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Elder GJ, Santhi N, Robson AR, Alfonso-Miller P, Spiegelhalder K, Ellis JG. An online behavioral self-help intervention rapidly improves acute insomnia severity and subjective mood during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic: a stratified randomized controlled trial. Sleep 2024; 47:zsae059. [PMID: 38430544 PMCID: PMC11168762 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsae059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/04/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Stressful life events, such as the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, can cause acute insomnia. Cognitive behavioral therapy for acute insomnia is effective but is both time and resource-intensive. This study investigated if an online behavioral self-help intervention, which has been successfully used alongside sleep restriction for acute insomnia, reduced insomnia severity and improved mood in acute insomnia. This study also assessed good sleepers to explore if a "sleep vaccination" approach was feasible. METHODS In this online stratified randomized controlled trial, 344 participants (103 good sleepers and 241 participants with DSM-5 acute insomnia) were randomized to receive the intervention/no intervention (good sleepers) or intervention/intervention after 28 days (poor sleepers). Insomnia severity was assessed using the ISI (primary outcome), and anxiety and depression using the GAD-7/PHQ-9 (secondary outcomes) at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS In people with acute insomnia, relative to baseline, there were significant reductions in ISI (dz = 1.17), GAD-7 (dz = 0.70), and PHQ-9 (dz = 0.60) scores at 1-week follow-up. ISI, GAD-7, and PHQ-9 scores were significantly lower at all follow-up time points, relative to baseline. Subjective diary-derived sleep continuity was unaffected. No beneficial effects on sleep or mood were observed in good sleepers. CONCLUSIONS An online behavioral self-help intervention rapidly reduces acute insomnia severity (within 1 week), and benefits mood in people with acute insomnia. These beneficial effects are maintained up to 3 months later. Although the use of the intervention is feasible in good sleepers, their subjective sleep was unaffected. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Testing an early online intervention for the treatment of disturbed sleep during the COVID-19 pandemic; prospectively registered at ISRCTN on 8 April 2020 (identifier: ISRCTN43900695).
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Elder
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nayantara Santhi
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Amelia R Robson
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Kai Spiegelhalder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jason G Ellis
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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2
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Sundelin T, Landry S, Axelsson J. Is snoozing losing? Why intermittent morning alarms are used and how they affect sleep, cognition, cortisol, and mood. J Sleep Res 2024; 33:e14054. [PMID: 37849039 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.14054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Pressing the snooze button is a common way to start the day, but little is known about this behaviour. Through two studies we determined predictors and effects of snoozing. In Study 1 (n = 1732) respondents described their waking habits, confirming that snoozing is widespread, especially in younger individuals and later chronotypes. Morning drowsiness and shorter sleep were also more common for those who snooze. Study 2 was a within-subjects laboratory study (with polysomnography) on habitual snoozers (n = 31), showing that 30 min of snoozing improved or did not affect performance on cognitive tests directly upon rising compared to an abrupt awakening. Bayes factors indicate varying strengths of this evidence. Snoozing resulted in about 6 min of lost sleep, while preventing awakenings from slow-wave sleep (N3). There were no clear effects of snoozing on the cortisol awakening response, morning sleepiness, mood, or overnight sleep architecture. A brief snooze period may thus help alleviate sleep inertia, without substantially disturbing sleep, for late chronotypes and those with morning drowsiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Sundelin
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shane Landry
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - John Axelsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Weber S, Bühler J, Vanini G, Loukas S, Bruckmaier R, Aybek S. Identification of biopsychological trait markers in functional neurological disorders. Brain 2023; 146:2627-2641. [PMID: 36417451 PMCID: PMC10232283 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress is a well-known risk factor to develop a functional neurological disorder, a frequent neuropsychiatric medical condition in which patients experience a variety of disabling neurological symptoms. Only little is known about biological stress regulation, and how it interacts with predisposing biological and psychosocial risk factors. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in patients with functional neurological disorders has been postulated, but its relationship to preceding psychological trauma and brain anatomical changes remains to be elucidated. We set out to study the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis analysing the cortisol awakening response and diurnal baseline cortisol in 86 patients with mixed functional neurological symptoms compared to 76 healthy controls. We then examined the association between cortisol regulation and the severity and duration of traumatic life events. Finally, we analysed volumetric brain alterations in brain regions particularly sensitive to psychosocial stress, acting on the assumption of the neurotoxic effect of prolonged cortisol exposure. Overall, patients had a significantly flatter cortisol awakening response (P < 0.001) and reported longer (P = 0.01) and more severe (P < 0.001) emotional neglect as compared to healthy controls. Moreover, volumes of the bilateral amygdala and hippocampus were found to be reduced in patients. Using a partial least squares correlation, we found that in patients, emotional neglect plays a role in the multivariate pattern between trauma history and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, while cortisol did not relate to reduced brain volumes. This suggests that psychological stress acts as a precipitating psychosocial risk factor, whereas a reduced brain volume rather represents a biological predisposing trait marker for the disorder. Contrarily, an inverse relationship between brain volume and cortisol was found in healthy controls, representing a potential neurotoxic effect of cortisol. These findings support the theory of reduced subcortical volumes representing a predisposing trait factor in functional neurological disorders, rather than a state effect of the illness. In summary, this study supports a stress-diathesis model for functional neurological disorders and showed an association between different attributes of trauma history and abnormalities in hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis function. Moreover, we suggest that reduced hippocampal and amygdalar volumes represent a biological 'trait marker' for functional neurological disorder patients, which might contribute to a reduced resilience to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Weber
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Imaging Center (TIC), Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Janine Bühler
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Imaging Center (TIC), Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Health Sciences (GHS), University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Giorgio Vanini
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Serafeim Loukas
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rupert Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Selma Aybek
- Department of Neurology, Psychosomatic Medicine Unit, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Imaging Center (TIC), Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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4
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Elder GJ, Altena E, Palagini L, Ellis JG. Stress and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: How can the COVID-19 pandemic inform our understanding and treatment of acute insomnia? J Sleep Res 2023:e13842. [PMID: 36748346 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13842] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Stress and sleep are very closely linked, and stressful life events can trigger acute insomnia. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is highly likely to represent one such stressful life event. Indeed, a wide range of cross-sectional studies demonstrate that the pandemic is associated with poor sleep and sleep disturbances. Given the high economic and health burden of insomnia disorder, strategies that can prevent and treat acute insomnia, and also prevent the transition from acute insomnia to insomnia disorder, are necessary. This narrative review outlines why the COVID-19 pandemic is a stressful life event, and why activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, as a biological marker of psychological stress, is likely to result in acute insomnia. Further, this review outlines how sleep disturbances might arise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and why simultaneous hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis measurement can inform the pathogenesis of acute insomnia. In particular, we focus on the cortisol awakening response as a marker of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function, as cortisol is the end-product of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. From a research perspective, future opportunities include identifying individuals, or particular occupational or societal groups (e.g. frontline health staff), who are at high risk of developing acute insomnia, and intervening. From an acute insomnia treatment perspective, priorities include testing large-scale online behavioural interventions; examining if reducing the impact of stress is effective and, finally, assessing whether "sleep vaccination" can maintain good sleep health by preventing the occurrence of acute insomnia, by preventing the transition from acute insomnia to insomnia disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Elder
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ellemarije Altena
- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine-UMR 5287 CNRS, Team Neuroimaging and Human Cognition, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Laura Palagini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Psychiatric Section University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatric Section, University of Pisa, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisana (AOUP), Pisa, Italy
| | - Jason G Ellis
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Nasser A, Ozenne B, Høgsted ES, Jensen PS, Frokjaer VG. Reliability of three versus five saliva sampling times for assessing the cortisol awakening response. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 147:105950. [PMID: 36272363 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) describes the sharp increase in cortisol secretion within 60 min after awakening. A summary of the CAR, the area under the cortisol curve above the awakening cortisol value (AUCi) is a widely used biomarker in health research. Estimation of the AUCi rely on a number of collected salivary samples at fixed time intervals (i.e., 5 samples in 15 min intervals) starting from awakening. Little empirical work has been executed to investigate the impact of reducing sampling times on AUCi estimation, which could potentially improve participant compliance and reduce operational costs. This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of using 3-sample AUCi versus 5-sample AUCi, i.e., systematic and random fluctuations based on a large dataset from healthy and case individuals (total n = 537). We showed that the ideal timing of 3-sampling times was 0-30-60 min with a median difference in AUCi of - 8 nmol*h/L and interquartile range of 65 nmol*h/L among healthy individuals, and - 12 nmol*h/L and 78 nmol*h/L among case individuals. We subsequently validated the 3-sample AUCi by re-analyzing three published association studies. Overall, we obtained similar p-values with 3-sample AUCi when compared to 5-sample AUCi, while smaller effect sizes and standard errors were observed. In conclusion, despite a less precise estimation of the AUCi itself, our data support that the AUC measure of the CAR, based on three samples collected at 0-30-60 min from awakening, provides reliable results in association studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arafat Nasser
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 6-8 Inge Lehmanns Vej, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.
| | - Brice Ozenne
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 6-8 Inge Lehmanns Vej, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark; Department of Public Health, Section of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, 5 Øster Farimagsgade, Copenhagen 1014, Denmark.
| | - Emma Sofie Høgsted
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 6-8 Inge Lehmanns Vej, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.
| | - Peter Steen Jensen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 6-8 Inge Lehmanns Vej, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 6-8 Inge Lehmanns Vej, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark; Mental Health Services Capital Region Denmark, Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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6
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Mendes SS, Martino MMFD, Borghi F, Rocha-Teles CM, Souza ALD, Grassi-Kassisse DM. Psychological stress factors and salivary cortisol in nursing students throughout their training. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2022; 56:e20220078. [PMID: 36542621 PMCID: PMC10081594 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0078en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to analyze psychological stress factors and salivary cortisol concentration in nursing undergraduates throughout their training. METHOD a cross-sectional, analytical, and comparative study carried out in an evening course using a sociodemographic questionnaire, an Instrument to Assess Stress in Nursing Students, and salivary cortisol analysis. The study included descriptive and comparative analyses and a multiple linear regression model. RESULTS 187 participants answered the questionnaires, and 129 had their cortisol quantified. The domains Practical Activities Execution, Professional Communication, and Professional Training represented the stress factors with the highest mean values for 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year students compared to 1st and 2nd year. For the 5th year, it was the domains Professional Communication and Professional Training compared to the 3rd year and Environment compared to the 1st and 3rd year. A significant result was obtained between the times of cortisol collections for males (p < 0.0001), females (p < 0.0001), and for 1st (p = 0.0319) 2nd (p = 0.0245), and 5th (p < 0.0001) years. CONCLUSION Students in years 3 through 5 had higher exposure to stressors, and there were adjustments in cortisol production rhythmicity for students in years 1, 2, and 5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soares Mendes
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Enfermagem, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Filipy Borghi
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia, Laboratório de Estudos do Estresse. Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Camila Maiara Rocha-Teles
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia, Laboratório de Estudos do Estresse. Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Aglecio Luiz de Souza
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Dora Maria Grassi-Kassisse
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia, Laboratório de Estudos do Estresse. Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Mild to Moderate Sleep Restriction Does Not Affect the Cortisol Awakening Response in Healthy Adult Males. Clocks Sleep 2022; 4:722-734. [PMID: 36547105 PMCID: PMC9776856 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep4040054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a distinct rise in cortisol that occurs upon awakening that is thought to contribute to arousal, energy boosting, and anticipation. There is some evidence to suggest that inadequate sleep may alter the CAR, but the relationship between sleep duration and CAR has not been systematically examined. Healthy males (n = 111; age: 23.0 ± 3.6 yrs) spent 10 consecutive days/nights in a sleep laboratory. After a baseline night (9 h time in bed), participants spent either 5 h (n = 19), 6 h (n = 23), 7 h (n = 16), 8 h (n = 27), or 9 h (n = 26) in bed for seven nights, followed by a 9 h recovery sleep. The saliva samples for cortisol assay were collected at 08:00 h, 08:30 h and 08:45 h at baseline, on experimental days 2 and 5 and on the recovery day. The primary dependent variables were the cortisol concentration at awakening (08:00 h) and the cortisol area under the curve (AUC). There was no effect of time in bed on either the cortisol concentration at awakening or cortisol AUC. In all the time in bed conditions, the cortisol AUC tended to be higher at baseline and lower on experimental day 5. Five consecutive nights of mild to moderate sleep restriction does not appear to affect the CAR in healthy male adults.
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Fransquet PD, Hjort L, Rushiti F, Wang S, Krasniqi SP, Çarkaxhiu SI, Arifaj D, Xhemaili VD, Salihu M, Leku NA, Ryan J. DNA methylation in blood cells is associated with cortisol levels in offspring of mothers who had prenatal post‐traumatic stress disorder. Stress Health 2022; 38:755-766. [PMID: 35119793 PMCID: PMC9790331 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Maternal stress during pregnancy is associated with differential DNA methylation in offspring and disrupted cortisol secretion. This study aimed to determine methylation signatures of cortisol levels in children, and whether associations differ based on maternal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Blood epigenome-wide methylation and fasting cortisol levels were measured in 118 offspring of mothers recruited from the Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims. Mothers underwent clinically administered assessment for PTSD using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Correlations between offspring methylation and cortisol levels were examined using epigenome-wide analysis, adjusting for covariates. Subsequent analysis focussed on a priori selected genes involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stress signalling. Methylation at four sites were correlated with cortisol levels (cg15321696, r = -0.33, cg18105800, r = +0.33, cg00986889, r = -0.25, and cg15920527, r = -0.27). In adjusted multivariable regression, when stratifying based on prenatal PTSD status, significant associations were only found for children born to mothers with prenatal PTSD (p < 0.001). Several sites within HPA axis genes were also associated with cortisol levels in the maternal PTSD group specifically. There is evidence that methylation is associated with cortisol levels, particularly in offspring born to mothers with prenatal PTSD. However, larger studies need to be carried out to independently validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Daniel Fransquet
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineBiological Neuropsychiatry and Dementia UnitMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Line Hjort
- Department of ObstetricsCenter for Pregnant Women with DiabetesRigshospitaletCopenhagenDenmark,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic ResearchMetabolic Epigenetics GroupFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Feride Rushiti
- Kosovo Rehabilitation Center for Torture VictimsPristinaAlbania
| | - Shr‐Jie Wang
- Danish Institute Against Torture (DIGNITY)CopenhagenDenmark
| | | | | | - Dafina Arifaj
- Kosovo Rehabilitation Center for Torture VictimsPristinaAlbania
| | | | - Mimoza Salihu
- Kosovo Rehabilitation Center for Torture VictimsPristinaAlbania
| | | | - Joanne Ryan
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineBiological Neuropsychiatry and Dementia UnitMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Cortisol Awakening Response and Stress in Female Nurses on Monthly Shift Rotations: A Longitudinal Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9506583. [PMID: 36158880 PMCID: PMC9499772 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9506583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The majority of shift nurses are female, there is still an expectation that they fulfil the traditional role of women in the family in Asia, often conflicting with shift work, increases stress, and affects cortisol secretion patterns. This study was to understand the changes in the cortisol awakening response (CAR) and work stress in nursing personnel working in different shifts. We recruited 41 female shift nurses. We administered the Taiwan Nurse Stress Checklist (NSC), and the nurses themselves collected saliva samples upon waking and 30 minutes after waking for three consecutive days at home. The saliva samples enabled us to analyze the increase in cortisol levels following waking (CARi) of nurses working different shifts (day, evening, and night). We then analyzed the data obtained using a hierarchical linear model (HLM). The results indicated that in terms of stress from the inability to complete personal tasks, the regression coefficients of night-shift nurses vs. day-shift nurses (B = 4.39, p < .001) and night-shift nurses vs. evening-shift nurses (B = 3.95, p < .001) were positive, which means that night-shift nurses were under significantly greater stress than day-shift and evening-shift nurses. With regard to CARi, the regression coefficients of night-shift nurses vs. day-shift nurses (B = −3.41, p < .001) and night-shift nurses vs. evening-shift nurses (B = −2.92, p < .01) were negative, which means that night-shift nurses have significantly lower CARi values than day-shift and evening-shift nurses. With regard to cortisol levels 30 minutes after waking, the regression coefficients of night-shift nurses vs. day-shift nurses (B = −3.88, p < .01) and night-shift nurses vs. evening-shift nurses (B = −3.31, p < .01) were negative, which means that night-shift nurses have significantly lower cortisol levels 30 minutes after waking than day-shift and evening-shift nurses. These results indicate that female night-shift nurses display the lowest CARi and cortisol levels 30 minutes after waking and are more negatively affected by being unable to complete personal tasks.
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Caputi V, Bastiaanssen TFS, Peterson V, Sajjad J, Murphy A, Stanton C, McNamara B, Shorten GD, Cryan JF, O'Mahony SM. Sex, pain, and the microbiome: The relationship between baseline gut microbiota composition, gender and somatic pain in healthy individuals. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 104:191-204. [PMID: 35688340 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Relative to men, women present with pain conditions more commonly. Although consistent differences exist between men and women in terms of physiological pain sensitivity, the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood and yet could inform the development of effective sex specific treatments for pain. The gut microbiota can modulate nervous system functioning, including pain signaling pathways. We hypothesized that the gut microbiota and critical components of the gut-brain axis might influence electrical pain thresholds. Further, we hypothesized that sex, menstrual cycle, and hormonal contraceptive use might account for inter-sex differences in pain perception. METHODS Healthy, non-obese males (N = 15) and females (N = 16), (nine of whom were using hormonal contraceptives), were recruited. Male subjects were invited to undergo testing once, whereas females were invited three times across the menstrual cycle, based on self-reported early follicular (EF), late follicular (LF), or mid-luteal (ML) phase. On test days, electrical stimulation on the right ankle was performed; salivary cortisol levels were measured in the morning; levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), soluble CD14 (sCD14), pro-inflammatory cytokines were assessed in plasma, and microbiota composition and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels were determined in fecal samples. RESULTS We observed that the pain tolerance threshold/pain sensation threshold (PTT/PST) ratio was significantly lesser in women than men, but not PST or PTT alone. Further, hormonal contraceptive use was associated with increased LBP levels (LF & ML phase), whilst sCD14 levels or inflammatory cytokines were not affected. Interestingly, in women, hormonal contraceptive use was associated with an increase in the relative abundance of Erysipelatoclostridium, and the relative abundances of certain bacterial genera correlated positively with pain sensation thresholds (Prevotella and Megasphera) during the LF phase and cortisol awakening response (Anaerofustis) during the ML phase. In comparison with men, women displayed overall stronger associations between i) SCFAs data, ii) cortisol data, iii) inflammatory cytokines and PTT and PST. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our findings support the hypothesis that the gut microbiota may be one of the factors determining the physiological inter-sex differences in pain perception. Further research is needed to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which specific sex hormones and gut microbes modulate pain signaling pathways, but this study highlights the possibilities for innovative individual targeted therapies for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Caputi
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomaz F S Bastiaanssen
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Jahangir Sajjad
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Amy Murphy
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Brian McNamara
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Cork University Hospital, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - George D Shorten
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Siobhain M O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Mendes SS, Martino MMFD, Borghi F, Rocha-Teles CM, Souza ALD, Grassi-Kassisse DM. Fatores de estresse psicológico e cortisol salivar em alunos de enfermagem ao longo da formação. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0078pt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivo: analisar os fatores de estresse psicológico e a concentração de cortisol salivar de graduandos de Enfermagem ao longo da formação. Método: estudo transversal, analítico e comparativo realizado em curso noturno por meio de questionário sociodemográfico, Instrumento para Avaliação de Estresse em Estudantes de Enfermagem e análise do cortisol salivar. Foram feitas análises descritivas, comparativas e modelo de regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: um total de 187 responderam aos questionários, e 129 tiveram o cortisol quantificado. Os domínios Realização das Atividades Práticas, Comunicação Profissional e Formação Profissional representaram os fatores de estresse com os maiores valores médios para alunos do 3º, 4º e 5º anos em comparação ao 1º e 2º anos. Para o 5º ano, foram os domínios Comunicação Profissional e Formação Profissional em relação ao 3º ano e Ambiente em comparação ao 1º e 3º anos. Obteve-se resultado significativo entre os horários das coletas de cortisol para homens (p < 0,0001), mulheres (p < 0,0001) e para o 1º (p = 0,0319) 2º (p = 0,0245) e 5º (p < 0,0001) anos. Conclusão alunos do 3º ao 5º ano tiveram maior exposição aos fatores de estresse, e houve ajustes na ritmicidade de produção do cortisol para alunos do 1º, 2º e 5º anos.
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The impact of prior day sleep and physical activity on the cortisol awakening response. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 126:105131. [PMID: 33493753 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) describes the increase in cortisol within the first 30-60 min after waking from nocturnal sleep, and is a common biomarker used within psychoneuroendocrinology, but the effect of sleep on the CAR is currently unclear. A previous study suggested that reported discrepancies may be due to other lifestyle behaviors such as physical activity; given the role of the CAR in energy regulation and preparation for the day, it is theoretically plausible that activity level would influence the CAR. However, no study has yet utilized objective monitoring of day-to-day sleep and physical activity to investigate potential effects on the CAR. This study aimed to test the hypotheses that either sleep duration or sleep quality would interact with the prior 24 h' physical activity to predict the CAR on the following morning. Salivary samples were collected from 85 young adults (mean = 19.1 years, SD = 1.89) immediately after waking from nocturnal sleep and again 30 min after waking; two complete and consecutive days were used. Participants wore accelerometers (ActiGraph, wGT3X-BT) throughout this phase of a larger study, which provided objective measures of sleep duration, number of awakenings, and amount of physical activity. Mixed-effects models with post-hoc regions of significance decompositions tested the hypothesized interaction effects. Results demonstrated a significant interaction between prior day sleep duration and physical activity predicting the next day CAR, wherein short sleep duration and high levels of physical activity resulted in an augmented CAR. Although more sleep clearly predicted a smaller next day CAR in main effect, this study provides additional support that sleep duration effects are also moderated by prior day physical activity. Both behavioral factors should be considered when assessing the CAR and the association between the CAR other psychoneuroendocrine outcomes.
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Titman A, Price V, Hawcutt D, Chesters C, Ali M, Cacace G, Lancaster GA, Peak M, Blair JC. Salivary cortisol, cortisone and serum cortisol concentrations are related to age and body mass index in healthy children and young people. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2020; 93:572-578. [PMID: 32688436 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saliva is an ideal medium in which to measure cortisol in children. However, there are very few data reporting salivary cortisol or cortisone concentrations in healthy children since the introduction of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to routine laboratory practice. DESIGN Early morning serum cortisol, salivary cortisol and cortisone were measured on fasting samples, and salivary hormones were measured in samples collected every 2 hours during waking hours, and 30 minutes after waking the following morning. PARTICIPANTS 43 healthy paediatric volunteers (19 female), median age 11.5 years, range 6.2-18.7, participated. RESULTS Early morning serum cortisol (265 nmol/L, 156-516) correlated strongly with salivary cortisol (4.7 nmol/L, 1.1-14.6) and cortisone (28.8 nmol/L, 11.7-56.6), P < .0001 for both. Serum cortisol, salivary cortisol and salivary cortisone correlated directly with age (P < .0001, P = .002 and P = .015, respectively), and salivary cortisone/cortisol ratio correlated indirectly with age (P = .007). Between 08.00 and 21.00, area under the curve for salivary cortisol (mean ± 1 SD) was 41.8 ± 19.1 and for cortisone 213.0 ± 61.2. Salivary cortisol was undetectable in 25/130 (19%) of samples collected after 13.00, while cortisone was always detectable. DISCUSSION Salivary cortisol and cortisone concentrations are strongly related to serum cortisol concentrations; however, cortisone may be a preferable measure as cortisol is often undetectable. Age may be an important factor in the interpretation of early morning cortisol measurements made in serum and saliva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Titman
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Victoria Price
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel Hawcutt
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Chris Chesters
- Department of Biochemistry, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Murtaza Ali
- University of Liverpool School of Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Gill A Lancaster
- School of Primary, Social and Community Care & Keele Clinical Trials Unit, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Matthew Peak
- Clinical Research Division, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Joanne C Blair
- Department of Endocrinology, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
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Coco M, Buscemi A, Pennisi E, Cavallari P, Papotto G, Papotto GMF, Perciavalle V, Di Corrado D, Perciavalle V. Postural Control and Stress Exposure in Young Men: Changes in Cortisol Awakening Response and Blood Lactate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:7222. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: It has recently been noticed that the quantity of stress affects postural stability in young women. The study was conducted with the goal of investigating whether increased stress may damagingly effect posture control in 90 young men (71 right-handed and 19 left-handed) while maintaining an upright bipedal posture, while keeping their eyes open or closed. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was administered and changes in free cortisol levels were monitored (Cortisol Awakening Response, CAR) in order to evaluate the amount of stress present during awakening, while the Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to estimate distress on the whole. Posture control was evaluated with the use of a force platform, which, while computing a confidence ellipse area of 95%, was engaged by the Center of Pressure through five stability stations and was sustained for a minimum of 52 s, with and without visual input. Another goal of the experiment was to find out whether or not cortisol increases in CAR were linked with rises of blood lactate levels. Results: CAR, PSS and POMS were found to be extensively related. Furthermore, it has been observed that increases in salivary cortisol in CAR are associated with small but significant increases in blood lactate levels. As expected, stress levels did affect postural stability. Conclusions: The results of the present study confirm that the level of stress can influence postural stability, and that this influence is principally obvious when visual information is not used in postural control.
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Coco M, Buscemi A, Pennisi E, Cavallari P, Papotto G, Papotto GMF, Perciavalle V, Di Corrado D, Perciavalle V. Postural Control and Stress Exposure in Young Men: Changes in Cortisol Awakening Response and Blood Lactate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7222. [PMID: 33023176 PMCID: PMC7579131 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has recently been noticed that the quantity of stress affects postural stability in young women. The study was conducted with the goal of investigating whether increased stress may damagingly effect posture control in 90 young men (71 right-handed and 19 left-handed) while maintaining an upright bipedal posture, while keeping their eyes open or closed. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was administered and changes in free cortisol levels were monitored (Cortisol Awakening Response, CAR) in order to evaluate the amount of stress present during awakening, while the Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to estimate distress on the whole. Posture control was evaluated with the use of a force platform, which, while computing a confidence ellipse area of 95%, was engaged by the Center of Pressure through five stability stations and was sustained for a minimum of 52 s, with and without visual input. Another goal of the experiment was to find out whether or not cortisol increases in CAR were linked with rises of blood lactate levels. RESULTS CAR, PSS and POMS were found to be extensively related. Furthermore, it has been observed that increases in salivary cortisol in CAR are associated with small but significant increases in blood lactate levels. As expected, stress levels did affect postural stability. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study confirm that the level of stress can influence postural stability, and that this influence is principally obvious when visual information is not used in postural control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinella Coco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Motor Activity Research Center (CRAM), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Buscemi
- Horus Social Cooperative, Department of Research, 97100 Ragusa, Italy;
- Department of Research, Italian Center Studies of Osteopathy, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Pennisi
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (E.P.); (V.P.)
| | - Paolo Cavallari
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Human Physiology Section, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Papotto
- University Hospital “Policlinico G. Rodolico-San Marco”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | | | - Vincenzo Perciavalle
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, School of Sport Sciences, Kore University, 94100 Enna, Italy; (D.D.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Donatella Di Corrado
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, School of Sport Sciences, Kore University, 94100 Enna, Italy; (D.D.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Valentina Perciavalle
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (E.P.); (V.P.)
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Almanza-Sepulveda ML, Fleming AS, Jonas W. Mothering revisited: A role for cortisol? Horm Behav 2020; 121:104679. [PMID: 31927022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This selective review first describes the involvement of the maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and the relation between peripartum HPA axis function and maternal behavior, stress reactivity and emotional dysregulation in human mothers. To provide experimental background to this correlational work, where helpful, animal studies are also described. It then explores the association between HPA axis function in mothers and their infants, under ongoing non-stressful conditions and during stressful challenges, the moderating role of mothers' sensitivity and behavior in the mother-child co-regulation and the effects of more traumatic risk factors on these relations. The overarching theme being explored is that the HPA axis - albeit a system designed to function during periods of high stress and challenge - also functions to promote adaptation to more normative processes, shown in the new mother who experiences both high cortisol and enhanced attraction and attention to and recognition of, their infants and their cues. Hence the same HPA system shows positive relations with behavior at some time points and inverse ones at others. However, the literature is not uniform and results vary widely depending on the number, timing, place, and type of samplings and assessments, and, of course, the population being studied and, in the present context, the state, the stage, and the stress levels of mother and infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra L Almanza-Sepulveda
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Alison S Fleming
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Wibke Jonas
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Widerströmska Huset, Tomtebodavägen 18a, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Santiago GTP, de Menezes Galvão AC, de Almeida RN, Mota-Rolim SA, Palhano-Fontes F, Maia-de-Oliveira JP, de Araújo DB, Lobão-Soares B, Galvão-Coelho NL. Changes in Cortisol but Not in Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Modulate the Association Between Sleep Disturbances and Major Depression. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:44. [PMID: 32410966 PMCID: PMC7199815 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is a symptom consistently found in major depression and is associated with a longer course of illness, reduced response to treatment, increased risk of relapse and recurrence. Chronic insomnia has been associated with changes in cortisol and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which in turn are also changed in major depression. Here, we evaluated the relationship between sleep quality, salivary cortisol awakening response (CAR), and serum BDNF levels in patients with sleep disturbance and treatment-resistant major depression (n = 18), and in a control group of healthy subjects with good (n = 21) and poor (n = 18) sleep quality. We observed that the patients had the lowest CAR and sleep duration of all three groups and a higher latency to sleep than the healthy volunteers with a good sleep profile. Besides, low CAR was correlated with more severe depressive symptoms and worse sleep quality. There was no difference in serum BDNF levels between groups with distinct sleep quality. Taken together, our results showed a relationship between changes in CAR and in sleep quality in patients with treatment-resistant depression, which were correlated with the severity of disease, suggesting that cortisol could be a physiological link between sleep disturbance and major depression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Cecília de Menezes Galvão
- Laboratory of Hormonal Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Raíssa Nóbrega de Almeida
- Laboratory of Hormonal Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Sergio Arthuro Mota-Rolim
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Palhano-Fontes
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - João Paulo Maia-de-Oliveira
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), Natal, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Dráulio Barros de Araújo
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Bruno Lobão-Soares
- National Science and Technology Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), Natal, Brazil
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Nicole Leite Galvão-Coelho
- Laboratory of Hormonal Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Psychobiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), Natal, Brazil
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Network between Cytokines, Cortisol and Occupational Stress in Gas and Oilfield Workers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031118. [PMID: 32046214 PMCID: PMC7037782 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
To test whether gas and oil field work is accompanied by stress and altered immune function, the perception of workplace stress, levels of salivary cortisol, plasma levels, and mononuclear cell production of cytokines were examined in 80 healthy workers recruited among a population of operators on gas and oilfields. Specific questionnaires for determining the perception of anxiety, occupational stress, and subjective symptoms were administered. Salivary cortisol and cytokines plasma levels were evaluated by Elisa and to investigate immune function, both spontaneous and PHA- or LPS-induced expression and production of cytokines were assessed by qRT-PCR. Workers showed medium stress levels at work, with growth and increased motivation for work, and based on salivary cortisol concentrations, were divided into two groups of ≤10 ng/mL (n = 31) or >10 ng/mL (n = 49). Statistically significant higher plasma levels of IL-6, while lower TNFα, were detected in workers with cortisol >10 ng/mL. Also, BMI, DL, JD and Job strain were significantly higher in workers with cortisol >10 ng/mL. Thus, even modest variations of cortisol might have a role in the modulation of immune response and worker’s vulnerability to health imbalance.Thus, the evaluation of immune status, in addition to cortisol levels, could be useful to prevent illnesses; exacerbation of pre-existing conditions; morbidity; and consequent absences from work, with economic repercussions.
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Elder GJ, Wetherell MA, Pollet TV, Barclay NL, Ellis JG. Experienced Demand Does Not Affect Subsequent Sleep and the Cortisol Awakening Response. Nat Sci Sleep 2020; 12:537-543. [PMID: 32801979 PMCID: PMC7406359 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s231484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Stress is associated with subjective and objective sleep disturbances; however, it is not known whether stress disrupts sleep and relevant physiological markers of stress immediately after it is experienced. The present study examined whether demand, in the form of cognitive tasks, disrupted sleep and the cortisol awakening response (CAR), depending on whether it was experienced or just anticipated. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Subjective and objective sleep was measured in 22 healthy adults on three nights (Nights 0-2) in a sleep laboratory using sleep diaries and polysomnography. Saliva samples were obtained at awakening, +15, +30, +45 and +60 minutes on each subsequent day (Day 1-3) and CAR measurement indices were derived: awakening cortisol levels, the mean increase in cortisol levels (MnInc) and total cortisol secretion (AUCG). On Night 1, participants were informed that they were required to complete a series of demanding cognitive tasks within the sleep laboratory during the following day. Participants completed the tasks as expected or unexpectedly performed sedentary activities. RESULTS Compared to the no-demand group, the demand group displayed significantly higher levels of state anxiety immediately completing the first task. There were no subsequent differences between the demand and no-demand groups in Night 2 subjective sleep continuity, objective sleep continuity or architecture, or on any Day 3 CAR measure. CONCLUSION These results indicate that sleep and the CAR are not differentially affected depending on whether or not an anticipated stressor is then experienced. This provides further evidence to indicate that the CAR is a marker of anticipation and not recovery. In order to disrupt sleep, a stressor may need to be personally relevant or of a prolonged duration or intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Elder
- Northumbria Sleep Research Laboratory, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Mark A Wetherell
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Thomas V Pollet
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nicola L Barclay
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jason G Ellis
- Northumbria Sleep Research Laboratory, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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20
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Vrinceanu T, Esmail A, Berryman N, Predovan D, Vu TTM, Villalpando JM, Pruessner JC, Bherer L. Dance your stress away: comparing the effect of dance/movement training to aerobic exercise training on the cortisol awakening response in healthy older adults. Stress 2019; 22:687-695. [PMID: 31124397 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2019.1617690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine in healthy older adults the effects of dance/movement training (DMT) on the cortisol awakening response (CAR), a marker of chronic stress. Forty participants (mean age = 67.45, 75% women) were randomized into three groups: DMT (n = 12) - a set of exercises to promote gross motor skills, body awareness, and socialization; aerobic exercise training (AT; n = 14) - high intensity activity on a recumbent bicycle, and wait list (WL; n = 14). Both DMT and AT groups were supervised by licensed instructors and met three times a week for three months. Before and after their respective program, participants of all groups provided saliva samples on 3 d at 0-, 30- and 60-min after awakening, and had their fitness level evaluated. A significant group × time interaction (F(2,34) = 5.79, p = .01, η2partial = 0.25) was found, with the DMT group showing lower salivary cortisol values post-training, while the other two groups showed no change from baseline in their CAR. Cardiorespiratory fitness improved only in the AT group, while DMT showed no group-specific physical functioning improvements. The results are discussed in terms of the importance of physical and psychological effects of training on change in cortisol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tudor Vrinceanu
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Research Centre, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Research Centre, Montreal Heart Institute , Montreal , Canada
| | - Alida Esmail
- École de Réadaptation, Université de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Institut universitaire sur la réadaptation en déficience physique de Montréal, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal , Montreal , Canada
| | - Nicolas Berryman
- Research Centre, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Department of Sports Studies, Bishop's University , Sherbrooke , Canada
| | - David Predovan
- Research Centre, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Université du Québec à Montréal , Montreal , Canada
| | - Thien Tuong Minh Vu
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
| | | | - Jens C Pruessner
- McGill University , Montreal , Canada
- University of Constance , Constance , Germany
| | - Louis Bherer
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Research Centre, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal , Montreal , Canada
- Research Centre, Montreal Heart Institute , Montreal , Canada
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21
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Rodriguez KE, Bryce CI, Granger DA, O'Haire ME. The effect of a service dog on salivary cortisol awakening response in a military population with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychoneuroendocrinology 2018; 98:202-210. [PMID: 29907299 PMCID: PMC8454180 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest a therapeutic effect of psychiatric service dogs for military veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but are limited by self-report biases. The current study assessed the effect of PTSD service dogs on the salivary cortisol awakening response (CAR) and arousal-related functioning in a population of military veterans with PTSD. Participants included 73 post-9/11 military veterans with PTSD including 45 with a service dog and 28 on the waitlist to receive one. Saliva samples were collected on two consecutive weekday mornings at awakening and 30 min later to quantify the cortisol awakening response (CAR) and its area under the curve (AUCi) in addition to standardized survey measures of anxiety, anger, sleep quality and disturbance, and alcohol abuse. There was a significant main effect of having a service dog on both the CAR and the AUCi, with individuals with a service dog exhibiting a higher CAR and AUCi compared to those on the waitlist. Results also revealed that those with a service dog reported significantly lower anxiety, anger, and sleep disturbance as well as less alcohol abuse compared to those on the waitlist, with medium to large effect sizes. Although those with a service dog reported significantly less PTSD symptom severity, CAR was not significantly associated with PTSD symptoms within or across group. In conclusion, results indicate that the placement of a PTSD service dog may have a significant positive influence on both physiological and psychosocial indicators of wellbeing in military veterans with PTSD. Although clinical significance cannot be confirmed, a higher CAR/AUCi among those with a service dog may indicate better health and wellbeing in this population. Future within-subject, longitudinal research will be necessary to determine potential clinical significance and impact of individual differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerri E Rodriguez
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA
| | - Crystal I Bryce
- T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA; Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Douglas A Granger
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marguerite E O'Haire
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA.
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Van Dam JM, Garrett AJ, Schneider LA, Buisman-Pijlman FTA, Short MA, Hodyl NA, Edwards HK, Goldsworthy MR, Pitcher JB. Variability of the cortisol awakening response and morning salivary oxytocin in late adolescence. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12645. [PMID: 30216577 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Exogenously administered oxytocin interacts with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to modulate endogenous cortisol levels, suggesting a synergistic role for these two hormones in the response to stress, cognitive performance and the development of psycho-behavioural disorders. The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is considered a reliable measure of HPA axis function in humans. However, the CAR appears to vary considerably from day to day and may be strongly influenced by the anticipated demands of the day ahead. The level of variation intrinsic to the CAR is unclear because few studies have examined the CAR in the absence of daily environmental variation. It is not known whether oxytocin has a similar or complementary awakening response. Therefore, over three consecutive days, we examined 12 adolescents (aged 15-17 years) in a highly-controlled sleep laboratory. Saliva was collected on days 4-6 of a 9-day laboratory visit. Cortisol and oxytocin levels were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay from saliva sampled at 0, 15, 30 and 45 minutes, and 8 and 12 hours post-awakening. CAR magnitude varied between days and was associated with sleep duration and pre-awakening sleep stage. Conversely, oxytocin levels dropped dramatically in the first 15 minutes post-awakening and were highly consistent across participants and days. Older participants had higher awakening oxytocin concentrations. Although cortisol increases and oxytocin rapidly declines upon awakening, their diurnal variation does not appear to be related at basal, peripheral levels, consistent with a previous finding that exogenously administered oxytocin only modulates cortisol under conditions of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jago M Van Dam
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amy J Garrett
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luke A Schneider
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Femke T A Buisman-Pijlman
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Michelle A Short
- Centre for Sleep Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Nicolette A Hodyl
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hannah K Edwards
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mitchell R Goldsworthy
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Julia B Pitcher
- Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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23
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Leppert KA, Smith VC, Merwin SM, Kushner M, Dougherty LR. Cortisol Rhythm in Preschoolers: Relations with Maternal Depression and Child Temperament. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-018-9650-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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24
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Neumann A, Direk N, Crawford AA, Mirza S, Adams H, Bolton J, Hayward C, Strachan DP, Payne EK, Smith JA, Milaneschi Y, Penninx B, Hottenga JJ, de Geus E, Oldehinkel AJ, van der Most PJ, de Rijke Y, Walker BR, Tiemeier H. The low single nucleotide polymorphism heritability of plasma and saliva cortisol levels. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 85:88-95. [PMID: 28843169 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cortisol is an important stress hormone affected by a variety of biological and environmental factors, such as the circadian rhythm, exercise and psychological stress. Cortisol is mostly measured using blood or saliva samples. A number of genetic variants have been found to contribute to cortisol levels with these methods. While the effects of several specific single genetic variants is known, the joint genome-wide contribution to cortisol levels is unclear. Our aim was to estimate the amount of cortisol variance explained by common single nucleotide polymorphisms, i.e. the SNP heritability, using a variety of cortisol measures, cohorts and analysis approaches. We analyzed morning plasma (n=5705) and saliva levels (n=1717), as well as diurnal saliva levels (n=1541), in the Rotterdam Study using genomic restricted maximum likelihood estimation. Additionally, linkage disequilibrium score regression was fitted on the results of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) performed by the CORNET consortium on morning plasma cortisol (n=12,597) and saliva cortisol (n=7703). No significant SNP heritability was detected for any cortisol measure, sample or analysis approach. Point estimates ranged from 0% to 9%. Morning plasma cortisol in the CORNET cohorts, the sample with the most power, had a 6% [95%CI: 0-13%] SNP heritability. The results consistently suggest a low SNP heritability of these acute and short-term measures of cortisol. The low SNP heritability may reflect the substantial environmental and, in particular, situational component of these cortisol measures. Future GWAS will require very large sample sizes. Alternatively, more long-term cortisol measures such as hair cortisol samples are needed to discover further genetic pathways regulating cortisol concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Neumann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, PO-Box 2060, Rotterdam 3000 CB, The Netherlands
| | - Nese Direk
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO-Box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew A Crawford
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK; MRC IEU, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Saira Mirza
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO-Box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Hieab Adams
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO-Box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Bolton
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Caroline Hayward
- Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - David P Strachan
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Erin K Payne
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Life Sciences Program, Northrop Grumman Health Division, 7575 Colshire Dr, McLean, VA 22102, United States
| | - Jennifer A Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, PO-Box 1248, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1248, United States
| | - Yuri Milaneschi
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health and Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center/GGZ inGeest, PO Box 7057, Amsterdam 1007 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Brenda Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health and Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center/GGZ inGeest, PO Box 7057, Amsterdam 1007 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Jouke J Hottenga
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, Amsterdam 1081 BT, The Netherlands
| | - Eco de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 1, Amsterdam 1081 BT, The Netherlands
| | - Albertine J Oldehinkel
- Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, PO-Box 30.001, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J van der Most
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, PO-Box 30.001, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands
| | - Yolanda de Rijke
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO-Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Brian R Walker
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Henning Tiemeier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, PO-Box 2060, Rotterdam 3000 CB, The Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO-Box 2040, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands.
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Elder GJ, Barclay NL, Wetherell MA, Ellis JG. Anticipated next-day demand affects the magnitude of the cortisol awakening response, but not subjective or objective sleep. J Sleep Res 2017; 27:47-55. [PMID: 28568907 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Whilst the association between sleep and stress is well established, few studies have examined the effects of an anticipated stressor upon sleep and relevant physiological markers. The aim of the present study was to examine whether an anticipated stressor in the form of next-day demand affects subjective and objective sleep, and multiple indices of the cortisol awakening response. Subjective and objective sleep and the cortisol awakening response were measured over three consecutive nights in 40 healthy adults in a sleep laboratory. During their second night, participants were informed that they would either be required to complete a series of demanding cognitive tasks, in a competition format, during the next day (anticipation condition; n = 22), or were given no instruction (sedentary condition; n = 18). Sleep was measured subjectively using sleep diaries, objectively using polysomnography, and saliva was measured at awakening, +15, +30, +45 and +60 min each morning, from which cortisol awakening response measurement indices were derived: awakening cortisol levels, the mean increase in cortisol levels and total cortisol secretion. There were no between-group differences in subjective or objective sleep in the night preceding the anticipated demand; however, compared with the sedentary condition, those in the anticipation group displayed a larger mean increase in cortisol levels, representing the cortisol awakening response magnitude, on the morning of the anticipated demand. Overall, the results suggest that whilst anticipated stress affected the subsequent cortisol awakening response, subjective and objective sleep remained undisturbed. It is possible that the timing of an anticipated stressor, rather than its expected duration, may influence subsequent sleep disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J Elder
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nicola L Barclay
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mark A Wetherell
- Northumbria Sleep Research Laboratory, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jason G Ellis
- Northumbria Sleep Research Laboratory, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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26
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Chen X, Gianferante D, Hanlin L, Fiksdal A, Breines JG, Thoma MV, Rohleder N. HPA-axis and inflammatory reactivity to acute stress is related with basal HPA-axis activity. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 78:168-176. [PMID: 28209543 PMCID: PMC5375039 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inflammation is drawing attention as pathway between psychosocial stress and health, and basal HPA axis activity has been suggested to exert a consistent regulatory influence on peripheral inflammation. Here we studied the relationship between basal HPA axis activity and inflammatory and HPA axis acute stress reactivity. METHODS We recruited 48 healthy individuals and collected saliva for diurnal cortisol sampling at 6 points. Participants were previously exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) on two consecutive days. Plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) and salivary cortisol reactivity to acute stress were measured, and their relationships with basal HPA axis activity were analyzed. RESULTS Steeper cortisol awakening response (CAR) linear increase was related with stronger cortisol stress reactivity (γ=0.015; p=0.042) and marginally significantly with greater habituation (γ=0.01; p=0.066). Greater curvilinearity of CAR was related with stronger cortisol reactivity (γ=-0.014; p=0.021) and greater cortisol habituation (γ=-0.011; p=0.006). Steeper daily linear decline was related with significant or marginally significantly stronger cortisol and IL-6 reactivity (cortisol: γ=-0.0004; p=0.06; IL-6: γ=-0.028; p=0.031) and greater habituation (cortisol: γ=-0.002; p=0.009, IL-6: γ=-0.015; p=0.033). Greater curvilinearity of daily decline was related with stronger IL-6 reactivity (γ=0.002; p=0.024) and also greater cortisol and IL-6 habituation (cortisol: γ=0.00009; p=0.03, IL-6: γ=0.001; p=0.024). CONCLUSIONS Patterns of basal HPA axis activity that are related with healthier outcomes were found to be related with stronger initial cortisol and IL-6 reactivity and greater habituation. This is an important step in understanding the long-term health implications of acute stress responsiveness, and future studies should employ longitudinal designs to identify the direction of these relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejie Chen
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Danielle Gianferante
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Luke Hanlin
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Alexander Fiksdal
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Juliana G. Breines
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Myriam V. Thoma
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States,Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Rohleder
- Department of Psychology and Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, United States; Chair of Health Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
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