581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Papanikou M. Osteoporosis and Somatization of Anxiety. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.5964/ejcop.v2i2.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Stampolidis N, Castana 0, Nikiteas N, Vlasis K, Koupidis S, Grammatikopoulos I, Mantzari E, Pallantzas A, Kourakos P, Papadopoulos O. Quality of life in burn patients in Greece. ANNALS OF BURNS AND FIRE DISASTERS 2012; 25:192-195. [PMID: 23766752 PMCID: PMC3664527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The Burn Specific Health Scale - Brief (BSHS-B) is one of the most commonly used instruments for the evaluation of quality of life after burn injury. It can be self-administered, and it is useful in evaluating psychopathological symptoms in burn victims. The aim of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the BSHS-B into Greek, assessing its internal consistency and validity. The cultural adaptation included forward and backward translation, reconciliation, and a pilot study. The Greek version was administered to a sample of 40 adult burn victims admitted to our Burn Centre. Internal consistency was verified using Cronbach's alpha, and construct validity was evaluated through correlation with the Short Form of Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) using Spearman analysis. The Cronbach alpha coefficient of the questionnaire's total score was 0.954, demonstrating that the internal consistency of the Greek version was very high. The test-retest coefficient using kappa correlation was 0.830 (p < 0.001). Significant correlations were identified between BSHS-B subscales and the SF-36 subscales - Physical and Social Functioning, and Emotional Role. Despite the limited size of the sample, the Greek version of the BSHS-B shows good reliability and construct validity and can be used in clinical practice for further evaluations of burn patients' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Stampolidis
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, O Evaggelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - 0. Castana
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, O Evaggelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - N. Nikiteas
- School of Medicine, Athens University, Athens, Greece
| | - K. Vlasis
- School of Medicine, Athens University, Athens, Greece
| | - S.A. Koupidis
- Occupational Medicine Department O Evaggelismos General Hospital
| | | | - E. Mantzari
- Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, Athens
| | - A. Pallantzas
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, O Evaggelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - P. Kourakos
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, O Evaggelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece
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32
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Lionis CD, Vardavas CI, Symvoulakis EK, Papadakaki MG, Anastasiou FS, Antonopoulou MD, Apostolakis CM, Dimitrakopoulos SA, Fountakis GI, Grammatikopoulos IA, Komninos JD, Kounalakis DK, Ladoukaki ES, Makri KV, Petraki CS, Ploumis NG, Prokopiadou DP, Stefanaki IN, Tsakountakis NA, Tsiligianni IG, Tzortzis EN, Vasilaki AA, Vasilopoulos TK, Vrentzos GE. Measuring the burden of herpes zoster and post herpetic neuralgia within primary care in rural Crete, Greece. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2011; 12:136. [PMID: 22145678 PMCID: PMC3266196 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2296-12-136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Research has indicated that general practitioners (GPs) have good clinical judgment in regards to diagnosing and managing herpes zoster (HZ) within clinical practice in a country with limited resources for primary care and general practice. The objective of the current study was to assess the burden of HZ and post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) within rural general practices in Crete, Greece. Methods The current study took place within a rural setting in Crete, Greece during the period of November 2007 to November 2009 within the catchment area in which the Cretan Rural Practice-based Research Network is operating. In total 19 GP's from 14 health care units in rural Crete were invited to participate, covering a total turnover patient population of approximately 25, 000 subjects. For the purpose of this study an electronic record database was constructed and used as the main tool for monitoring HZ and PHN incidence. Stress related data was also collected with the use of the Short Anxiety Screening Test (SAST). Results The crude incidence rate of HZ was 1.4/1000 patients/year throughout the entire network of health centers and satellite practices, while among satellite practices alone it was calculated at 1.3/1000 patients/year. Additionally, the standardised incidence density within satellite practices was calculated at 1.6/1000 patients/year. In regards to the stress associated with HZ and PHN, the latter were found to have lower levels of anxiety, as assessed through the SAST score (17.4 ± 3.9 vs. 21.1 ± 5.7; p = 0.029). Conclusions The implementation of an electronic surveillance system was feasible so as to measure the burden of HZ and PHN within the rural general practice setting in Crete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos D Lionis
- Department of Social Medicine, Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, PO Box 2208, Postal Code 71003, Greece.
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Prevalence and psychosocial correlates of perinatal depression: a cohort study from urban Pakistan. Arch Womens Ment Health 2011; 14:395-403. [PMID: 21898171 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-011-0233-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Depression around childbirth is common in low income countries. The aim of this study was to examine the factors associated with persistence of depression from the antenatal to the postnatal period in urban Pakistan. A total of 1,357 pregnant women in their third trimester attending the antenatal clinic were included in the study. From these, 763 mothers who delivered at the study maternity home were reassessed after 3 months of childbirth. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was administered to measure depression in both the antenatal and the postnatal periods. Psychological distress, disability and life events experienced by mothers were also measured by using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), Brief Disability Questionnaire (BDQ), and Life Events Checklist, respectively. We found 25.8% prevalence rate of antenatal depression and 38.3% persistent depression in a private clinic. Persistently depressed mothers had significantly high psychological distress, more disability, and experienced more stressful life events than the resolved group. Our findings confirm the high rates of depression during pregnancy but we found low rates of persistent depression in this urban population as compared to the previous report. There is a need for further investigation of factors associated with persistent depression in order to develop appropriate interventions.
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