1
|
Putica A, Agathos J. Reconceptualizing complex posttraumatic stress disorder: A predictive processing framework for mechanisms and intervention. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 164:105836. [PMID: 39084584 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105836] [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: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
In this article, we introduce a framework for interpreting Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) through predictive processing, a neuroscience concept explaining the brain's interpretation and prediction of sensory information. While closely related to PTSD, C-PTSD encompasses additional symptom clusters marked by disturbances in self-organization (DSO), such as negative self-concept, affect dysregulation, and relational difficulties, typically resulting from prolonged traumatic stressors. Our model leverages advances in computational psychiatry and neuroscience, offering a mechanistic explanation for these symptoms by illustrating how prolonged trauma disrupts the brain's predictive processing. Specifically, altered predictive mechanisms contribute to C-PTSD's symptomatology, focusing on DSO: (1) Negative self-concept emerges from maladaptive priors that bias perception towards self-criticism, misaligning expected and actual interoceptive states; (2) Misalignment between predicted and actual interoceptive signals leads to affect dysregulation, with sensitivity to bodily cues; and (3) Relationship challenges arise from skewed social prediction errors, fostering mistrust and withdrawal. This precision-focused approach sheds light on the dynamics underpinning C-PTSD and highlights potential intervention targets aimed at recalibrating the predictive processing system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Putica
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
| | - James Agathos
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Agathos J, Putica A, Steward T, Felmingham KL, O'Donnell ML, Davey C, Harrison BJ. Neuroimaging evidence of disturbed self-appraisal in posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2024; 344:111888. [PMID: 39236486 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2024.111888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experience of self-hood in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is altered cognitively and somatically. Dysfunctional negative cognitions about the self are a central mechanism of PTSD symptomatology and treatment. However, while higher-order brain models of disturbances in self-appraisal (i.e., cognitive processes relating to evaluating the self) have been examined in other psychiatric disorders, it is unclear how normative brain function during self-appraisal is impaired in PTSD. METHODS This paper presents a PRISMA systematic review of functional neuroimaging studies (n = 5), to establish a neurobiological account of how self-appraisal processes are disturbed in PTSD. The review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023450509). RESULTS Self-appraisal in PTSD is linked to disrupted activity in core self-processing regions of the Default Mode Network (DMN); and regions involved in cognitive control and emotion regulation, salience and valuation. LIMITATIONS Because self-appraisal in PTSD is relatively under-studied, only a small number of studies could be included for review. Cross-study heterogeneity in analytic approaches and trauma-exposure history prohibited a quantitative meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS This paper proposes a mechanistic account of how neural dysfunctions may manifest clinically in PTSD and inform targeted selection of appropriate treatment options. We present a research agenda for future work to advance the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Agathos
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Parkville, Victoria 3053, Australia.
| | - A Putica
- Department of Psychology, Counselling and Therapy, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - T Steward
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Parkville, Victoria 3053, Australia; Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K L Felmingham
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - M L O'Donnell
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - C Davey
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Parkville, Victoria 3053, Australia
| | - B J Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Parkville, Victoria 3053, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wu H, Huang Y, Qin P, Wu H. Individual Differences in Bodily Self-Consciousness and Its Neural Basis. Brain Sci 2024; 14:795. [PMID: 39199487 PMCID: PMC11353174 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14080795] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Bodily self-consciousness (BSC), a subject of interdisciplinary interest, refers to the awareness of one's bodily states. Previous studies have noted the existence of individual differences in BSC, while neglecting the underlying factors and neural basis of such individual differences. Considering that BSC relied on integration from both internal and external self-relevant information, we here review previous findings on individual differences in BSC through a three-level-self model, which includes interoceptive, exteroceptive, and mental self-processing. The data show that cross-level factors influenced individual differences in BSC, involving internal bodily signal perceptibility, multisensory processing principles, personal traits shaped by environment, and interaction modes that integrate multiple levels of self-processing. Furthermore, in interoceptive processing, regions like the anterior cingulate cortex and insula show correlations with different perceptions of internal sensations. For exteroception, the parietal lobe integrates sensory inputs, coordinating various BSC responses. Mental self-processing modulates differences in BSC through areas like the medial prefrontal cortex. For interactions between multiple levels of self-processing, regions like the intraparietal sulcus involve individual differences in BSC. We propose that diverse experiences of BSC can be attributed to different levels of self-processing, which moderates one's perception of their body. Overall, considering individual differences in BSC is worth amalgamating diverse methodologies for the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China; (H.W.); (Y.H.)
| | - Ying Huang
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China; (H.W.); (Y.H.)
| | - Pengmin Qin
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China; (H.W.); (Y.H.)
- Pazhou Lab, Guangzhou 510330, China
| | - Hang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Institute for Brain Research and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Averill CL, Averill LA, Akiki TJ, Fouda S, Krystal JH, Abdallah CG. Findings of PTSD-specific deficits in default mode network strength following a mild experimental stressor. NPP-DIGITAL PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 2:9. [PMID: 38919723 PMCID: PMC11197271 DOI: 10.1038/s44277-024-00011-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Reductions in default mode (DMN) connectivity strength have been reported in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the specificity of DMN connectivity deficits in PTSD compared to major depressive disorder (MDD), and the sensitivity of these alterations to acute stressors are not yet known. 52 participants with a primary diagnosis of PTSD (n = 28) or MDD (n = 24) completed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging immediately before and after a mild affective stressor. A 2 × 2 design was conducted to determine the effects of group, stress, and group*stress on DMN connectivity strength. Exploratory analyses were completed to identify the brain region(s) underlying the DMN alterations. There was significant group*stress interaction (p = 0.03), reflecting stress-induced reduction in DMN strength in PTSD (p = 0.02), but not MDD (p = 0.50). Nodal exploration of connectivity strength in the DMN identified regions of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the precuneus potentially contributing to DMN connectivity deficits. The findings indicate the possibility of distinct, disease-specific, patterns of connectivity strength reduction in the DMN in PTSD, especially following an experimental stressor. The identified dynamic shift in functional connectivity, which was perhaps induced by the stressor task, underscores the potential utility of the DMN connectivity and raises the question whether these disruptions may be inversely affected by antidepressants known to treat both MDD and PTSD psychopathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L. Averill
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX USA
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Core for Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CAMRI), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Lynnette A. Averill
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX USA
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Teddy J. Akiki
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Samar Fouda
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC USA
| | - John H. Krystal
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Chadi G. Abdallah
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX USA
- National Center for PTSD – Clinical Neurosciences Division, US Department of Veterans Affairs, West Haven, CT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
- Core for Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CAMRI), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Marcu GM, Băcilă CI, Zăgrean AM. Temporal-Posterior Alpha Power in Resting-State Electroencephalography as a Potential Marker of Complex Childhood Trauma in Institutionalized Adolescents. Brain Sci 2024; 14:584. [PMID: 38928584 PMCID: PMC11201643 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study explored whether, given the association of temporal alpha with fear circuitry (learning and conditioning), exposure to complex childhood trauma (CCT) is reflected in the temporal-posterior alpha power in resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) in complex trauma-exposed adolescents in a sample of 25 adolescents and similar controls aged 12-17 years. Both trauma and psychopathology were screened or assessed, and resting-state EEG was recorded following a preregistered protocol for data collection. Temporal-posterior alpha power, corresponding to the T5 and T6 electrode locations (international 10-20 system), was extracted from resting-state EEG in both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. We found that in the eyes-open condition, temporal-posterior alpha was significantly lower in adolescents exposed to CCT relative to healthy controls, suggesting that childhood trauma exposure may have a measurable impact on alpha oscillatory patterns. Our study highlights the importance of considering potential neural markers, such as temporal-posterior alpha power, to understanding the long-term consequences of CCT exposure in developmental samples, with possible important clinical implications in guiding neuroregulation interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Mariana Marcu
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 550201 Sibiu, Romania
- Collective of Scientific Research in Neurosciences of the Clinical Psychiatry Hospital “Dr. Gheorghe Preda”, 550082 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Ciprian Ionuț Băcilă
- Collective of Scientific Research in Neurosciences of the Clinical Psychiatry Hospital “Dr. Gheorghe Preda”, 550082 Sibiu, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 550169 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Zăgrean
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ireton R, Hughes A, Klabunde M. A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Meta-Analysis of Childhood Trauma. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024; 9:561-570. [PMID: 38311289 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic experiences during childhood significantly impact the developing brain and contribute to the development of numerous physical and mental health problems. To date, however, a comprehensive understanding of the functional impairments within the brain associated with childhood trauma histories does not exist. Previous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) meta-analytical tools required homogeneity of task types and the clinical populations studied, thus preventing the comprehensive pooling of brain-based deficits present in children who have trauma histories. We hypothesized that the use of the novel, data-driven Bayesian author-topic model approach to fMRI meta-analyses would reveal deficits in brain networks that span fMRI task types in children with trauma histories. METHODS To our knowledge, this is the first study to use the Bayesian author-topic model approach to fMRI meta-analyses within a clinical population. Using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we present data-driven results obtained by combining activation patterns across heterogeneous tasks from 1428 initially screened studies and combining data from 14 studies that met study criteria (285 children with trauma histories, 297 healthy control children). RESULTS Altered brain activity was revealed within 2 clusters in children with trauma histories compared to control children: the default mode/affective network/posterior insula and the central executive network. Our identified clusters were associated with tasks pertaining to cognitive processing, emotional/social stress, self-referential thought, memory, unexpected stimuli, and avoidance behaviors in youths who have experienced childhood trauma. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal disturbances in children with trauma histories within the modulation of the default mode and central executive networks-but not the salience network-regardless of whether children also presented with posttraumatic stress symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ireton
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Brain Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Hughes
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Brain Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Klabunde
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Brain Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Leech K, Stapleton P, Patching A. A roadmap to understanding interoceptive awareness and post-traumatic stress disorder: a scoping review. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1355442. [PMID: 38840943 PMCID: PMC11150711 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1355442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of interoception has existed since the beginning of the 1900s. It is suggested that humans can observe feelings arising from the body that allows them to develop a sense of their emotional status and physical condition. The term interoceptive awareness appears to originate with clinicians working with individuals who had experienced trauma, in particular Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the existing literature surrounding the combination of these two themes: interoceptive awareness and PTSD. A total of 226 articles were initially screened and 52 articles were retained for comprehensive review. Nine articles were excluded, resulting in 43 studies included in the review. The review aimed to answer: (a) how is interoceptive awareness defined? (b) how is interoceptive awareness measured? (c) what is the function of interoceptive awareness? (d) is there/what is the relationship between interoceptive awareness and PTSD? The scoping review identified nine terms that are used synonymously throughout the literature surrounding interoceptive awareness and PTSD, and three primary ways in which interoceptive awareness is measured in relation to PTSD. The primary function documented was the role interoceptive awareness played in an individual's ability to regulate their emotions, and the most common and compelling function emerging was the association with emotion regulation. The evidence supports the utilisation of a definition of interoceptive awareness to include one that includes the quality of cognitive appraisal and focuses on the adaptive mindful approach to internal physical sensations as opposed to the heightened ruminative self-focus. Limitations and future research are suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Leech
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Malhotra B, Jones LC, Spooner H, Levy C, Kaimal G, Williamson JB. A conceptual framework for a neurophysiological basis of art therapy for PTSD. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1351757. [PMID: 38711802 PMCID: PMC11073815 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1351757] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a heterogeneous condition that affects many civilians and military service members. Lack of engagement, high dropout rate, and variable response to psychotherapy necessitates more compelling and accessible treatment options that are based on sound neuroscientific evidence-informed decision-making. Art therapy incorporates elements proven to be effective in psychotherapy, such as exposure, making it a potentially valuable treatment option. This conceptual paper aims to inform the neurophysiological rationale for the use of art therapy as a therapeutic approach for individuals with PTSD. A narrative synthesis was conducted using literature review of empirical research on the neurophysiological effects of art therapy, with supporting literature on neuroaesthetics and psychotherapies to identify art therapy factors most pertinent for PTSD. Findings were synthesized through a proposed framework based on the triple network model considering the network-based dysfunctions due to PTSD. Art therapy's active components, such as concretization and metaphor, active art engagement, emotion processing and regulation, perspective taking and reframing, and therapeutic alliance, may improve symptoms of PTSD and prompt adaptive brain functioning. Given the scarcity of rigorous studies on art therapy's effectiveness and mechanisms of alleviating PTSD symptoms, the suggested framework offers a neurophysiological rationale and a future research agenda to investigate the impact of art therapy as a therapeutic approach for individuals with PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bani Malhotra
- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laura C. Jones
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Heather Spooner
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. in support of Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Center of Arts in Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Charles Levy
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. in support of Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Girija Kaimal
- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - John B. Williamson
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for OCD, Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gilgoff R, Mengelkoch S, Elbers J, Kotz K, Radin A, Pasumarthi I, Murthy R, Sindher S, Harris NB, Slavich GM. The Stress Phenotyping Framework: A multidisciplinary biobehavioral approach for assessing and therapeutically targeting maladaptive stress physiology. Stress 2024; 27:2327333. [PMID: 38711299 PMCID: PMC11219250 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2024.2327333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Although dysregulated stress biology is becoming increasingly recognized as a key driver of lifelong disparities in chronic disease, we presently have no validated biomarkers of toxic stress physiology; no biological, behavioral, or cognitive treatments specifically focused on normalizing toxic stress processes; and no agreed-upon guidelines for treating stress in the clinic or evaluating the efficacy of interventions that seek to reduce toxic stress and improve human functioning. We address these critical issues by (a) systematically describing key systems and mechanisms that are dysregulated by stress; (b) summarizing indicators, biomarkers, and instruments for assessing stress response systems; and (c) highlighting therapeutic approaches that can be used to normalize stress-related biopsychosocial functioning. We also present a novel multidisciplinary Stress Phenotyping Framework that can bring stress researchers and clinicians one step closer to realizing the goal of using precision medicine-based approaches to prevent and treat stress-associated health problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Gilgoff
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Summer Mengelkoch
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jorina Elbers
- Trauma recovery Program, HeartMath Institute, Boulder Creek, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Isha Pasumarthi
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Reanna Murthy
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Sayantani Sindher
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - George M. Slavich
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Otani Y, Katagiri Y, Imai E, Kowa H. Action-rule-based cognitive control enables efficient execution of stimulus-response conflict tasks: a model validation of Simon task performance. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1239207. [PMID: 38034070 PMCID: PMC10687480 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1239207] [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: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The human brain can flexibly modify behavioral rules to optimize task performance (speed and accuracy) by minimizing cognitive load. To show this flexibility, we propose an action-rule-based cognitive control (ARC) model. The ARC model was based on a stochastic framework consistent with an active inference of the free energy principle, combined with schematic brain network systems regulated by the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), to develop several hypotheses for demonstrating the validity of the ARC model. Methods A step-motion Simon task was developed involving congruence or incongruence between important symbolic information (illustration of a foot labeled "L" or "R," where "L" requests left and "R" requests right foot movement) and irrelevant spatial information (whether the illustration is actually of a left or right foot). We made predictions for behavioral and brain responses to testify to the theoretical predictions. Results Task responses combined with event-related deep-brain activity (ER-DBA) measures demonstrated a key contribution of the dACC in this process and provided evidence for the main prediction that the dACC could reduce the Shannon surprise term in the free energy formula by internally reversing the irrelevant rapid anticipatory postural adaptation. We also found sequential effects with modulated dip depths of ER-DBA waveforms that support the prediction that repeated stimuli with the same congruency can promote remodeling of the internal model through the information gain term while counterbalancing the surprise term. Discussion Overall, our results were consistent with experimental predictions, which may support the validity of the ARC model. The sequential effect accompanied by dip modulation of ER-DBA waveforms suggests that cognitive cost is saved while maintaining cognitive performance in accordance with the framework of the ARC based on 1-bit congruency-dependent selective control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Otani
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kobe International University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yoshitada Katagiri
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyō, Japan
| | - Emiko Imai
- Department of Biophysics, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hisatomo Kowa
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chang J, Song D, Yu R. The double-edged sword of the hippocampus-ventromedial prefrontal cortex resting-state connectivity in stress susceptibility and resilience: A prospective study. Neurobiol Stress 2023; 27:100584. [PMID: 37965440 PMCID: PMC10641247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus has long been considered a pivotal region implicated in both stress susceptibility and resilience. A wealth of evidence from animal and human studies underscores the significance of hippocampal functional connectivity with the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) in these stress-related processes. However, there remains a scarcity of research that explores and contrasts the roles of hippocampus-vmPFC connectivity in stress susceptibility and resilience when facing a real-life traumatic event from a prospective standpoint. In the present study, we investigated the contributions of undirected and directed connectivity between the hippocampus and vmPFC to stress susceptibility and resilience within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings revealed that the left hippocampus-left vmPFC connectivity prior to the pandemic exhibited a negative correlation with both stress susceptibility and resilience. Specifically, individuals with stronger left hippocampus-left vmPFC connectivity reported experiencing fewer stress-related feelings during the outbreak period of the epidemic but displayed lower levels of stress resilience five months later. Our application of spectral dynamic causal modeling unveiled an additional inhibitory connectivity pathway from the left hippocampus to the left vmPFC in the context of stress susceptibility, which was notably absent in stress resilience. Furthermore, we observed a noteworthy positive association between self-inhibition of the vmPFC and stress susceptibility, with this effect proving substantial enough to predict an individual's susceptibility to stress; conversely, these patterns did not manifest in the realm of stress resilience. These findings enrich our comprehension of stress susceptibility and stress resilience and might have implications for innovative approaches to managing stress-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Chang
- Institute of Psychology, School of Public Policy, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Di Song
- Department of Management, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rongjun Yu
- Department of Management, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Siehl S, Wicking M, Pohlack S, Winkelmann T, Zidda F, Steiger-White F, Nees F, Flor H. Altered frontolimbic activity during virtual reality-based contextual fear learning in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder. Psychol Med 2023; 53:6345-6355. [PMID: 36601857 PMCID: PMC10520602 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722003695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficiency in contextual and enhanced responding in cued fear learning may contribute to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We examined the responses to aversive Pavlovian conditioning with an unpredictable spatial context as conditioned stimulus compared to a predictable context. We hypothesized that the PTSD group would demonstrate less hippocampal and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) activation during acquisition and extinction of unpredictable contexts and an over-reactive amygdala response in the predictable contexts compared to controls. METHODS A novel combined differential cue-context conditioning paradigm was applied using virtual reality with spatial contexts that required configural and cue processing. We assessed 20 patients with PTSD, 21 healthy trauma-exposed (TC) and 22 non-trauma-exposed (HC) participants using functional magnetic resonance imaging, skin conductance responses, and self-report measures. RESULTS During fear acquisition, patients with PTSD compared to TC showed lower activity in the hippocampi in the unpredictable and higher activity in the amygdalae in the predictable context. During fear extinction, TC compared to patients and HC showed higher brain activity in the vmPFC in the predictable context. There were no significant differences in self-report or skin conductance responses. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that patients with PTSD differ in brain activation from controls in regions such as the hippocampus, the amygdala, and the vmPFC in the processing of unpredictable and predictable contexts. Deficient encoding of more complex configurations might lead to a preponderance of cue-based predictions in PTSD. Exposure-based treatments need to focus on improving predictability of contextual processing and reducing enhanced cue reactivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Siehl
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Manon Wicking
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Pain Medicine, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil GmbH, Ruhr University, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sebastian Pohlack
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tobias Winkelmann
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Francesca Zidda
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frauke Steiger-White
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frauke Nees
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Herta Flor
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Harwood-Gross A, Stern N, Brom D. Exposure to combat experiences: PTSD, somatization and aggression amongst combat and non-combat veterans. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 58:424-432. [PMID: 37199000 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12917] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
To this date, the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and associated psychological symptom profiles amongst non-combatant community-based veterans in Israel has not been studied. Data were analysed from a web-based survey of veterans via a market research platform during September 2021 and included 522 non-combat (e.g. intelligence, office-based or education corps) veterans and 534 combat (e.g. front-line infantry) veterans. The survey assessed PTSD, depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms in addition to the prevalence of self-reported aggression. A two-way multivariate analysis of covariance indicated that higher PTSD and somatic symptoms were prevalent for those exposed to combat experiences even when not in a combatant role. A logistic regression indicated that of those who did not self-define as aggressive prior to service, those exposed to combat were three times more likely to be aggressive following their service than veterans not exposed to combat. This effect was not demonstrated for combat soldiers compared to non-combat soldiers. Results indicate that mental health outreach would be better targeted towards those who have been exposed to combat-type experiences during their service even in non-combat units. The current study highlights the effect of combat exposure on secondary PTSD symptoms; aggression and somatization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Harwood-Gross
- METIV Israel Psychotrauma Center, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nadav Stern
- METIV Israel Psychotrauma Center, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Danny Brom
- METIV Israel Psychotrauma Center, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Askovic M, Soh N, Elhindi J, Harris AW. Neurofeedback for post-traumatic stress disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical and neurophysiological outcomes. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2257435. [PMID: 37732560 PMCID: PMC10515677 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2257435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Existing treatments often fail to address the complexity of its symptoms and functional impairments resulting from severe and prolonged trauma. Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback (NFB) has emerged as a promising treatment that aims to reduce the symptoms of PTSD by modulating brain activity.Objective: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of ten clinical trials to answer the question: how effective is NFB in addressing PTSD and other associated symptoms across different trauma populations, and are these improvements related to neurophysiological changes?Method: The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta analyses guidelines. We considered all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs) involving adults with PTSD as a primary diagnosis without exclusion by type of trauma, co-morbid diagnosis, locality, or sex. Ten controlled studies were included; seven RCTs and three NRSIs with a total number of participants n = 293 (128 male). Only RCTs were included in the meta-analysis (215 participants; 88 male).Results: All included studies showed an advantage of NFB over control conditions in reducing symptoms of PTSD, with indications of improvement in symptoms of anxiety and depression and related neurophysiological changes. Meta-analysis of the pooled data shows a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms post-treatment SMD of -1.76 (95% CI -2.69, -0.83), and the mean remission rate was higher in the NFB group (79.3%) compared to the control group (24.4%). However, the studies reviewed were mostly small, with heterogeneous populations and varied quality.Conclusions: The effect of NFB on the symptoms of PTSD was moderate and mechanistic evidence suggested that NFB leads to therapeutic changes in brain functioning. Future research should focus on more rigorous methodological designs, expanded sample size and longer follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirjana Askovic
- New South Wales Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS), Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Specialty of Psychiatry, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain Dynamics Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nerissa Soh
- Specialty of Psychiatry, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Elhindi
- Research and Education Network, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony W.F. Harris
- Specialty of Psychiatry, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain Dynamics Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Makale MT, Abbasi S, Nybo C, Keifer J, Christman L, Fairchild JK, Yesavage J, Blum K, Gold MS, Baron D, Cadet JL, Elman I, Dennen CA, Murphy KT. Personalized repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (prtms®) for post-traumatic stress disorder (ptsd) in military combat veterans. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18943. [PMID: 37609394 PMCID: PMC10440537 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18943] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging data suggest that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) arises from disrupted brain default mode network (DMN) activity manifested by dysregulated encephalogram (EEG) alpha oscillations. Hence, we pursued the treatment of combat veterans with PTSD (n = 185) using an expanded form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) termed personalized-rTMS (PrTMS). In this treatment methodology spectral EEG based guidance is used to iteratively optimize symptom resolution via (1) stimulation of multiple motor sensory and frontal cortical sites at reduced power, and (2) adjustments of cortical treatment loci and stimulus frequency during treatment progression based on a proprietary frequency algorithm (PeakLogic, Inc. San Diego) identifying stimulation frequency in the DMN elements of the alpha oscillatory band. Following 4 - 6 weeks of PrTMS® therapy in addition to routine PTSD therapy, veterans exhibited significant clinical improvement accompanied by increased cortical alpha center frequency and alpha oscillatory synchronization. Full resolution of PTSD symptoms was attained in over 50% of patients. These data support DMN involvement in PTSD pathophysiology and suggest a role in therapeutic outcomes. Prospective, sham controlled PrTMS® trials may be warranted to validate our clinical findings and to examine the contribution of DMN targeting for novel preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies tailored to the unique needs of individual patients with both combat and non-combat PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan T. Makale
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Shaghayegh Abbasi
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Portland, Portland, OR, 97203, USA
| | - Chad Nybo
- CrossTx Inc., Bozeman, MT, 59715, USA
| | | | | | - J. Kaci Fairchild
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Jerome Yesavage
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Sports, Exercise & Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, USA
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Addiction, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary
- Department of Psychiatry, Wright University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Mark S. Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David Baron
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Sports, Exercise & Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, USA
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Igor Elman
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Catherine A. Dennen
- Department of Family Medicine, Jefferson Health Northeast, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen HJ, Ke J, Qiu J, Xu Q, Zhong Y, Lu GM, Wu Y, Qi R, Chen F. Altered whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity and brain network topology in typhoon-related post-traumatic stress disorder. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231175302. [PMID: 37342156 PMCID: PMC10278414 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231175302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Altered resting-state functional connectivity has been found in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the alteration of resting-state functional connectivity at whole-brain level in typhoon-traumatized individuals with PTSD remains largely unknown. Objectives To investigate changes in whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity and brain network topology in typhoon-traumatized subjects with and without PTSD. Design Cross-sectional study. Methods Twenty-seven patients with typhoon-related PTSD, 33 trauma-exposed controls (TEC), and 30 healthy controls (HC) underwent resting-state functional MRI scanning. The whole brain resting-state functional connectivity network was constructed based on the automated anatomical labeling atlas. The graph theory method was used to analyze the topological properties of the large-scale resting-state functional connectivity network. Whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity and the topological network property were compared by analyzing the variance. Results There was no significant difference in the area under the curve of γ, λ, σ, global efficiency, and local efficiency among the three groups. The PTSD group showed increased dorsal cingulate cortex (dACC) resting-state functional connectivity with the postcentral gyrus (PoCG) and paracentral lobe and increased nodal betweenness centrality in the precuneus relative to both control groups. Compared with the PTSD and HC groups, the TEC group showed increased resting-state functional connectivity between the hippocampus and PoCG and increased connectivity strength in the putamen. In addition, compared with the HC group, both the PTSD and TEC groups showed increased connectivity strength and nodal efficiency in the insula. Conclusion Aberrant resting-state functional connectivity and topology were found in all trauma-exposed individuals. These findings broaden our knowledge of the neuropathological mechanisms of PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Juan Chen
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Jun Ke
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jie Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Zhong
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guang Ming Lu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanglei Wu
- MR Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Rongfeng Qi
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Radiology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), No. 19, Xiuhua Street, Xiuying District, Haikou 570311, Hainan, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Clancy KJ, Devignes Q, Kumar P, May V, Hammack SE, Akman E, Casteen EJ, Pernia CD, Jobson SA, Lewis MW, Daskalakis NP, Carlezon WA, Ressler KJ, Rauch SL, Rosso IM. Circulating PACAP levels are associated with increased amygdala-default mode network resting-state connectivity in posttraumatic stress disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023:10.1038/s41386-023-01593-5. [PMID: 37161077 PMCID: PMC10267202 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) system is implicated in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related amygdala-mediated arousal and threat reactivity. PTSD is characterized by increased amygdala reactivity to threat and, more recently, aberrant intrinsic connectivity of the amygdala with large-scale resting state networks, specifically the default mode network (DMN). While the influence of PACAP on amygdala reactivity has been described, its association with intrinsic amygdala connectivity remains unknown. To fill this gap, we examined functional connectivity of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in eighty-nine trauma-exposed adults (69 female) screened for PTSD symptoms to examine the association between blood-borne (circulating) PACAP levels and amygdala-DMN connectivity. Higher circulating PACAP levels were associated with increased amygdala connectivity with posterior DMN regions, including the posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus (PCC/Precun) and left angular gyrus (lANG). Consistent with prior work, this effect was seen in female, but not male, participants and the centromedial, but not basolateral, subregions of the amygdala. Clinical association analyses linked amygdala-PCC/Precun connectivity to anxious arousal symptoms, specifically exaggerated startle response. Taken together, our findings converge with previously demonstrated effects of PACAP on amygdala activity in PTSD-related processes and offer novel evidence for an association between PACAP and intrinsic amygdala connectivity patterns in PTSD. Moreover, these data provide preliminary evidence to motivate future work ascertaining the sex- and subregion-specificity of these effects. Such findings may enable novel mechanistic insights into neural circuit dysfunction in PTSD and how the PACAP system confers risk through a disruption of intrinsic resting-state network dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Clancy
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Quentin Devignes
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Poornima Kumar
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victor May
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | | | - Eylül Akman
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Emily J Casteen
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Cameron D Pernia
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sydney A Jobson
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Michael W Lewis
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikolaos P Daskalakis
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott L Rauch
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isabelle M Rosso
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lieberman JM, Rabellino D, Densmore M, Frewen PA, Steyrl D, Scharnowski F, Théberge J, Neufeld RWJ, Schmahl C, Jetly R, Narikuzhy S, Lanius RA, Nicholson AA. Posterior cingulate cortex targeted real-time fMRI neurofeedback recalibrates functional connectivity with the amygdala, posterior insula, and default-mode network in PTSD. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2883. [PMID: 36791212 PMCID: PMC10013955 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations within large-scale brain networks-namely, the default mode (DMN) and salience networks (SN)-are present among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previous real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography neurofeedback studies suggest that regulating posterior cingulate cortex (PCC; the primary hub of the posterior DMN) activity may reduce PTSD symptoms and recalibrate altered network dynamics. However, PCC connectivity to the DMN and SN during PCC-targeted fMRI neurofeedback remains unexamined and may help to elucidate neurophysiological mechanisms through which these symptom improvements may occur. METHODS Using a trauma/emotion provocation paradigm, we investigated psychophysiological interactions over a single session of neurofeedback among PTSD (n = 14) and healthy control (n = 15) participants. We compared PCC functional connectivity between regulate (in which participants downregulated PCC activity) and view (in which participants did not exert regulatory control) conditions across the whole-brain as well as in a priori specified regions-of-interest. RESULTS During regulate as compared to view conditions, only the PTSD group showed significant PCC connectivity with anterior DMN (dmPFC, vmPFC) and SN (posterior insula) regions, whereas both groups displayed PCC connectivity with other posterior DMN areas (precuneus/cuneus). Additionally, as compared with controls, the PTSD group showed significantly greater PCC connectivity with the SN (amygdala) during regulate as compared to view conditions. Moreover, linear regression analyses revealed that during regulate as compared to view conditions, PCC connectivity to DMN and SN regions was positively correlated to psychiatric symptoms across all participants. CONCLUSION In summary, observations of PCC connectivity to the DMN and SN provide emerging evidence of neural mechanisms underlying PCC-targeted fMRI neurofeedback among individuals with PTSD. This supports the use of PCC-targeted neurofeedback as a means by which to recalibrate PTSD-associated alterations in neural connectivity within the DMN and SN, which together, may help to facilitate improved emotion regulation abilities in PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Lieberman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Imaging, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniela Rabellino
- Imaging, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Densmore
- Imaging, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul A Frewen
- Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Steyrl
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank Scharnowski
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jean Théberge
- Imaging, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Joseph's Healthcare, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard W J Neufeld
- Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christian Schmahl
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rakesh Jetly
- The Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Royal Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandhya Narikuzhy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth A Lanius
- Imaging, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew A Nicholson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,The Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Royal Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada.,Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy in an Adolescent with Mixed-Dissociative Disorder: A Case Study. Case Rep Psychiatry 2023; 2023:1356682. [PMID: 36824479 PMCID: PMC9943594 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1356682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Dissociation is a psychopathological condition with a range of alterations or changes in the normally integrated mental functions such as identity, consciousness, or memory and can manifest in various types such as depersonalization, trance states, derealisation, dissociative amnesia, and dissociative identity disorder (Waller et al., 1996). From an etiological perspective, past experience of trauma plays a major role as a precipitating factor in dissociation, wherein dissociation is conceptualized as a reaction to trauma as a way to distance oneself from the traumatic situation and events related to it (Lanius et al., 2015). Initially understood as a coping mechanism, the persistent manifestation of dissociation hinders the overall psychological functioning and interferes with the daily activities of the individual. Therefore, the focus of the various treatment modalities of dissociative disorders is mostly focused on enhancing the coping skills of the patient. The current case study demonstrates the manifestation of dissociation in a 16 years old adolescent with a history of trauma. Furthermore, it documents the efficacy of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Statistical Manual of Mental (Cohen et al., 2017).
Collapse
|
20
|
Chamberlin DE. The Active Inference Model of Coherence Therapy. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 16:955558. [PMID: 36684841 PMCID: PMC9845783 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.955558] [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: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Coherence Therapy is an empirically derived experiential psychotherapy based on Psychological Constructivism. Symptoms are viewed as necessary output from an implicit model of the world. The therapist curates experiences and directs attention toward discovering the model. Rendered explicit, the model is juxtaposed with contradictory knowledge driving memory re-consolidation with resolution of the symptom. The Bayesian Brain views perception and action as inferential processes. Prior beliefs are combined in a generative model to explain the hidden causes of sensations through a process of Active Inference. Prior beliefs that are poor fits to the real world are suboptimal. Suboptimal priors with optimal inference produce Bayes Optimal Pathology with behavioral symptoms. The Active Inference Model of Coherence Therapy posits that Coherence Therapy is a dyadic act of therapist guided Active Inference that renders the (probable) hidden causes of a client's behavior conscious. The therapist's sustained attention on the goal of inference helps to overcome memory control bias against retrieval of the affectively charged suboptimal prior. Serial experiences cue memory retrieval and re-instantiation of the physiological/affective state that necessitates production of the symptom in a particular context. As this process continues there is a break in modularity with assimilation into broader networks of experience. Typically, the symptom produced by optimal inference with the suboptimal prior is experienced as unnecessary/inappropriate when taken out of the particular context. The implicit construct has been re-represented and rendered consciously accessible, by a more complex but more accurate model in which the symptom is necessary in some contexts but not others. There is an experience of agency and control in symptom creation, accompanied by the spontaneous production of context appropriate behavior. The capacity for inference has been restored. The Active Inference Model of Coherence Therapy provides a framework for Coherence Therapy as a computational process which can serve as the basis for new therapeutic interventions and experimental designs integrating biological, cognitive, behavioral, and environmental factors.
Collapse
|
21
|
Shaw SB, Nicholson AA, Ros T, Harricharan S, Terpou B, Densmore M, Theberge J, Frewen P, Lanius RA. Increased top-down control of emotions during symptom provocation working memory tasks following a RCT of alpha-down neurofeedback in PTSD. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 37:103313. [PMID: 36669352 PMCID: PMC9868881 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been found to be associated with emotion under-modulation from the prefrontal cortex and a breakdown of the top-down control of cognition and emotion. Novel adjunct therapies such as neurofeedback (NFB) have been shown to normalize aberrant neural circuits that underlie PTSD psychopathology at rest. However, little evidence exists for NFB-linked neural improvements under emotionally relevant cognitive load. The current study sought to address this gap by examining the effects of alpha-down NFB in the context of an emotional n-back task. METHODS We conducted a 20-week double-blind randomized, sham-controlled trial of alpha-down NFB and collected neuroimaging data before and after the NFB protocol. Participants performed an emotional 1-back and 2-back working memory task, with interleaved trauma-neutral and trauma-relevant cues in the fMRI scanner. Data from 35 participants with a primary diagnosis of PTSD were analyzed in this study (n = 18 in the experimental group undergoing alpha-down NFB, n = 17 in the sham-control group). RESULTS Firstly, within-group analyses showed clinically significant reductions in PTSD symptom severity scores at the post-intervention timepoint and 3-month follow-up for the experimental group, and not for the sham-control group. The neuroimaging analyses revealed that alpha-down NFB enhanced engagement of top-down cognitive and emotional control centers, such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), and improved integration of the anterior and posterior parts of the default mode network (DMN). Finally, our results also indicate that increased alpha-down NFB performance correlated with increased activity in brain regions involved in top-down control and bodily consciousness/embodied processing of self (TPJ and posterior insula). CONCLUSION This is the first study to provide mechanistic insights into how NFB may normalize dysfunctional brain activity and connectivity in PTSD under cognitive load with simultaneous symptom provocation, adding to a growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic neuromodulatory effects of NFB. This preliminary study highlights the benefits of alpha-down NFB training as an adjunctive therapy for PTSD and warrants further investigation into its therapeutic effects on cognitive and emotion control in those with PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Bhaskar Shaw
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Vector Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Homewood Research Institute (HRI), Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Andrew A Nicholson
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Canada; Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Hospital, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tomas Ros
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sherain Harricharan
- Homewood Research Institute (HRI), Guelph, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Braeden Terpou
- Homewood Research Institute (HRI), Guelph, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Densmore
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jean Theberge
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Joseph's Healthcare, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul Frewen
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth A Lanius
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Homewood Research Institute (HRI), Guelph, Ontario, Canada; St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Choi JJ, Martins JS, Hwang S, Sinha R, Seo D. Neural correlates linking trauma and physical symptoms. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2022; 327:111560. [PMID: 36327865 PMCID: PMC9757618 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2022.111560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Trauma and chronic pain frequently co-occur, but the underlying neurological mechanisms are poorly understood. The current study investigated the neural correlates of stress and physical symptoms in trauma patients using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and follow-up smartphone surveys. Participants were 10 patients diagnosed with Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders and 18 demographically-matched healthy controls who completed a fMRI stress provocation task in which they viewed stressful and neutral-relaxing images. Subsequently, participants completed daily smartphone surveys which prospectively monitored their stress and physical symptoms for 30 days. The trauma group experienced a significantly higher frequency of physical symptoms than controls during the follow-up period. During stress, trauma patients exhibited increased activity in the hippocampus, insula, and sensorimotor areas, but decreased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC), and dorsal striatum relative to controls. In all participants, higher physical symptom frequency was significantly associated with a hyperactive left hippocampal response to stress. The current study reports that trauma is characterized by greater physical symptoms and decreased prefrontal but increased limbic responses to stress. Our findings suggest that trauma may increase physical health symptoms by compromising hippocampal function, which could also increase vulnerability to stress- and pain-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin J Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America.
| | - Jorge S Martins
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; William James Center for Research, ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Seungju Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Rajita Sinha
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Dongju Seo
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Xiao S, Yang Z, Su T, Gong J, Huang L, Wang Y. Functional and structural brain abnormalities in posttraumatic stress disorder: A multimodal meta-analysis of neuroimaging studies. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 155:153-162. [PMID: 36029627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.08.010] [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] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous resting-state functional and structural studies have revealed that many brain regions are involved in the pathogenesis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but their findings have been inconsistent. Moreover, there has no study explored the functional and structural alterations across languages in PTSD. METHODS A meta-analysis of whole-brain on the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies that explored alterations in the spontaneous functional brain activity and grey matter volume (GMV) in PTSD patients across languages by using the Seed-based d Mapping with Permutation of Subject Images (SDM-PSI) software. RESULTS A total of 15 studies (19 datasets) comprising 577 PTSD patients and 499 HCs for ALFF, and 27 studies (31 datasets) comprising 539 PTSD patients and 693 HCs for VBM were included. Overall, PTSD patients across languages displayed decreased ALFF in the in the left amygdala. For VBM meta-analysis, PTSD patients across languages displayed reduced GMV in the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex/medial prefrontal cortex (ACC/mPFC), striatum, insula, superior temporal gyrus, left postcentral gyrus, and occipital gyrus. CONCLUSIONS The multimodal meta-analysis suggest that PTSD patients showed similar pattern of aberrant resting-state functional brain activity and structure mainly in the amygdala, suggesting that structural deficits might underlie alterations in function. In addition, some regions exhibited only structural abnormalities in PTSD, including the ACC/mPFC, striatum, insula, primary visual, auditory and sensorimotor cortices. Moreover, consistent alterations in PTSD patients across languages may draw attention to the disparity in multi-cultural considerations in psychiatric research and further understanding the neurophysiopathology of PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu Xiao
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Zibin Yang
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Ting Su
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jiaying Gong
- Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Department of Radiology, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Li Huang
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China; Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pankey BS, Riedel MC, Cowan I, Bartley JE, Pintos Lobo R, Hill-Bowen LD, Salo T, Musser ED, Sutherland MT, Laird AR. Extended functional connectivity of convergent structural alterations among individuals with PTSD: a neuroimaging meta-analysis. Behav Brain Funct 2022; 18:9. [PMID: 36100907 PMCID: PMC9472396 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-022-00196-2] [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: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating disorder defined by the onset of intrusive, avoidant, negative cognitive or affective, and/or hyperarousal symptoms after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. Previous voxel-based morphometry studies have provided insight into structural brain alterations associated with PTSD with notable heterogeneity across these studies. Furthermore, how structural alterations may be associated with brain function, as measured by task-free and task-based functional connectivity, remains to be elucidated. Methods Using emergent meta-analytic techniques, we sought to first identify a consensus of structural alterations in PTSD using the anatomical likelihood estimation (ALE) approach. Next, we generated functional profiles of identified convergent structural regions utilizing resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and meta-analytic co-activation modeling (MACM) methods. Finally, we performed functional decoding to examine mental functions associated with our ALE, rsFC, and MACM brain characterizations. Results We observed convergent structural alterations in a single region located in the medial prefrontal cortex. The resultant rsFC and MACM maps identified functional connectivity across a widespread, whole-brain network that included frontoparietal and limbic regions. Functional decoding revealed overlapping associations with attention, memory, and emotion processes. Conclusions Consensus-based functional connectivity was observed in regions of the default mode, salience, and central executive networks, which play a role in the tripartite model of psychopathology. Taken together, these findings have important implications for understanding the neurobiological mechanisms associated with PTSD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12993-022-00196-2.
Collapse
|
25
|
Rosen JB, Schulkin J. Hyperexcitability: From Normal Fear to Pathological Anxiety and Trauma. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:727054. [PMID: 35993088 PMCID: PMC9387392 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.727054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperexcitability in fear circuits is suggested to be important for development of pathological anxiety and trauma from adaptive mechanisms of fear. Hyperexcitability is proposed to be due to acquired sensitization in fear circuits that progressively becomes more severe over time causing changing symptoms in early and late pathology. We use the metaphor and mechanisms of kindling to examine gains and losses in function of one excitatory and one inhibitory neuropeptide, corticotrophin releasing factor and somatostatin, respectively, to explore this sensitization hypothesis. We suggest amygdala kindling induced hyperexcitability, hyper-inhibition and loss of inhibition provide clues to mechanisms for hyperexcitability and progressive changes in function initiated by stress and trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B. Rosen
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
- *Correspondence: Jeffrey B. Rosen,
| | - Jay Schulkin
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kirk HW, Dahl MG. Infra Low Frequency Neurofeedback Training for Trauma Recovery: A Case Report. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:905823. [PMID: 35978981 PMCID: PMC9376603 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.905823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews how and why ILF Neurofeedback has proven to be a parsimonious and efficient way to remediate the neuro-physiological effects of trauma. Reference is made to several large- and small-scale institutional proof of concept experimental studies each addressing a specific kind of trauma. It ends with a case report by the author (Kirk) working with an American combat veteran. It makes the argument that given its success that ILF Neurofeedback and Alpha-Theta training become accepted as part of an integrative and holistic approach for treating survivors of trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanno W. Kirk
- National Association of Social Workers, Washington, DC, United States
- *Correspondence: Hanno W. Kirk
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Estabrooks CA, Titley HK, Thorne T, Banerjee S, Feldman HH, Silvius J, Lanius RA. A Matter for Life and Death: Managing Psychological Trauma in Care Homes. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2022; 23:1123-1126. [PMID: 35788266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather K Titley
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Trina Thorne
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Howard H Feldman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - James Silvius
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ruth A Lanius
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Spreyermann R. Case Report: Infra-Low-Frequency Neurofeedback for PTSD: A Therapist's Perspective. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:893830. [PMID: 35685333 PMCID: PMC9170915 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.893830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The practical use of a combination of trauma psychotherapy and neurofeedback [infra-low-frequency (ILF) neurofeedback and alpha-theta training] is described for the treatment of patients diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). The indication for this combined treatment is the persistence of symptoms of a hyper-aroused state, anxiety, and sleep disorders even with adequate trauma-focused psychotherapy and supportive medication, according to the Guidelines of the German Society of Psycho-Traumatology (DeGPT). Another indication for a supplementary treatment with neurofeedback is the persistence of dissociative symptoms. Last but not least, the neurofeedback treatment after a trauma-focused psychotherapy session helps to calm the trauma-related reactions and to process the memories. The process of the combined therapy is described and illustrated using two representative case reports. Overall, a rather satisfying result of this outpatient treatment program can be seen in the qualitative appraisal of 7 years of practical application.
Collapse
|
29
|
Winkeler A, Winkeler M, Imgart H. Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in the Treatment of Patients With Chronic Eating Disorder and Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:890682. [PMID: 35601900 PMCID: PMC9121895 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.890682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of patients suffering from an eating disorder and a comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder is challenging and often leads to poor outcomes. In a randomized control trial, we evaluated to what extent adding Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) neurofeedback could improve symptom reduction within an established inpatient treatment program. In a randomized two-group design, patients suffering from an eating disorder (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder) and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (N = 36) were examined while attending an inpatient treatment program in a clinic for psychosomatic disorders. The intervention group received ILF neurofeedback in addition to regular therapy, while the control group received “media-supported relaxation” as a placebo intervention. At the beginning and at the end of their treatment, all participants completed the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) as a measure of eating disorder psychopathology and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) in order to assess symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Changes in EDE-Q and IES-R scores over time served as primary outcomes as well as an increase in body mass index in underweight patients. Secondary outcomes were the perceived benefit of the received intervention, global assessment of psychological treatment success, and complications in the course of treatment. Statistical evaluation was carried out with repeated measurement analysis of variance for the primary outcomes and with t-tests and Fisher’s exact test for the secondary outcomes. Our results indicate better treatment outcomes in the ILF neurofeedback group with regard to trauma-associated avoidance as well as with regard to restraint eating and increase in body weight. Furthermore, patients who had received ILF neurofeedback rated the intervention they received and, in tendency, their overall treatment more positively and they experienced fewer complications in the course of treatment. ILF neurofeedback is very well accepted by patients and seems to provide a relevant additional benefit in some aspects of symptom reduction. Findings confirm the feasibility of embedding this treatment approach in an inpatient setting and support the case for a larger study for greater statistical power. Clinical Trial Registration: “Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback training in the treatment of patients with eating disorder and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder”; German Clinical Trials Registry (https://www.drks.de; Identifier: DRKS00027826).
Collapse
|
30
|
Machorrinho J, Veiga G, Santos G, Marmeleira J. Embodiment-related risk factors for Posttraumatic Stress, Anxiety and Depression in female victims of intimate partner violence. J Trauma Dissociation 2022; 23:212-228. [PMID: 34651566 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2021.1989109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A central notion in the field of embodiment is that body sensorimotor processes and body mental representations influence emotion, cognition and behavior. By affecting the body, intimate partner violence (IPV) can leave victims with a fragile self, and significant physical and mental health problems. In this study, we aim to examine embodiment-related variables and mental health of female victims of IPV, as well as the impact of embodiment on mental health. A total of 38 female victims of IPV (mean age 40.3 ± 10.9 years) were recruited from shelters and the community. The study assessed the levels of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety and Depression, and abilities of Movement Imagery, Interoceptive Accuracy, Interoceptive Sensibility, Body Ownership and Bodily Dissociation. Univariate, bivariate and binary regression analysis were used. PTSD, Anxiety and Depression were highly prevalent among our sample, alongside with altered values of body ownership and interoception. All three mental health disorders were significantly correlated with interoceptive self-regulation, interoceptive trusting, and bodily dissociation. For this group of women, each unit rise in the bodily dissociation scale increased two and six times the risk for developing Depression and Anxiety, respectively. The embodiment of female victims of IPV is altered, and higher bodily dissociation can be a risk factor for the development of mental health problems. Restoration of embodiment-related functions could be important for the victims to overcome the negative effects of violent relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Machorrinho
- Departamento De Desporto E Saúde, Escola De Saúde E Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade De Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Guida Veiga
- Departamento De Desporto E Saúde, Escola De Saúde E Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade De Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Graça Santos
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade De Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - José Marmeleira
- Department of Psychology, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bianchini V, Paoletti G, Ortenzi R, Lagrotteria B, Roncone R, Cofini V, Nicolò G. The Prevalence of PTSD in a Forensic Psychiatric Setting: The Impact of Traumatic Lifetime Experiences. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:843730. [PMID: 35573371 PMCID: PMC9091818 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.843730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have identified traumatic history among forensic patients and its association with criminal behaviors and psychiatric diagnoses. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly prevalent in forensic settings causing a serious deterioration of the primary psychiatric disorder. Aims Our study aims to evaluate the prevalence of PTSD and the role of traumatic experiences and abuse in the development of severe psychiatric disorders in a sample of psychiatric offenders. Methods Fifty-three patients admitted in Italian high intensity therapeutic facilities-the Residenze per l'Esecuzione delle Misure di Sicurezza (REMS)-were evaluated with the Trauma Experience Checklist (TEC) and the Millon Clinical Multiaxal Inventory (MCMI-III) to study lifetime traumatic memories and general psychopathology, respectively. Results Preliminary findings show that about 41% (N = 22) of psychiatric offenders were affected by PTSD, often not due to a single episode but to multiple lifetime traumas. Therefore, lifetime traumatic experiences and specifically sexual abuse are significant risk factors for the development of a personality disorder, which is present in the 38% (N = 20) of the sample. Conclusions The high PTSD prevalence and the strong association found between trauma and abuse with the development of a personality disorder emphasizes the importance of an early evaluation and intervention on traumatic experiences in this difficult population of psychiatric patients; in fact, the treatment of psychiatric offenders is actually vague and devoid of scientific evidence. Our results open up the perspective on the use of known and specific interventions for trauma, such as EMDR and Mindfulness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Bianchini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Terzo Centro di Psicoterapia, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Paoletti
- DSMDP Asl Roma 5, REMS Castore, Contrada Colle Cisterna, Subiaco, Italy
| | - Roberta Ortenzi
- DSMDP Asl Roma 5, REMS Castore, Contrada Colle Cisterna, Subiaco, Italy
- Scuola di Terapia Cognitiva—APC, Rome, Italy
| | - Brunella Lagrotteria
- Terzo Centro di Psicoterapia, Rome, Italy
- DSMDP Asl Roma 5, REMS Castore, Contrada Colle Cisterna, Subiaco, Italy
- Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva—SPC, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Roncone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cofini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nicolò
- Terzo Centro di Psicoterapia, Rome, Italy
- DSMDP Asl Roma 5, REMS Castore, Contrada Colle Cisterna, Subiaco, Italy
- Scuola Italiana Cognitivismo Clinico—SICC, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Doing the Flash Technique Without Bilateral Stimulation and Without Prompted Blinking: Two Vignettes. JOURNAL OF EMDR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1891/emdr-2022-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This article presents two vignettes on the successful use of the Flash Technique (FT) without bilateral stimulation and prompted without blinking. FT was first developed as a protocol to quickly bring down the emotional distress of a traumatic memory during the preparation phase of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, so that EMDR could proceed. A recent model for FT (Wong, 2021) proposes that, with FT, traumatized clients may be able to access their traumatic memory briefly, reflexively, and without the fear response, during blinking. This sets up a prediction error which, with repeated blinking, may lead to memory reconsolidation and processing of the traumatic memory. Since the access to the traumatic memory is reflexive and brief, the processing of the memory is outside of the awareness of the client and of the therapist, which is consistent with the practitioner’s and the client’s experience with FT. Wong’s model is based on published fMRI data from neuroscience and established concepts in working memory research, and the model will be reviewed in some detail in the article. However, it is also based on fMRI data for spontaneous and not-prompted blinking, and does not require bilateral stimulation, implying that processing could occur using FT without bilateral stimulation and without prompted blinking, relying instead only on spontaneous blinking. Our two vignettes provide two data points that support this aspect of Wong’s model.
Collapse
|
33
|
A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Goal Management Training in Canadian Military Members, Veterans, and Public Safety Personnel Experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12030377. [PMID: 35326333 PMCID: PMC8946598 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12030377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric illness that disproportionately affects military personnel, veterans, and public safety personnel (PSP). Evidence demonstrates that PTSD is significantly associated with difficulties with emotion regulation (ER) and difficulties with cognitive functioning, including difficulties with attention, working memory, and executive functioning. A wide body of evidence suggests a dynamic interplay among cognitive dysfunction, difficulties with ER, and symptoms of PTSD, where numerous studies have identified overlapping patterns of alterations in activation among neuroanatomical regions and neural circuitry. Little work has examined interventions that may target these symptoms collectively. The primary objective of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a parallel experimental design was to assess the effectiveness of goal management training (GMT), a cognitive remediation intervention, in reducing difficulties with cognitive functioning, and to determine its effects on PTSD symptoms and symptoms associated with PTSD, including difficulties with ER, dissociation, and functioning among military personnel, veterans, and PSP. Forty-two military personnel, veterans, and PSP between the ages of 18 and 70 with symptoms of PTSD were recruited across Ontario, Canada between October 2017 and August 2019. Participants were randomized to either the waitlist (WL) (n = 18) or the GMT (n = 22) condition. Participants in both conditions received self-report measures and a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up. Following their completion of the 3-month follow-up, participants in the WL condition were given the opportunity to participate in GMT. Assessors and participants were blind to intervention allocation during the initial assessment. A series of 2 (time) × 2 (group) ANOVAs were conducted to assess the differences between the WL and GMT conditions from pre- to post-intervention for the self-report and neuropsychological measures. The results demonstrated significant improvements in measures of executive functioning (e.g., verbal fluency, planning, impulsivity, cognitive shifting, and discrimination of targets) and trending improvements in short-term declarative memory for participants in the GMT condition. Participants in the GMT condition also demonstrated significant improvements from pre- to post-testing in measures of subjective cognition, functioning, PTSD symptom severity, difficulties with ER, dissociative symptom severity, and depression and anxiety symptoms. No adverse effects were reported as a result of participating in GMT. The results of this pilot RCT show promise that GMT may be a useful intervention to improve symptoms of cognitive dysfunction, symptoms of PTSD, and symptoms associated with PTSD within military personnel, veterans, and PSP. Future work is needed to address the small sample size and the durability of these findings.
Collapse
|
34
|
Psychological Interventions for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence in Humanitarian Settings: An Overview of the Evidence and Implementation Considerations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052916. [PMID: 35270610 PMCID: PMC8910593 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides an analytical overview of different types of psychological interventions that have demonstrated efficacy in low-income and/or humanitarian settings and points to special considerations that may be needed if used with women who have been subjected to gender-based violence (GBV). This paper reviews diverse therapeutic modalities and contrasts them across several domains, including their conventional use and principles; their documented use and efficacy in humanitarian settings; any special considerations or modifications necessary for GBV-affected clients; and any additional resources or implementation concerns when working in low-income contexts. By examining the evidence base of multiple interventions, we hope to provide clinicians and GBV-prevention advocates with an overview of tools/approaches to provide survivor-centered, trauma-informed responses to GBV survivors. This analysis responds to the growing recognition that gender-based violence, in particular intimate partner violence and sexual violence, is strongly associated with mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. This is likely to be exacerbated in humanitarian contexts, where people often experience multiple and intersecting traumatic experiences. The need for mental health services in these settings is increasingly recognized, and a growing number of psychological interventions have been shown to be effective when delivered by lay providers and in humanitarian settings.
Collapse
|
35
|
Nicholson AA, Siegel M, Wolf J, Narikuzhy S, Roth SL, Hatchard T, Lanius RA, Schneider M, Lloyd CS, McKinnon MC, Heber A, Smith P, Lueger-Schuster B. A systematic review of the neural correlates of sexual minority stress: towards an intersectional minority mosaic framework with implications for a future research agenda. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2002572. [PMID: 35251527 PMCID: PMC8890555 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.2002572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic oppression, particularly towards sexual minorities, continues to be deeply rooted in the bedrock of many societies globally. Experiences with minority stressors (e.g. discrimination, hate-crimes, internalized homonegativity, rejection sensitivity, and microaggressions or everyday indignities) have been consistently linked to adverse mental health outcomes. Elucidating the neural adaptations associated with minority stress exposure will be critical for furthering our understanding of how sexual minorities become disproportionately affected by mental health burdens. METHODS Following PRISMA-guidelines, we systematically reviewed published neuroimaging studies that compared neural dynamics among sexual minority and heterosexual populations, aggregating information pertaining to any measurement of minority stress and relevant clinical phenomena. RESULTS Only 1 of 13 studies eligible for inclusion examined minority stress directly, where all other studies focused on investigating the neurobiological basis of sexual orientation. In our narrative synthesis, we highlight important themes that suggest minority stress exposure may be associated with decreased activation and functional connectivity within the default-mode network (related to the sense-of-self and social cognition), and summarize preliminary evidence related to aberrant neural dynamics within the salience network (involved in threat detection and fear processing) and the central executive network (involved in executive functioning and emotion regulation). Importantly, this parallels neural adaptations commonly observed among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the aftermath of trauma and supports the inclusion of insidious forms of trauma related to minority stress within models of PTSD. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, minority stress may have several shared neuropsychological pathways with PTSD and stress-related disorders. Here, we outline a detailed research agenda that provides an overview of literature linking sexual minority stress to PTSD and insidious trauma, moral affect (including shame and guilt), and mental health risk/resiliency, in addition to racial, ethnic, and gender related minority stress. Finally, we propose a novel minority mosaic framework designed to inform future directions of minority stress neuroimaging research from an intersectional lens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. Nicholson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
- Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Canada
| | - Magdalena Siegel
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jakub Wolf
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandhya Narikuzhy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Sophia L. Roth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Taylor Hatchard
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Ruth A. Lanius
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Maiko Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Margaret C. McKinnon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Canada
| | | | - Patrick Smith
- The Centre of Excellence for PTSD, Royal Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Geldenhuys DJ. A conceptual analysis of the use of systems-psychodynamics as an organisation development intervention: A neuroscientific perspective. SA JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4102/sajip.v48i0.1940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
37
|
Terpou BA, Lloyd CS, Densmore M, McKinnon MC, Théberge J, Neufeld RWJ, Jetly R, Lanius RA. Moral wounds run deep: exaggerated midbrain functional network connectivity across the default mode network in posttraumatic stress disorder. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2022; 47:E56-E66. [PMID: 35177485 PMCID: PMC8865964 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.210117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A moral injury occurs when a deeply held moral code has been violated, and it can lead to the development of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the neural correlates that differentiate moral injury and PTSD remain largely unknown. Intrinsic connectivity networks such as the default mode network (DMN) appear to be altered in people with PTSD who have experienced moral injury. However, brainstem, midbrain and cerebellar systems are rarely integrated into the intrinsic connectivity networks; this is a critical oversight, because these systems display marked differences in people with PTSD and are thought to underlie strong moral emotions such as shame, guilt and betrayal. METHODS We conducted an independent component analysis on data generated during script-driven memory recall of moral injury in participants with military- or law enforcement-related PTSD (n = 28), participants with civilian-related PTSD (n = 28) and healthy controls exposed to a potentially morally injurious event (n = 18). We conducted group-wise comparisons of functional network connectivity differences across a DMN-correlated independent component, with a particular focus on brainstem, midbrain and cerebellar systems. RESULTS We found stronger functional network connectivity in the midbrain periaqueductal grey (t 71 = 4.95, p FDR = 0.028, k = 39) and cerebellar lobule IX (t 71 = 4.44, p FDR = 0.046, k = 49) in participants with civilian-related PTSD as compared to healthy controls. We also found a trend toward stronger functional network connectivity in the midbrain periaqueductal grey (t 71 = 4.22, p FDR = 0.076, k = 60) in participants with military- or law enforcement-related PTSD as compared to healthy controls. LIMITATIONS The significant clusters were large, but resolution is generally lower for subcortical structures. CONCLUSION In PTSD, the DMN appears to be biased toward lower-level, midbrain systems, which may drive toxic shame and related moral emotions that are common in PTSD, highlighting the depth at which moral injuries are represented neurobiologically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braeden A Terpou
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Chantelle S Lloyd
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Maria Densmore
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Margaret C McKinnon
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Jean Théberge
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Richard W J Neufeld
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Rakesh Jetly
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont
| | - Ruth A Lanius
- From the Department of Neuroscience (Terpou, Neufeld), the Department of Psychiatry (Lloyd, Densmore, Théberge, Neufeld, Lanius), the Department of Medical Biophysics (Théberge), the Department of Psychology (Neufeld), Western University, London, Ont.; the Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute (Densmore, Lanius), the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Lloyd), the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences (McKinnon), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare (McKinnon), Hamilton, Ont.; Homewood Research Institute (McKinnon, Lanius), Guelph, Ont.; Canadian Forces, Health Services (Jetly), Ottawa, Ont.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wright, N, Patel, R, Chaulk, SJ, Alcolado, G, Podnar, D, Mota, N, Monson, CM, Girard, TA, Ko, JH. Novel Analysis Identifying Functional Connectivity Patterns Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. CHRONIC STRESS (THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF.) 2022; 6:24705470221092428. [PMID: 35465401 PMCID: PMC9019376 DOI: 10.1177/24705470221092428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent psychiatric disorder that can result from experiencing traumatic events. Accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment strategies can be difficult to achieve, due to the heterogeneous etiology and symptomology of PTSD, and overlap with other psychiatric disorders. Advancing our understanding of PTSD pathophysiology is therefore critical. While functional connectivity alterations have shown promise for elucidating the neurobiological mechanisms of PTSD, previous findings have been inconsistent. Eleven patients with PTSD in our first cohort (PTSD-A) and 11 trauma-exposed controls (TEC) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging. First, we investigated the intrinsic connectivity within known resting state networks (eg, default mode, salience, and central executive networks) previously implicated in functional abnormalities with PTSD symptoms. Second, the overall topology of network structure was compared between PTSD-A and TEC using graph theory. Finally, we used a novel combination of graph theory analysis and scaled subprofile modeling (SSM) to identify a disease-related, covarying pattern of brain network organization. No significant group differences were found in intrinsic connectivity of known resting state networks and graph theory metrics (clustering coefficients, characteristic path length, smallworldness, global and local efficiencies, and degree centrality). The graph theory/SSM analysis revealed a topographical pattern of altered degree centrality differentiating PTSD-A from TEC. This PTSD-related network pattern expression was additionally investigated in a separate cohort of 33 subjects who were scanned with a different MRI scanner (22 patients with PTSD or PTSD-B, and 11 healthy trauma-naïve controls or TNC). Across all participant groups, pattern expression scores were significantly lower in the TEC group, while PTSD-A, PTSD-B, and TNC subject profiles did not differ from each other. Expression level of the pattern was correlated with symptom severity in the PTSD-B group. This method offers potential in developing objective biomarkers associated with PTSD. Possible interpretations and clinical implications will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Wright,
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Ronak Patel,
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sarah J. Chaulk,
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Gillian Alcolado,
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - David Podnar,
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Natalie Mota,
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Todd A. Girard,
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ji Hyun Ko,
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
du Bois N, Bigirimana AD, Korik A, Kéthina LG, Rutembesa E, Mutabaruka J, Mutesa L, Prasad G, Jansen S, Coyle DH. Neurofeedback with low-cost, wearable electroencephalography (EEG) reduces symptoms in chronic Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. J Affect Disord 2021; 295:1319-1334. [PMID: 34706446 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.08.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study examines the effectiveness of both neurofeedback and motor-imagery brain-computer interface (BCI) training, which promotes self-regulation of brain activity, using low-cost electroencephalography (EEG)-based wearable neurotechnology outside a clinical setting, as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Rwanda. METHODS Participants received training/treatment sessions along with a pre- and post- intervention clinical assessment, (N = 29; control n = 9, neurofeedback (NF, 7 sessions) n = 10, and motor-imagery (MI, 6 sessions) n = 10). Feedback was presented visually via a videogame. Participants were asked to regulate (NF) or intentionally modulate (MI) brain activity to affect/control the game. RESULTS The NF group demonstrated an increase in resting-state alpha 8-12 Hz bandpower following individual training sessions, termed alpha 'rebound' (Pz channel, p = 0.025, all channels, p = 0.024), consistent with previous research findings. This alpha 'rebound', unobserved in the MI group, produced a clinically relevant reduction in symptom severity in NF group, as revealed in three of seven clinical outcome measures: PCL-5 (p = 0.005), PTSD screen (p = 0.005), and HTQ (p = 0.005). LIMITATIONS Data collection took place in environments that posed difficulties in controlling environmental factors. Nevertheless, this limitation improves ecological validity, as neurotechnology treatments must be deployable outside controlled environments, to be a feasible technological treatment. CONCLUSIONS The study produced the first evidence to support a low-cost, neurotechnological solution for neurofeedback as an effective treatment of PTSD for victims of acute trauma in conflict zones in a developing country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N du Bois
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University (UU), Magee Campus, NI, United Kingdom
| | - A D Bigirimana
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University (UU), Magee Campus, NI, United Kingdom
| | - A Korik
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University (UU), Magee Campus, NI, United Kingdom
| | - L Gaju Kéthina
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda (UR), Huye, Rwanda
| | - E Rutembesa
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda (UR), Huye, Rwanda
| | - J Mutabaruka
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda (UR), Huye, Rwanda
| | - L Mutesa
- Centre for Human Genetics, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda (UR), Huye, Rwanda
| | - G Prasad
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University (UU), Magee Campus, NI, United Kingdom
| | - S Jansen
- Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda (UR), Huye, Rwanda
| | - D H Coyle
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University (UU), Magee Campus, NI, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Faucher CR, Doherty RA, Philip NS, Harle ASM, Cole JJE, van ’t Wout-Frank M. Is there a neuroscience-based, mechanistic rationale for transcranial direct current stimulation as an adjunct treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder? Behav Neurosci 2021; 135:702-713. [PMID: 34338547 PMCID: PMC8648962 DOI: 10.1037/bne0000487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
It is well-known that there is considerable variation in the effectiveness of evidence-based treatments for psychiatric disorders, and a continued need to improve the real-world effectiveness of these treatments. In the last 20+ years the examination of noninvasive brain stimulation techniques for psychiatric treatment has increased dramatically. However, in order to test these techniques for effective therapeutic use, it is critical to understand (a) (what are) the key neural circuits to engage for specific disorders or clusters of symptoms, and (b) (how) can these circuits be reached effectively using neurostimulation? Here we focus on the research toward the application of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). tDCS is a portable and inexpensive technique that lends itself well to be combined with, and thus potentially augment, exposure-based treatment for PTSD. In this review, we discuss the behavioral model of threat and safety learning and memory as it relates to PTSD, the underlying neurobiology of PTSD, as well as the current understandings of tDCS action, including its limitations and opportunities. Through this lens, we summarize the research on the application of tDCS to modulated threat and safety learning and memory to date, and propose new directions for its future research. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C. R. Faucher
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence
- VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence
- COBRE Center for Neuromodulation, Butler Hospital, Providence
| | - R. A. Doherty
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence
- VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence
- COBRE Center for Neuromodulation, Butler Hospital, Providence
| | - N. S. Philip
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence
- VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence
- COBRE Center for Neuromodulation, Butler Hospital, Providence
| | - A. S. M Harle
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence
- VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence
- COBRE Center for Neuromodulation, Butler Hospital, Providence
| | - J. J. E. Cole
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Brown Medical School, Providence
- VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence
- COBRE Center for Neuromodulation, Butler Hospital, Providence
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
A Pilot Study of a Trauma‐Informed Yoga and Mindfulness Intervention With Young Women Incarcerated in the Juvenile Justice System. JOURNAL OF ADDICTIONS & OFFENDER COUNSELING 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/jaoc.12095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
42
|
Wong SL. A Model for the Flash Technique Based on Working Memory and Neuroscience Research. JOURNAL OF EMDR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1891/emdr-d-21-00048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Research has shown that the Flash Technique (FT) appears to reduce memory-related disturbance and may reduce symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder. This paper discusses the connections between FT and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. In FT, clients remind themselves of a traumatic memory without dwelling on it and focus instead on a positive engaging focus and then blink their eyes when prompted. This paper summarizes numerous models describing how the brain processes traumatic material and presents a model for how FT may work in the brain. It proposes that during the blinking, the patient's periaqueductal gray (PAG) may take over, sensing the reminder of the traumatic memory and reflexively triggering the amygdala. In Porges's neuroception model, the PAG assesses danger without going through the conscious brain. Recent fMRI data show that for patients with posttraumatic stress disorder, there is enhanced connectivity from the amygdala to the left hippocampus. Thus, triggering the amygdala may, in turn, activate the left hippocampus, which may then provide a brief access to the traumatic memory. Given the brief access, there is insufficient time for the amygdala to go into overactivation. The client remains calm while accessing the traumatic memory, thus setting up the prediction error necessary for possible memory reconsolidation. This process is repeated during blinking in FT allowing memory reconsolidation to proceed. This model requires experimental confirmation.
Collapse
|
43
|
Echiverri-Cohen A, Spierer L, Perez M, Kulon M, Ellis MD, Craske M. Randomized-controlled trial of response inhibition training for individuals with PTSD and impaired response inhibition. Behav Res Ther 2021; 143:103885. [PMID: 34089923 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2021.103885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Deficits in response inhibition, defined as an inability to stop a behavior that is no longer relevant, are characteristic of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Given that impaired response inhibition is associated with worse symptom recovery and accumulating evidence pointing to the effectiveness of cognitive control trainings in reducing PTSD symptoms, individuals with moderate to severe PTSD total severity (Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale total score ≥ 21) and pre-training response inhibition deficits (M ≤ 75% successful inhibition on the Go/No-go) completed a 3-h, adaptive Go/No-go training designed to improve ability to withhold prepotent motor responses. Then forty-nine participants were randomized to an adaptive response inhibition training (n = 24, M = 19.27 years, SD = 0.70) or a waitlist condition (n = 25, M = 18.31 years, SD = 4.80). Behavioral response inhibition and self-reported trauma-related symptoms were assessed at pre- and post-training. Response inhibition training was associated with improved response inhibition on an untrained transfer Stop-Signal task and symptom reduction in PTSD compared to a waitlist group, at post-training. There was, however, reduced inhibition on a modified Go/No-go task from pre-to post-training. Overall, response inhibition deficits and PTSD symptoms are amenable to top-down remediation using response inhibition training. Our study provides preliminary evidence for the feasibility of response inhibition training in a PTSD sample characterized by response inhibition deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucas Spierer
- Neurology Unit, Medicine Section, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Marcelina Perez
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Melissa Kulon
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Michelle Craske
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lloyd CS, Nicholson AA, Densmore M, Théberge J, Neufeld RWJ, Jetly R, McKinnon MC, Lanius RA. Shame on the brain: Neural correlates of moral injury event recall in posttraumatic stress disorder. Depress Anxiety 2021; 38:596-605. [PMID: 33369799 DOI: 10.1002/da.23128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral injury (MI) is consistently associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicidality. METHODS We investigated neural activation patterns associated with MI event recall using functional magnetic resonance imaging in participants with military and public safety-related PTSD, relative to civilian MI-exposed controls. RESULTS MI recall in the PTSD as compared to control group was associated with increased neural activation among salience network nodes involved in viscerosensory processing and hyperarousal (right posterior insula, dorsal anterior cingulate cortex; dACC), regions involved in defensive responding (left postcentral gyrus), and areas responsible for top-down cognitive control of emotions (left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex; dlPFC). Within the PTSD group, measures of state and trait shame correlated negatively with activity among default mode network regions associated with self-related processing and moral cognition (dorsomedial prefrontal cortex; dmPFC) and salience network regions associated with viscerosensory processing (left posterior insula), respectively. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that MI event processing is altered in military and public safety-related PTSD, relative to MI-exposed controls. Here, it appears probable that as individuals with PTSD recall their MI event, they experience a surge of blame-related processing of bodily sensations within salience network regions, including the right posterior insula and the dACC, which in turn, prompt regulatory strategies at the level of the left dlPFC aimed at increasing cognitive control and inhibiting emotional affect. These results are consistent with previous findings showing enhanced sensory processing and altered top-down control in PTSD samples during autobiographical memory recall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chantelle S Lloyd
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Homewood Research Institute, Homewood Health, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew A Nicholson
- Homewood Research Institute, Homewood Health, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Densmore
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jean Théberge
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard W J Neufeld
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rakesh Jetly
- Canadian Forces, Health Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret C McKinnon
- Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Homewood Research Institute, Homewood Health, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth A Lanius
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Homewood Research Institute, Homewood Health, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Imaging Division, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Lokshina Y, Nickelsen T, Liberzon I. Reward Processing and Circuit Dysregulation in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:559401. [PMID: 34122157 PMCID: PMC8193060 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.559401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Past decades have witnessed substantial progress in understanding of neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to generation of various PTSD symptoms, including intrusive memories, physiological arousal and avoidance of trauma reminders. However, the neurobiology of anhedonia and emotional numbing in PTSD, that have been conceptualized as reward processing deficits - reward wanting (anticipation of reward) and reward liking (satisfaction with reward outcome), respectively, remains largely unexplored. Empirical evidence on reward processing in PTSD is rather limited, and no studies have examined association of reward processing abnormalities and neurocircuitry-based models of PTSD pathophysiology. The manuscript briefly summarizes "state of the science" of both human reward processing, and of PTSD implicated neurocircuitry, as well as empirical evidence of reward processing deficits in PTSD. We then summarize current gaps in the literature and outline key future directions, further illustrating it by the example of two alternative explanations of PTSD pathophysiology potentially affecting reward processing via different neurobiological pathways. Studying reward processing in PTSD will not only advance the understanding of their link, but also could enhance current treatment approaches by specifically targeting anhedonia and emotional symptoms in PTSD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yana Lokshina
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, United States
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Tetiana Nickelsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Israel Liberzon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, United States
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Shaw SB, McKinnon MC, Heisz J, Becker S. Dynamic task-linked switching between brain networks - A tri-network perspective. Brain Cogn 2021; 151:105725. [PMID: 33932747 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2021.105725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The highly influential tri-network model proposed by Menon integrates 3 key intrinsic brain networks - the central executive network (CEN), the salience network (SN), and the default mode network (DMN), into a single cohesive model underlying normal behaviour and cognition. A large body of evidence suggests that abnormal intra- and inter- network connectivity between these three networks underlies the various behavioural and cognitive dysfunctions observed in patients with neuropsychiatric conditions such as PTSD and depression. An important prediction of the tri-network model is that the DMN and CEN networks are anti-correlated under the control of the SN, such that if a task engages one of the two, the SN inhibits the activation of the other. To date most of the evidence surrounding the functions of these three core networks comes from either resting state analyses or in the context of a single task with respect to rest. Few studies have investigated multiple tasks simultaneously or characterized the dynamics of task switching. Hence, a careful investigation of the temporal dynamics of network activity during task switching is warranted. To accomplish this we collected fMRI data from 14 participants that dynamically switched between a 2-back working memory task and an autobiographical memory retrieval task, designed to activate the CEN, DMN and the SN. The fMRI data were used to 1. identify nodes and sub-networks within the three major networks involved in task-linked dynamic network switching, 2. characterize the temporal pattern of activation of these nodes and sub-networks, and finally 3. investigate the causal influence that these nodes and sub-networks exerted on each other. Using a combination of multivariate neuroimaging analyses, timecourse analyses and multivariate Granger causality measures to study the tri-network dynamics, the current study found that the SN co-activates with the task-relevant network, providing a mechanistic insight into SN-mediated network selection in the context of explicit tasks. Our findings also indicate active involvement of the posterior insula and some medial temporal nodes in task-linked functions of the SN and DMN, warranting their inclusion as network nodes in future studies of the tri-network model. These results add to the growing body of evidence showing the complex interplay of CEN, DMN and SN nodes and sub-networks required for adequate task-switching, characterizing a normative pattern of task-linked network dynamics within the context of Menon's tri-network model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Bhaskar Shaw
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Advanced Research in Experimental and Applied Linguistics (ARiEAL), Department of Linguistics and Languages, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Margaret C McKinnon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, ON, Canada; Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Heisz
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suzanna Becker
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Psychology Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Advanced Research in Experimental and Applied Linguistics (ARiEAL), Department of Linguistics and Languages, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Griggs DJ, Khateeb K, Zhou J, Liu T, Wang R, Yazdan-Shahmorad A. Multi-modal artificial dura for simultaneous large-scale optical access and large-scale electrophysiology in non-human primate cortex. J Neural Eng 2021; 18:10.1088/1741-2552/abf28d. [PMID: 33770770 PMCID: PMC8523212 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abf28d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Non-human primates (NHPs) are critical for development of translational neural technologies because of their neurological and neuroanatomical similarities to humans. Large-scale neural interfaces in NHPs with multiple modalities for stimulation and data collection poise us to unveil network-scale dynamics of both healthy and unhealthy neural systems. We aim to develop a large-scale multi-modal interface for NHPs for the purpose of studying large-scale neural phenomena including neural disease, damage, and recovery.Approach.We present a multi-modal artificial dura (MMAD) composed of flexible conductive traces printed into transparent medical grade polymer. Our MMAD provides simultaneous neurophysiological recordings and optical access to large areas of the cortex (∼3 cm2) and is designed to mitigate photo-induced electrical artifacts. The MMAD is the centerpiece of the interfaces we have designed to support electrocorticographic recording and stimulation, cortical imaging, and optogenetic experiments, all at the large-scales afforded by the brains of NHPs. We performed electrical and optical experiments bench-side andin vivowith macaques to validate the utility of our MMAD.Main results.Using our MMAD we present large-scale electrocorticography from sensorimotor cortex of three macaques. Furthermore, we validated surface electrical stimulation in one of our animals. Our bench-side testing showed up to 90% reduction of photo-induced artifacts with our MMAD. The transparency of our MMAD was confirmed both via bench-side testing (87% transmittance) and viain vivoimaging of blood flow from the underlying microvasculature using optical coherence tomography angiography.Significance.Our results indicate that our MMAD supports large-scale electrocorticography, large-scale cortical imaging, and, by extension, large-scale optical stimulation. The MMAD prepares the way for both acute and long-term chronic experiments with complimentary data collection and stimulation modalities. When paired with the complex behaviors and cognitive abilities of NHPs, these assets prepare us to study large-scale neural phenomena including neural disease, damage, and recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devon J Griggs
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Karam Khateeb
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Jasmine Zhou
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Teng Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Ruikang Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Azadeh Yazdan-Shahmorad
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
de Boer M, Nijdam MJ, Jongedijk RA, Bangel KA, Olff M, Hofman WF, Talamini LM. The spectral fingerprint of sleep problems in post-traumatic stress disorder. Sleep 2021; 43:5614711. [PMID: 31702010 PMCID: PMC7157184 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsz269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Objectives Sleep problems are a core feature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aim of this study was to find a robust objective measure for the sleep disturbance in patients having PTSD. Methods The current study assessed EEG power across a wide frequency range and multiple scalp locations, in matched trauma-exposed individuals with and without PTSD, during rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM (NREM) sleep. In addition, a full polysomnographical evaluation was performed, including sleep staging and assessment of respiratory function, limb movements, and heart rate. The occurrence of sleep disorders was also assessed. Results In patients having PTSD, NREM sleep shows a substantial loss of slow oscillation power and increased higher frequency activity compared with controls. The change is most pronounced over right-frontal sensors and correlates with insomnia. PTSD REM sleep shows a large power shift in the opposite direction, with increased slow oscillation power over occipital areas, which is strongly related to nightmare activity and to a lesser extent with insomnia. These pronounced spectral changes occur in the context of severe subjective sleep problems, increased occurrence of various sleep disorders and modest changes in sleep macrostructure. Conclusions This is the first study to show pronounced changes in EEG spectral topologies during both NREM and REM sleep in PTSD. Importantly, the observed power changes reflect the hallmarks of PTSD sleep problems: insomnia and nightmares and may thus be specific for PTSD. A spectral index derived from these data distinguishes patients from controls with high effect size, bearing promise as a candidate biomarker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M de Boer
- Brain and Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,UvA-Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M J Nijdam
- Center for Psychological Trauma, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,ARQ Centrum'45, Partner in ARQ, Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - R A Jongedijk
- ARQ Centrum'45, Partner in ARQ, Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - K A Bangel
- Center for Psychological Trauma, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Olff
- Center for Psychological Trauma, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - W F Hofman
- Brain and Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lucia M Talamini
- Brain and Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,UvA-Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Sobczak S, Olff M, Rutten B, Verhey F, Deckers K. Comorbidity rates of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in dementia: a systematic literature review. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1883923. [PMID: 33968318 PMCID: PMC8075086 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1883923] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been described as an independent risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia. At the same time, cognitive deterioration and increased loss experiences in dementia may increase liability for the reactivation of traumatic memories and thereby PTSD symptoms. Objective: In order to investigate co-occurrence of PTSD in dementia this systematic literature review summarizes all the available evidence on reported comorbidity rates of PTSD in patients with dementia. Method: PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL were searched for potential publications investigating the co-occurrence of PTSD in dementia until 25 November 2019. Cohort and cross-sectional studies were included. To assure current comorbidity of PTSD in dementia, only publications with a recent PTSD diagnosis (<2 years before onset of dementia) were selected. Results: Of the 860 identified abstracts, three studies (0.35%) met the eligibility criteria and were included. These three studies concerned only military veteran populations, and they comprised two cross-sectional cohort studies and one prospective cohort study. The estimated comorbidity rate of PTSD in veterans with dementia varied between 4.7% and 7.8%. Conclusions: The limited research available shows comorbidity rates only in military veterans, which were possibly dependent on investigated population with respect to dementia severity and possibly associated behavioural and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD). In dementia patients the comorbidity with PTSD may be high and we suggest that worldwide the impact of PTSD in dementia is high and probably underestimated. Research and care on this topic should improve urgently with the current expanding prevalence of dementia. A first step to improve quality of dementia research and care would be to develop a structured tool to diagnose PTSD in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sjacko Sobczak
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Mondriaan Hospital, Heerlen, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Miranda Olff
- Arq Psychotrauma Research, AMC/University of Amsterdam, Amterdam
| | - Bart Rutten
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Verhey
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kay Deckers
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
It is 10 years ago that the European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) was launched. This was celebrated with a one day symposium on 1 February 2021 with all EJPT's editors presenting on the state of the art developments in the field of psychotraumatology. The European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS) is proud to have all these speakers together sharing their knowledge on a range of topics within the field of psychotraumatology, from genetics to clinical practice. In this editorial the programme with the presentations is presented, including links to both to short summaries of the lectures and to the online session itself. In line with the Open Access format of the journal, access to the symposium content is free of charge and thus available to all around the world without barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|